Ratnagiri Keshavraj Temple, Maharashtra

Address

Ratnagiri Keshavraj Temple, Vyaaghreshwar – Garambi Rd, Asud, Maharashtra 415713

Diety

Keshavraj (Vishnu)

Introduction

Keshavraj Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, situated near the town of Dapoli in Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri district. The temple is located in the small village of Asud, about 192 km away from Pune. Perched atop a hill and surrounded by lush greenery and flowing streams, the wonderful Keshavraj Temple is one of the main attractions in Dapoli. There is a sacred natural spring that supplies water to a stone-carved statue of ‘Gomukh’ all year. And to reach the main shrine, one has to go climb up a few rocky steps. The entire stretch of the trail is surrounded by a dense thicket of betel, coconut, mango, cashew and jackfruit trees. A bridge is built on the river stream that runs parallel to this trail. The idol of Lord Keshav or Lord Vishnu is made of black stone.

Puranic Significance

It is believed that the temple was built in one night by the Pandavas. There is a statue of Lord Ganesh at the entrance of the temple. Maruti is on the left side of the entrance and an eagle on the right side. The idol of Lord Vishnu in the temple is very beautiful. In the hands of Lord Vishnu are conch, discus, lotus and mace in each of his four hands. Each of these items represents some element of the world for which Vishnu is considered to be responsible. A natural spring originating at the hill top and flows down to the front of the temple supplying water to the stone carved cow mouth (Gomukh) all the yearlong. This water is considered to be holy.