Shri Nilakantheshwar Temple Jambli Dongar, Near Panshet Dam, Pune

The Nilkantheshwar Temple, located near Panshet Dam in Pune district, is a pilgrimage site that offers a glimpse into religious events and Indian history. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple houses over 1,200 small and large idols of various deities, saints, and sages.

There is a story behind the construction of this temple. Shankar Rangnath Sarje, also known as Sarjemama, was born in 1940 at Morgaon in Purandar taluka and was deeply devoted to the Almighty. Despite having limited formal education, Sarjemama took up a job as a forest guard in the Sinhagad forest range to support his family. He was responsible for the protection and conservation of forests across 52 villages. On 6 March 1962, while patrolling the hills of Davje village as usual, he began to hear a voice saying, “I am thirsty, give me water.” Upon searching for the source of the sound, he realized it was coming from beneath the ground. After digging at that spot, he discovered a Shiva Linga and an idol of Nandi. After retrieving the idols from the earth, he brought water from the village and performed an Abhishekam. Some days later, Sarjemama established a shrine there, which is today’s Nilkantheshwar Temple.

Currently, more than 1,200 small and large idols of deities and scenes from the Puranas have been installed at the Nilkantheshwar Temple. These include depictions of the Sita Swayamvar, the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), Hanuman reaching the Ashok Vatika, the disrobing of Draupadi, and the various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Along with these, there are idols representing the saintly tradition of Maharashtra, as well as idols of Lord Krishna, Lord Rama, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Saraswati, and Goddess Lakshmi. Information boards describing the various scenes and idols have been placed throughout the area. These magnificent idols and displays, spread far and wide across the hill, are truly beautiful. A memorial to Sarjemama has also been built at the base of the temple. The temple trust organizes various festivals and programs throughout the year.

Devotees believe that this place is spiritually awakened. The entire area is known as a center for de-addiction. It is said by devotees that if an addicted person takes a vow before the deity here, they become free from their addiction, and many have experienced this firsthand. A unique feature of this area is that, despite being on a hilltop, there are seven wells that have water all year round.

This temple is situated on Jambhali Hill near Panshet Dam. The journey from the foothills to the temple must be made on foot. Facilities like palanquins or dolis are not available here. There are stairs in many places, as well as an uphill path. From this area, one can enjoy panoramic views of the natural beauty, along with views of Sinhagad, the Mutha River, and the Khadakwasla and Panshet dams. Various types of birds and snakes are found here. Additionally, this place is famous for many Ayurvedic medicinal plants.

Devotees can have the Darshan of Shambhu Mahadeva at this temple between 9 AM and 5 PM. Resting facilities are available for devotees here. Light refreshments and breakfast can be arranged at the temple trust’s canteen.

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