To read the previous blog on day 1 of Ahilyanagar click here
Day 2: Temples and Tranquility
The next morning, after an early breakfast at Fanaswadi Resort, we ventured toward Kaygaon Toka, where we visited an array of ancient temples. It was a two hour drive from our hotel. A renowned group of temples dedicated to Lord Shiva stands near the confluence (Sangam) of the Pravara and Godavari rivers at Toka, near Newasa taluka in Ahilyanagar. This cluster features temples like Siddheshwar, Rameshwar, Mukteshwar, Ghateshwar, Gautameshwar, and Sangameshwar. Of these, the Siddheshwar temple holds particular importance. According to Devanagari inscriptions, the temple dates back to the Peshwa era. All of these temples are placed on the three sides of the confluence of rivers and the entire premises are pet friendly. The calmness of the temples and the lush greenery around them created a perfect setting for reflection. Cars have to be parked in the paid parking lot near Rameshwar temple and then one can explore the temples by walking. Although we went during peak sun hours, it did not cause any thermal discomfort as the entire precinct is filled with lush green shady trees.
After visited Rameshwar temple, we went back to the parking and drove across the bridge to visit the Shri Siddheshwar Temple. There was some bhajan program going on in the temple premises and it was extremely crowded. The temple has beautiful carvings of flora , fauna, Lord ganesha, Vishnu, etc.
According to Devanagari inscriptions, the Siddheshwar Temple dates back to the Peshwa era. It is believed that Vishnu Mahadev Gadre constructed the temple in 1767 at a cost of ₹93,000. Later, Nana Fadnavis contributed to the temple’s restoration, as well as the repair of the Godavari River Ghat. The temple features exquisite carvings depicting various mythological themes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, along with intricate sculptures of gods and goddesses. A unique aspect of the temple is its sabha-mandapa, where the rooftop is adorned with beautifully crafted idols of Lord Krishna and Radha.
At the entrance of the Siddheshwar Temple, a beautifully adorned and captivating idol of Nandi immediately draws attention. Within the temple complex, the temples of Vishnu and Maa Durga stand on either side of the main Siddheshwar Temple—Vishnu on the left and Durga on the right. A striking feature of the Vishnu Temple is the presence of ‘Dikpalas’ (guardians of the directions) adorning its outer walls. The black stone idol of Lord Vishnu, depicted holding a Shankha, Gada, and Chakra, is particularly mesmerizing.
On the right side of the Siddheshwar Temple, the Devi Temple stands out with its remarkable star-shaped foundation. The deity worshiped here is known as Gajara Devi, a name derived from the founder’s surname, Gadre (Gajre). One of the temple’s most fascinating features is the series of ‘Ashtamatrika’ idols carved into its walls, representing Varahi, Brahmini, Vaishnavi, Indrani, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Chamunda, and Narasimhi.
Next, we drove towards Ghateshwar Mahadev temple which was just a 3 minutes drive. We parked the car at the banks of the river. The Ghateshwar temple is thought to mark the spot where the urn of amrita, the nectar of immortality churned from the sea by gods and demons, was placed. According to legend, Lord Vishnu distributed the amrita among the gods at Nevasa. During this event, the demon Rahu is said to have disguised himself among the gods to receive the nectar. Upon realizing Rahu’s deceit, Vishnu, who was serving the amrita, severed Rahu’s head, causing amrita from Rahu’s throat to spill into the Pravara River. Consequently, the Pravara is called “Amrita Vahini” between Nevasa and the Pravara Sangam. The small Gautameshwar temple is just the entrance. Boat rides are available from this temple.
It was time to leave Kaygaon Toka and proceed toward the village of Ghotan which lies 57kms ahead. We waited for a quick lunch at Saipooja Lodging & Restaurant. The owner was kind enough to let Sophie sit with us inside. Both indoor and outdoor dining is available at Saipooja Restraurant and it is located just 10 mins from the famous temples of Ghotan. We visited Mallikarjun Temple and Jatashankar Temple, both tucked away in nature. It was tough to find Mallikarjun temple as the google map location is wrong. Mallikarjun temple is extremely well maintained and clean. It located in a huge fenced plot with ample parking space. Toilets blocks are under construction. Sophie enjoyed roaming around in the huge open space around the temple.
Ghotan, located in Shevgaon Taluka of Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra, is home to two Hemadpanti temples—the main Mallikarjuna Temple and a smaller Mahadev Temple. The Mahadev Temple features a garbhagriha (sanctum), an antarala (vestibule), followed by a mandapa (hall) and mukhamandapa (entrance porch). The ceilings of the mandapa and antarala, along with the sanctum’s door frame, are adorned with intricate decorations.
Although historically identified as a Jain temple, it currently houses a Shivlinga in the sanctum. Dating back to the 12th–13th century AD, the temple is dedicated to Lord Mahadeva (Shiva). Outside the temple, a broken Nandi idol can be seen. However, the temple is now in a ruined state, and no worship is performed here.
Our day ended with all these temple visits, after which we returned to the resort, where dinner awaited us. One must definitely try the steaming hot desi Dal khichadi at Fanaswadi. Sophie enjoyed playing with their staff. Dinner was simple but satisfying, and after a day full of exploration, we slept soundly, ready for more adventure.
To read the blog on day 3 of Ahilyanagar click here
What are some not-so-pet-friendly places that you should avoid visiting with pets?
Cavalry Tank Museum – Pet’s are not allowed inside display area but can use other open areas.
Ahmednagar Fort – It is open to public only on 15th Aug and 26th Jan.
Where did we stay ?
Fanaswadi Resort, Chas, Ahilyanagar
Where did we eat ?
Saipooja Lodging & Restaurant, Shevgaon, Ahilyanagar
Phalke Farm Chikoochi Wadi Pure Veg, Chas, Ahilyanagar
Fanaswadi Resort, Chas, Ahilyanagar
Shivneri Misal, Manchar, Pune
