Pataleshwar Mahadev Temple
Historical Period: Part of the magnificent group of ancient stone temples built by the Kalachuri dynasty, specifically under King Karnadeva (11th century CE). This group stands opposite the Narmada Kund. Unique Design: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is uniquely named Pataleshwar (Lord of the un derworld) because its sanctum (Garbhagriha) is sunk below the level of the mandapa (hall), a feature common to some ancient Shiva temples in Central India. ASI Protection: The temple complex, including this structure, is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), ensuring its preservation as a national heritage site.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 Hour:Place Type:
Ancient Temple/Archaeological SiteEntry Fees:
Temple Complex: A nominal entry fee of typically INR 25 (for Indian Nationals) may be charged by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for the entire Kalachuri temple group.
Foreigner Fee: The entry fee for foreign nationals is generally ...Temple Complex: A nominal entry fee of typically INR 25 (for Indian Nationals) may be charged by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for the entire Kalachuri temple group.
Foreigner Fee: The entry fee for foreign nationals is generally higher, usually around INR 300 to INR 500.
Parking/Other: Parking fees may apply for vehicles outside the complex boundary.Timing:
Regular Timings: 8:00 AM (Opening) to 5:00 PM (Closing) (ASI Site Timings).
Puja Timings: Simple daily puja is usually performed in the morning.
Ideal Visit Time: Morning (8:00 AM to 10:00 AM) for cool weath...Regular Timings: 8:00 AM (Opening) to 5:00 PM (Closing) (ASI Site Timings).
Puja Timings: Simple daily puja is usually performed in the morning.
Ideal Visit Time: Morning (8:00 AM to 10:00 AM) for cool weather and best lighting for photography of the stone carvings, or late afternoon (4:00 PM to 5:00 PM) before closing.Special Events:
Mahashivratri: Being dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple witnesses significant celebration and a large number of devotees, involving all-night vigil and special anointings (Abhishekam) of the Lingam.
Local Fairs: Small local religious fairs...Mahashivratri: Being dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple witnesses significant celebration and a large number of devotees, involving all-night vigil and special anointings (Abhishekam) of the Lingam.
Local Fairs: Small local religious fairs are sometimes organized on certain Hindu calendar days near the ancient temple complex, attracting local vendors and performers.
ASI Events: Occasionally, the ASI may organize special heritage tours or information displays at the site.Best Photo Spots:
The Sunken Sanctum Entrance: A shot capturing the dramatic entrance and the steps leading down into the Patal, highlighting the temple's unique structural name.
The Nagara Shikhara: A photograph of the ornate tower against the backdrop of th...The Sunken Sanctum Entrance: A shot capturing the dramatic entrance and the steps leading down into the Patal, highlighting the temple's unique structural name.
The Nagara Shikhara: A photograph of the ornate tower against the backdrop of the larger Karna Temple or the Narmada Kund complex.
Exterior Wall Carvings: A close-up shot of the intricate, weather-beaten Kalachuri era carvings and stone sculptures.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Heritage Walk: Take a guided walk through the entire Kalachuri temple group to study the architectural variations between the Pataleshwar Temple, Karna Temple, and others.
Observe the Sunset: The ancient stone temples look beautiful in the warm, golden light of the sunset; it's a perfect time for photography.
Archaeological Study: Spend time examining the intricate, weathered carvings on the exterior walls, focusing on the depictions of deities and mythical beings.
Circumambulation: Walk around the temple's base (Pradakshina), appreciating the detailed bas-relief work and niches on the outer walls.
Seek Darshan: Descend into the sunken sanctum to offer prayers to the Pataleshwar Mahadev Linga.
Conte...Heritage Walk: Take a guided walk through the entire Kalachuri temple group to study the architectural variations between the Pataleshwar Temple, Karna Temple, and others.
Observe the Sunset: The ancient stone temples look beautiful in the warm, golden light of the sunset; it's a perfect time for photography.
Archaeological Study: Spend time examining the intricate, weathered carvings on the exterior walls, focusing on the depictions of deities and mythical beings.
Circumambulation: Walk around the temple's base (Pradakshina), appreciating the detailed bas-relief work and niches on the outer walls.
Seek Darshan: Descend into the sunken sanctum to offer prayers to the Pataleshwar Mahadev Linga.
Contemplate History: Sit on the stone platform and imagine the life and dynasty that flourished here a thousand years ago.
Photography: Capture the juxtaposition of the ancient ruins against the backdrop of the lush Maikal hills.
Information
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Why Famous:
Sunken Sanctum: It is famed for its distinctive feature of having the sanctum sanctorum sunk below ground level (Patal), which gave it the name Pataleshwar.
Kalachuri Artistry: It is one of the best-preserved examples of the Kalachuri dynast...Sunken Sanctum: It is famed for its distinctive feature of having the sanctum sanctorum sunk below ground level (Patal), which gave it the name Pataleshwar.
Kalachuri Artistry: It is one of the best-preserved examples of the Kalachuri dynasty's high-quality stone carving and architectural prowess in the region.
Adi Shankaracharya Link: Legend states that the Shiva Linga was consecrated or worshipped here by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE, though the temple structure is dated later (11th century). -
Architecture:
Architectural Style: Epitomizes the refined Kalachuri architecture of the Tripuri branch, showcasing the post-Gupta style of Central India. It features a Nagara-style Shikhara.
Plan & Elevation: The temple consists of a Garbhagriha, an Anta...Architectural Style: Epitomizes the refined Kalachuri architecture of the Tripuri branch, showcasing the post-Gupta style of Central India. It features a Nagara-style Shikhara.
Plan & Elevation: The temple consists of a Garbhagriha, an Antarala (vestibule), and a Mandapa. The Shikhara is multi-tiered and beautifully ornate, though much of the original work is in ruins.
Sanctum Feature: The most defining feature is the sunken floor of the Garbhagriha (approx. 1. 4 meters below the Mandapa floor), necessitating a short flight of steps down to the main shrine, housing a Shiva Linga. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Jabalpur (226 KMS) and take a 5-6 hour road journey.
By Train: Nearest is Pendra Road Railway Station (35 KMS); hire a local jeep or taxi.
By Road: Amarkantak Bus Stand is very close (less th...By Air: Fly to Jabalpur (226 KMS) and take a 5-6 hour road journey.
By Train: Nearest is Pendra Road Railway Station (35 KMS); hire a local jeep or taxi.
By Road: Amarkantak Bus Stand is very close (less than 0. 5 KMS). Walk or take a very short auto ride.
By Local Transport: The temple is right across the street from the Narmada Kund complex; it is best reached by walking from any part of the main town area. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Season: Winter (October to March) is perfect for archaeological exploration and spending time outdoors studying the ruins. The stone can be very hot in the summer midday sun.
Part of the Day: Morning for a thorough exploration of the comple...Season: Winter (October to March) is perfect for archaeological exploration and spending time outdoors studying the ruins. The stone can be very hot in the summer midday sun.
Part of the Day: Morning for a thorough exploration of the complex without the midday heat, as the site is open for a limited time. -
Near Tourist Places:
Narmada Kund & Temples (0. 1 KMS), Ram Janaki Temple (0. 1 KMS), Karna Temple (Trimukhi Temple) (0. 1 KMS) (part of same complex), Machhendranath Temple (0. 1 KMS) (part of same complex), Mai ki Bagiya (1. 5 KMS), Sonemuda (1. 5 KMS), Kapil Dhara Waterfall (7 KMS), Dudh Dhara Waterfall (8 KMS), Shri Jwaleshwar Mahadev Temple (8 KMS), Kabir Chabutra (5 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Guide Requirement: Hire a local ASI-approved guide to understand the detailed history, architecture, and iconography of the entire Kalachuri group, including this temple.
Sun Protection: Carry a hat/cap and water, as the temple complex is an...Guide Requirement: Hire a local ASI-approved guide to understand the detailed history, architecture, and iconography of the entire Kalachuri group, including this temple.
Sun Protection: Carry a hat/cap and water, as the temple complex is an open area, and the stones can radiate heat.
Respect Heritage: Do not touch or climb on the ancient structures; it is a protected monument.
Photography: Professional photography may require permission from the ASI authorities.
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