Pachmarhi Chauragarh Mahadev Temple – Madhya Pradesh

Address

Pachmarhi Chauragarh Mahadev Temple- Mahadeo Rd, Pachmarhi Madhya Pradesh 461881

Deity

Mahadev

Introduction

• Pachmarhi is a popular Shiva temple located in the hill station of Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh.
• The temple, also known as Chhota Mahadeo Mandir, was built during the reign of King Sangram Shah of the Gond Dynasty in the 14th century.
• It is perched atop Chauragarh Peak, the second-highest peak in Pachmarhi, at an altitude of 1,330 meters.
• To reach the temple, one must climb over 1,250 steps or embark on a 3.4 km trek that starts from Mahadeo cave.

Puranic Significance

• Chauragarh is also home to a fort built by King Sangram Shah, which adds to the historical significance of the area.
• The temple is one of the most revered shrines of Lord Shiva in the region and is visited by devotees, particularly during festivals like Nag Panchami and Mahashivratri.
• A unique feature of the temple is the sight of thousands of tridents (trishuls) that devotees carry as offerings to Lord Shiva. These tridents are left at the temple, creating an impressive display.
• Along the way to the temple, devotees can witness scenic waterfalls and mountain streams, enhancing the spiritual journey.
• There is also a natural Shivling in the temple, and the hill contains caves where it is believed that the Pandavas stayed during their exile.
• According to legend, Bhasmasur, a demon who was granted the power by Lord Shiva to turn anyone he touched into ashes, chased Lord Shiva to Chauragarh mountain. Lord Shiva hid there until Lord Vishnu, in the form of a maiden, distracted Bhasmasur, leading to his demise when he accidentally touched his own head and turned to ashes.

Special Features

• The Chauragarh Temple is known for its breathtaking location and the tridents left by devotees during Mahashivratri as a symbol of their devotion to Lord Shiva.
• The climb is considered an important pilgrimage, and the serene beauty of the mountain streams, waterfalls, and lush surroundings makes the journey spiritually and visually rewarding.

Festivals

• The main festival celebrated at the temple is Mahashivratri, during which pilgrims carry tridents and participate in religious observances.
• An annual fair known as Shivratri Mela is also held in the month of Phalgun (February-March) to honor Lord Shiva, attracting devotees from all over the region.

Century/Period/Age

14th-century

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Pachmarhi

Nearest Railway Station

Pipariya station

Nearest Airport

Bhopal’s Raja Bhoj

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