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Ambarnath Temple

अंबरनाथ शिव मंदिर

Ambarnath, Thane, Maharashtra

Shilahara dynasty (1060 CE)OtherHindu (Shaiva)ASI-protectedAI Compiled
Ambarnath Temple
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Pune & I: Ambarnath Shiv Temple [Ambreshwar] — punepictures.blogspot.jpAll copyright belongs to the original artist.

About

The Ambarnath Temple (also Ambreshwar) is a Shiva temple built in 1060 CE during the Shilahara dynasty. Its sanctum is set below ground level — an unusual hypaethral design allowing the natural sky to form the sacred ceiling. An ancient inscribed stone panel inside records its construction in Shaka 981 CE.

Considered one of the earliest Bhumija-style temples in India, its dense basalt carvings of celestial beings and erotic figures mirror the exuberance of Khajuraho, yet remain far less visited, making it a hidden gem of medieval art.