Aundha Nagnath – The Eighth Jyotirlinga.

Aundha Nagnath Temple – A Site of Ancient Faith

Experience the divine presence at Aundha Nagnath, a temple with a rich history and unique architectural style, deeply rooted in the tales of the Pandavas.

Aundha Nagnath, located in the Hingoli district of Maharashtra, is a revered ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is considered the eighth of the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds a special place in Hindu pilgrimage. The temple's history is believed to date back to the time of the Mahabharata, with its foundation attributed to Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandava brothers.

The temple's architecture is a stunning example of the Hemadpanti style, characterized by intricately carved stones fitted together without any mortar. Although much of the original temple was destroyed during the reign of Aurangzeb, it was later rebuilt by Ahilyabai Holkar. The current structure stands as a testament to the resilience of faith and artistry. The main sanctum is located in a small basement, requiring devotees to descend a few steps to have a darshan of the Jyotirlinga.

A unique feature of the Aundha Nagnath temple is the Nandi statue, which is located at the back of the temple, unlike most Shiva temples where it faces the main deity. The temple complex is serene and attracts a large number of devotees, especially during the festival of Mahashivratri. A pilgrimage to Aundha Nagnath offers a profound spiritual experience, connecting visitors with a site of immense historical and religious importance.