Pataleshwar Cave Temple - Maharashtra

Pataleshwar Cave Temple is one of the most ancient and historically significant temples located in the heart of Pune, Maharashtra. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this monolithic rock-cut temple is a remarkable example of Rashtrakuta architecture from the 8th century. Surrounded by modern city life, the temple offers a peaceful spiritual retreat and stands as a testimony to India's rich heritage and skilled craftsmanship.

Temple About:

Pataleshwar Cave Temple is a rock-cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back to the 8th century Rashtrakuta period. It is renowned for its monolithic architecture and historical significance.

Temple Description:

Carved out of a single basalt rock, the temple features a linga shrine inside a cube-shaped sanctum, pillared hall (mandapa), and a circular Nandi mandapa (pavilion). Though unfinished, its symmetry and design reflect early Indian rock-cut architectural styles. The serene atmosphere in the middle of bustling Pune adds to its charm.

Temple Specialty:

Entire temple carved out of a single rock

8th-century Rashtrakuta dynasty monument

Peaceful ambiance amidst city life

Unique circular Nandi mandapa

Archaeological importance and protected monument

Temple Address:

Jangali Maharaj Road, Revenue Colony, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411005, India

Temple Location Longitude and Latitude (Single Line):

18.5242° N, 73.8474° E

Temple Timings:

8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Open all days)

Temple Sevas:

Daily Shiva Abhishekam

Archana

Special Poojas during Maha Shivratri

Traveling Facilities:

Well-connected by road, rail, and air

Availability of auto rickshaws, taxis, city buses, and app-based cabs

Food Facilities:

Multiple vegetarian restaurants and street food options near temple

Maharashtrian thali and snacks available nearby

Stay Facilities:

Budget hotels, mid-range lodges, and luxury hotels available in Shivajinagar and central Pune

Nearby Railway Station:

Pune Junction Railway Station (approx. 3.5 km)

Nearby Airport:

Pune International Airport (approx. 11 km)

Nearby Bus Station:

Shivajinagar Bus Station (approx. 1.5 km)

Swargate Bus Station (approx. 5 km)

Bus Routes to Temple:

PMPML buses to Jangali Maharaj Road or Shivajinagar from various parts of Pune

Direct buses from nearby towns and cities to Shivajinagar

Train Routes to Temple:

Pune Junction is connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai

Local autos or cabs from station to temple

Air Ways to Temple:

Pune International Airport has direct flights from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and international cities via layovers

Nearby Cities to Temple:

Mumbai (148 km)

Nashik (212 km)

Aurangabad (237 km)

Satara (112 km)

Kolhapur (234 km)

Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places to Temple:

Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple

Sarasbaug Ganapati Temple

Parvati Hill Temple

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

Shaniwar Wada Fort

Aga Khan Palace

Preferable Visiting Season:

October to February (pleasant winter weather)

Shopping Famous For

Handicrafts, Paithani sarees, Kolhapuri chappals

Local sweets like bhakarwadi and chikki

Fashion street shopping on FC Road and Laxmi Road

The Pataleshwar Cave Temple is not just a religious site but also a cultural and architectural treasure. Its ancient rock-cut design, calm surroundings, and central location in Pune make it a must-visit for spiritual seekers, history enthusiasts, and travelers alike. Whether you're exploring the spiritual side of Maharashtra or delving into its past, Pataleshwar offers a timeless experience amidst the modern city's pulse.