Gangadhareshwar Temple, Akole, Maharashtra

Gangadhareshwar Temple, Akole, Maharashtra

Gangadhareshwar Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located at Akole City in Akole Taluk in Ahmednagar District in Maharashtra, India. This temple is a privately owned temple by the Potnis family. The temple is situated on the southern bank of Pravara River.

History

This temple was built in 1782 CE by Sardar Madhavrao Malharrao Potnis from Gwalior. This temple was built on a plot of land given as a gift by the ruler of Gwalior state.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east and stands over a raised platform. The temple follows Hemadpanti style of architecture. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala, sabha mandapa and mukha mandapa. The super structure over the mukha mandapa and sabha mandapa are of pyramidal style. Nandi can be seen in antrala facing towards the sanctum. The sanctum doorway is intricately carved.

Images of river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna along with their attendants can be seen at the base of the doorjamb. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Gangadhareshwar in the form of Shiva Linga within circular yonipitha. The interior of the temple is decorated with various Hindu deities, animals, floral motifs and geometrical patterns. The exterior of the temple is devoid of any decoration except the floral motifs and geometrical patterns.

Connectivity

The temple complex is located at about 500 metres from Akole Bus Stand, 24 Kms from Sangamner, 35 Kms from Bhandardara, 72 Kms from Nashik, 86 Kms from Nashik Airport, 118 Kms from Ahmednagar and 161 Kms from Pune Airport. The temple complex is situated at about 500 metres to the north of Akole Bus Stand on Bhandardara to Sangamner route.

Location