10 Old Temples In Pune That Tell Timeless Tales

The iconic old temples in pune connect you to the ancient history of the country

The old temples in Pune are a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. This vibrant city in Maharashtra is home to some of the oldest and most revered shrines in the state. From the ancient Pataleshwar Cave Temple to the scenic Parvati Hill Temple, each site holds a unique story. These temples are not just places of worship, but stunning examples of architecture. Don’t miss the chance to explore the timeless charm of old temples in Pune.

Top 10 Old Temples In Pune – Exploring The City’s Sacred Landmarks

With so many religious sites scattered across the city, if you are on a mission to explore the sacred landmarks, you should start your journey from the following shrines.

1. Parvati Hill Temple

Parvati Hill in Pune features historic temples atop a hill, providing scenic city vistas

Photo: Siddhesh Nampurkar / Wikimedia Commons

An iconic religious site that is not to be missed is Parvati Hill Temple. Perched atop Parvati Hill, it is one of the most famous old temples in Pune that dates back to the 18th century, the era of Peshwas. Offering breathtaking views of the city, the temple complex has few shrines to house different gods and goddesses, including Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ganesha. Located at an elevation of 640 metres, the climb to the temple includes 103 steps.

Location: Hillock at the southern end of Pune
Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM

2. Pataleshwar Cave Temple

Pataleshwar cave temple in Pune, featuring monolithic rock-cut pillars and sanctum

Photo: Karthik Easvur / Wikimedia Commons

When it comes to the Best old temples in Pune, Pataleshwar Cave Temple stands out the most. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a unique temple that is carved out of a single basalt rock, resembling the architecture of the famous Ellora Caves. Based on records, the temple was constructed in the 8th century and houses a massive Shiva Lingam. As you walk around the temple, you will notice intricate carvings on the walls and pillars that showcase the artistic skills of that era. However, it’s the cave’s unfinished appearance that makes the shrine look more mysterious.

Location: Jangali Maharaj Rd, next to J M Temple, Revenue Colony, Pune, Maharashtra 411005
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM

3. Sarasbaug Ganpati Temple

Sarasbaug in Pune featuring the Ganesh temple amid landscaped gardens and calm surrounding

Photo: Pakshya / Wikimedia Commons

Though not the biggest old temple in Pune, Sarasbaug Ganpati Temple is a popular place of worship for devotees. Built by the Peshwas in 1784, the temple attracts thousands of visitors every year mainly during Ganesh Chaturthi. Home to Lord Ganesha, the shrine is set amidst a beautiful garden that boasts lush greenery all around. The main idol is placed at the centre and worshipped with great devotion every day. While visiting the temple, keep your eyes peeled for the scenic views.

Location: Saras Baug Road, Municipal Colony, Pune, Pin- 411 030
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM

4. Shree Omkareshwar Temple

Omkareshwar Mandir in Pune with detailed spires beside the flowing Mutha River and old ghats

Photo: Phadke09 / Wikimedia Commons

Located on the banks of the Mutha River, Shree Omkareshwar Temple is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Pune. Built by Shivram Bhat in the 18th century, the temple belongs to Lord Shiva and boasts stunning architecture. Exploring the temple will give you a closer look at the sculpted pillars, intricate carvings, and the grand shikhara that enhances the beauty of the shrine. What some people don’t know is that the temple ground was a Smashan Bhumi (funeral site) for Hindus till 1971.

Location: Balgandharva Bridge, 233 Near, Chandrashekhar Govind Aapte Rd, Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411030
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM; 4 PM – 10 PM

5. Shree Nageshwar Shiv Mandir

Shri Nageshwar Mahadev temple in Sri Ganganagar with high domes and carved white marble facade

Photo: Stalinjeet Brar / Wikimedia Commons

As one of the popular old temples in Pune, Shree Nageshwar Shiv Mandir came into existence in the 14th century. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple holds immense religious importance among devotees. Situated in Somwar Peth, the temple is famous for its Hemadpanthi architecture which boasts beautiful carved pillars and designs. The ancient Shiva Lingam sits in the centre of the shrine and is worshipped by a large number of devotees every day. Despite being surrounded by modern developments, the temple has retained its old-world charm.

Location: Somwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411011
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM

6. Bhuleshwar Temple

Bhuleshwar Temple near Pune, featuring hilltop location, Islamic-style dome, and stone carving

Photo: Rohan Kalbhor / Wikimedia Commons

When sorting your list of ancient old temples in Pune, you cannot skip Bhuleshwar Temple. Located almost 54 km away from the city, the temple is perched on a hilltop and belongs to Lord Shiva. Based on records, the temple was built in the 8th century during the Yadava Dynasty. Since then, it has remained a revered site for Hindus, who come here to seek blessings and offer prayers to Lord Shiva. Besides its religious importance, the shrine is renowned for its unique architecture that looks like a fort from the outside.

Location: Bhuleshwar Road, Malshiras, Bhuleswar Nagar, Maharashtra 412104
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM on Mondays; 5 AM – 8 PM from Tuesday to Sunday

7. Shri Chatushrungi Devi Temple

Hindu deity sculpture with bell at Hanol temple, showcasing detailed carvings and vibrant

Photo: Bohemian_Heart Tanusree / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

When you are out there exploring old temples in Pune, you cannot miss Shri Chatushrungi Devi Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Chatushrungi, a form of Maa Durga, the temple is situated on Senapati Bapat Road and requires you to climb more than 170 steps to reach the sanctum. According to reports, the temple was constructed during the Maratha reign and has remained a centre of faith for centuries. Besides the main idol of Goddess Chatushrungi, you will spot idols of other deities like Lord Ganesha, and Lord Shiva.

Location: 971, Senapati Bapat Rd, Sheti Mahamandal, Shivaji Co-operative Housing Society, Ramoshivadi, Gokhale nagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411016
Timings: 8 AM – 9 PM

8. Amruteshwar Siddheshwar Temple Complex

A detailed front view of Amruteshwar Temple in Pune, showcasing its ornate architecture

Photo: DesiBoy101 / Wikimedia Commons

A sacred site, the Amruteshwar Siddheshwar Temple Complex is ancient and dates back to the Peshwa era. Although the temple is crumbling, you can still marvel at its architectural beauty which features beautifully carved stone pillars and a divine Shiva Lingam at the centre. Besides that, you have the Sabha mandap and the Nandi mandap which further adds to the appeal of the shrine. While you are at the temple, you can offer prayers and enjoy the peaceful ambience that is perfect for spiritual reflection. Also, the temple turns into a significant place of worship during Mahashivratri, when thousands of devotees gather for the occasion.

Location: 67, Chandrashekhar Agashe Path, Apte Ghat, Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411030
Timings: 6:30 AM – 1 PM and 4:30 PM – 9 PM

9. Tulsibaug Shri Ram Temple

Tulshibaug Ram Mandir in Pune, highlighting its ornate architecture and significance.

Photo: DesiBoy101 / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the heart of Tulsi Baug Market, Tulsibaug Shri Ram Temple is one of the most famous religious sites in Pune. Built by Shrimant Balaji Baji Rao, the temple came to be in the 18th century. As the name suggests, the shrine is home to Lord Rama and other deities, including Maa Sita, Lord Lakshman, and Lord Hanuman. Once you reach the temple, you are sure to be amazed by its magnificent architecture which features a towering spire and carved wooden pillars.

Location: 103, Tulshibaug Internal Rd, near Jilbya Maruti Mandal, Tulshibaug, Budhwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411002
Timings: 7 AM – 8:30 PM

10. Baneshwar Cave Temple

An image of an ancient cave that is very similar to the iconic Baneshwar Cave Temple

Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Nestled amidst lush greenery, the Baneshwar Cave Temple is a serene and ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built during the 8th century, the temple features a sacred Shiva Lingam and a few water tanks that is home to fish and tortoises. The temple complex is also surrounded with a dense forest where you will find various species of birds, making it a perfect place for both worshippers and nature lovers. According to Hindu folklore, the cave was once inhabited by the Pandavas during their exile 5000 years ago.

Location: 12, Baner Gaon, Baner, Pune, Maharashtra 411045
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM

Pune is home to many ancient temples, each with its own unique history and cultural significance. Visiting these sacred sites offers a deeper insight into the city’s rich religious traditions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking spiritual experiences, Pune’s temples have much to offer. Ready to explore the oldest and holiest temples in Pune? Book your trip with TripXL today.

Cover Photo: Roman Saienko / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Pune is home to several old temples, including Parvati Hill Temple, Chaturshringi Temple, and Pataleshwar Cave Temple.
The best time to visit temples in Pune is early morning when the crowd is less and you get to explore the site properly.
Some temples have designated parking lots while others may require you to park your vehicle at a nearby location.
Temples in Pune allow you to participate in rituals and worship the deities to your heart’s content.
Most temples in Pune are open to everyone, but some may restrict entry into the inner sanctum.

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