Mahadev Temple, also known as Apteshwar Mahadev Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god of destruction, Lord Shiva. It is located in the holy town of Pushkar in Rajasthan, India, on the banks of the sacred Pushkar Lake. It is one of the most popular and divine places of worship in Pushkar and attracts devotees from all over the country. Famous Temple in Pushkar, Visit during Pushkar Local Sightseeing By Cab
Location of Mahadev Temple
Mahadev Temple is situated in the heart of Pushkar, a town that is famous for its religious and cultural significance. The temple is about 10 km from Ajmer, the nearest city, and can be reached by road or rail. The temple is surrounded by many other temples, ghats, markets and ashrams that make Pushkar a vibrant and colorful place.
Visiting Timing/ Entry Fees Mahadev Temple
The temple is open for visitors every day from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM and from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM. There is no entry fee for visiting the temple, but donations are welcome. Visitors are required to remove their shoes and cover their heads before entering the temple premises. Photography is not allowed inside the temple.
Things to Do/ Must See Mahadev Temple
- The main attraction of the temple is the idol of Lord Shiva with five faces and four arms, sitting on a lotus flower. The idol is made of white marble and stone and is adorned with ornaments and flowers. The five faces are called Sadyojat, Vamdev, Aghor, Tatpurush and Ishan. These five faces of Lord Shiva also represent the five elements – Prithvi, Varun, Vayu, Agni and Akash.
- The temple also has a beautiful white spire (shikhara) with a crescent moon (chandra) motif on top. The spire can be seen from a distance and adds to the charm of the temple. The temple also has a silver turtle on the floor of the main hall, which is believed to be a symbol of longevity and wisdom.
- The temple also has a small museum that displays some ancient scriptures, manuscripts, paintings and sculptures related to Shiva and Hindu mythology. The museum also has some rare coins and stamps that depict Shiva and his temple.
- The temple also offers a stunning view of the Pushkar Lake, which is considered to be one of the five sacred lakes in Hinduism. The lake is said to have been created by Brahma himself when he dropped a lotus flower on the ground. The lake has 52 ghats where pilgrims take a holy dip and perform rituals. The lake also hosts the famous Pushkar Camel Fair every year in November, which attracts thousands of visitors.
- The temple also organizes various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year, especially on Shivratri (the night of Shiva) which is celebrated here with great enthusiasm and devotion. On this day, pilgrims flock to the temple and offer prayers, milk, honey and bael leaves to Shiva. They also take part in a grand procession that carries the idol of Shiva around the town.
Significance of Mahadev Temple
Mahadev Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus as it is dedicated to Shiva, who is regarded as the destroyer of evil and the transformer of life. According to Hindu mythology, Shiva performed a tandava (cosmic dance) at Pushkar to destroy a demon named Tripurasura who had conquered the three worlds. As a result, he earned the name Tripurari (the enemy of Tripura) and was worshipped at Pushkar by Brahma and other gods. Therefore, visiting Mahadev Temple at Pushkar is considered to be auspicious and beneficial for those who seek protection from evil forces.
FAQ’s
Q: Why does Shiva have five faces?
A: According to a legend, Shiva had five faces because he wanted to see his beloved wife Parvati from all directions. However, one of his faces was burnt by his third eye when he saw Parvati with another man who was actually Vishnu in disguise. Therefore, he replaced his burnt face with a new one that looked upwards.
Q: What is the best time to visit Mahadev Temple?
A: The best time to visit Mahadev Temple is during Shivratri (the night of Shiva) which falls in February or March every year. On this day, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers and the idol of Shiva is taken out in a procession. Pilgrims also perform special rituals and offerings to Shiva on this day.
Q: How to reach Mahadev Temple?
A: Mahadev Temple is located in the town of Pushkar in Rajasthan, India. It is about 10 km from Ajmer, the nearest city, and can be reached by road or rail. There are buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws available from Ajmer to Pushkar. There are also trains that connect Ajmer to other major cities in India.
Conclusion
Mahadev Temple is a unique Hindu shrine that is dedicated to the god of destruction, Lord Shiva. It is located in the holy town of Pushkar in Rajasthan, India, on the banks of the sacred Pushkar Lake. It is one of the most popular and divine places of worship in Pushkar and attracts devotees from all over the country. Visiting Mahadev Temple is a spiritual and enriching experience that should not be missed by anyone.
