About
The Galteshwar Mahadev Temple is a revered 12th-century Shiva temple located near Dakor, Gujarat. Medieval stone carvers intricately sculpted the temple's square sanctum, octagonal mandapa (hall), and shikhara (spire). The spectacular shikhara features a stepped tower and exemplary carvings indicative of the Bhumija style. It exemplifies the Māru-Gurjara architecture style with influences from Malwa.
The octagonal mandapa is a unique feature of the temple, with columns adorned with elaborate stone carvings. The temple also houses sculptures of Ashtadikpalas (guardian deities of the directions), celestial dancers (apsaras), Hindu gods, and scenes from mythology.
Nestled at the confluence of the Mahi and Galti rivers, the temple has long attracted devotees of Shiva, especially during festivals like Mahashivratri, when thousands visit to offer prayers and partake in rituals.
According to legend, the site was named after the sage Galav Muni meditated here.
The temple saw considerable damage over time, especially in 1908. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) completed extensive restoration work on the structure, bringing it back to its former glory.
Today, the temple is a protected monument under ASI's supervision.
Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty around the temple, which blends spirituality with nature.
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Know Before You Go
The nearest airports are in Vadodara (78 km) and Ahmedabad (90 km); the closest major railway stations are Nadiad and Anand, with a branch line terminus at Umreth (7 km away); by road, the temple is 51 km from Anand and 50 km from Nadiad, with private cars and buses available from Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Anand.
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Published
March 25, 2025
