PAPANASH SHIVA TEMPLE
Address
Shiva Nagar, Bidar, Karnataka 585402
Open Hours
6:00 AM–1:00 PM, 4:00 PM–8:30 PM
Weather
Warm to hot throughout the year, with pleasant evenings in winter (October to February). Monsoon season (June to September) brings moderate rainfall.
Crowd Level
Medium
There is a large pond at the foot of the temple which is constantly fed by a natural spring. This pond is known as Papanash, meaning destroyer of sins. Hence many devotees come here and holy dip in this pond is believed to cleanse the soul of devotee from all the sins.
Shivaratri is the major festival celebrated at this temple which attracts large number of tourists.
Visitor Information
Famous For
Mythological connection to Lord Rama, ancient Shiva Linga, the sacred 'Papanash' pond believed to cleanse sins, and the grand Shivaratri celebrations.
Visit Duration
1–2 hours
Best Time
October to March for pleasant weather. Shivaratri festival (February/March) for a unique cultural and spiritual experience.
Route Options
Located in Shiva Nagar, Bidar. Easily accessible from Bidar city center (approximately 5-7 km) via local auto-rickshaws, taxis, or private vehicles. Bidar is well-connected by road and rail to major cities in Karnataka and neighboring states.
Parking
A moderately sized, dedicated parking area is available near the temple entrance for both two-wheelers and cars.
Entry Fee
Free entry for all visitors.
Camera Fee
No specific camera fee, but photography is restricted inside the sanctum sanctorum.
Restaurants Nearby
Small eateries offering local snacks and refreshments are available near the temple. A wider range of restaurants offering South Indian cuisine can be found in Bidar city.
Toilets
Basic public toilet facilities are available near the parking area.
Drinking Water
Filtered drinking water stations are available near the temple entrance.
Wheelchair Access
Limited wheelchair access. Ramps are available up to the outer courtyard, but steps lead to the main shrine and specific areas around the pond.
Medical Facilities
A basic first-aid center may be available during major festivals. For serious medical needs, hospitals and clinics are in Bidar city.
Weather Alerts
Monsoon season (June to September) can make the valley roads and temple surroundings slippery. Summers (April-May) are extremely hot, requiring proper hydration.
Pilgrim Information
Darshan Timings
Sarva Darshan: 6:00 AM–1:00 PM, 4:00 PM–8:30 PM daily. Timings may vary slightly during special festivals.
Special Poojas
Daily Abhisheka (ritualistic bathing of the Linga) is performed early morning, usually around 6:30 AM. Archana (offering prayers with names) and Rudrabhisheka are performed throughout the day upon request. Devotees can offer pujas to the other three Shiva Lingas as well.
Prasadam
Small packets of sweet prasadam (e.g., Laddus or Kesari Bath) are distributed near the temple exit after darshan, usually from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Free Meals (Bhojan)
Free lunch (Annadanam) is often served during major festivals like Shivaratri. On regular days, it might be available on specific auspicious days or weekends, typically from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, depending on temple donations.
Temple History
The temple is ancient, with its origins tied to Lord Rama installing a Shiva Linga. The original structure was lost, and the current temple is a rebuild on those sacred ruins, maintaining its historical and mythological significance as a destroyer of sins.
Nearby Sacred Places
Chaubara (Clock Tower) in Bidar Fort, Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib Gurudwara, Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple, Papnash Temple (a different one in the region), and various tombs and mosques in Bidar.