Background

Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple: An Unfinished Marvel

Marvel at the unfinished masterpiece of Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple, home to one of India's largest Shivalingams, and explore ancient architecture near Bhopal.

4.7

The Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple, located in Bhojpur village near Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, is an 11th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its incomplete state and the massive 7.5-foot Shivalingam housed within its sanctum, the temple attracts devotees and tourists alike. Its architectural grandeur reflects the reign of Raja Bhoj, who ruled the Malwa region.

A brief summary to Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple

  • Bhojpur Temple, Bhojpur Road, Bhojpur, Madhya Pradesh, 464551, IN
  • Monday 6 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-6 pm
  • Friday 6 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to March) for a more comfortable experience.
  • Explore the nearby Jain temple and museum for a deeper understanding of the region's history.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the temple and its surroundings.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Bhopal Airport (Raja Bhoj International Airport), hire a pre-paid taxi to Bhojpur Temple. The journey is approximately 28 km and takes around 30 minutes. Expect to pay between ₹550-₹700 for the taxi ride.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus from Bhopal Bus Stand to Bhojpur. From the Bhojpur bus stop, hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the temple. Bus fares are economical, but the total travel time can be longer (1-2 hours). Auto-rickshaw/taxi from the bus stop to the temple should cost around ₹50-₹100.

  • Driving

    If driving from Bhopal, take Bhojpur Road. The temple is approximately 28 km from Bhopal. Parking is available near the temple. Parking fees are nominal, around ₹20-₹50 per hour.

Unlock the Best of Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple

The Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple, also known as Bhojpur Temple, stands as a testament to the architectural and religious aspirations of 11th-century India. Commissioned by Raja Bhoj, the Parmara king of Dhar, the temple was intended to be a grand Shiva shrine, but it was mysteriously abandoned during construction. Today, the incomplete structure draws visitors to marvel at its colossal scale and intriguing design. The temple's most striking feature is the massive Shivalingam, carved from three superimposed limestone blocks. Rising to a height of 7.5 feet with a circumference of 17.8 feet, it is one of the largest in India. The sanctum housing the lingam is a simple square, supported by four elegant pillars. The absence of a traditional curved shikhara (dome tower) and a mandapa (hall) attached to the garbhagriha (sanctum) adds to the temple's unique character. Despite its unfinished state, the Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple remains an active place of worship. Thousands of devotees gather here on Maha Shivaratri, a major Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) maintains the site, and a small museum nearby displays artifacts and information about the temple's history and architecture. The temple is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Popular Experiences near Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple

Popular Hotels near Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple

Select Currency