Bavka Shiva Temple
The Bavka Shiva Temple is a 10th-century architectural marvel located in the small village of Bavka, near Dahod. This temple is famously known as the "Khajuraho of Gujarat" due to its stunning and intricate erotic carvings that adorn the outer walls. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple was built du ring the Solanki period, specifically during the reign of Bhima II. Legend has it that a Devdasi (temple dancer) built this entire structure in a single night. Although the temple is currently in a ruined state, the surviving sculptures of deities, apsaras, and musicians are a testament to the high level of craftsmanship of that era. The temple is situated on a small hillock near the Hirlav Lake, providing a serene and spiritual atmosphere. It has been declared a monument of national importance and is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Visitors are often mesmerized by the intense detailing of the sandstone carvings, which have survived despite being looted by historical invaders like Mahmud of Ghazni.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Duration: 1 to 2 Hours.Place Type:
Religious / Archaeological Site.Special Events:
Special Event Mahashivratri: Thousands of devotees gather for night-long prayers.
Shravan Month: Special rituals are performed every Monday of this holy month. ...Special Event Mahashivratri: Thousands of devotees gather for night-long prayers.
Shravan Month: Special rituals are performed every Monday of this holy month.Best Photo Spots:
Photo Spots Outer Wall Panels: Best for capturing the "Khajuraho" style carvings.
Entrance Gateway: Frames the sanctum beautifully.
Lake Backdrop: Capture the temple with the water body in the backgroun...Photo Spots Outer Wall Panels: Best for capturing the "Khajuraho" style carvings.
Entrance Gateway: Frames the sanctum beautifully.
Lake Backdrop: Capture the temple with the water body in the background.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Things to Do Temple Darshan: Offer prayers to the Shivling.
Architectural Photography: Focus on the intricate Apsara carvings.
Lakeside Walk: Enjoy a quiet walk by the Hirlav Lake.
History Research: Read the ASI plaques for historical data.
Yoga and Meditation: The peaceful environment is perfect for zen.
Village Tourism: Experience the local tribal lifestyle in Bavka.
Sunset Viewing: Watch the sun set over the temple ruins. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Famous Erotic Sculptures: It is the only temple in the region featuring carvings similar to the Kamasutra.
Ancient Heritage: Renowned for its 1000-year-old Solanki-era stone carvings. ...Famous Erotic Sculptures: It is the only temple in the region featuring carvings similar to the Kamasutra.
Ancient Heritage: Renowned for its 1000-year-old Solanki-era stone carvings. -
Architecture:
Architecture Maru-Gurjara Style: The temple follows the Panchayatana layout with one main shrine and four smaller ones.
Dimensions: The main sanctum measures roughly 12 feet by 12 feet, with the entire plinth standing 5 feet high. ...Architecture Maru-Gurjara Style: The temple follows the Panchayatana layout with one main shrine and four smaller ones.
Dimensions: The main sanctum measures roughly 12 feet by 12 feet, with the entire plinth standing 5 feet high. -
How To Reach:
How to Reach By Air: Vadodara Airport is the closest at 170 KM.
By Train: Dahod Railway Station is the nearest hub (14 KM).
By Road: Take the Dahod-Jhalod road and turn towards Bavka.
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Near Tourist Places:
1. Chhab Talav (14 KM), 2. Bharat Tower (15 KM), 3. Aurangzeb Fort (14 KM), 4. Ratanmahal (55 KM), 5. Kedarnath Cave (35 KM), 6. Mangadh Hill (60 KM), 7. Patadungri Dam (25 KM), 8. Jhalod (20 KM), 9. Devgadh Baria (50 KM), 10. Godhra (80 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Tourism Tips Health & Safety: Be careful on the slippery stones near the lake.
Packing: Bring a high-resolution camera to capture small carvings.
Accommodation: Stay in Dahod city as the village has no ...
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