Bhuleshwar Temple is an ancient temple located about 55 Km from Pune. The temple is built on a hill and features beautiful architecture and carvings. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple attracts various visitors and pilgrims all around the year. The temple is of historical significance and because of its convenient location Bhuleshwar Temple is an excellent day trip attraction from Pune.

Bhuleshwar Temple has lately been acknowledged as a protected shrine. The temple was constructed during the reign of the Yadava rulers. It was destroyed during the Mughal invasion and reconstructed later. For this reason, the entrance of the temple is hidden similar to the Gaimukhi Buruj style of construction that was followed during the time of Shivaji Maharaj. The structure that stands today dates to the 13th century.

It is believed that the temple was built during the time of the Pandavas. The temple was originally a fort by the name Mangalgadh and is also known as Daulatmangal Fort. The fort was constructed by Murar Jagdev in 17th century after he robbed Pune. He built the fort on the hill of Bhuleshwar Temple to keep a watch and get a view of the city.

A little further about 15 Km from Bhuleshwar Temple is Narayanbet. The area is known for being home to migratory birds and is visited by many nature lovers and bird watchers.

Bhuleshwar Temple can easily be reached from Pune. It is located close to the Malshiras Village which is about 3 Km from the temple. The location of Bhuleshwar Temple close to the village gives it the name Malshiras Bhuleshwar. Direct buses are available from Pune Swargate till Malshiras and also from Saswad till Malshiras. Upon reaching the village, visitors can take private jeeps to reach the temple. The entire journey from Pune to Bhuleshwar Temple is quite scenic.

The temple can be visited at any time around the year. However it is best to avoid the summer and monsoon seasons. This is because during the summer months the temperatures are quite high and during the monsoon months the area receives a lot of rainfall.

Architecture and Surroundings of Bhuleshwar Temple

Bhuleshwar Temple is made from black basalt rock which was brought especially to construct the temple. The rock is different from the other rock brownish basalt that is seen in the surroundings. The structure of the temple is traditional and the walls feature beautiful carvings. Figurines of several deities and mythological characters can be seen carved on the walls of the temple. Right from the entrance of the temple, visitors can see the cravings that augment the structure of the stone. The exterior of the temple surprisingly features Mughal style of architecture. The tower of the temple resembles a Mughal tomb. An influence of southern architecture can also be seen in interior of the temple.

Upon entering the sanctum of the temple visitors can see a huge statue of Nandi. The main deity worshipped in the temple is Lord Shiva. The temple also has an idol of Lord Ganesha dressed in the attire of a female. The idol is also addressed as Lambodari, Ganeshwari and Ganeshyani. The walls inside the temple are also sculpted beautifully. Many of the sculptures inside the temple are broken. But even though disfigured the beauty of the temple is not compromised. The entire scene of the temple looks quite mystic yet attractive and impressive. The surroundings of the temple have various small and large structures which are remains of the fort.

The view from the hill of Bhuleshwar Temple is breathtaking. The beauty of the area is best enjoyed during the time of sunrise and sunset.

Significance of Bhuleshwar Temple

The area of Bhuleshwar Temple is considered to be of historical and religious importance. It is believed that this is the spot where Goddess Parvati performed dance for Lord Shiva before they left for Mount Kailash where they got married. The temple is specially crowded during the celebration of Mahashivratri. People also visit the temple during the Hindu calendar months of Shravan and Chaitra.

Many people claim to have observed a miracle in the temple. The miracle is when sweets are presented to the Shivalingam one or more sweets disappear.