Contents
Introduction & Spiritual Essence
The Lord of Cosmic Energies
Shri Bhuteshwar Mahadev, revered as ‘The Lord of Ghosts and Cosmic Forces’, manifests as a Swayambhu Jyotirlinga in Mathura. This ancient deity serves as the dik-pala (directional protector) of the west, part of Mathura’s sacred quartet of Shiva temples. The sanctum also houses a Shakti Peeth where Devi Sati’s ringlet fell.
Phalaśruti (Spiritual Benefits)
- Protection from negative energies (bhuta, preta)
- Cleansing of ancestral karma through Shiva Abhishekam
- Marital harmony when worshipped with Devi Parvati
- Moksha preparation through Jyotirlinga darshan
Bhuteshwar Mahadev, one out of many names of Lord Shiv. Bhuteshwar Mahadev which literally means The Lord of Ghosts!
The four ancient deities of lord shiva residing at Mathura are known as dik-palas, protectors of directions; Butheshwar Mahadev is the Protector of the western side among the four. The deity of Lord Shiva is amazing with beautiful bright eyes and a long moustache. It is one of the most important jyotilinga. There is also a shaktipeeth of Devi inside the temple campus where the ringlet of Mata Sati fell.
Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend
Temple Chronicles
According to temple records, this sacred site dates back to the founding of Mathura by Shatrughan (Lord Rama’s brother) after vanquishing demon Madhu. The Shiva Purana references Bhuteshwar as one of the 68 Jyotirlinga manifestations.
Sthala Purana (Local Legends)
- Lord Krishna performed penance here before Maharaas
- Shiva manifested as a gopi to bless Radha-Krishna
- Patal Devi Cave connected to King Kansa’s worship
History of Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple
People in Mathura believe that Bhuteshwar Mahadev protects the city from evil. As per popular belief, the sacred temple of Bhuteshwar safeguards the town and its residents from evil forces; thus, the name Bhuteshwar.
#Trivia: It is the city’s oldest temple built in celebration of founding this gorgeous place.
According to mythology, Mathura was established when Shatrughan slew the demon Madhu. Shatrughan, Sri Ram’s younger brother, founded Mathura after the demon’s murder. The Bhuteshwar Temple in Mathura has been around for thousands of years and renders a beautiful persona to the cityscape.
Legends / Local Stories
The great temple of Shiva where Lord Krishna and Gopis prayed to SHIVA when he took the form of a gopi to participate in Maharasa of Sri Krishna. Well kept, neat and clean and rare place where the keeper priests are non-greedy and really devoted to Shiva.
Architectural Marvels
Nagara Style Sanctum
Built in classical North Indian temple architecture, the sanctum spans 100 sq.m with these unique features:
- Special abhishekam conduit for direct offerings
- Patal Devi Cave – ancient underground chamber
- Multiple subsidiary Shiva lingams
- Ornate carvings of dikpalas (directional guardians)
Architecture of Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple
The temple’s sanctuary is spread over 100 square metres. Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple, one of Mathura’s oldest temples, holds the Patal Devi Cave, the deity revered by King Kansa. Lord Shiva’s presiding deity’s name is Bhuteshwar Mahadev.
One noteworthy feature is a conduit that connects the outside of the grilled side-gate to the inside, allowing devotees to offer ‘abhisheka’ or first prayers onto the Shivling. Apart from the major Linga, there are several smaller ones on the left side of the main entrance, where worshippers independently offer ‘abhisheka’ and flowers without the help of a priest. Amongst the numerous Shiva temples in our country, this one has a distinct flavour.
Temple Photo Gallery
Darshan & Ritual Logistics
2026 Darshan Timings
| Period | Morning | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Daily | 5:00 AM – 1:00 PM | 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM |
| Maha Shivaratri (March 4, 2026) | 24 Hours Special Darshan | |
| Shravan Month (July-Aug 2026) | 4:30 AM – 1:30 PM | 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
Key Sevas & Bookings
- Rudrabhishekam: ₹501 (bookable online via temple portal)
- Maha Mrityunjaya Havan: ₹1,100 (includes prasad)
- Shakti Peeth Puja: ₹311 (daily at sunrise)
Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple Mathura Timings
| Day | Timing |
|---|---|
| Monday | 5:00 am – 1:00 pm 4:30 am – 10:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 5:00 am – 1:00 pm 4:30 am – 10:30 pm |
| Wedesday | 5:00 am – 1:00 pm 4:30 am – 10:30 pm |
| Thursday | 5:00 am – 1:00 pm 4:30 am – 10:30 pm |
| Friday | 5:00 am – 1:00 pm 4:30 am – 10:30 pm |
| Saturday | 5:00 am – 1:00 pm 4:30 am – 10:30 pm |
| Sunday | 5:00 am – 1:00 pm 4:30 am – 10:30 pm |
Practical Visitor Guidance
Pilgrim Protocols
- Dress Code: Traditional attire preferred (dhoti/shawl for men)
- Photography: Permitted except in sanctum sanctorum
- Footwear: Free lockers available
- Best Time: 5:30-7:00 AM for peaceful darshan
Seasonal Advice
- Summer (Apr-Jun): Carry water, visit before 10 AM
- Monsoon (Jul-Sep): Umbrella and non-slip footwear
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Warm shawls for morning pujas
Pilgrimage Connectivity
Sacred Journey Plan
Nearest Transport Hubs:
- Airport: Delhi IGI (147 km via Yamuna Expressway)
- Rail: Mathura Junction (3 km, auto ₹50-70)
- Road: NH19 (Grand Trunk Road) connectivity
Nearby Sacred Sites
- Krishna Janmasthan Temple (1.5 km)
- Dwarkadhish Temple (2 km)
- Vishram Ghat (3 km along Yamuna)
How to Reach the Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple?
Nearest Bus Stop: The Nearest bus stop to Bhuteshwar temple is the Mathura Bus Stop in Shanti Nagar. It is around 1.5 kilometres away. So it will take you about 6 minutes to reach the temple from here.
Nearest Railway Station: The Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple is around 3 kilometres from the Mathura Junction. It takes 9 minutes to reach the temple from here.
Nearest Airport: There is no airport in Mathura. The nearest international airport is in Delhi. It is 147 kilometres away from Mathura.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is VIP darshan available?
Yes, special darshan (₹101 per person) available during peak hours with prior online booking.
2. Can we perform abhishekam ourselves?
Devotees can personally offer abhishekam at the subsidiary lingams without priest assistance.
3. Is the Shakti Peeth open to all?
Yes, the Devi shrine remains accessible during temple hours with separate queue.
4. Are accommodation facilities available?
Multiple dharamshalas within 1 km radius offer basic lodging for pilgrims.
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