Ancient Trimbakeshwar Temple, Hivare, Purandar, Pune

In the historic village of Hivare in Purandar Taluka, at the confluence of the Charanavati River and the Khaprya stream, stands the beautiful and renowned Tryambakeshwar Mahadev Temple. This temple was commissioned by Sardar Sakharam Bapu Bokil, a prominent statesman and one of the three and a half wise men of the Peshwa court. This temple on the riverbank is a magnificent treasure of Peshwa-era architecture. The temple is enclosed by stone fortifications on all four sides.

Hivare village is located five kilometers from Saswad. The village itself is fortified on all sides. Since the Peshwa era, this village has held importance as a supplier of vegetables to the Shaniwar Wada. After crossing a small bridge built over the Khaprya stream in this village, one sees the Tryambakeshwar Temple, constructed entirely of stone. It is also famous in the surrounding area as the Mahadev Temple. Adjacent to the outer fortification of the temple stands a Virgal (a Virgal is a stone or wooden pillar erected in memory of a heroic man). Scholars claim that this Virgal must be thousands of years old, as the attire of the figures carved into it resembles the dress of the Shunga period.

The main entrance to the temple is through a stone arch in the fortification. Upon entering, one sees the Nandi seated in the Nandi Mandapa in front of the temple. The craftsmanship and carvings on this Nandi are exquisite. The spire of this Nandi Mandapa, which stands on four stone pillars, is attractive.

Stairs located behind the main entrance lead to the ramparts surrounding the temple. By climbing these stairs, one can closely observe the intricate carvings on the temple walls and the spire. Next to the Nandi Mandapa stands a tall stone Deepmala (lamp tower), which also features delicate carvings.

The temple is designed with a main hall and a sanctum sanctorum. Built entirely of stone, the temple appears spacious. The upper part of the main hall is circular and tapers upwards. There is a Kirtimukh above the door of the sanctum, and inside, there is a beautiful Shiva Linga.

A large fair is held here on Rakhi Purnima. On this day, the palanquin of the deity is taken in a procession through Hivare village. On that day, Mahaprasad is served to the entire village. Devotees can visit the temple for Darshan from 6 in the morning until 7 in the evening.

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