Bhooteshwar Temple

Mathura, located on the western bank of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, is a charming town known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. While it is renowned for its Krishna temples, it is also home to four sacred Shiva temples known as the 'dik-palaks' or 'direction guardians.' One of these temples is the Bhuteshwar Mandir, which stands as the guardian of the Western direction. This quaint temple, situated within the city limits, is a popular pilgrimage site in Mathura.

According to ancient beliefs and legends, the temple's origins can be traced to the establishment of Mathura itself. The temple was built by Shatrughan, the younger brother of Lord Rama, after he vanquished the demon Madhu. This marked the founding of Mathura, and the Bhuteshwar Temple was constructed to commemorate the event. It is considered the city's oldest temple. As the protector of the Brajwasis, Bhuteshwar Mahadev shields the city and its inhabitants from evil forces. The temple is also believed to be a Shaktipeeth, where a ringlet of Mata Sati fell during her self-immolation. The temple also houses the Patal Devi Cave, where King Kansa is said to have worshipped.

The Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple holds great religious importance. It is believed that Lord Shiva, in the form of Bhuteshwar Mahadev, protects Mathura from evil energies. This divine protection is why the temple is named ‘Bhuteshwar.’ As a symbol of spiritual strength and cultural heritage, the temple attracts thousands of pilgrims throughout the year.

Spread over 100 square metres, the Bhuteshwar temple showcases a unique architectural design. It includes a main sanctum and the Patal Devi Cave, a sacred site where King Kansa offered prayers. The main deity is Lord Shiva, known as Bhuteshwar Mahadev. A unique feature is a conduit that connects the outer side gate to the inner sanctum, allowing devotees to perform abhishek of the Shivling directly. Several smaller lingas are also present near the entrance, enabling worshippers to offer prayers and flowers without priestly assistance.

Devotees offer milk, curd, honey, water, and pedas to Bhuteshwar Mahadev to seek his blessings.

By Air Mathura does not have its own airport. The nearest international airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, approximately 150 kilometres away. From there, you can reach Mathura by road via bus, cab, or personal vehicle. By Train Mathura Junction is the nearest railway station, just 3 kilometres from the temple. It takes about 9 minutes to reach the temple from the station by auto-rickshaw or taxi. By Road The Mathura Bus Stop in Shanti Nagar is about 1.5 kilometres from the temple. From the bus stop, it takes around 6 minutes to reach the Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple via auto or rickshaw. The city is well connected to major cities of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi via highways.