Shree Shaneeshwara Temple
Shree Shaneeshwara Temple is a Hindu temple located in the city of Shani Shingnapur in Maharashtra, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shaneeshwara or Lord Shani, who is one of the nine celestial bodies or Navagrahas in Hindu mythology.
The temple is believed to be over 300 years old and is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage sites for followers of Lord Shaneeshwara. The temple is situated in a small village, which is also known as Shani Shingnapur, and it is believed that the village is protected by Lord Shaneeshwara himself.
The main deity of the temple is a black stone idol of Lord Shaneeshwara, which is about five and a half feet tall. The idol is kept in an open-air temple, and devotees offer various offerings to the deity, such as oil, flowers, and sweets.
One of the unique features of the temple is that it has no roof, as it is believed that Lord Shaneeshwara likes to keep a watchful eye on his devotees from above. Another unique feature is that there are no doors or locks in the village, and it is believed that Lord Shaneeshwara protects the village from theft and crime.
The temple attracts a large number of devotees, especially on Saturdays, which is considered to be the day of Lord Shaneeshwara. The temple also has a special significance for people who believe in astrology, as it is believed that Lord Shaneeshwara can alleviate the effects of a person's unfavorable planetary positions or doshas.
Apart from the main deity, the temple complex also houses several other shrines dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Lord Ganesha, and other Hindu deities. The temple also has several facilities for devotees, such as a large hall for performing religious ceremonies and a prasadam distribution center.
Places To Visit Shree Shaneeshwara Temple
Shani Shingnapur:
Located in Ahmednagar district, Shani Shingnapur is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shani, the Hindu god of Saturn. The temple is known for its unique tradition of having no doors or locks to protect the idol. It is believed that Lord Shani guards the village and ensures its safety.
Ellora Caves:
Located in Aurangabad, Ellora Caves is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a complex of rock-cut temples and monasteries. It is renowned for its exquisite sculptures and ancient architecture. The caves also include the famous Kailasa Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple:
Situated near Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's beautiful architecture and spiritual significance make it a popular pilgrimage site.
Shirdi:
Shirdi is a renowned pilgrimage site located in Ahmednagar district. It is famous for the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, dedicated to the revered saint Sai Baba. Devotees from all over the world visit this temple to seek blessings and experience spiritual solace.
Aurangabad:
Aurangabad is a historically rich city known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. These ancient caves showcase stunning sculptures and paintings and are a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. The city is also known for its Mughal-era monuments like Bibi Ka Maqbara and the imposing Daulatabad Fort.
Bhimashankar:
Bhimashankar is a popular pilgrimage site and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in the Sahyadri Hills and offers scenic beauty along with religious importance. The area is also known for its wildlife sanctuary.
Lonavala and Khandala:
These twin hill stations are located near Mumbai and Pune, making them easily accessible. They offer breathtaking views, lush green landscapes, and pleasant weather. They are popular weekend getaways and provide opportunities for trekking, hiking, and enjoying nature.
Nearby Places
Mumbai
Ajanta And Ellora Caves
Panchgani
Mahabaleshwar
Lonavala
Rajmachi
Alibaug
Khandala
