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Maharashtra is studded with numerous beaches, historical structures, hill stations, landmarks, and more, but one thing that is sure to grab your attention is the temples. Of all the temple styles, Hemadpanthi temples in Maharashtra tend to stand out the most. These temples were built during the 12th and 13th centuries and provide us with a glimpse into India’s fine architecture. This unique architectural style is called “Hemadpanthi,” which involves the use of black stone instead of cement or mortar. Visiting a Hemadpanthi temple in Maharashtra is like going back in time to mediaeval India.
10 Hemadpanthi Temples In Maharashtra
Nestled in different regions, Hemadpanthi temples in Maharashtra offer a serene and timeless experience to visitors.
1. Khandoba Mandir
Photo: Atozxyz (talk) / Wikimedia Commons
While there are many famous Hemadpanthi temples in Maharashtra, Khandoba Mandir happens to be the unofficial symbol of Beed. This ancient temple is located on the eastern hills and serves as a pleasant tourist attraction. The unique thing to notice is the two octagonal towers of light, which are about 21.33 metres tall. Both the towers feature intricate carvings of animals and humans. Records suggest that the temple was established in the Nizam era by Sultanji Nimbalkar. However, some argue that the temple was built by Mahadji Scindia. Regardless of who constructed the temple, Khandoba Mandir is a must-visit, especially if you are on a mission to explore Hemadpanthi architecture.
Location: Vipra Nagar, Beed, Maharashtra, 431122
Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
2. Gondeshwar Temple
Photo: Samruddham / Wikimedia Commons
Built in the 11th or 12th century, Gondeshwar Temple is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated in Sinnar, a well-known town in Nashik. Besides the main shrine, four other shrines house other deities including Ganesha, Parvati, Vishnu, and Surya. Talking about the architecture, the temple has a panchayatana plan, where the main shrine is surrounded by four smaller shrines. When the temple was built, it was surrounded by a wall, which is now in ruins. Both the primary shrine and the subsidiary shrine are located on a platform. While you are at the temple, you can explore the beautiful surroundings.
Location: Sinnar, Maharashtra 422103
Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
3. Aundha Nagnath Temple
Photo: vijay chennupati / Wikimedia Commons
When it comes to exploring Maharashtra Hemadpanthi temples, Aundha Nagnath Temple needs to be in your itinerary. This ancient shrine is home to Lord Shiva and is located in the Hingoli district of the state. Based on records, the temple was built in the 13th century by the Seuna Dynasty. Besides the spiritual significance, visitors come here to witness the marvellous architecture. To see the Jyotirlinga inside the temple, you need to take two deep steps. Just so you know, there are 12 small shrines within the premises and all of them belong to Lord Shiva.
Location: Nanded – Aundha Rd, Aundha Nagnath, Maharashtra 431705
Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
4. Vitthal Temple
Photo: Sid Mohanty / Wikimedia Commons
As the oldest Hemadpanthi temple in Maharashtra, Vitthal Temple draws thousands of visitors every year. Located in Pandharpur, this shrine is also known as Vithoba Temple or Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir. As the name suggests, the temple belongs to Lord Vithoba, an avatar of Lord Krishna or Vishnu. As per records, the shrine was constructed between 1108 and 1152 CE by King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire. As you step inside the temple, you will notice several small shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, and Lord Garuda. To see Lord Vithoba, the main deity, you need to climb a few steps.
Location: 16 Pachimidwar, near Vitthal Mandir, Pandharpur, Maharashtra 413304
Timings: 24*7
5. Bhimashankar Mandir
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Your quest to explore Hemadpanthi temples in Maharashtra is incomplete without visiting Bhimashankar Mandir. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this shrine happens to be an important religious site for the Hindus. Inside the temple, resides one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, where devotees offer their prayers and devotion. You will have to travel about 110 km from Pune to reach the shrine in Khed Taluka, in the Bhimashankar forest range. As for the architecture, the temple is constructed in the Hemadpanthi style. Like other Shiva temples, Bhimshankar Mandir hosts various religious celebrations and events throughout the year, precisely Mahashivratri.
Location: Bhimashankar village, Taluka- Khed, Pune district, Maharashtra
Timings: 4:30 AM to 9 PM
6. Nagra Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
If you are looking to explore the best Hemadpanthi temples in Maharashtra, Nagra Temple needs to be on your itinerary. For those unversed, this shrine was first discovered by archaeologist Dr. Manohar Naranje at the Shenda village in Gondia. As far as it is known, the shrine was built in the 15th century in the Hemadpanthi style. It features 16 pillars sans joints and other intricate details that make it a must-visit place for tourists. The temple is home to several Hindu gods and goddesses including Parvati, Lord Hanuman, and Nagraj.
Location: Nagra, Maharashtra, 441601
Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
7. Markanda Mahadev
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
Markhanda Mahadev may not be the biggest Hemadpanthi temple in Maharashtra, but it is worth a visit, especially if you prefer calm and quiet places. Apart from the unique architecture, the temple receives visitors’ attention mainly because of its location. It was built in the 8th century on the banks of the Wainganga River, which provides a serene atmosphere to visitors. On the exterior wall of the temple, you will notice intricate details of several deities. Since the shrine is located near Marakand Deo village, you can explore the place if you have enough time in your hand.
Location: Near Chamorshi, Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
8. Tulja Bhavani
Photo: अरविंद धरेप्पा बगले / Wikimedia Commons
The name of the temple itself reveals that the shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhavani. Located in Dharashiv district in Maharashtra, Tulja Bhavani is amongst the most visited shrines in the state. It is one of the Shakti Pithas that holds immense importance for Hindus. There are a total of three entry points to the shrine, but the main entrance features the name of Sardar Nimbalkar. If you enter through the main entrance, you will notice Markandeya Rishi on your right-hand side. After climbing down a few steps, you will reach the Tulja temple.
Location: Shri Tulja Bhavani Temple, Mahadwar Rd, Jijamata Nagar, Tuljapur, Maharashtra 413601
Timings: 4 AM to 10 PM
9. Bhagwant Temple
Photo: Manoj saini12345 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
In the list of popular Hemadpanthi temples in Maharashtra, Bhagwant Temple deserves a mention, mainly because of its stunning architecture. Located in the district of Solapur, Barshi, this shrine is home to Lord Vishnu. Both locals and tourists flock to the temple to offer their prayers to the lord. Like the other temples in the list, Bhagwant Temple is several centuries old. It was built almost 800 years ago and features a classic Hemadpanthi-style design. The idol of Lord Vishnu is made of pure black stone and has a shankh, a gadha, and a chakra in his hands.
Location: Mangalwar Peth, Mangire Mala, Barshi, Maharashtra 413401
Timings: 5:30 AM to 11:55 PM
10. Mankeshwar Temple
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Lastly, we have Mankeshwar Temple in Zodage village in Nashik. This ancient temple is located adjacent to the Mumbai-Agra National Highway, so accessing it shouldn’t be an issue. From top to bottom, the walls are adorned with carvings in basalt rock. Even the Nandi (bull) is carved in stone and sits outside the entrance where the Shiva lingam is placed. Throughout the temple premise, you will notice Shiva sculptures that are crafted with excellent precision. There’s also an ardhamandapa that leads to the antaral, mandapa, garbhagriha, and subsidiary shrines.
Location: Mankeshwar Mandir, Mankeshwar, T.Bhum. Dist.Osmanabad-413504 Tambewadi or Vangi Budruk
Timings: 6 AM to 10 PM
Exploring the ancient Hemadpanthi temples in Maharashtra is undoubtedly one of the best experiences you will ever have. By visiting these temples, you will not only learn about India’s history but also witness stunning architecture that you haven’t seen before. So, if you are ready to set out on the best exploration journey, make sure to book your trip with TripXL to Maharashtra and its unique temples.
Cover Photo: Chetan kashinath Rathod / Wikimedia Commons
