Baneshwar Temple

Baneshwar Mahadev Mandir is a famous old medieval period temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Nasrapur village, on Pune-Bangalore highway at a distance of about 36 km from southwest of Pune district in Maharashtra state. The temple is just 2 to 3 km away from Nasrapur junction. Baneshwar temple was constructed by Balaji Baji Rao, son of the great Peshwa Bajirao 1 in the year 1749. He was a Peshwa of the Maratha Empire in India that existed from 1674 to 1818. The Baneshwar temple resembles the medieval period architecture. In the Marathi language, “Ban” means forest and “Ishwar” means the ruler (God). Hence, Baneshwar means “God of the Forest”.Baneshwar region is a forest conserve area and wildlife sanctuary where a variety of rare birds, plants, and flowers can be spotted. There is a beautiful waterfall present behind the Baneshwar Mandir premises. The temple has an important antique bell. It was captured as a token of victory by Chimaji Appa after a great victory over the Portuguese in the battle of Bastien Fort in 1739. Baneshwar is also the best place for nature lovers who like to do mountain trekking and jungle adventures. The pleasant and peaceful surrounding jungle atmosphere of the temple is the best place to escape from the polluted city environment and busy life. Tourists can find small hotels and stalls in front of the temple serving Tea, Coffee, Snacks and Pooja items. Ample parking space is available for the vehicles at the entrance of the temple. The temple has a couple of small water ponds, where you can find some small aquatic animals like turtles and fish. It is a very calm and peaceful Lord Shiva temple full of lush greenery.