Pune to Baneshwar temple via Khed Shivapur was a wonderful one-day trip from the winter of 2014.
On a cold Sunday morning of 14th Dec 2014, I wanted to take out my Pulsar 180. Hence, I started towards the Bengaluru highway. Until I crossed the Katraj tunnel (end of Pune city), there wasn’t a specific destination in mind.
Katraj tunnel spot provides a great majestic view of south Pune city. There is a small Hanuman temple near the tunnel. There were several langurs (monkeys) playing in the trees around. While enjoying a hot cup of tea from a roadside vendor, I was trying to spot my home in that gigantic view.
I observed one thing related to ghat/mountain roads across India – Wherever there is a ghat region, there will be either a Hanuman temple or a Devi temple at the topmost point. This must be to provide the feel of protection during old times when the roads were less travelled and lonely.
Believe it or not, I spotted a full-grown Cobra in the nearby bushes. Maybe it was also enjoying the morning sun in the winter.
I was heading towards the ancient temple of Lord Shiva at Baneshwar. A few Kms before Baneshwar, I took a right turn from the highway to Khed Shivapur town. The town became popular for the “Dargah of Hazrat Kamar Ali”.
I am Hindu and I respect all other religions, and beliefs too. It’s fascinating to see that people from various backgrounds and religions were paying respect. Many were tying holy strings on the windows of the shrine (mannat ka dhaga) with a request to fulfil their wishes.
The shrine is not too big. It’s located in the middle of a busy town (I am talking about 2014). Since the saint was not married, ladies are not allowed inside the main shrine. The main attraction of the Dargah is the round ball-like big stone. It is believed that 11 people can lift the stone with their index fingers if picked together with belief in the Saint. Well..I tried but couldn’t even move it with my both hands.
Read more about Hazrat Kamar Ali Dargah of Khed Shivapur!
After having snacks in the town, I moved towards Baneshwar. The temple is located within a small sanctuary but within the boundaries of the busy town of Nasarapur.
Baneshwar means Ishwar (the God) of the Ban (the forest). The road to the temple is wonderful through a small forest. The temple was built in 1749 by Balaji Bajirao Peshwa and is a great example of the Peshwai construction style.
The medieval temple is simple but spacious. Once you enter through the gate, you have to walk down some steps. You will see concise twin holy water tanks in front of the main shrine. Since it’s a Lord Shiva temple, a humble white Nandi is sitting in front of the god’s abode.
The main temple starts with a Sabha Mandap followed by Garbha Gruha where Lord Shiva is in the form of Shiva Linga.
I must say that I felt at peace. Having Darshana of my Lord always gives me calm feelings and joy. I was slowly wandering in and around the temple.
There is a forest garden near the temple where one can take a walk amongst the dense green patch. Once you walk a for while, you can see a Baneshwar Waterfall at the back side of the temple premises. The waterfall comes to life during monsoon season.
Read more about Baneshwar Temple!
After having some snacks (Vada Pav, Bhajji…yumm) in the small shacks outside the temple, I started my return journey.
It was a day well spent. A great escape from everyday routine in the divine laps of God and nature at the same time. Singing along with the songs in my earphones, I reached home after covering a 30 Kms journey.
