Valsad Tadkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Gujarat

Address

Valsad Tadkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Sonanagar, Abrama, Gujarat 396002

Deity

Tadkeshwar Mahadev Amman: Parvati

Introduction

• Tadkeshwar Mahadev Temple is located near Abrama town in the Valsad district of Gujarat, India.
• Situated on the banks of the Wanki River, it features various types of Shivalingas.
• The temple is distinctive for its roofless structure, allowing constant sunlight to illuminate the Shivlinga.
• It is over 1000 years old, making it one of the oldest temples in the Valsad district.
• The Shivlinga measures approximately 6 to 8 feet in height.

Puranic Significance

• A 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 m) semi-circular Shivlinga stone was discovered in the bushes on the north bank of the Wanki River.
• After the stone was taken, poisonous wasps swarmed and stung around 60 people, all of whom died and were buried at the temple site, leading to the establishment of a Dargah there.
• In a devotee’s dream, Lord Shiva instructed to take the linga from the river bank and set it down when it became too heavy. This led to the construction of the temple.
• The temple ceiling was attempted twice but was destroyed by fire and collapse. Lord Shiva revealed that he needed the sun’s rays, hence the ceiling was left open.
• The temple features an open peak about 22 feet (6.7 m) in diameter, allowing sunlight to shine directly on the Shivlinga at noon.
• Another legend recounts the discovery of the Shivlinga when a villager’s cow began to milk spontaneously in the jungle. The villager dug the area and discovered the large stone.
• An old man dreamt that the stone was a Shivlinga, which could be lifted easily. Following this, villagers built a low wall around the Shivlinga but faced multiple attempts to build a ceiling, all of which failed due to mysterious fires.

Special Features

• Unique Structure: It is possibly the only Mahadev temple in the world without a ceiling, allowing for direct exposure to sunlight and rain.
• Spiritual Belief: It is believed that sincere worshippers at this temple will have their desires fulfilled.

Festivals

• Maha Shivaratri and the month of Shravan are celebrated with a grand fair at the temple, attracting many devotees.

Century/Period/Age

1000-2000 Years old

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Valsad

Nearest Railway Station

Valsad railway station

Nearest Airport

Surat (STV)

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