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Khudneshwar Asthan

The Ancient Shiva Temple in Samastipur

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Overview

Khudneshwar Asthan is a revered Shiva temple located in Khudna village, around 10 km from Samastipur town. Established over two centuries ago, it houses a naturally formed Shiva Linga beneath an ancient banyan tree. The temple attracts devotees from across Bihar and neighboring states, especially during Mahashivaratri.

Learn more about Samastipur district on our Samastipur Overview page or explore Top Cities in Bihar.

Historical Significance

  • Early 19th Century: Local legend says a Shiva Linga emerged naturally under a banyan tree, prompting villagers to build a small shrine.
  • Late 19th Century: The temple structure was expanded by the local Zamindars to accommodate growing number of pilgrims.
  • Mid 20th Century: Renovations under guidance of Bihar State Archaeology Department preserved the original stone carvings and added a covered mandapa.
  • 21st Century: Major conservation efforts in 2015 added a boundary wall and improved facilities for devotees.
Khudneshwar Asthan Old Structure

Architectural Features

The temple is built in traditional Nagara style, featuring a modest shikhara (spire) over the sanctum, a mandapa with stone pillars, and intricate carvings of Shiva’s incarnations on the outer walls. The sanctum houses the self-manifested Linga beneath a sprawling banyan canopy.

  • Single-shikhara (spire) rising about 15 m over the garbhagriha
  • Stone-pillared mandapa with lotus-motif capitals
  • Carved panels depicting Lingodbhava and Somaskanda
  • Enshrined ancient banyan tree believed to be over 300 years old
Devotees at Khudneshwar Asthan

Spiritual Importance

Khudneshwar Asthan is considered one of the holiest Shiva shrines in North Bihar. Devotees believe that a darshan of the self-manifested Linga grants blessings of health and prosperity. Major festivals like Mahashivaratri draw thousands who perform Rudrabhishek and parikrama around the sacred banyan.

Hanuman Mandir

A small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located within the Khudna village complex. Pilgrims often stop here en route to Khudneshwar Asthan.

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Rajputana Shiv Temple

A 17th-century temple featuring unique Rajput-style carvings, located about 5 km from Khudneshwar Asthan.

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Kali Mata Mandir

A vibrant temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, known for its colorful festivals during Durga Puja, located in the heart of Samastipur town.

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Visiting Information

Opening Hours

06:00 AM – 08:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free (Donations Welcome)

Best Time to Visit

February – April (Mahashivaratri Festival)

How to Reach

  • By Air: Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, Patna (135 km).
  • By Train: Samastipur Junction (10 km) on Delhi–Kolkata line.
  • By Road: State buses and hired taxis from Samastipur to Khudna (approx. 20 minutes).

Travel Tips

  • Wear modest clothing; cover shoulders and knees, especially inside the sanctum.
  • Visit early morning to avoid midday heat and crowds.
  • Carry water and sun protection during summer months (April–June).
  • Participate in evening aarti for a serene experience by lamplight.

Nearby Attractions

Rajputana Shiv Temple
Rajputana Shiv Temple

A 17th-century temple with distinctive Rajput-era carvings, located 5 km away.

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Hanuman Mandir
Hanuman Mandir

A quaint temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located within Khudna village.

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Kali Mata Mandir
Kali Mata Mandir

A lively temple devoted to Goddess Kali, known for its vibrant Durga Puja celebrations.

Learn More

Accommodation & Dining

Hotel Samastipur Residency

Comfortable lodging 10 km from Khudneshwar Asthan with air-conditioned rooms and in-house dining serving local cuisine.

Green View Resort

A peaceful resort surrounded by fields, offering cottage-style stays and a garden restaurant specializing in vegetarian thalis.

Lassi Corner Café

Popular roadside café near the temple entrance, famous for fresh lassi, samosas, and local snacks.

Testimonials

Anjali Verma

“Visiting Khudneshwar Asthan filled me with peace. The ancient Linga under the banyan tree is truly magical.”

— Anjali Verma
Rohit Kumar

“Mahashivaratri celebrations here are unforgettable. The aarti under torchlight is an experience every devotee must have.”

— Rohit Kumar
Maya Singh

“The gentle chanting of bhajans and the scent of incense makes Khudneshwar Asthan a spiritual haven.”

— Maya Singh

FAQs

Yes, personal photography is allowed outside the sanctum. Inside the inner sanctum, only mobile photography without flash is permitted.

No formal guided tours are available. Local priests (pandits) can be hired for rituals and explanations of temple lore at nominal charges.

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