Parvati Temple (Pune)

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The Parvati Hill and Temple in Pune is situated in the center of the city. It is located at a distance of 1 kilometer from Swargate and around 4 kilometers from the Deccan.

This 17th century hill, located in Southern Pune is visible from many parts of the city. A group of beautiful temples of Ganesh and Kartikeya which are from the 17th ( At the time of Nana Saheb Peshwa) century are Parvati’s attractions. The temple atop after a climb, is dedicated to Parvati, Vishnu, Ganesh, Kartikeya and Devadeshwar.

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Parvati Hill is one of the most beautiful places in Pune. One can enjoy and marvel at the aerial and panoramic view of the entire city from the observation points located on top of this hill. In fact, Parvati Hill is the highest point in the city. There are a large number of temples located on this hill. These shrines were originally the private temples of the Pehswa Rulers of Maharashtra. As per historical records, it was at this place that the Peshwa ruler Balaji Baji Rao witnessed the defeat of the Britishers in the Battle of Kirkee. This clearly highlights its significance in the history of the Maratha Empire.

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Parvati Hill and Temple are quite famous amongst the tourists visiting Pune. The hill is situated at a distance of approximately one km from Swargate and four km from Deccan Gymkhana. The picturesque beauty of the hill is what draws tourists here. Situated at a height of 2100 feet above sea level, Parvati hill boasts of a number of temples, considered to be the oldest heritage structures in Pune. These temples also serve as a reminder of the Peshwa rule in Pune. Read on to get more information on Parvati Hills & Temples of Poona, India.

Galta Temple ( Jaipur )

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Galta is a pretty little pilgrim spot located just beyond Sisodia Rani-ka Bagh on Agra Road at a distance of 10 km. from Jaipur. This is the sacred spot where one sage Galav is supposed to have lived and meditated. As such the place is visited mainly for its temples. Just before you enter Galta, you will come across the aesthetic Balaji ka Mandir. It is a triple-storied building of pink stone, looking more like a palatial haveli (mansion). The Temple of Galtaji, which lies in a picturesque gorge amid low hills, has a huge complex. This one is also built of pink stone, with a profusion of pavilions having rounded roofs. The walls and pillars have exquisite carvings and paintings. The whole complex is so beautiful that it is more of a visual treat than a place for worship. The temple, however, has a large daily attendance.

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There are also some springs and natural reservoirs (kunds) around the Galta Temple, where the devout take holy dips. They believe that by doing so, they can cleanse themselves of their worldly sins! Even in the cold of mid-January, devotees throng to these kunds for their ritual dip on Makar Sankranti, an important festival of the Hindus (see Religion of India for more on Makar Sankranti). The holiest one of these is the Galta Kund, believed never to become dry. All the seven tanks, including the Galta Kund, are fed by a spring emanating from the Gaumukh, a rock carved in the shape of a cow’s head.

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The 18th century Surya Temple stands on top of the highest peak here. It was built by Rao Kriparam, a courtier of Sawai Jai Singh II. There are fine views from here of the surrounding plains and the city of Jaipur beyond. The temple had some beautiful frescoes, but sadly heavy rains in 1991 washed many away. The restored ones are hardly of any match to the originals. If you’re bored with temples, take a walk among the old style havelis (mansions) nearby. Though rather dilapidated, they have delicately carved balconies and painted ceilings.

Sas Bahu Temple ( Udaipur )

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The two temples that are situated side by side with each others are dedicated to the Hindu religion and pay homage to the deity of Lord Vishnu. Referred to as Sas Bahu Ka Mandir due to their close association, the two temples were built by the great Kachwah King Mahapala some where in the 10th century. The original temple of Lord Vishnu constructed by Yasomati, wife of the commander in chief of the Mewar Ruler was destroyed and the remains includes the very place where the two temples of the Kachwa Ruler are built.

Lord Vishnu is supposed to be the preserver of this Universe. He keeps vigilance over this earth and if there is any disobedience among men, he punishes them. But he is also considered to be the most kind hearted among the Hindu Gods, who come to help his followers under any circumstances.

King Mahipala wished for the success of his Kingdom and the overall prosperity. This being ranted by The Lord, a temple was constructed to commemorate Lord Vishnu. So, the name Sahastrabahu was given to this temple which later in course of time changed into Sas Bahu Temple. The construction of this temple was completed in the year 1092 AD by the king Mahipala.

Earlier, there was a temple of Lord Vishnu constructed by Yasomati, the wife of commander in chief of the Mewar Ruler. It was destroyed. Visitors of the temple are of the notion that the temples are in the name of the mother in law and the daughter in law of a family. But ones they visit the temples they will find that the name has been given for their close attachment.