Ancient Kambareshwar Temple, Kambre Budruk, Bhor, Pune

Situated in the Bhatghar Dam in the Bhor taluka, which boasts a rich historical and Shiv-era heritage, Kambreshwar is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. After the British completed the dam construction in 1928, the temple was submerged underwater. This temple, which remains submerged for ten months of the year, becomes visible once the water level recedes. Devotees can visit and seek the blessings of the deity during the months of May and June.

It is said that this temple dates back to the Pandava era and was originally named ‘Karmahareshwar’, but it became popularly known as ‘Kambreshwar’ due to its location within the boundaries of Kambare village. One can reach the villages of Bhatghar Dam, Jogwade, and Kambare Budruk from Pune via the Khed Shivapur route. This distance is 31 kilometers. It takes ten minutes to walk from the village to the temple.

The temple is located in the middle of the dam reservoir. This stone-constructed temple faces the east. The spire of the temple appears to be built of bricks. Although some bricks are visible in certain places due to being constantly submerged, the temple stands firmly in its place despite enduring the impact of water for years.

The temple follows the traditional layout consisting of a Nandi Mandapa, a Sabha Mandapa (assembly hall), and a Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). Due to the constant impact of water, only the plinth of the Nandi Mandapa remains visible now. Two Nandi statues can be seen next to the plinth. Villagers state that before the dam was built, this temple stood on a high foundation, but the plinth and steps have been buried due to the silt accumulated over the years.

An image of Lord Ganesha is carved on the entrance of the Sabha Mandapa. Inside the sanctum, there is a Swayambhu (self-manifested) Shivling of Kambreshwar. However, it cannot be seen as the Sabha Mandapa and the sanctum are permanently filled with water. There is an idol of Goddess Parvati in front of the Shivling. Once the water level in the dam recedes, the villagers perform a thorough cleaning of the temple. During this period, the villagers perform prayers and rituals here.

As Kambreshwar can only be visited for two months of the year, many devotees travel here during May and June. Farmers here begin their agricultural work after seeking the blessings of Kambreshwar amidst the chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’.

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