Pavitra Harihareshwar Temple Tondoli, Pathardi, Ahilyanagar

The ancient Harihareshwar Temple, located in the nature-rich village of Tondoli in the Pathardi taluka of Ahilyanagar district, is a place of faith for countless devotees. It is said that Lord Vishnu and Lord Mahadeva met at this location, and from here, they departed for Mount Kailash. Consequently, this temple is known as the ‘Harihareshwar Kailas Gaman Temple’. The Pindi (linga) in the sanctum sanctorum features two lingas, which are considered symbols of Lord Mahadeva and Lord Vishnu.

The legend of the temple states that a demon named Bhasmasura performed severe penance and pleased Lord Mahadeva. He sought a boon that whoever he placed his hand upon would be reduced to ashes. After Lord Mahadeva granted the boon, the demon attempted to place his hand on Lord Mahadeva’s head to test the power of the boon. To escape, Lord Mahadeva fled to this Tondoli region, which was then part of the Dandakaranya forest. At that time, Goddess Parvati requested Lord Vishnu to protect Lord Mahadeva from Bhasmasura. To avert the crisis, Lord Vishnu assumed the form of Mohini (a beautiful woman) and enchanted Bhasmasura, beginning to dance with him. As Bhasmasura became engrossed in the dance, he mimicked every move Lord Vishnu made. Seeing that he was completely enchanted, Mohini (Lord Vishnu) placed her hand on her own head. Bhasmasura, following her lead while dancing, did not hesitate for a moment and placed his hand on his own head. As soon as he did so, Bhasmasura was reduced to ashes on the spot. Thereafter, Lord Mahadeva and Lord Vishnu stayed at this place in Tondoli for some time before departing for Kailash; since then, this place has been known as the Harihareshwar Kailas Gaman Temple. This site is mentioned in the 12th chapter of the ‘Shivalilamrut’ scripture. According to it, many sages and seers have performed penance in this temple premises since ancient times. 

This ancient shrine is situated in a peaceful and nature-rich area near a lake at the foothills of a mountain, close to Tondoli village. The temple courtyard houses many ancient trees, along with shrines dedicated to Shani Dev, Vitthal-Rukmini, and Ganpati. The construction of these temples is entirely in stone. There is a Nandi near the temple entrance, and behind it, on a 4-foot pedestal, a sculpture of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj seated on a throne was installed some years ago. To the right of the entrance stands an ancient idol of Lord Ganesha. This east-facing temple is structured with a Sabha Mandap (assembly hall) and a Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). The Sabha Mandap has several stone pillars, which do not feature elaborate carvings. The Garbhagriha here is unique and larger than the Sabha Mandap. It also contains stone pillars, between which sits the large Pindi. This Pindi bears two lingas, said to be symbols of Lord Mahadeva and Lord Vishnu. Typically, ancient temples of Lord Mahadeva do not feature pillars inside the Garbhagriha. 

A fair is held here on the second Monday of the month of Shravan. On the day of Mahashivratri, thousands of devotees come to seek the blessings of Harihareshwar. On this day, various religious rituals such as Bhajans and Kirtans are performed from the morning. Devotees can visit the temple from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The daily Aarti takes place at 7:00 AM. A Maha-Aarti is performed here on Mahashivratri and the second Monday of Shravan.

Sacred History & Spiritual Significance

This sacred temple stands as a testament to deep spiritual devotion, ancient architectural grandeur, and rich local cultural traditions.

Temple Sanctum & Architecture

The sanctum sanctorum houses the divine idol consecrated according to ancient Vedic traditions, surrounded by serene courtyards and traditional temple architecture.

Sacred Darshan Gallery