Madhya Pradesh is a State of Archaeological and Geological marvels which aptly offers a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. Bhojpur, located 28 kilometers from Bhopal on the Betwa river, is the setting for the renowned 10th-century Bhojeswar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built by the famous Paramar King Raja Bhoj, the temple houses one of India’s largest lingas measuring 5.5 meters tall and 2.3 meters in circumference. The Shiva temple of Bhojeshwar Mahadev located in the picturesque town of Bhojpur is one of the most important heritage sites in the area.
The Bhojeshwar Temple just 29 km from Bhopal has been recently included in the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This recognition highlights its architectural significance and cultural heritage, making it a focal point for history enthusiasts and travellers alike.
The evidence of how the Bhojeshwar Temple was planned and built makes it fascinating. The carvings on the nearby rocks show the original plans for the temple’s construction. The large stones used to build the higher parts of the temple are still there, and you can see the ramp they were probably pulled up on. Ashapuri is another neighbouring archaeological site that is well worth a visit. Constructed throughout the 9th and 11th centuries, this temple complex is made up of 24 temple bases and thousands of architectural components that are dispersed over the hills.
The Bhojpur temple is notable for its unique architectural features. Unlike the traditional curved Shikhara, it has a rectangular roof. Additionally, there is no Mandapa connecting to the Garbhagriha. The entrance wall is decorated with intricate carvings of bells and pillars, giving it a stunning appearance. The 7.5-foot-tall stone Shivling sits atop a 21-foot-high platform. The shivling’s circle is approximately eighteen feet wide. An iron staircase provides easy access to the sanctuary for worshippers. The temple’s significance lies in the size of the Shivling’s building. The Bhojpur shivling is made up of three stacked limestone blocks. Four pillars support the massive 40-foot-tall stone dome, holding up the spectacular temple. The ground floor has eight corners and is guarded by two impressive idols. Looking towards the northeast corner, you’ll see the temple’s numerous stone carvings adorning its pillars, dome, and exterior.
The National Tourism Award (2013–14) for ‘Best Maintained and Disabled Friendly Monument’ was given to the temple in 2015. A large number of people visit the temple on Maha Shivaratri. As every year, around this time the venue hosts the Bhojpur Utsava, a cultural event. This all makes it an attractive site to visit and gather some lifetime memories with family and friends.
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has made a serious effort to promote destinations like Bhojeshwar Temple on national as well as international platforms leading in the increased awareness about the destination among the visitors.
The nearest Railway station to the temple is Bhopal (29 km), therefore the nearest airport is Raja Bhoj Airport (50kms)
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