MP Diaries: Garhi Padhavali, A Magnificent Shiva Temple

Mandapa Heavily Decked up with Carvings

The countless peacocks around Padhavali kept us busy for a long, until we realized it was time to explore the ancient temple of Padhavali which is located in the outskirts of the village. We were welcomed by two lions guarding the entrance of the fort gate on either sides. A flight of  steps laid in stone leads us to the remains of the magnificent Shiva temple. The  medium sized mandapa decked up with intricate carvings everywhere was unbelievably beautiful . This temple is believed to be dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in 10th century by the Kacchapaghatas. The temple was later fortified by the rulers of Jat Ranas of Gohad in the 19th century. The care taker of this temple doubles up also as the guide for this place. He goes on to describe in depth each of the minute carvings here.

 Entrance to the Fort

Remains of Lord Shiva Temple, Padhavali 

Lord Brahma , Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu  along with Stories from Krishna's Life in the Bottom Panel 

Depiction of Lord Surya in the Top Panel with  Lords Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu in the Bottom Panel

Panel depicting Umamaheshwara along with War Scenes in the Bottom Panel 

Depiction of Goddess Chamundi in the Top Panel and Worship of Lord Shiva by Lord Rama in the Bottom Panel

Lord Ganesha with his Consort, Lord Karthikeyan in the Centre (probably) and Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati as Ardhanareshwara

Depiction of Samudra Manthan, Trivikrama , Mohini and Lord Vishnu killing Rahu 

Lords Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu with their Consorts seen in the depiction stories from the Ramayana in top Panel 

Dashavatara Panel  - Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha and Kalki 

Pillar Capital decked with Gandharvas 

Beautiful Carvings on the Ceiling

Pillar with Inscriptions 

How to reach Padhavali:  Reach Nurabad which is located on the Gwalior-Agra Highway, take right turn towards Padhavali, about 30 km from Gwalior. 

Entry Fee: Entry is free

Accommodation: There are as such no accommodation options here, though one can stay at Morena or Gwalior where options are plenty and make a day trip to this place. 

Where to eat: There are a few road-side eateries that make tasty chats, especially Aloo Tikki. 

References:

1. Madhya Pradesh - Unknown Attractions Around Known Destinations

2. RBS Visitors Guide India - Madhya Pradesh

3. A Wandering Mind

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1. Madhya Pradesh - The heart of Incredible India