The Sahyadri mountains around Pune city come alive in the monsoon, and every nature lover starts planning their weekend getaways from Pune city. Waterfalls and misty clouds weave together like silk over the rugged Sahyadri mountains. Amidst this symphony of nature, these ancient Shiva temples near Pune stand strong, inviting both Shiva devotees and curious wanderers. Giving a miss to the typical trekking spots near Pune, I went on some unforgettable monsoon road trips that combine nature, spirituality, Maratha history and ancient temple architecture.
Sahyadri’s monsoon Magic and Shiva
Something is healing about a road trip in the Sahyadri during monsoon. The rhythm of the raindrops, the scent of the wet mud, and the mist swirling around the mountain tops awaken your soul. Now, imagine arriving at an ancient Shiva temple at the end of this journey. In that moment, nature and divinity become one. These 5 ancient Shiva temples near Pune are more than just tourist spots. They are meaningful journeys that fulfil your heart and soul.
While the Sahyadri mountains are already beautiful and brimming with life in the monsoon, these temples are sacred spots to experience Shiva’s divine energy. Moreover, these Shiva temples are also historic places of worship, which have their own unique stories and history.
Raireshwar Temple, Bhor
- Pune to Raireshwar Temple distance: 82 km southwest of Pune city
- Trekking Level: Moderate steep climb, some easy ladders, and then a flat plateau (3-4 km one way)
- Food: Amazing Marathi Thali (Zunka Bhakar) available at the top near the Raireshwar temple.
- Best time to visit: In monsoon or post-monsoon (June- October). Start early in the morning or afternoon to avoid crowds. Don’t visit in extremely heavy rainfall as the trekking route can get slippery from the constant flow of water and several monsoon streams.
- Raireshwar Temple location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Bxw1oAWayEKxnRn4A
What makes it special?
- The Birthplace of Swarajya: In 1645, at just 16 years of age, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj chose this Shiva temple to take the sacred oath for Hindavi Swarajya, setting in motion the Maratha Empire’s destiny. Even today, devotees still pray at that same Shivlinga.
- Seven-Coloured Soil: On the north-west edge of the Raireshwar plateau, you will find soils with 7 different colours. This attracts tourists, curious trekkers and geologists who come here to see the soil.
- Wildflower Wonderland: The Raireshwar plateau is full of blooms like Sonaki, Gulabi Terda and other wildflowers found in the Sahyadri mountains post monsoon (from Sept to Nov). It is almost feels like the Kaas plateau of Satara.
- Panoramic views: From the top of Raireshwar mountain, you can see the neighbouring forts like Rohida, Kenjalgad, and Kamalgad. You can also see the Neera and Walki rivers in the valley below. The Wai village and Mahabaleshwar mountains are also nearby but not visible clearly.
Explore more: Get my full list of 108 Shiva temples near Pune city.
Nilkantheshwar Temple, Panshet dam
- Pune to Nilkantheshwar Temple distance: 40 km southwest of Pune city.
- Trekking Level: Moderate trek of around 20-30 minutes. A public transport jeep that takes you to the top is available only on weekends.
- Food: Monsoon snacks like Wadapav or Kanda Bhaji, and dry snacks are available. Enjoy sipping some Chai or Lemon Sherbet at the top.
- Best time to visit: Monsoon (June to Sept) is the best time to visit, but it’s also cool all around the year.
- Nilkantheshwar Temple location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/knj1n1MfpeEpqwdd6
What makes it special?
- A Temple of Dreams: In 1963, a forest officer named Sarje Mama dreamt of a Shivlinga and Nandi at this place. He sourced funds by selling his gold and silver ornaments and built the Nilkantheshwar temple on this hill.
- Mythological sculptures: The Nilkantheshwar hill is home to more than 1200 statues that depict scenes from Hindu mythology. From Dashavatar to scenes from Ramayana, these sculptures add ancient stories to the unique landscape. This is very interesting, especially if you have kids.
- Heavenly views: While climbing to the temple, you can see the Panshet and Khadakwasla dams. On one side is the valley where you can see the backwaters of these dams, and on the other side is the lush forest full of life. The place gives purely Switzerland vibes.
- Rarely crowded: Despite its charm, the Nilkantheshwar temple is rarely crowded with tourists. You might get a few extra devotees from the nearby villages on festive days like Shivratri or Shravan Mondays. But the place is still a quiet spiritual retreat hidden away from the noisy tourists.
Jarsheshwar Temple, Khadakwasla dam
- Pune to Jarsheshwar Temple distance: 15 km southwest of Pune city.
- How to reach: A winding ghat road leads to the temple perched on a hilltop. Cars can go directly to the temple; this is also a popular route for cyclists.
- Food: No food shops near this temple, but you can find some snacks near the Khadakwasla dam in the valley below.
- Best time to visit: Monsoon (June to Sept) is the best time to visit, but it’s also cool all around the year.
- Jarsheshwar Temple location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tPNwhWHsSWJEc6mPA
What makes it special?
- The Unique Shivalinga: Inside the Jarsheshwar temple, you will find the most unique ancient Shivalinga. There are 5 Lingas (mounds) on this Shivalinga. This represents the 5 forms of God Shiva. Although this is a cement temple reconstructed in recent times, it is charming in its simplicity.
- Mythological legends: It is believed that Sita, with her sons Lav and Kush, visited this temple during the Ramayana era.
- Panoramic views: Drive slowly or take some stops on the way, because you will pass through some splendid views. You can see the Sinhagad, Torna, and Rajgad forts facing you and the Khadakwasla dam’s tranquil backwaters in the valley below. You can also see a view as far as Panshet dam from a spot behind this temple. The views are especially beautiful when covered with misty clouds in the monsoon.
- Cyclist’s paradise: With smooth roads and panoramic views on every turn, this route is a favourite place for cyclists, bike riders, two-wheelers and long drives. It is an ideal getaway for a relaxed trip with minimal physical effort needed.
Explore more: Get my full list of 108 Shiva temples near Pune city.
Vadheshwar Temple, Bhatghar Dam
- Pune to Vadheshwar Temple distance: 70 km southwest of Pune city.
- How to reach: A beautiful, long drive alongside the Bhatghar dam backwaters. This temple is on ground level, no ascent or trekking needed.
- Food: No food shops near this temple. You can find several food outlets near the Khed Shivapur Toll Plaza on the NH 4 highway.
- Best time to visit: Monsoon and winter (June to February) are the best times to visit, but the route is also cool in summers.
- Vadheshwar Temple location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9i1Q58fc1bG9yjrL7
What makes it special?
- Bhairava and Jogeshwari: The Vadheshwar temple in Bhor does not have a Shivalinga. It has two standing idols – God Bhairava and Goddess Jogeshwari. The temple’s main entrance is on the opposite side of the road. Inside, you will find the ancient stone architecture.
- Cyclist’s / Biker’s paradise: Sure, you can take a car up to this temple, but I would prefer cycling or a two-wheeler for a better experience. On the entire route leading to this temple, the Bhatghar dam’s backwaters are on your left, and the rugged Sahyadri mountains are on your right. You might also find several waterfalls emerging from these mountains if you visit during the monsoon.
- Scenic location: This temple is nestled in a small village, just next to the dam’s backwaters. The sparkling blue expanse of water rejuvenates your soul.
Chaturmukh Temple, Darewadi village
- Pune to Chaturmukh Temple distance: 25 km southeast of Pune city.
- How to reach: A beautiful ghat goes upwards from the Darewadi base village and takes you straight to the temple. You can take any vehicle directly up to the temple, no trekking required.
- Food: No food shops near the temple or in the base village as this is a rural area.
- Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon (June to Sept) is the best time to go here.
- Chaturmukh Temple location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GN68nsJKiFkWHb6M6
What makes it special?
- The Chaturmukh Shivalinga: This type of Shivalinga is characterised by having four distinct faces carved on its surface, each facing a cardinal direction (north, south, east, and west). These four faces are believed to represent 4 different manifestations of Lord Shiva.
- Karha River origin place: The Karha River originates at this temple from a sacred stream beneath a rock with three small depressions.
- Scenic location: The Chaturmukh Shiva temple is perched on a hill in Patharwadi, and from here you can see numerous farmlands and valleys on all sides. You can also see the Darewadi base village in the distance.
Explore more: Get my full list of 108 Shiva temples near Pune city.
Just follow the call of Shiva
These road trips to the ancient Shiva temples near Pune are not just weekend getaways. They are sacred pilgrimages into history, spirituality, ancient architecture and into your inner stillness. The Sahyadris, draped in greenery, cradle these Shiva temples like ancient treasures. Each temple is an invitation to reconnect, reflect and reawaken your soul. So, this monsoon, just pack your raincoat and follow the call of Shiva. You will not just return with amazing photos, but also a lighter heart, a refreshed spirit and a mind that has touched something timeless. Har Har Mahadev!
