Ambreshwar Shiva Temple

Maharashtra, Thane, Mumbai

Located on the bank of Vadavan River, the Shiv Mandir of Ambarnath also known as Ambreshwar Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva situated in the hollow of a hill. Dating back from 1000 AD, it is believed that the Ambreshwar Temple was probably built by Shilahara king Chhittaraja, and it may also have been rebuilt by his son Mummuni. The temple is locally known as Puratana Shivalaya.

Legend

According to the legends, it is believed that the five Pandava brothers built the temple in just one night in a huge single mass of stone during their exile. However, they could not complete the structure, which even today is missing the roof directly above the main sanctum area (Garbha Griha) of the temple. It is also believed that a kilometer long underground tunnel is there to the temple which is now hidden.

Architecture

Ambreshwar Temple is built in Vesara style of architecture, a mix of the north Indian and south Indian styles of temple making. The versions of the Vesara style at Ambernath is of interlocking black stone in the Hemadpanti style. The bold features are prominent in the heavily decorated outside wall and the stepped pyramid that forms the tower. The whole temple is executed in coarse brownish stone that is typical of this region. The plan of the temple is corrugated or fluted along its edges. The sculptures of Hindu mythology, predominantly Shiva theme, form a chain around the temple at the eye level. There are fluted molding above and below the sculptures. The tower is in the classic Nagara style. One can find the image of dancing Shiva on the tower.There are three porches that give access to the central hall of the temple through a vestibule. The priests sit in this portion of the temple which is intricately carved. The roof
is supported by an array of pillars. A Nandi (Bull) image is located at the center of the main porch, which is in the west. To reach the inner sanctum, one as to climb down 20 steps to go down in the main room called Garbhagriha (interior of the sanctum Sanctorum). There is one "Swayambhu" (self-manifested) Shiv Ling located at the center in this underground Sanctorum which is open to the sky.

Darsan Info

The temple opens at 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Darsan Dresscode

Wear traditional dress code on special days and avoid shorts for men

Famous Festival

The Ambernath temple is the hub of an enormous fair during Mahashivratri (Feb/March) and the entire Month of Shravan (July-August). Mahashivratri Fair continues for 3-4 days starting 2 days prior and extending to 1 day after shivratri as well.

Culture

The culture of Thane is greatly influenced by the cosmopolitan lifestyle of Mumbai, it aptly maintains its traditional heritage. The most popular dance form here is Lavani, supplemented by other traditional dance styles like Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Odissi as well as modern dances like Ballet. Coming to festivals, Thane observes Ganesh Chaturthi with full gusto and enthusiasm as in all of Maharashtra. Apart from this, Holi, Diwali, Gudhi Padwa, Durga Puja, Janmashtami, Navratri, Dahi Handi and Shivaji Jayanti are also celebrated with equal fervour. Thane offers the best of street foods across India, the signature dishes being Vada Pao and Pav Bhaji. The city specialises in Konkani cuisine along with its much known indulgence in snacks particularly 'Bhajjiyas' and 'Pakodas'.