One of the interesting shrines for the Lord Shiva is the Nishkalank Mahadev Temple located near Bhavnagar in the state of Gujarat. This temple is on an island about fifteen kilometers from Koliyak and while a part of it is underwater, the other part is seen only during low tides. With the low tide, five Shiva linga appear and people of faith along with tourists start getting collected, making it a crowded place. This happens twice a day, depending upon the tidal processes.
The term ‘Nishkalank’ is a Sanskrit word for ‘pure’ in English –which is the description of the sacred nature of the temple. Tourists who have been to the temple are thrilled while viewing the architectural structure and feel a certain kind of peace given by the fact that this temple is built on the water. This makes it a famous place to visit due to its nature, as well as its religious importance.
The Jal-abhisheka is done by the tides, which is the unique feature of this temple. The devotees visit the temple by walking barefooted from the shore during the low tide. Devotees first wash their hands and legs in a pond called Pandavas Pond, upon reaching the temple, and then visit the shrine. The tides are active, especially during no moon and full moon days and devotees eagerly wait for the tides to disappear on these days. So, kindly note the schedule of high tides and low tides of the sea before visiting the shrine as the entire visit of the Mandir depends on it.
Nishkalank Mahadev Temple Gujarat Highlights
Particulars |
Details |
Temple name |
The Nishkalank Mahadev Temple |
|
Deity |
Lord Shiva |
|
Timings |
According to tides (Check Here) |
Location |
Koliyak village , 24 km from Bhavnagar, Gujarat |
|
Unique feature |
Submerged in water, viewable during low tides |
|
Built by |
Pandavas |
|
Dress Code |
Traditional wear |
|
Photography |
Allowed |
|
Prasad |
Available |
Nishkalank Mahadev Temple Gujarat Timings:
The timings at which the temple opens depend upon the tidal analysis. Timings during Amavasya and Purnima are 7:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m to 12:30 a.m but the most common time during normal days are:
|
Tithi |
Morning Time |
Afternoon Time |
|
First |
08-18 |
01-18 |
|
Second |
09-06 |
02-06 |
|
Third |
09-54 |
02-54 |
|
Fourth |
10-42 |
03-42 |
|
Fifth |
11-30 |
04-30 |
|
Sixth |
12-18 |
05-18 |
|
Seventh |
01-06 |
06-06 |
|
Eighth |
02-18 |
07-18 |
|
Ninth |
03-06 |
08-06 |
|
Tenth |
03-54 |
08-54 |
|
Eleventh |
04-42 |
09-42 |
|
Twelfth |
05-30 |
10-30 |
|
Thirteenth |
06-18 |
11-18 |
|
Fourteenth |
07-06 |
12-06 |
|
Fifteenth |
07-30 |
12-30 |
Special Darshan- Not Available
Nishkalank Mahadev Temple Location
The Nishkalank Mahadev Temple is situated on the Koliyak beach in Gujarat. The address is Koliyak Village, which is about 24 km from Bhavnagar, about 3 km inside the sea.
Address: H7WV+W29, Hoidad, Gujarat 364070
The Nishkalank Mahadev Temple Ticket Price:
Usually, they do not charge for the darshan of Nishkalank Mahadev Temple, but they might have additional charges for prasad and puja which are discussed ahead.
|
Adults and Children |
Free for all |
|
Special Darshan |
Not available |
Nishkalank Mahadev Temple Booking Information:
There is no need to book tickets beforehand while visiting Nishkalank Mahadev Temple. However, it is suggested to plan according to the tidal period and know the timings of high/low tide before visiting the temple. It is easier to confirm the tide timings from the locals or by searching online.
How to Reach Nishkalank Mahadev Temple:
|
Particulars |
Details |
Distance |
|
By air |
Nearest airport from Koliyak is Bhavnagar airport |
23 km from Koliyak |
|
By train |
Nearest Railway Station from Koliayk is Bhavnagar terminus. |
20 km from Koliyak |
|
By road |
As for the Traffic, Bhavnagar is mainly connected by road transportation. Bhavnagar has several Buses and private taxi services to get there. |
45 minutes drive from Bhavnagar |
Additional Information about Nishkalank Mahadev Temple
- Best Time to Visit: In a specific season, that is from October to March when the climate of the region is comparatively better.
- Safety Tips: Should wear good walking shoes because the terrain is wet and slippery. Keep track of tides to able to know if one will be stranded.
- Landmarks: Some other attractions include Takhteshwar Temple, Gaurishankar Lake, and Victoria Park.
Places to visit near the Nishkalank Mahadev Temple:
- Takhteshwar Temple: A beautiful hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Bhavnagar, offering panoramic views of the city.
- Victoria Park: A lush green park in Bhavnagar, ideal for nature walks and bird watching.
- Gaurishankar Lake: A popular spot for picnics and boating, providing a serene environment.
- Barton Library and Museum: One of the oldest libraries in Gujarat with a museum showcasing historical artifacts.
- Blackbuck National Park: Located in Velavadar, this park is known for its population of blackbuck antelope and other wildlife.
Conclusion
Touring the Nishkalank Mahadev Temple promises to be a unique experience characterized by natural beauty and a touch of spirituality. This unforgettable and peaceful experience is when it emerges from the water the temple that connects people with God in complete peace.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Ques: What is the mystery behind Nishkalank Mahadev Temple?
Ans: The Nishkalank Mahadev temple was built with special care to withstand high tides and it truly remains a mystery to modern engineers and technology experts. The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra War.
Ques: What is the Speciality of Nishkalank Mahadev Temple?
Ans: The temple has 5 distinct swayambhu Shiva lingams on a square platform and each is having a Nandi statue facing it. This temple is submerged during high tides in the sea and emerges during low tides to reveal itself majestically, promising its devotees to wash away all sins.
Ques: What is the time to visit Nishkalank Mahadev Temple?
Ans: The most important thing is to know the Nishkalank Mahadev Temple's timing. Usually, the period begins around 09:00 a.m. and lasts till 02:00 p.m. on days starting from new moon day till the eighth day.
Ques: What is the dress code for Nishkalank Mahadev Temple?
Ans: Shorts, mini-skirts, middies, sleeveless tops, low-waist jeans, and short-length T-shirts are not allowed.
Ques: What is the story of Nishkalank Mahadev Temple?
Ans: It is said that Pandavas established the Nishkalank Mahadev on an Amavasai Day of the Indian calendar month of Bhadrapada. Hence the famous fair popularly known as 'Bhadravi' is held on the night of the new moon day in the month of Shravan (August), as per the Indian calendar.
Chardhams of India
| Jagannath Puri Odisha | Badrinath |
| Rameshwaram | Dwarkadhish |
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| Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga | Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga | Baidyanath Jyotirlinga | Srisailam Mallikarjun Jyotirlinga |
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