Menal Mahanaleshwar Temple is one of Rajasthan’s most famous temples which is located about 90 kilometres from Chittorgarh and about 70 kilometres from Bundi. This Temple is also known by its old name Mahanaleshwar Temple. Menal Shiva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is also known as the Mini-Khajuraho Temple.

The Menal Mahanaleshwar Temple is an 11th-century marvel that is well worth seeing. Someshvar Chahamana and his queen Suhavadevi of the Shakambhari dynasty built this temple complex in the 11th century A.D. These Shiva temples, known as Mahanaleshwar, were important centres of Saivism during the Chahamana rule.

Significance of Menal Mahanaleshwar Temple

One of the best places to visit in Chittorgarh is Mahanal Temples and Math, which is about 80 kilometres away. The Menal Mahanaleshwar Temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva and also contains several other deities. Despite being partially in ruins, it is a beautiful place to visit.

Not only is the complex’s architecture still breathtaking, but there is also a lovely waterfall nearby that adds grace and charm to the setting. A couple of hours spent leisurely exploring the temple complex and the waterfall is a lovely and peaceful way to spend some time. A day trip from Chittorgarh to the temple is a good idea because the drive is enjoyable and the destination is unique.

History of Minal Mahanaleshwar Temple

The Menal Mahanaleshwar Temple, built in the 11th century AD by King Someshwar Chamhana and his wife, Queen Suhavadevi, is one of Menal’s most famous temples. Prithviraj Chauhan is said to have visited this Shiva temple frequently during the summers to escape the oppressive heat of Rajasthan.

The temple’s exterior walls are adorned with stone carvings of guardian deities, animals, and numerous gods. The carvings of Lord Shiva and Parvathi in various postures on the walls have earned the temples the moniker “Mini Khajuraho.”

The Architecture of Minal Mahanaleshwar Temple

The Menal Mahanaleshwar Temple was built in the 11th century A.D. by the Sakhambari dynasty’s king, Someshvar Chhahamana, and his queen, Suhavadevi. It is built in the Bhumija architectural style. The massive stone Shiva temple was built in the ancient Hindu style, complete with carved pagodas and pillars. The sculptures on the temple’s pillars are incredible.

The inner sanctum’s projectile balconies and the pyramidal array of the temple spire with beautiful carvings make this temple an architectural marvel. The bull Nandi stands in front of Mahanala’s main temple. The enclosure built around it is insufficient to protect it, and the statue is partially damaged.

During the hot Rajasthan summers, this was King Prithviraj Chauhan’s favourite mountain retreat. The entrance features a seated stone lion as well as a number of deities carved on the walls. Shiva and Parvati are depicted in a variety of postures throughout the temple, surrounded by dancers, musicians, gods, and animals. The main Mahanaleshwar shrine is made of sandstone.

Important Facts about Minal Mahanaleshwar Temple

• The Menal Mahanaleshwar Temple, located on the Kota Chittor National Highway, is a symbol of architectural art and ancient heritage in the Bengu subdivision.
• This temple is a wonderful blend of religious devotion and natural beauty. Barsati is located on the banks of the Mahanal River (the current Menali River). This location is especially beautiful on rainy days.
• Chittorgarh was the former Mewar capital of the Sisodia Dynasty. Chittorgarh Fort is India’s and Asia’s largest fort. It is famous for its fort as well as being Meera’s place of worship.
• Menal Mahanaleshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is also known as the Mini-Khajuraho Temple. The Menal Temple is an 11th-century marvel that is well worth seeing.
• The temple was built by the king then, Someshvar Chhahamana and his queen Suhavadevi of the Sakhambari dynasty during the 11th century A.D.

Best Time to Visit Minal Mahanaleshwar Temple

This place is very heavenly and spiritual, and you can visit it all year. The best time to visit this temple, however, is during the monsoon and winter seasons. During the monsoon season, this location receives moderate to heavy rainfall, making it appear heavenly with its greenery and bringing freshness elsewhere.

Famous Festivals In Minal Mahanaleshwar Temple

• Dussehra – Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashmi, is celebrated on the tenth day after Navaratri to commemorate the triumph of good over evil.
• Shravana: For happiness and wealth, many fasts, offerings, and mantras are performed during the fifth month of the Hindu calendar, known as Shravana.
• Mahashivaratri is a fasting ritual that takes place in the last week of February. It is reminiscent of Lord Shiva bringing Goddess Parvati with him. A Grand Celebration is arranged by priests and the temple committee.

How to Reach Menal Shiva Temple

Menal Mahanaleshwar Temple is well connected by Air, Train, or Road.

By Air: The nearest airport is #Udaipur (Dabok Airport). The airport is located 70 kilometres from Chittorgarh and is linked by daily Air Service from New Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.

By Rail: The nearest railway station from Menal Siva Temple is Bhilwara railway station which is located at a distance of 72 km away from the temple.

By Road: Chittorgarh is well connected by road to major cities in Rajasthan such as Udaipur, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and others, as well as neighbouring states. Regular bus service is available from major Rajasthan cities to Chittorgarh. Menal Shiv Temple can also be reached by private car, taxi, or bus.

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