History and Architecture of Bavka Shiva Mandir
Bavka Shiva Temple is located just 14 KM away from Dahod at small village Bavka. It is on the small hill near Hirlav Lake between Chandwada and Bavka village. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and built around 10th century. This temple is neglected for long years but now declared as heritage site.
This temple has many gorgeous panels with erotic carvings; thus Bavka Shiva Temple became famous as Khajuraho of Gujarat. The outer walls and the sanctum door are carved of deities and Apsara - celestial beings. It is believed that this was the finest temple in its period thus faces many attacks. This temple was first attack by Mahmud of Ghazni and then continues looted its statues, idols and ruins. Mahashivratri, Shravan month and Amalaka Ekadashi are popular days to visit Bavka Shiva temple.
