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Draft:Gepanath Mahadev Temple

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Gepanath Mahadev Temple
गेपरनाथ महादेव मंदिर
Religion
AffiliationHinduism
DistrictKota
DeityShiva
Location
LocationNear Chambal river, Kota
StateRajasthan
CountryIndia
Architecture
TypeCave temple
CreatorRaja Bhoj (traditional belief)
Date established16th century

Gepanath Mahadev Temple (Hindi: गेपरनाथ महादेव मंदिर) is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near Kota in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The temple is renowned for its natural setting, where water continuously drips from the cave ceiling onto the Shiva Lingam, creating an unbroken stream of Jalabhishek throughout the year.

History

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The temple was constructed in the 16th century and is traditionally believed to have been commissioned by Raja Bhoj. It is located approximately 400 feet deep within a hillside and is accessible via a descent of around 350 stone steps. Local legends say sages and pilgrims have meditated here for centuries due to the site’s tranquil and mystical environment.[1]

Architecture

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The temple is carved into a natural cave with a simple but spiritually evocative design. The sanctum houses a Shiva Lingam directly beneath a rock fissure, through which water perpetually drips — a natural Jalabhishek. The cave remains cool and damp year-round, enhancing the sacred atmosphere. The architecture is minimalistic, emphasizing harmony with nature.

Religious Significance

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This temple holds great religious value for followers of Shaivism. It is believed that the constant water flow symbolizes divine grace. During Maha Shivaratri, Shravan Maas, and Nag Panchami, thousands of devotees offer milk, bael leaves, and flowers to Lord Shiva here.

Tourism

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Gepanath Mahadev Temple is a popular pilgrimage and eco-tourism destination. Visitors enjoy both the spiritual ambiance and the scenic walk down to the cave. It is often visited along with other Kota attractions like Garadia Mahadev, Seven Wonders Park, and Chambal Garden.

References

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  1. ^ Bharat, E. T. V. (2020-02-20). "महाशिवरात्रि विशेष: कोटा का गेपरनाथ महादेव मंदिर जहां प्रकृति खुद करती है भोलेनाथ का जलाभिषेक". ETV Bharat News (in Hindi). Retrieved 2024-05-30.