History, Importance, Timings, Architecture, Interesting Facts and Travel Guide of Lakulisha Mandir, Pavagadh, Gujarat, India
Lakulish Temple is one of the oldest shrine of Pavagagh, near Champaner, Gujarat. It is believed that Lakulisha temple was built during 10th or 11th century and dedicated to Lord Lakulish, the 28th incarnation of Lord Shiva and founder of Pashupatas, the oldest sect of Shaivism. The unique and beautifully carved temple is now mostly forgotten by people and also the state government, thus you could not find more visitors here but it is one of the must visit place of Pavagadh due to its location, architecture and importance. The view of temple surrounded by mountains, Dudhiya lake, and lush green forest makes this peaceful place amazing.
Due to ignorance, the temple is currently ruined and also there is no Shikhara or idol of deity is placed in sanctum. But you can see several idols of Lord Brahmna, Vishnu and Mahesh, Lord Ganpati, celestial deities, Kalyansundara, Dakshina moorthy, Indra Seated ambika Surasundara etc. are carved on temple wall. Such ancient historical holy shrine must be preserved and put up in heritage along with other site of Champaner.
Temple campus spread across in relatively small area but temple premise is comprises of garbhagriha antarala, mandapa and an entrance Porch as Horizontal Components. Currently only parts of super structures is survived. Eight beautifully carved pillars of the mandapa which suppors the octagonal frame of the hemispherical ceiling. You can also find unique images of Lord Lakulisha on the entrance of temple.
Other famous temple of Lord Lakulish is located at Kayavarohan near Vadodara. Kayavarohan is the place where Lord Lakulish, 28th incarnation of Lord Shiva was born. Thus this is ancient spiritual place for followers of Pashupati and Lord Shiva, and devotee worshipped Lord Lakulish. Lord Lakulisa was the founder of Pashupata Shaivism which was one of the oldest and prominent Shaivite schools.
Thousands of devotee across the world visits Pavagadh around the year, thus to facilitate them several Dharmshala, Hotels, Guest House, Yatri Bhavan, Restaurants are built. Also you can easily find the public and private transport, auto rickshaw for the local sightseen and visit nearby sites.
How to Reach Lakulish Temple, Pavagadh, Gujarat, India
Pavagadh being one of the major pilgrimage centre and tourist destination of Gujarat where people across the world visits around the year. It is very well connected with all major cities of India via road, rail and air network. Vadodara has major railway junction just at 55 km from Pavagadh from where you can get train to almost all region of India. Vadodar Airport and Ahmedabad Airport are the nearest airport at distance of 52 and 145 respectively from Pavagadh. From where you can get flight to all major cities of India and across the globe. You can find private taxi and public transport as well from both airport to reach to Pavagadh. Pavagadh is located at just 20 km from Champaner, 13 km from Halol, 45 km from Vadodara, 140 km from Ahmedabad, 88 km from Kevadiya Colony – statue of Unity.