The Pataleshwar Cave Temple is an 8th-century rock-cut Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. It is located in the heart of Pune, Maharashtra, India. The temple is carved out of a single basalt rock and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pune.
The temple is named after Pataleshwar, a name for Shiva as the Lord of the Underworld. The temple has a three-part layout, with a main shrine, a pillared mandapa, and a Nandi mandapa. The main shrine houses a Shiva lingam, and the pillared mandapa has 16 pillars that support the roof. The Nandi mandapa is dedicated to Nandi, the bull-headed steed of Shiva.
The temple is a fine example of Rashtrakuta architecture, and its construction is attributed to Krishna I, the Rashtrakuta king who ruled from 757 to 774 CE. The temple is well-preserved and is a popular site among tourists.
The Pataleshwar Cave Temple is open to the public from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and there is nominal entry fee. The temple is located at Jangli Maharaj Road, Revenue Colony, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra.
