Pardeshwar

Pardeshwar Temple

Nestled in the heart of Parbhani, Maharashtra, the Shri Mrityunjay Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple is a true marvel of devotion, spirituality, and architectural brilliance. This sacred temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is renowned for housing a unique Shiva Linga made entirely of mercury (Parad), making it a significant pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees. The temple’s grandeur, serene ambience, and divine aura make it a must-visit for spiritual seekers and tourists alike.

The History

The foundation of this magnificent temple was laid by Sri Swami Satchidanandji Saraswati, a revered saint and spiritual leader. Inspired by his unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva, he envisioned a temple that would become a beacon of faith. The temple, constructed primarily with stunning white marble, stands tall at approximately 80 feet, radiating a divine glow that captivates every visitor. Spanning an impressive 4,000 square meters, the temple complex offers a peaceful and meditative space for devotees. Stepping into the temple premises, one is immediately enveloped by an aura of peace and spirituality. The rhythmic chanting of sacred hymns, the fragrance of incense, and the soft ringing of temple bells create an atmosphere that elevates the soul. Devotees believe that praying at this temple brings prosperity, good health, and inner peace.

The Temple Complex

The Pardeshwar Temple is a masterpiece of Indian craftsmanship. Made predominantly of pristine white marble, the temple’s intricate carvings and detailed sculptures add to its ethereal beauty. The sanctum sanctorum houses the sacred Parad Shiva Linga, which weighs around 250 kilograms and is believed to have immense spiritual power.

According to Hindu beliefs, mercury is a sacred element, and a Shiva Linga crafted from it is highly auspicious. Known as the Tejolinga, this divine representation of Lord Shiva is considered equivalent to the twelve Jyotirlingas found across India. Alongside Lord Shiva, the temple also enshrines an idol of Devi Annapurna, symbolizing nourishment, abundance, and prosperity.

Daily Rituals and Vibrant Festivities

The temple truly comes alive during festivals, with grand celebrations that attract thousands of devotees, creating an atmosphere filled with spiritual fervour and devotion. Among the most significant is Maha Shivaratri, the night of Lord Shiva, which is celebrated with unparalleled zeal. On this auspicious occasion, the temple transforms into a vibrant spiritual hub, with special prayers, bhajans, and night-long festivities dedicated to Lord Shiva. The rhythmic chanting of “Om Namah Shivaya”, the fragrance of incense, and the glow of countless oil lamps create an ambience of deep devotion. Apart from Maha Shivaratri, the holy month of Shravan (July-August) holds special significance. Throughout this period, thousands of devotees visit the temple to perform the ritualistic Abhishek, offering milk, water, and bilva leaves to the sacred Shiva Linga. The temple remains bustling with prayers and religious discourses. Another important celebration is Kartiki Ekadashi (October-November), a revered day in Hindu tradition. The temple witnesses devotional music, spiritual discourses, and grand processions, making it a deeply enriching experience for devotees. Other festivals such as Diwali and Makar Sankranti bring an added festive charm to the temple. During Diwali, the temple is illuminated with thousands of earthen lamps, creating a divine spectacle that enhances its spiritual grandeur. Makar Sankranti is marked by special pujas and offerings, with devotees expressing gratitude and seeking blessings for prosperity. These vibrant festivities not only deepen one’s spiritual connection but also showcase the temple’s rich cultural heritage. With each festival, the temple resonates with faith, devotion, and divine energy, drawing pilgrims from far and wide to celebrate and seek blessings from the Almighty.

Best Time to Visit

While the temple is open to visitors throughout the year, the best time to experience its divine charm is from September to February. During these months, the weather in Parbhani is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and temple visits.

For those seeking a more spiritually enriching experience, visiting during Maha Shivaratri is highly recommended. The temple is beautifully decorated, and the energy of the celebration is electrifying. Devotees from all corners of the country gather to partake in the divine festivities, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Another excellent time to visit is during Shravan Maas, when special prayers and rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva take place daily.

How to Reach the Pardeshwar Temple

Parbhani is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easy for pilgrims and tourists to visit this sacred site. The nearest airport is Nanded Airport, located approximately 70 kilometers from Parbhani. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple. For international and long-distance travellers, Aurangabad Airport (200 km away) offers better connectivity to major cities in India.

Parbhani has its own railway station (Parbhani Junction), which is well-connected to Mumbai, Pune, Aurangabad, Nagpur, Hyderabad, and other major cities. Several express and passenger trains make it convenient for visitors to travel comfortably.

Parbhani enjoys excellent road connectivity with major cities in Maharashtra and neighboring states. Regular MSRTC buses, as well as private buses and taxis, operate from Mumbai, Pune, Solapur, Aurangabad, and Hyderabad, making road travel a hassle-free option.

The temple is located on Nandkheda Road, opposite Beleshwar College, and is easily accessible from different parts of the city.