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Parshuram Mahadev Temple, Pali

Parshuram Mahadev is a cave temple to Shiva high in the Aravalli hills, in Pali district near Kumbhalgarh Fort. Pilgrims walk down a hillside path and then climb about 500 steps to reach the shrine, which sits inside a natural cave. The walk through the hills is part of the experience, and the temple draws huge crowds at its annual fair in the monsoon.

Parshuram Mahadev Temple
Deity
Shiva
Steps
About 500
Timings
Open at all hours
Best time
August to February
Nearby
Kumbhalgarh Fort

The legend

Tradition holds that Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu, cut this cave out of the rock with his axe and performed penance here to please Shiva. Inside, devotees worship naturally formed images of Shiva and Ganesha, and the rock walls carry forms that pilgrims see as carvings. Several water tanks are associated with the site.

Festivals

Visiting information

The shrine can be visited at any time of day, but the climb is best done in daylight. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water, and take breaks on the steps; older visitors may find the route tiring, so allow extra time. There is no set dress code, but modest clothing is expected.

Best time to visit

August to February is the most comfortable period. The monsoon turns the hills green and brings the Shravan fair, while winter is cool and good for combining the temple with sightseeing at Kumbhalgarh. Summer is best avoided because of the heat on the exposed path.

How to reach

The temple lies close to Kumbhalgarh Fort, and most visitors come by car from Udaipur or from nearby towns in Pali and Rajsamand districts. Udaipur has the nearest airport, and hired taxis are the easiest way to cover the hill roads. We can include the temple in a Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur day tour.

Also nearby

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