Discover the ancient Amruteshwar Temple, a magnificent 1200-year-old Shiva temple near Shirdi. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about visiting this architectural marvel built by the Shilahara dynasty in the 9th century.
About Amruteshwar Temple
Amruteshwar Temple is an extraordinary ancient Shiva temple located in Ratanwadi village near Bhandardara, Maharashtra. Built over 1200 years ago by King Jhanjha of the Shilahara dynasty in the 9th century CE, this temple stands as a magnificent example of Hemadpanthi architectural style carved entirely from black and red stone.
Historical Significance
This sacred temple is one of twelve Shiva temples commissioned by King Jhanjha during the Shilahara dynasty rule. The temple measures approximately 61m x 36m and is surrounded by a low parapet wall with the main entrance facing east. Located on the banks of the holy Pravara River at the foothills of the famous Ratangad Fort, the temple has been maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India as a protected monument.
Architectural Marvel
The Amruteshwar Temple showcases the exquisite Hemadpanthi style of architecture, characterized by:
- Intricate Stone Carvings: Beautiful sculptures and detailed carvings on black and red stones
- Temple Layout: Traditional design featuring mandapa (assembly hall), antarala (vestibule), and garbhagriha (sanctum) with shikhara (spire)
- Sacred Shivling: The main deity with a unique hot water spring flowing beneath it
- Ornate Pillars: Beautifully carved pillars showcasing ancient Indian craftsmanship
- Hemadpanthi Style: Named after minister Hemadpant from the Yadava period, this architectural style uses interlocking stones without mortar
Shirdi to Amruteshwar Temple Distance and Route
Distance Details
- Distance from Shirdi: Approximately 50-68 km (varies by route)
- Travel Time: 1 to 1.5 hours by road
- Nearest Town: Ratanwadi village, near Bhandardara
- District: Ahmednagar, Maharashtra
Best Route from Shirdi
Recommended Route:
Shirdi → Rahata → Sangamner → Akole → Ratanwadi → Amruteshwar Temple
- Well-connected by road with regular bus services
- Scenic drive through Maharashtra countryside
- Roads are generally good but can be challenging during monsoons
Transportation Options
1. Private Cab/Taxi:
Book a comfortable taxi from Shirdi for a convenient journey. Private vehicles offer flexibility to explore nearby attractions.
2. Bus Service:
MSRTC and private buses operate between Shirdi and Ratanwadi. You may need to change buses at Sangamner or Akole.
3. Boat Journey (From Bhandardara):
For adventure seekers, reach Bhandardara and take a scenic 6 km boat ride across Arthur Lake to Ratanwadi, followed by a 4 km walk to the temple.
4. Self-Drive:
Rent a car and enjoy the beautiful drive through rural Maharashtra with stunning views of the Sahyadri mountain range.
Temple Timings and Entry Details
Visiting Hours
- Opening Time: 6:00 AM
- Closing Time: 6:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) or evening (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
- Open: All days of the week
Entry Fee
- Temple Entry: FREE – No entry fee
- Donation: Voluntary donations accepted
- Photography: Allowed in most areas (check with temple authorities)
Note: Temple timings may vary during special festivals and occasions. It’s advisable to check before planning your visit.
Best Time to Visit Amruteshwar Temple
Monsoon Season (June to September) – Most Beautiful
The temple looks absolutely stunning during monsoons with:
- Lush green surroundings
- Pravara River in full flow
- Waterfalls nearby
- Cool and pleasant weather
- Temple reflection in water-filled courtyard creates magical views
Note: Roads can be slippery and challenging during heavy rains.
Winter Season (October to February) – Comfortable
- Pleasant weather (15°C to 25°C)
- Perfect for temple visits and trekking
- Clear skies for photography
- Comfortable for family trips
Summer Season (March to May) – Less Crowded
- Warm weather (25°C to 35°C)
- Fewer tourists
- Visit early morning or evening
- Carry sufficient water
Festival Times
- Mahashivratri: Major celebration with special pujas
- Shravan Month (July-August): Most auspicious for Shiva devotees
- Nag Panchami: Special prayers and rituals
What to See at Amruteshwar Temple
Main Temple Complex
- Sacred Shivling: Ancient Shivling with hot water spring beneath it
- Intricately Carved Pillars: Showcasing 9th-century craftsmanship
- Stone Sculptures: Depictions of various deities and mythological scenes
- Temple Sanctum: Peaceful garbhagriha for meditation and prayers
- Hemadpanthi Architecture: Unique interlocking stone construction
Temple Surroundings
- Pravara River: Holy river flowing beside the temple
- Ratangad Fort: Historic fort visible from the temple (base for trekking)
- Natural Beauty: Scenic Sahyadri mountain views
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Serene environment perfect for spiritual contemplation
Complete Shirdi to Amruteshwar Temple Itinerary
Day Trip Itinerary (8-10 hours)
6:00 AM – Depart from Shirdi
7:00 AM – Arrive at Amruteshwar Temple
7:30 AM – Temple darshan and prayers
9:00 AM – Explore temple architecture and photography
10:00 AM – Visit Pravara riverbank
11:00 AM – Breakfast at local eatery
12:00 PM – Optional: Short trek to view Ratangad Fort
1:30 PM – Lunch
2:30 PM – Start return journey to Shirdi
4:00 PM – Reach Shirdi
Two-Day Itinerary (With Bhandardara)
Day 1:
- Morning: Shirdi to Amruteshwar Temple
- Afternoon: Explore temple and Ratanwadi village
- Evening: Travel to Bhandardara (17 km)
- Night stay at Bhandardara
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit Arthur Lake, Wilson Dam
- Afternoon: Randha Falls, Sandhan Valley viewpoint
- Evening: Return to Shirdi
Accommodation Options
At Ratanwadi Village
- Home Stays: Basic facilities (Rs. 500-800 per night)
- Village Guest Houses: Simple accommodation
- Camping: For adventure enthusiasts
At Bhandardara (17 km away)
- Budget Hotels: Rs. 1000-2000 per night
- Mid-Range Resorts: Rs. 2500-5000 per night
- Lake View Resorts: Rs. 5000-10000 per night
At Shirdi
Many visitors prefer day trips from Shirdi where abundant accommodation is available.
Important Travel Tips
Before You Go
- Check Weather: Especially during monsoons as roads can be difficult
- Carry Cash: Limited ATM facilities in Ratanwadi village
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: For walking and exploring the temple complex
- Start Early: To avoid crowds and heat
- Book Accommodation: Advance booking recommended during weekends and festivals
At the Temple
- Dress Modestly: Traditional attire preferred
- Remove Footwear: Before entering temple premises
- Maintain Silence: Respect the sacred atmosphere
- Photography: Check with authorities before clicking inside sanctum
- Cleanliness: Don’t litter, help maintain the temple’s beauty
General Tips
- Carry water bottles and snacks
- Mobile network may be patchy in some areas
- Hire local guides to learn about temple history
- Keep medicines for motion sickness
- Respect local customs and traditions
Places to Visit Near Amruteshwar Temple
Bhandardara Lake (17 km)
- Beautiful Arthur Lake surrounded by Sahyadri mountains
- Boating facilities available
- Sunset and sunrise viewpoints
Randha Falls (20 km)
- Spectacular waterfall (especially during monsoons)
- Height: Approximately 170 feet
- Perfect for nature photography
Ratangad Fort (Trek from Ratanwadi)
- Historic fort trek (4-5 hours)
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
- Stunning valley views
- Ancient Amruteshwara temple at the fort
Wilson Dam (14 km)
- Built in 1910
- Beautiful engineering marvel
- Water overflow during monsoons is spectacular
Sandhan Valley (35 km)
- Known as “Valley of Shadows”
- Perfect for adventure enthusiasts
- Rappelling and trekking opportunities
How to Reach Amruteshwar Temple
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Pune Airport (180 km) or Mumbai Airport (220 km)
- From airport, hire taxi or take bus to Shirdi, then proceed to temple
By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station (50-68 km)
- From railway station, hire cab or take bus
- Alternative: Igatpuri Railway Station (60 km) on Mumbai-Nashik route
By Road
- From Shirdi: 50-68 km via Sangamner-Akole route
- From Pune: 180 km
- From Mumbai: 220 km
- From Nashik: 130 km
- From Ahmednagar: 90 km
State transport buses and private vehicles available from all major cities.
Food and Dining Options
At Ratanwadi
- Limited local eateries serving simple vegetarian food
- Traditional Maharashtrian homemade meals
- Basic snacks and tea stalls
At Bhandardara
- Multiple restaurants serving North Indian and Maharashtrian cuisine
- Resort restaurants with varied menus
- Local food stalls serving bhakri, pithla, and other regional dishes
Recommended
- Carry packaged snacks and water
- Try authentic Maharashtrian thali
- Local specialties: Zunka bhakri, Pithla bhakri
Tour Packages from Shirdi
Day Trip Options
- Shirdi to Amruteshwar Temple: Rs. 2,500-3,500 (round trip)
- Shirdi to Amruteshwar + Bhandardara: Rs. 4,500-6,000
- Group Tours: Discounted rates for groups of 5+ people
Two-Day Packages
- Shirdi – Amruteshwar – Bhandardara Tour: Rs. 6,000-10,000 per person
- Includes: Transportation, hotel, meals, guide
Package Inclusions
- Comfortable AC vehicle
- Experienced driver
- Fuel and toll charges
- Parking fees
- Basic sightseeing
Interesting Facts About Amruteshwar Temple
- 1200+ Years Old: Built in 9th century CE by Shilahara dynasty
- Name Meaning: “Amruteshwar” means “Lord of Nectar” or “Lord of Immortality”
- Hot Water Spring: Natural thermal spring flows beneath the Shivling
- ASI Protected: Maintained by Archaeological Survey of India
- No Mortar Used: Hemadpanthi style uses interlocking stones without cement
- Monsoon Magic: Temple courtyard fills with water creating stunning reflections
- Black Stone: Entire structure carved from locally available black basalt
- One of Twelve: Part of twelve temples built by King Jhanjha
- Film Location: Featured in several Marathi and Hindi films
- Trekker’s Paradise: Base village for Ratangad Fort trek
Spiritual Significance
Amruteshwar Temple holds immense spiritual importance for Shiva devotees:
- Sacred Shivling: Believed to have self-manifested (swayambhu)
- Pravara River: Holy river adds to the temple’s sanctity
- Peaceful Energy: Devotees experience deep tranquility and spiritual connection
- Meditation Spot: Ideal for spiritual practices and meditation
- Ancient Vibrations: 1200 years of continuous worship creates powerful spiritual atmosphere
Photography Tips
Best Photo Spots
- Temple Exterior: Capture intricate stone carvings
- Monsoon Reflections: Temple reflected in water-filled courtyard
- Sunrise/Sunset: Golden hour lighting on black stone
- Pravara River: Temple with river in foreground
- Detailed Carvings: Close-up shots of sculptures
Best Time for Photography
- Early morning: Soft golden light
- Monsoon season: Lush greenery and water reflections
- Late afternoon: Dramatic shadows on carvings
Conclusion
Amruteshwar Temple is a hidden gem of Maharashtra, offering a perfect blend of history, architecture, spirituality, and natural beauty. The journey from Shirdi to this ancient Shiva temple is not just a trip but a spiritual and cultural experience that takes you back 1200 years in time.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, spiritual seeker, or nature photographer, Amruteshwar Temple has something special for everyone. The serene atmosphere, magnificent Hemadpanthi architecture, and the temple’s location amid the scenic Sahyadri mountains make it one of the most rewarding day trips from Shirdi.
Plan your visit to experience the divine energy of Lord Amruteshwar and witness the architectural brilliance of ancient India!
