Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple - Haryana

The Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the most sacred and historically significant temples in North India. Located in Thanesar, a historic town in Kurukshetra district, Haryana, this temple is deeply connected to the legends of the Mahabharata. It is said that the Pandavas, along with Lord Krishna, worshipped Lord Shiva here before the legendary war of Kurukshetra. The temple continues to draw pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike due to its powerful spiritual aura and rich heritage.

About the Temple

Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Sthaneshwar Mahadev.

Temple Description

The architecture reflects traditional North Indian styles.

It houses a Swayambhu Shivalinga (self-manifested).

Surrounded by a sacred pond believed to have healing powers.

Temple Speciality

Mentioned in Mahabharata.

Strong association with the Pandavas and Lord Krishna.

Believed to fulfill wishes and bring spiritual peace.

Popular during Shivratri and Shravan month.

Temple Address

Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple, Thanesar, Kurukshetra, Haryana – 136118, India.

Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)

29.9694° N, 76.8378° E

Temple Timings

Daily: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Peak hours during morning and evening aarti

Temple Sevas

Rudrabhishek, Laghu Rudra, Maha Rudra

Aarti, Archana, and Annadanam Sevas

Traveling Facilities

Accessible by road, rail, and air

Local rickshaws and cabs available for temple access

Food Facilities

Free prasadam at the temple

Nearby vegetarian restaurants and dhabas

Stay Facilities

Multiple hotels, lodges, and Dharamshalas in Kurukshetra city

Pilgrim hostels available at reasonable rates

Nearby Railway Station

Kurukshetra Junction (KKDE) – ~2.5 km

Nearby Airport

Chandigarh International Airport – ~90 km

Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) – ~165 km

Nearby Bus Station

Kurukshetra Bus Stand – ~3 km

Bus Routes to Temple

Buses available from Delhi, Ambala, Chandigarh, Karnal, and Panipat

Regular services via Haryana Roadways and private operators

Train Routes to Temple

Direct trains to Kurukshetra Junction from major cities:

Delhi

Chandigarh

Ambala

Jaipur

Lucknow

Airways to Temple

Fly to Chandigarh or Delhi

Continue via train or road to Kurukshetra

Nearby Cities

Ambala – 45 km

Karnal – 35 km

Panipat – 75 km

Chandigarh – 90 km

Delhi – 165 km

Nearby Visiting Temples and Places

Brahma Sarovar

Jyotisar (site where Krishna gave the Bhagavad Gita)

Bhishma Kund

Sheikh Chilli’s Tomb

Kurukshetra Panorama and Science Centre

Preferable Visiting Season

Best time to visit: October to March

Avoid summers (April to June) due to high temperatures

Shopping Famous For

Religious items, brass idols, handicrafts

Kurukshetra souvenirs

Spiritual books and clothing

The Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple is more than just a pilgrimage site it is a living piece of India’s spiritual and historical legacy. Its connection to the Mahabharata, sacred rituals, and serene ambiance make it a must-visit for devotees, historians, and spiritual seekers. Whether you're seeking divine blessings, historical exploration, or cultural experiences, a visit to this temple offers it all with deep spiritual resonance.