Shiva Temple, Payar, Jammu and Kashmir

Shiva Temple, Payar, Jammu and Kashmir

Payar Shiva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kakapora Payar village near Pulwama City in Pulwama District in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The temple has been classified as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

History

The temple was identified as Narendrasvami temple, built by Narendraditya (483 – 490 CE) by General Cunningham was incorrect. The temple is believed to be built in 11^th century CE based on its architectural style.

The Temple

The temple is 8 sq. feet internally and is about 21 feet tall including the base. The temple is open on all sides but is reached only by a flight of steps on the eastern side. It houses a Shiva Linga in its sanctum. It consists of a double pyramidal roof with triangular pediments on all the four sides enclosing a trefoil arch. The other sculpted reliefs on the exterior include, geese, bulls and decorative bands.

Lakulisa can be seen in the eastern trefoil niche, six-armed Nataraja carrying trident & Khatanga, dancing to the tune of male drummer and female flute player can be seen in the western trefoil niche, three headed Lord Shiva accompanied by Aghora and Uma can be seen in the northern trefoil niche and Gaja Samhara Moorthy can be seen in the southern trefoil niche.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 5 Kms from Pulwama, 5 Kms from Pulwama Main Bus Stand, 10 Kms from Awantipora Railway Station, 14 Kms from Awantipora, 23 Kms from Shopian, 30 Kms from Anantnag, 34 Kms from Srinagar, 34 Kms from Srinagar Airport and 244 Kms from Jammu. The temple is situated on Pulwama to Awantipora route.

Location