Historic Abode of Lord Shiva at Ambernath

There are things you do and there are things you definitely do. For me its the second category and it means to take your bike on a weekend and tick off an offbeat location or a location which relaxes you physically and mentally

On a weekend when I am bored and don't have anything special planned, itchy feet of mine wants me to go out and explore. This was one of those weekends where time had to be killed somehow and what better way than taking your bike for a stroll and making some new adventure on the way. An impromptu plan got made and i headed out to Ambernath to visit abode of Lord Shiva

You just get immersed the moment you enter through this gate and head towards the temple area. This is an ASI site and currently a practicing temple.

The simplicity of this place makes you realize how complex the structure is and what pain our ancestors might have gone through to make such an epic master piece

If you read through the scriptures on the walls of the temple complex you will understand that the temple might have been constructed in around 1060A.D. The temple resembles the Dilawara temples in Mt. Abu

For details on the temple history please go through the link (http://www.harekrsna.com/sun/features/09-09/features1487.htm)

Credits to the owner of the link above

For my trip, the lovely pictures eventually ended up with a beautiful sunset hue surrounding the temple structure. I had reached the temple around 17:05 IST and left the temple around 18:00 (since the temple structure closes at 18:00 daily). There is no library or books available for sale here and hence you might be bit disappointed. Also there is no ASI markings defining what the structure is about which again leaves you more questions than answers as to what the governing body does

One really sad aspect of this site is the open gutter that runs besides the temple complex. I am not sure how the local municipality allowed it (as the temple was in that place even before this gutter came into existence). Hopefully the ASI which is supposed to upkeep the temple plays it role properly and brings back the glory and educates the generation on the importance of such place in our history

Definite visit for architecture lovers (symmetry is really amazing)

Note: A humble request to all viewers, Please seek permission before using the pictures for any commercial use

Total Cost = 250/- (non toll roads from Panvel)

Time spent: 1 hours approx at the temple

40 minutes ride from Panvel to temple

1 hour ride from temple to Panvel

For people who might not have a car or bike or maybe want to avoid driving in traffic, you can also reach Ambernath station (central line) and from there take a rickshaw to the temple area. Temple is situated approx. 2 Km from the station. Its a very famous place. Changeover can happen at Thane / Kurla / Ghatkopar depending on from where one is coming

There are lot of eateries once you come out of the temple premise

P.S: I am big Lord Shiva Bhakt and always am open for temple visits

Please do not litter and take your garbage with you