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The Bateshwar temple complex is a mesmerising ensemble of more than 200 sandstone temples built during the 8th-10th century in the heart of the Morena district of Madhya Pradesh. This architectural wonder is famous for the carvings and the remarkable fusion of Hinduism and Jainism, reflecting the harmonious coexistence of different religions. The temples are dedicated mostly to Lord Shiva and Vishnu and are situated along the beautiful Chambal Valley. Bateshwar is famous not only for its historic-religious past but also for the remarkable restoration work done by the Archaeological Survey of India, turning it from ruins to a heritage treasure.
Location
Photo: Varun Shiv Kapur / Wikimedia Commons
The Bateshwar temples’ address is about 35 km away from the city of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The site is in the northwest of India, about 14 km south of Morena city. It comes under close proximity to the Chambal River and Padavali Village. The temples belong to the period of the 8th to 10th centuries AD of the Gurjara-Pratihara Dynasty. The geographical coordinates of the temple complex are 26.5020° N latitude and 78.2240° E longitude.
How To Reach
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By Air: Fly to the Gwalior Airport, then book a taxi or bus ride to Morena. From Morena, hire a taxi to reach this temple complex, which is just 25 km away.
By Road: Drive from Gwalior via NH44 to Morena, then take a turn on the Padavali route to reach the temple complex, which is situated 35 km away from Gwalior. Enjoy the scenic route in between the journeys.
By Rail: Take a train to the Gwalior Railway Station and then take a taxi or bus to Morena. From there, the temple complex is just a short drive.
Places To Visit Around Bateshwar Temple Complex
Besides exploring this temple complex, you can also head to other attractions to make the most of your journey to Madhya Pradesh.
1. Padavali And Mitawali Temples
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best places to visit around the temple complex is Padavali and Mitawali temples. The Padavali Temple, also known as the Garhi Padavali, is a fort-like structure that houses different temples within its walls. Dedicated to the famous Lord Vishnu, it showcases carved sculptures of the gods and goddesses as well as many mythological scenes. Mitawali Temple, which is also called Ekattarso Mahadeva Temple, is another important shrine located nearby. The architecture of this temple is in a circular style. The temple features 64 small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: NA
2. Gwalior Fort
Photo: Anuppyr07 / Wikimedia Commons
A bit far away is the Gwalior Fort which is a historical hill fort constructed in the 8th century. Sprawling over 3 sq km, it stands on a sand stone hill. The fort has been controlled by various dynasties including the Tomars, the Mughals and the Marathas. In the premises of this fort, there are other worth mentioning architectures like Man Singh Palace, Gujari Mahal, Sas Bahu Temples.Famous for its detailed architecture and its important location, Gwalior Fort is sometimes called the ‘Gibraltar of India’.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: ₹75 for adults, ₹40 for children, ₹250 for foreigners
3. Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod
Photo: Suyash Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod is an important Sikh temple commemorating the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and fifty-two Rajput kings/guardians from the Gwalior Fort by Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1619. This Gurudwara is one of the most peaceful places located in the middle of an urban city and was built with white marble and domed with gold. Visitors can perform the offerings in the sanctum sanctorum, listen to the Kirtans, do Savan Aarti, and even take part in the langar.
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: NA
4. Sun Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
The Sun Temple is a very interesting place to visit. This old temple, dedicated to the sun god, shows off beautiful and well-made architecture. While the sanctum sanctorum attracts people’s attention with its beautiful statue of the sun god, Surya, and an atmosphere so tranquil and holy, another attractiveness of the temple is its structural design, resembling the Sun Temple at Konark in Odisha. The temple is built to give it a chariot-like shape with twelve beautifully carved wheels and seven horses resembling the sun god’s chariot.
Timings: 8 AM – 12 PM and 1 PM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: NA
5. Tighra Dam
Photo: Ambeybarve27 / Wikimedia Commons
Tighra Dam is one of the oldest water reservoirs situated at Gwalior across the Sank River. The dam together with its scenic surroundings has always been a preferred spot for people to enjoy various recreational activities like boating, fishing and picnicking. Measuring nearly five million cubic metres of water, the grand structure has two functions—the protection of the area against floods and preserving the delicate ecosystem.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10
Where To Stay
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When planning to visit the temple complex, booking the right accommodation can make or break your trip. Consider exploring the nearby town of Morena, with its variety of accommodation offerings. The MP Tourism’s Chambal Safari Lodge provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities. Meanwhile, Hotel Gaurav presents a cost-effective choice. In the alternative, the urban centre of Gwalior, approximately an hour’s ride away, offers luxurious lodgings like the grandeur of Taj Usha Kiran Palace and the opulence of Radisson Gwalior, guaranteeing an extravagant experience.
Where To Eat
Photo: Boby Ortain / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are multiple tempting places in proximity to the temple complex where one can savour the local cuisine. Two renowned restaurants in the area are Hotel Raj Palace and Shri Krishna Restaurant, both serving delectable traditional Indian fare. However, for a truly authentic experience, stop at the casual dhabas lining the Morena-Bateshwar road, where freshly cooked, flavour-packed meals are lovingly prepared for travellers. Those seeking an even wider array of options can venture to the nearby city of Gwalior, approximately a 35-kilometre drive away.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Soumya Mukherji / Wikimedia Commons
The best season to visit the temple complex is during the Bateshwar Fair, which takes place from October to November. This festival coincides with the post-monsoon period, which offers cheerful and vibrant celebrations with pleasant weather. This colourful cultural celebration draws huge crowds, amplifying the energy of a visit. Summers are best avoided as soaring heat often hinders outdoor enjoyment.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of Trip:
Normally, the cost differs depending on the means of transportation, accommodation, and other spending options. For example, renting a comfortable room in a mid-priced hotel can cost you ₹1500–3000 per night. Having a meal at an ordinary restaurant will cost around ₹500–1,500. Besides, the public transportation cost differs based on distance as well as the class, varying between ₹10 and ₹500.
Tips For Travellers:
- Advance booking for accommodation and transport is recommended if you are planning to visit the place during the Bateshwar Fair.
- It is better to hire a guide to improve your knowledge about the significance of the temples.
- Since Bateshwar is a place of worship, it is recommended to dress decently.
- Comfortable footwear is also advised due to extensive walking.
- Bring water bottles, particularly if you are going around in the summer.
- Respect the local culture while visiting the temple complex.
- It is important to note that photography could be prohibited in some places. Therefore, one should avoid videotaping or taking pictures without permission.
The Bateshwar temple complex, with its rich carving work and historical feel, gives the visitors an idea of ancient India’s aesthetic sense and old civilization. The ongoing process of restoration underlines the concerns for preserving them for generations to come. So if you are a history lover, a spiritual traveller, or fond of the grandeur of India’s architecture in temples, this holy complex is worth your visit.
Cover Photo: Vikramjit.rooprai / Wikimedia Commons
