Pataleshwar Cave Temple
A rock-cut Shiva temple from about the eighth century, carved out of a single hill right in the middle of Shivajinagar.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Jangli Maharaj Road, Shivajinagar
- Built:
- About the 8th century
- Dedicated to:
- Lord Shiva
- Looked after by:
- Archaeological Survey of India
- Timings:
- Check before visiting
History
The Pataleshwar caves were cut into a single rock in about the eighth century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Pataleshwar, the lord of the underworld. It is one of the oldest monuments inside Pune city.
The work was never fully finished. You can still see unfinished cells and pillars, which show how such temples were carved from the top down.
What you can see today
- The main shrine with a Shiva linga, carved from the rock.
- A round Nandi mandapa in front, with an umbrella-shaped roof on pillars.
- Large carved pillars and a quiet courtyard below road level.
How to reach
The caves are on Jangli Maharaj Road in Shivajinagar, close to Deccan and FC Road. Look for the gate next to the Jangli Maharaj temple.
Tips for visitors
- It is a working temple: remove footwear and dress respectfully.
- Plan for about half an hour.
More in Historical Pune
- Shaniwar Wada The fortified palace of the Peshwas in the heart of old Pune. Built in 1732, burnt in 1828, and still the best-known landmark of the city.
- Lal Mahal The palace where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj spent his childhood with Jijabai. Rebuilt in the old city next to Shaniwar Wada.
- Kesari Wada Home of Lokmanya Tilak and of the Kesari newspaper. A museum on Tilak and one of the best-known Ganesh festivals of Pune.
- Vishrambaug Wada The mansion of Peshwa Bajirao II, known for its carved wooden front. One of the finest wadas still standing in Pune.
- Aga Khan Palace A grand palace from 1892 where Mahatma Gandhi was held during the Quit India movement. Kasturba Gandhi's memorial is here.
- Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum One man's lifetime collection of everyday Indian art: lamps, musical instruments, nutcrackers and more, in a museum in the old city.
Questions and answers
How old are the Pataleshwar caves?
They were carved in about the eighth century, which makes them one of the oldest monuments in Pune city.
Where are the Pataleshwar caves?
On Jangli Maharaj Road in Shivajinagar, next to the Jangli Maharaj temple.
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.