Name: Diu
Rating: 3.2

Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple, Diu Overview

Situated amidst serenity and scenic beauty, the Gangeshwar Temple is dedicated to the transformer of Hindu trinity, Lord Shiva. This ancient Hindu Temple is located 3 km away from Diu in the Fudam Village of Gujarat. Believed to have been built by the Pandavas, this temple is famous for its five Shiva Lingas, i.e. rocks in the shape of Lord Shiva which are present in the middle of the sea. Only the tip of these rocks can be seen whenever there is a high tide because the sea water submerges them.

Gangeshwar refers to Lord Shiva who is considered to be the Lord of River Ganga since it descended to earth starting from the tresses of Lord Shiva who is also the presiding deity of the Gangeshwar Mahadev Mandir.

Significance of Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple

The Pandava brothers were the ones to install the five Shiva Lingas at Gangeshwar Mahadev during the period of their exile from the kingdom of Hastinapur. Bounded by a serene atmosphere, this cave temple radiates such powerful energy which is honoured by the devotees of Lord Shiva all over the world. If you are planning a trip to Gujarat, this is one place you would not like to miss out on for the beauty along with the peace that this place offers to you away from the busy and fast-moving life. It is a perfect getaway.

Legend of Gangeshwar Temple

Legend has it that while the Pandavas were serving their exile when they were banished from the kingdom of Hastinapur for 12 years, they worshipped Lord Shiva who was present in this temple. This temple is also known as 'Seashore Temple' since it is situated near the seashore. During their exile period, when the Pandavas visited this place in search for a place to worship before having their food, they installed five Shivalingas along the edge of the water and considered it to be the true form of Lord Shiva.

On the rock above the Shiva Linga is a Seshanag which was carved to look out for the Shiva Linga. Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Lakshmi can be found at the entrance of the Gangeshwar temple. At the time of high tide rise, the crystal clear water of the tidal waves cleans the whole temple along with the Lingas. It appears as though the waves of the sea are paying respect to the deity residing in this place. It has become one of the major pilgrimage sites for worshipping Lord Shiva due to its serenity and beauty.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to pay a visit to the Gangeshwar Mahadev Mandir is from October to May since the climate is cold at this time. However, tourists are advised not to visit the place during the rainy season because it gets sticky during this time. Also, October and November are great months to visit the temple because of the festivals such as Navaratri which is celebrated with great fun, devotion, and frolic around here.

How To Reach Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple

There are numerous public as well as private buses which can be availed in order to reach the temple. Gangeshwar temple is very well connected by roadways which is why one can also take a private car or hire a tax to easily reach the temple.