About Amruteshwar Temple Ratanwadi
The Amruteshwar Temple in Ratanwadi village, near Bhandardara, is a 9th-century Shiva temple built in the Hemadpanti architectural style. Known also as Ratanwadi Temple or Bhandardara Shiv Mandir, it is one of Maharashtra’s most remarkable heritage temples.
History of Amruteshwar Temple
Built by King Jhanjha of the Shilahara dynasty in the 9th century, the temple features beautifully carved pillars, detailed sculptures, and a sacred Shivling. It is one of 12 Shiva temples attributed to his rule and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Architecture and Significance
The temple is built in the Hemadpanti style with locally available stone and intricate carvings. The structure has a mandapa, antarala, and garbhagriha oriented westward, with a shikhara crowned by an amalaka. Inside, the unique Shivling emerges from a rock cavity topped with stones shaped like a kalasha, with Nandi facing the sanctum. A stepped tank (pushkarini) nearby features niches with Ganesha and Vishnu deities.
Legends & Beliefs
Local legends state Sage Agastya performed penance here, where nectar flowed giving the temple its name “Amruteshwar.” Another story credits the Pandavas with sculpting the Shivling overnight during exile.
Visitor Experience
The temple exudes serenity thanks to its remote location. Visitors admire the stone carvings of dancers, floral motifs, and celestial beings. Access involves either a boat ride across Arthur Lake followed by a short walk or a bumpy forest drive, making the journey as memorable as the temple itself.
Location and Distance
Amruteshwar Temple location: Ratanwadi village, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra.
- Bhandardara to Amruteshwar Temple: ~18 km
- Pune to Amruteshwar Temple: ~177 km
- Mumbai to Amruteshwar Temple: ~180 km
- Nashik to Amruteshwar Temple: ~87 km
- Igatpuri to Amruteshwar Temple: ~58 km
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Amruteshwar Temple is from June to February. Monsoon brings lush greenery, while winters are perfect for sightseeing and trekking. The temple is especially vibrant during Mahashivratri.
Nearby Attractions
- Ratangad Fort
- Wilson Dam
- Arthur Hill Lake
- Kalsubai Peak
- Ashoka Waterfall
- Sandhan Valley
How to Reach Amruteshwar Temple
By Road
Mumbai – Igatpuri – Bhandardara – Ratanwadi village
Pune – Alephata – Bhandardara – Ratanwadi village
Nashik – Igatpuri – Bhandardara – Ratanwadi village
Nearest Railway Station
The nearest railway station to Amruteshwar Temple is Igatpuri, around 58 km away. Buses and taxis are available from Igatpuri to Bhandardara and onwards to Ratanwadi.
Conclusion
The Amruteshwar Temple Ratanwadi is not just a shrine but an architectural marvel of Maharashtra. Whether called Amruteshwar Mandir, Bhandardara Shiv Temple, or Ratanwadi Temple, it remains a must-visit for devotees, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
