Neelkantheshwar

Neelkantheshwar temple is located just 45 kms from Pune. It is near Panshet.It is the temple of Lord Shiva who is also known as Neelkantheshwar .Although the stone temple has been in existence for hundreds of years, this place is better known for the scores of human size figures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. One can also see the Samudra Manthan or Churning of the Ocean. It was during this churning that a poison named ‘Halahal’ came out, Lord Shiva drank the poison and that is what is said to have given him his blue throat, and thus the name Neelkanth. Some of the sculptures are Ashtvinayaka, Bakasur Bheem story, Dashavtar, Shivaji Maharaj, Jesus Christ, Sleeping Hanuman, Kumbhakarna, Sant Dnyashwar, Sant Ramdas, Vaali-Sugriv fight and the list goes on and on. It is a good place for photography as the location is surrounded with panoramic views and wonderfully carved mythological sculptures.

To reach Neelkantheshwar there are two ways. One is by Panshet to Varasgaon. The other is from Khanpur. This place is worth spending time with family, friends and of course kids as they will enjoy here the most. After reaching the bottom of the hill you need to climb the steep hill that may take 40 to 45 minutes. It is advisable to avoid summer days and afternoon time to climb as it will exhaust you because there is no shelter in between. There are some boys selling nimbu pani and curd milk that can be enjoyed on the way. On the top there is a small hotel that serves tea, coffee, cold drinks, poha etc.
The best time to visit Neelkantheshwar is during the monsoons, so that you can also enjoy the lush greens and the breathtaking beauty of the Panshet region. It also makes the rather steep climb from the Panshet side easier. One of the sculpture shows Shiva in the natraj pose, which is one of the best sculptures up there.
Address:
Neelkantheshwar Temple ,Sector No. 24, Nigdi Chinchwad, Pune,Maharashtra, 411044, India

Compiled by: Townpune.com Team