In the calm town of Ambarnath, close to the busy city of Mumbai, there’s a special place called the Ambarnath Temple. I got to visit this temple in August 2023, and it left a big impression on me. The temple is really old and beautiful, and being inside it felt peaceful. It was like stepping back in time to the 11th century, imagining the people who built and prayed in this amazing place.
The Story of Temple
The Ambarnath Temple is an old Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built around the year 1060 AD, a very long time ago. People believe that a king named Chhittaraja made the temple, and his son Mummuni might have also helped. Another name for the temple is “Puratana Shivalaya,” which means “Ancient Shiva Temple.” This name makes sense because the temple has been around for so many years.
Beautiful Design and Special Features
One fascinating aspect of the temple is its unique design, where the main part is situated below the ground. To access the central place of worship, you descend around 20 steps, and from there, you can view the sky above. What sets this temple apart is that it lacks a roof. This absence of a top makes the temple truly distinctive. Additionally, the temple boasts intricate carvings that showcase the remarkable craftsmanship of its builders.
Learning from History
This special temple, made from black rock stone about 1000 years ago, amazes me with its expert craftsmanship from the past. The details are so precise, and the design is both beautiful and one-of-a-kind. Even today, the temple appears strong and sturdy. The whole temple is covered in intricate carvings. I want to express my gratitude to the people who built this wonderful temple in the past.
Getting to Ambarnath Temple
The temple is next to the Waldhuni river, which adds to its peaceful feeling. It’s only 2 kilometers away from Ambarnath railway station (East), so it’s not hard to reach. If you’re coming from Mumbai, you can take a short train ride or drive by road to get there. If you’re starting your journey from Pune, it will take a few hours by car, and you’ll get to see some lovely views on the road. Alternatively, you can take a train to Karjat using a mail express train and then switch to a local train to reach Ambarnath from Karjat. It’s a convenient way to reach the destination and enjoy the trip.
Taking Pictures and Being Respectful
You have the chance to capture the beauty of this temple through photos. Using your phone to take pictures is allowed, but using a camera might not be. You might be curious about whether you’re allowed to take photos inside. Since the temple is a sacred place for prayer, it’s important to show respect and avoid disturbing anyone who is worshiping.
Seeing the Sky: Meaning of Ambarnath
The name “Ambarnath” has an interesting meaning. “Ambarnath” can be divided into two parts: “Ambar,” which means “Sky,” and “Nath,” which means “Lord.” This might make you think about the temple’s missing top part. Some people think it could represent the sky itself. It’s like the temple is showing us something about the universe and the sky above us, Sky itself acts as the temple’s top.
My visit to Ambarnath Temple in August 2023 was like a trip through time. Being there, surrounded by history and beauty, was a really special experience. It felt like I was part of the past, imagining the people who made the temple so long ago. The temple is not just a building, but a place full of stories and feelings from many years ago. It’s a place where we can feel close to the past and connect with something bigger than ourselves.
Coming Soon: A Video about Ambarnath Temple on our YouTube Channel – Check it out at https://youtu.be/OcXfvprO0Yc
1. What is Ambarnath temple famous for? Temple is famous for its ancient beauty and historical significance. It’s a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere.
2. Who made the Shiv temple in Ambarnath? The Shiv temple was likely built by King Chhittaraja, who belonged to the Shilahara dynasty. There’s a possibility that his son Mummuni also played a role in its construction.
3. Did Pandavas build the Shiva temple in Ambarnath? The temple’s creation is more closely connected to the Shilahara dynasty.
4. What is the name of the temple in Ambarnath for Lord Shiva? The temple sometimes referred to as the “Ambreshwar Shiva Temple” or “Puratana Shivalaya,” which means Ancient Shiva Temple.
5. What is the history of Ambarnath? The history of Ambarnath is intertwined with the temple’s history. The town has been home to the Shiv Temple for centuries, and it has witnessed the passage of time while preserving its cultural and spiritual heritage.
6. Which is the oldest Shiv temple? The oldest known Shiva temple is the Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar, Jharkhand, which dates back to ancient times.
7. What is the material of Ambarnath temple? The temple is predominantly made of stone. The intricate carvings and architectural elements showcase the skill of the craftsmen who worked on it.
8. How can I reach Ambarnath temple from Mumbai? To reach temple from Mumbai, you can take a train or drive by road. The temple is around 2 kilometers away from Ambarnath railway station (East), making it easily accessible.
9. How can I reach Ambarnath temple from Pune? From Pune, you can take a road trip to Ambarnath temple. The journey takes a few hours, and you’ll have the chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region along the way.
10. Is photography allowed in Ambarnath Temple? Yes, you can take photo’s and Video’s through mobile phone. Photography by DSLR camera is not allowed. Since the temple is a place of worship, it’s essential to be respectful and considerate.
11. How old is Ambarnath Temple? Ambarnath Temple was built around 1060 AD, which means it is over a thousand years old. Its rich history and intricate architecture make it a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Discover about Kondeshwar Temple by visiting this link: Kondeshwar Temple – Sacred Bliss of Nature”
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