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Mahendra Nath Temple

The Ancient Shiva Shrine of Siwan

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Overview

Mahendra Nath Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near Bettiah Road in Siwan district of Bihar. Believed to have been founded in the late 18th century by local chieftain Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh, the temple has since served as a spiritual center for devotees throughout the region. The temple complex encompasses a main sanctum with a beautifully carved Shiva lingam, flanked by Nandi and Parvati idols, and a spacious courtyard where annual fairs and rituals are held.

Discover more about Siwan’s culture on our Siwan Overview page or explore other Top Cities in Bihar.

Historical Significance

  • Late 18th Century: Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh establishes the original shrine in 1792 CE.
  • Early 19th Century: Local artisans add intricate stone carvings and expand the main hall.
  • 1965: Major renovation undertaken by the Siwan Temple Committee, including rebuilding the spire and courtyard walls.
  • 1980s: Annual Maha Shivratri fair gains popularity, drawing pilgrims from Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh.
Mahendra Nath Temple Exterior

Architectural Features

The temple follows the classic Nagara style of North Indian temple architecture. A 35-foot shikhara (spire) rises above the sanctum sanctorum, adorned with ornamental motifs. The main hall (mandapa) is supported by twelve intricately carved stone pillars depicting scenes from Shaiva Puranas. The sanctum houses a black marble Shiva lingam placed on a white marble plinth, with a Nandi statue outside facing the deity. The courtyard is paved with red sandstone and features a small banyan tree under which pilgrims often meditate.

  • 35-foot Nagara-style shikhara crowned by a kalasha finial
  • Mandapa supported by twelve carved sandstone pillars
  • White marble plinth hosting a black marble Shiva lingam
  • Stone Nandi statue facing the sanctum, sculpted in 1805 CE
  • Courtyard paved with red sandstone, featuring a sacred banyan tree
Devotees at Mahendra Nath Temple

Spiritual Importance

Mahendra Nath Temple is one of the principal Shiva shrines in Siwan. Pilgrims gather here year-round to perform abhisheka (ritual bathing) of the lingam, especially during the holy month of Shraavana. On Maha Shivratri, devotees undertake fasts and stay overnight, performing all-night vigil (jagarana) and participating in group kirtans. The temple’s serene atmosphere makes it a popular spot for meditation and recitation of Shiva mantras. Locals also believe the banyan tree in the courtyard blesses childless couples with progeny.

Boyar Raja Temple

A 17th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its annual Holi festival celebrations.

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Daruatha Falls

A scenic waterfall located about 30 km from Siwan, nestled in dense forests—popular during monsoon.

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Kashi Vishwanath Temple

A prominent Shiva temple in Siwan town, famous for its Ganga Jal ritual during Shivratri.

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Visiting Information

Opening Hours

05:30 AM – 09:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free (Donations Welcome)

Best Time to Visit

Maha Shivratri & Shraavana (July–August)

How to Reach

  • By Air: Jayprakash Narayan Airport, Patna (120 km) is the nearest airport; from Patna, take a bus or train to Siwan.
  • By Train: Siwan Junction (2 km) connects to Patna, Kolkata, and Gorakhpur; autorickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are available from the station.
  • By Road: National Highway 531 passes through Siwan; regular state buses and private taxis are available from Patna (120 km), Muzaffarpur (90 km), and Gopalganj (60 km).

Travel Tips

  • Wear modest clothing; cover shoulders and knees before entering the sanctum.
  • Remove footwear and head coverings before stepping into the inner shrine.
  • Visit early morning (05:30–08:00 AM) for a peaceful darshan with fewer crowds.
  • Carry water and light refreshments; few stalls are in the immediate vicinity.
  • Photography is permitted only in the courtyard; avoid using flash near the lingam.

Nearby Attractions

Boyar Raja Temple
Boyar Raja Temple

A historic Vishnu shrine famous for its vibrant Holi celebrations every spring.

Learn More
Daruatha Falls
Daruatha Falls

A picturesque waterfall located 30 km from Siwan, ideal for a day trip, especially during monsoon.

Learn More
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Kashi Vishwanath Temple

A prominent Shiva temple in central Siwan, known for its serene Ganga Jal offerings during Shivratri.

Learn More

Accommodation & Dining

Hotel Sai International

Comfortable mid-range hotel near Siwan Junction with air-conditioned rooms, complimentary breakfast, and meeting facilities.

Hotel Usha International

Budget-friendly rooms with 24/7 room service and an in-house restaurant serving local Bhojpuri cuisine.

Rama Family Restaurant

Popular local eatery offering traditional Bihari thali, chaat, and sweets; vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Testimonials

Ramesh Kumar

“The peace I find here at Mahendra Nath Temple is unmatched. Every visit rejuvenates my soul.”

— Ramesh Kumar
Sunita Devi

“During Shivratri, the temple transforms into a vibrant atmosphere of devotion. Truly an incredible experience.”

— Sunita Devi
Vikrant Singh

“I always feel spiritually uplifted after offering my prayers here. The banyan tree in the courtyard is especially sacred.”

— Vikrant Singh

FAQs

Yes, photography is permitted in the courtyard but prohibited inside the sanctum sanctorum near the Shiva lingam.

Yes, priests are available for abhisheka, Rudrabhishek, and Mahaprasad on request; prior booking is recommended during festivals.

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