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Ambarnath Shiv Temple
Ambreshwar · Ambarnath, Maharashtra
॥ ॐ नमः शिवाय ॥
The Ambarnath Shiv Temple near Mumbai is one of the oldest dated stone temples in Maharashtra, carved in 1060 CE under the Shilahara kings and dedicated to Shiva as Ambreshwar. Built in the ornate Bhumija style and often called a Hemadpanthi temple, its star-shaped plan and deeply sculpted walls make it a protected monument as well as a living shrine on the Waldhuni river.
One of Maharashtra’s oldest dated temples
An inscription on the temple records its construction in 1060 CE, during the reign of the Shilahara dynasty that ruled the Konkan. That firm date makes Ambarnath one of the earliest precisely dated stone temples in Maharashtra, a benchmark for the study of the region’s medieval architecture and a rare survivor from the period.
The Bhumija style and its star plan
The temple is built in the Bhumija mode of the Nagara tradition, its sanctum set on a stellate (star-shaped) plan so that the walls fold in and out to catch light and shadow. Much of the superstructure has weathered, but the surviving body is covered in finely cut figures of gods, dancers and amorous couples. It is popularly grouped with the “Hemadpanthi” temples of the Deccan.
The sunken sanctum and the lingam
Worshippers descend a flight of steps into a sanctum set below ground level, where the Shivalinga of Ambreshwar is enshrined. The cool, dim chamber and the worn carvings around it give the shrine a strong sense of age. A small mandapa with three entrances opens before the sanctum, its ceiling carved in concentric bands.
Maha Shivaratri at Ambarnath
Maha Shivaratri is the temple’s great festival, when a large fair gathers around the shrine and pilgrims keep night-long vigil. The temple is busy through the holy month of Shravan as well, when Mondays bring streams of devotees. For much of the year it doubles as a quiet heritage site visited by those drawn to its carving and antiquity.
How to reach Ambarnath
- By train: Ambarnath is a station on the Mumbai suburban Central line; the temple is about 2 km from the station.
- By road: Ambarnath is in Thane district, roughly 60 km from Mumbai and close to Kalyan and Badlapur.
- By air: Mumbai’s airport is the nearest, about 55–60 km away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is the Ambarnath Shiv Temple?
An inscription dates the temple to 1060 CE, built under the Shilahara dynasty. This makes it one of the oldest precisely dated stone temples in Maharashtra.
What architectural style is the temple?
It is built in the Bhumija style of the Nagara tradition, on a star-shaped (stellate) plan with deeply carved walls. It is popularly counted among the Hemadpanthi temples of the Deccan.
Who is the deity at Ambarnath?
The deity is Shiva worshipped as Ambreshwar, enshrined as a Shivalinga in a sanctum set below ground level, reached by a flight of steps.
What is the main festival at the temple?
Maha Shivaratri is the great festival, with a large fair and night-long vigil. The temple is also busy through the month of Shravan, especially on Mondays.
How do I reach the Ambarnath temple?
Ambarnath is on the Mumbai suburban Central railway line, and the temple is about 2 km from the station. By road it is roughly 60 km from Mumbai in Thane district.
Is Ambarnath a protected monument?
Yes, the temple is a protected monument recognised for its 1060 CE date and its sculpture, while remaining an active place of Shiva worship.
॥ हर हर महादेव ॥ • Bhaktiras.net Temple Guide
| Temple Name | Ambarnath Shiv Temple |
| Primary Deity | Shiva (Ambreshwar) |
| Location | Ambarnath, Thane |
| State | Maharashtra, India |
| Significance | Oldest dated temple in Maharashtra |
| Architecture | Bhumija / Hemadpanthi, star plan |
| Built | 1060 CE (Shilahara) |
| Key Festival | Maha Shivaratri |
| River Nearby | Waldhuni |
| Nearest Station | Ambarnath (~2 km) |
| Entry | Free |
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