Shri Babulnath Temple
Mumbai, India
- Enjoy the city view
- Explore nearby Chowpatty beach
- Take the funicular ride
- Visit the main shrine
Known for:
Description:
Babulnath Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, is perched atop a small hillock near Girgaum Chowk in Mumbai, offering stunning panoramic views of the city, including the Arabian Sea and the iconic Marine Drive. The temple's peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance attract both locals and tourists. It's a popular spot for devotees, especially during Mahashivratri. The main deity is a naturally formed Shiva lingam. Visitors can choose to climb the steps leading to the temple or take a short funicular ride. The temple's architecture is simple yet elegant, with a white facade and intricate carvings. The surrounding area is bustling with activity, with street vendors selling religious items and snacks.
History:
The history of Babulnath Temple dates back to the 1800s. A wealthy timber merchant discovered a Babul tree (Acacia Arabica) on the hillock, and beneath it, a Shiva lingam. He built a small shrine around the lingam, which eventually expanded into the temple we see today. The temple was renovated and expanded in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The funicular railway, added in 1936, made the temple more accessible to devotees. Despite the rapid urbanization of Mumbai, the temple has remained a peaceful sanctuary, a testament to its enduring spiritual significance.