India, Maharashtra, Nasik, Travel

Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar – Lost in the history!

December 2016:: One Sunday, we were in Bedse Caves clicking a lot of photographs there. One of the enthusiasts and travel-lover came up to us and after a couple of minutes of conversation, he quickly guessed our interest in off-beat and historic places and suggested us – Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar, Nashik.

Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar, On the way

The place is around 185 km (3.5 hours) from Pune and 26 km from Nashik. It was the only location to see there in Sinnar, Nashik. But, would that stop us from visiting? The answer was a big “NO”. We could not stop ourselves and drove to Gondeshwar Temple the next Sunday. After some readings and research, we were ready to explore the ancient temple.

Gondeshwar Temple other side, Sinnar
Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar
Perspective of carved temple

What is so significant about this place?

  • Gondeshwar Temple is an 11th-12th Century old Hindu Temple constructed by the Yadavas and their feudatories.
  • It features the Panchayatana plan in which the main temple of Shiva is in the center with other four shrines on the corners of Lord Vishnu, Lord Surya, Lord Parvati, and Lord Ganesha. Wow! so fascinating.
  • Gondeshwar temple is built in the Bhumija and Hemadpanti style of architecture with the locally available Black Basalt Stone.

    It was so mesmerising to sit in the Gondeshwar Temple and travel back in history.

The entrance is a stone structure with some carvings and just in the middle of the premises is the Gondeshwar temple. The structure is known as Shaiva Panchayatan or a group of five temples with a large enclosure. All the five shrines in the premises are perfectly proportionate. The temple complex is built on the raised platform which provides a nice view of the sculptures around the complex.

Gondeshwar Temple Entrance, Sinnar
Gondeshwar Temple Entrance, Sinnar
Carved Stone Elephants

The Shiva linga is enshrined by a towering ceiling and was well maintained. The pillars, walls, roofs of the temple were beautifully, intricately carved. The pillared hall has a carved turtle, a form of Vishnu Avatar, which is small yet elegant. The Nandi (Lord Shiva’s mount) is facing the main entrance.

Shivlinga
Nanchi, Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar
Detailed Carvings

I can behold that beauty the whole day. Each carving had a different story to tell from the times of ancient epic Ramayana. Gondeshwar temple is a marvelous example of the medieval temples of the Deccan and Indo-Aryan style.

  • Carved statue, Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar

Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar, Ganpati and Carvings

The shrines on the corners were damaged and only some of the idols could be seen. The Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar is listed as heritage site and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has done a great job in reviving the hidden treasure. Not many people venture there which is an added advantage that keeps the place neat, safe and intact.

  • Gondeshwar Temple backside, Sinnar
  • Carvings, Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar
  • Carvings on the wall, Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar

Tip:: There were not many eateries on the way. Carry your food and water but please do not litter. Carry the umbrellas to keep away the heat as there is no shade.

Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar, Intricate carvings on the pillar

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Entry: Free
Parking: Available

Gondeshwar Temple is a magnificent piece of our rich Indian history. Cherish it.

  • Gondeshwar Temple Close-up, Sinnar
Gondeshwar Temple view, Sinnar

32 thoughts on “Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar – Lost in the history!”

  3. Brilliant..!! Every part of the temple screams “Mystery” to me.. 😀
    Beautiful pictures and well documented article Madam. It’s heartening to see that the temple is still somewhat active even today and people come there to offer prayers.
    The architecture is something which amazed me, as usual. The carvings, columns and symmetry in the external and internal structures is undoubtedly brilliant. I think the Kings used sandstone to build this temple, if I am not mistaken.
    Prima facie, I thought that this temple was rock cut, till I observed the strata or joints in the external facade or Gopuram of the temple. It is an assembled structure.
    Next time when I am in Pune, I shall make it a point to visit the Gondeshwar Temple. Thank you so much Madam for sharing.. 😊

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    1. It was a wonderful experience and I was mesmerised by its beauty, the detailing and the carvings. Wondering how they had done at that time. I guess the Black Basalt stone is used, not sure. I too think it is an assembled structure. For sure, do not forget to visit Gondeshwar Temple Sinnar. Bookmark it. You will love it. 😊😊

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      2. I am so glad you read it with so much interest and share your thoughts. I too learn something everytime. I am sure you will also like reading Nanchi’s Fun Facts Friday – Shaniwar Wada. That should also be in your bucket list, if you haven’t visited.

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  8. Wow 🙂 I loved every picture you have clicked, including the one you are sitting. I have one PG in History and somehow the past always fascinates and fills me with awe and amazement. Especially when i think how they would have planned these structures with such intricate designs…. every part of the temple has something to tell us.. thank for sharing

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  11. Wow, breathtaking, Nanchi! I am always so amazed by how innovative and creative we humans can be.
    Shelbee

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  12. Wow! Wow! Wow! This is such an amazing place! I think about all the hours and days and years of work it took! I would have to stay all day taking photos! What a fantastic piece of historical architecture. Thank you so much for sharing your photos 🙂

    I’m delighted to read your post at ‘My Corner of the World’ this week! Thanks for linking up!

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  16. I liked your photos and how you shared your impressions of the day. I also liked that you added a map, Many times a map helps me understand better. These temples make me think about the time when they were built and wonder what life was like then? The same as I look at historic buildings all over the world. – Thank you for your post. – David

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  17. Pingback: Krishnabai Temple, Mahabaleshwar – A hidden gem! – Nanchi.blog

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