Kankaleshwar Temple is a Hindu temple located in the state of Maharashtra, India. It is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is believed to be more than 800 years old. The temple is located in the Ghat region of Maharashtra, near Mahabaleshwar.
The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Shiva and is one of the 'jyotirlingas' or the 12 most sacred Shiva temples in India. The temple is believed to have been constructed by the Chalukya dynasty, although it has seen several renovations and renovations over the centuries. The temple comprises a large shikhara or tower, built in the typical Chalukya style. The main deity worshipped at the temple is Kankaleshwar, an incarnation of Shiva. This incarnation of Shiva is represented in the form of a lingam, a cylindrical-shaped stone placed at the centre of the temple.
Lush green hills surround the temple complex, and the view from the temple is breathtaking. The temple has several other shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities, including Ganesha, Vishnu, and Parvati.
The temple has several festivals, such as the Maha Shivaratri, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Navratri. Devotees flock to the temple during these festivals to pray and seek blessings.
Places To Visit Near Kankaleshwar Temple:
For those looking for some respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, there are some wonderful Kankaleshwar temples. A few of these include the beautiful Kaas Plateau, a unique biodiversity hotspot in the Western Ghats. Here, you can witness many flora and fauna and explore the many trails and waterfalls. Another must-visit destination is the Pratapgad Fort, located about 15km away from the temple. Shivaji Maharaj built this fort in the 16th century, and it is an important historical site.
Apart from these, there are also several other places to visit near Kankaleshwar Temple, including the scenic backwaters of Venna Lake, the Panchaganga Temple, and the famous Lingmala Waterfall. So, if you are looking for a spiritual and relaxing holiday, Kankaleshwar Temple is the perfect place to visit.