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India is filled with religious and historical temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are numerous shrines available across the country, explaining the importance of it among Hindu devotees. If you are in Badlapur in Maharashtra, a visit to the Kondeshwar Temple is a must. This auspicious Shiva shrine is a popular pilgrimage destination among devotees who want to experience a blend of empowering spirituality and the beauty of nature. From offering your prayers to witnessing the beauty of the surrounding hills, waterfalls, and dense forests, the temple offers it all. So, on your next visit to Maharashtra, ensure to add Kondeshwar Temple to your itinerary for the ultimate experience.
Quick Details
Kondeshwar Temple Address: Kondeshwar Temple Rd, Khuntavali, Maharashtra 421503
Kondeshwar Temple Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
Deity: Lord Shiva
Best Time To Visit: June to February
Entry Fee: Free
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Badlapur Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
About Kondeshwar Temple
Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Kondeshwar Temple, believed to be over 1,000 years old, is a prime example of Hemadpanthi architecture—a style characterised by the use of black stone without mortar. One of the key highlights of the temple is its tranquil setting, surrounded by the Kondeshwar Waterfalls, which are especially majestic during the monsoon. The waterfall not only enhances the beauty of the place but also offers an ideal spot for picnics and nature walks. The temple is small but holds immense significance among locals. Additionally, the main sanctum of the temple also includes smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, adding to its religious significance.
How To Reach Kondeshwar Temple
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Kondeshwar Temple is quite centrally located in Maharashtra, roughly 60 km from the main city of Mumbai. So, depending on your commute experience, reaching the temple won’t be a hassle at all.
By Air: If you are travelling from a nearby city or state, you’d have to book your flight to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. Once you land, there are taxis and rentals available outside the airport to take you to the temple.
By Rail: If you are travelling on a budget, Badlapur Railway Station is your nearest railhead from the temple, located 8.3 km away. Badlapur is well connected to Mumbai via the Central Line of the Mumbai suburban railway network. There are taxis and autos available outside the station to get you to the temple.
By Road: If you are driving yourself or considering taking a taxi or a bus, the roads are pretty well-connected. The drive from Mumbai to Badlapur takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic, via the Eastern Express Highway and NH-48.
Things To Do At Kondeshwar Temple
Visiting Kondeshwar Temple brings forth a variety of experiences that go beyond the religious and spiritual realm. Since there are numerous activities and rituals to perform, planning ahead of time is a necessity.
1. Seek Blessings At Kondeshwar Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
The primary purpose of visiting Kondeshwar Temple is to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. Getting to the inner sanctum of the temple is truly a test of patience but an experience that you can’t swap for another. The ancient Hemadpanthi-style architecture of the temple adds to the spiritual ambience, making it a serene place for meditation and reflection. Also, the temple’s surroundings feature lush greenery, dense forests and hills, which add to the beauty and the serenity of the visit. The temple is especially popular during Maha Shivratri when devotees gather to offer prayers and perform rituals.
2. Explore Kondeshwar Waterfalls
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One of the highlights of visiting Kondeshwar Temple is to bask in the beauty of the surrounding Kondeshwar Waterfalls. The beauty of this waterfall is breathtaking during the monsoon season, creating a mesmerising site for visitors. You can enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters or simply sit by the banks to take in the natural beauty. Also, if you have the resources with you, the surrounding area of the waterfall is pretty great for hosting family picnics as well. However, be aware of the pathway leading up to the waterfalls during the monsoons since they can get slippery.
3. Trekking And Hiking
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Kondeshwar Temple is surrounded by hills and dense forests, making it a popular spot for trekking enthusiasts. Since the temple is surrounded by forests on all sides, several trekking trails lead through the forests and up to the hills. However, the highlight of the experience is getting to witness the breathtaking views along the way. The trails are relatively easy, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned trekkers. You can also spot various bird species and small wildlife along the way.
4. Visit Kondeshwar Lake
Photo: Srinivas Kashyap / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Adjoining the temple is a quaint lake, which is also a must-visit for the devotees. There are several folklore and legends associated with the temple, many of which also depict that taking a dip in the lake is considered sacred. Even if you don’t do that, simply sitting along the banks and witnessing the surrounding nature and birds is a truly mesmerising experience.
Places To Visit Around Kondeshwar Temple
In addition to the temple itself, the region around Kondeshwar offers a variety of attractions for visitors.
1. Matheran
Photo: Ranjeet Chauhan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you are in the mood for some hill station getaway, Matheran is the nearest option. The panoramic views of the greenery and hills paired with the soothing climate make it a great tourist attraction. There are various activities that you can immerse yourself in when in Matheran, including trekking and exploring some of the surrounding viewpoints too, including Panorama Point and Echo Point.
Distance From Kondeshwar Temple: 40 Km
Timings: 24 hours
2. Chanderi Fort
Photo: Arrjunkumarr / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Badlapur, Chanderi Fort is another popular tourist attraction that you can’t miss out on the next time you visit Kondeshwar Temple. This ancient fort is one of the most popular trekking destinations, offering you uninterrupted views of the Sahyadri mountain range. The fort itself has historical significance, dating back to the 17th century. Also, the fort is surrounded by caves and waterfalls, adding to its charm.
Distance From Kondeshwar Temple: 52.8 Km
Timings: 24 hours
3. Ulhas River
Photo: MarinkaYar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Ulhas River, which flows near Kondeshwar Temple, is a great spot for those who enjoy nature and outdoor activities. There are several activities centred around the river including swimming, picnicking, and nature walks. While the beauty of the river grows multiple fold during the monsoon season, the area often becomes too risky to visit. So, plan your visit during the winter months.
Distance From Kondeshwar Temple: 41 Km
Timings: 24 hours
Where To Stay Near Kondeshwar Temple
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Being one of the most popular Shiva temples in the region, there are a variety of hotels, resorts and lodges available around Kondeshwar Temple, which you can check out. Some of the most popular accommodations that you can book your stay in include Dune Barr House, Radha Cottage, Gujarat Bhavan Hotel, Agni Ayurvedic Village, and Krishna Palace Hotel.
Where To Eat Near Kondeshwar Temple
Photo: Dheerajk88 / Wikimedia Commons
There are numerous local cafes, food joints and family restaurants around Kondeshwar Temple, which you can visit and explore some of the authentic cuisine. A few of the most popular restaurants worth checking out in the area are KDS Kitchen Family Restaurant, Shabari Foods and Drinks and Barbecue Junction.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Anshul24Sharma / wikimedia commons / Image For Representation Only
When you are planning your visit to Kondeshwar Temple, you can make the most out of your visit to the temple and the surroundings:
- Visit during monsoon or winter for the best experience as the surrounding waterfalls are in full flow.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes if you plan to hike around the temple.
- Carry sufficient water and snacks since there are very few options.
- Be respectful of the religious sentiments of the locals while visiting the temple.
- Avoid visiting during the afternoon in summer due to the heat.
Kondeshwar Temple in Maharashtra is one of the most unique Shiva temples in the region, offering a blend of spiritual and natural experiences. With the surrounding hills and the waterfalls, the temple offers a peaceful retreat away from the chaos of city life. Plan your visit and experience the serenity and beauty of this hidden gem. You can book your trip now with TripXL and embark on a journey of spiritual and natural exploration.
Cover Photo: rakesh menda / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
