Nestled atop the scenic Kaimur Hills in Bihar, the Mundeshwari Temple stands as a timeless shrine of spiritual serenity and architectural brilliance. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti, this temple is believed to be the oldest continuously worshipped temple in India, dating back to the 2nd century AD. Located in Ramgarh village of Kaimur district, this ancient marvel attracts thousands of pilgrims and history enthusiasts every year. About the Temple
The Mundeshwari Devi Temple, located in the Kaimur district of Bihar, is one of the oldest functional Hindu temples in the world, with origins dating back to around 108 CE . Situated atop the Mundeshwari Hills at an elevation of approximately 600 feet, the temple is dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti (Mundeshwari Devi). Temple Description:
Considered the oldest functional temple in India, dating back to 108 AD.
Built in Nagara architectural style with a rare octagonal layout.
Located on the Mundeshwari Hills at an elevation of ~600 feet.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva (in the form of Chaturmukh Shiva Linga) and Goddess Shakti (Mundeshwari Devi).
Unique feature: Combined worship of Shiva and Shakti — a rare practice in Hinduism. Temple Speciality:
Rituals performed daily for over 1,900 years.
A center for Tantric practices and non-violent worship.
Celebrated for its spiritual energy, historic carvings, and panoramic views. Temple Address & Location
Address:
Mundeshwari Temple, Ramgarh Village, Bhabua, Kaimur District, Bihar – 821103, India
Coordinates (Latitude & Longitude): 25.0397° N, 83.6121° E Temple Timings & Sevas
Temple Timings:
Open Daily: 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Morning Aarti: 4:30 AM – 6:00 AM
Evening Aarti: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Sevas (Ritual Services):
Rudrabhishek
Mahamrityunjaya Jaap
Daily Bhog and Aarti
Special Pujas during:
Navratri (Chaitra and Ashwin)
Maha Shivratri Traveling Facilities
By Road: Well connected to Mohania, Bhabua, Sasaram, and Varanasi.
By Local Transport: Autos, taxis, and jeeps available from nearby towns.
The temple lies on a hill, and one has to trek a small path (~15–20 minutes climb). Food Facilities
Prasadam counters inside the temple campus.
Local stalls and eateries nearby offer vegetarian meals like litti-chokha, poori-sabzi, and local snacks.
Restaurants available in Bhabua and Mohania. Stay Facilities
Basic Dharamshalas near the temple.
Budget lodges and guesthouses in Bhabua and Mohania.
Temple trust and local hosts may offer accommodation during festivals. Nearby Transport Hubs
Bhabua Road Station (BBU) – ~20 km away Airport:
Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Varanasi (VNS) – ~100 km
Patna Airport (PAT) – ~200 km Bus Stand:
Mohania Bus Stand – Main bus hub
Buses from Patna, Gaya, Varanasi, and Sasaram How to Reach the Temple
Bus Routes:
Patna → Arrah → Buxar → Mohania → Ramgarh
Varanasi → Chandauli → Mohania → Ramgarh Train Routes:
Major trains to Bhabua Road Station (BBU):
Mahananda Express
Vikramshila Express
Purvanchal Express
Seemanchal Express
From station: Local autos/taxis to temple (~30–40 min ride) Air Travel:
Fly to Varanasi or Patna → train/bus/taxi to Bhabua/Mohania → local transport to temple Nearby Cities
Bhabua – 20 km
Mohania – 25 km
Sasaram – 70 km
Varanasi – 100 km
Gaya – 135 km
Patna – 200 km Nearby Attractions
Temples & Holy Sites:
Vishnupad Temple (Gaya)
Mangla Gauri Temple (Gaya)
Pretshila Temple (Gaya)
Baidyanath Dham, Deoghar – ~260 km Nature & Heritage Spots:
Karkat Waterfall
Adhaura Hills
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary
Barabar Caves
Rohtasgarh Fort Best Time to Visit
October to March – Ideal weather
Navratri & Maha Shivratri – Grand celebrations
Avoid monsoons (July–September) due to slippery paths Local Shopping & Cultural Finds
Stone & Brass Idols
Handmade Shivlingas
Honey & Ayurvedic products
Terracotta art, rural handicrafts
Famous snacks: Thekua, Tilkut, Litti-Chokha Major Festivals
Maha Shivratri – Biggest celebration
Chaitra Navratri & Durga Navratri – Decorated temple, cultural fairs
Diwali & Holi – Community gatherings and poojas
Chaitra Mela – Annual fair with local crafts and food stalls
The Mundeshwari Temple is more than just a pilgrimage site it's a living monument to India's spiritual legacy and architectural excellence. With its blend of divine ambiance, historical importance, and natural beauty, a visit here rejuvenates the body, mind, and soul. Whether you're a pilgrim, a historian, or a wanderer at heart, this temple offers an unforgettable journey through devotion and time.
