Khimeshwar Mahadev Temple, Kuchhadi Village, Porbandar, Gujarat

The quaint seaside village of Kuchhadi, located at a little distance from Porbandar has many archaeological sites of historic importance. One of the hidden gems found on this unexplored seashore is the ancient Khimeshwar Mahadev Temple.

Legend has it that the Pandavas along with Draupadi spent a great deal of time in this place during their exile. It is said that they performed tapas (penance and austerities), rites and rituals seeking the blessings of Lord Mahadev. Locals say that the Shiva Linga in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple was in fact created out of sand by Bheema.

The divine energy of this place can be experienced the moment one enters the garbha griha. This sacrosanct place draws locals as well as devotees from across India especially during the annual fair in the month of June – July.

This temple is very close to Dwaraka and it is highly possible that it was on the suggestion of Lord Krishna and Guru Dhaumya Maharshi that the Pandavas consecrated many Shiva Lingas along the coastline of Gujarat and in Diu during their exile.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has established that this temple is at least 1,600 years old if not more. Historians who have tried to map the journey of the Pandavas and Draupadi during their exile have found ample evidence in innumerable places in accordance with the events mentioned in the Hindu scriptures and the Mahabharat.

This sacred temple on the edge of the Arabian Sea is absolutely breath-taking and one can spend hours in solitude either in meditation or introspection or stare blindly into the waters of the sea and enjoy the stunning natural beauty.

* Photos are only symbolic (Taken from public domain/internet and any copyright infringement is unintentional and regrettable)