Nilkanth Mahadev Mandir & Nilkanth Palace - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 3 km from Mandu Road, Nilkanth Mahadev Mandir is an ancient Hindu shrine located in Mandu, Madhya Pradesh. Situated near Sagar Lake, it is one of the best Mandu places to visit.

Nilkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated at the very edge of a steep gorge. The temple was built of red stone in Islamic style and resembled more of a palace or a meeting court. Apparently, it was originally a Shiva Temple which was demolished and a pleasure house was constructed by one of the governors of Akbar. After the fall of the Mughals, Lord Shiva made his way back into his original home.

The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses Shivaling slightly below ground level and can be reached by a metal ladder. Water from the natural stream flows from behind the 'Shiva Linga' and collects in a tank in front of the temple. There were other idols in the adjoining rooms. About 60 steps have to be descended to come to the courtyard of the temple. There is a sacred pond in the center of the courtyard which is fed by a stream, and pilgrims still gather to worship here. It is believed that one can make a wish and place a leaf in the middle of the water labyrinth and if the leaf gets out of the labyrinth - their wish will be fulfilled surely. A small waterfall lies behind the temple, supplying water to the building from a tank above.

Close to the Nilkanth Mahadev Temple is the Nilkanth Mahal belonging to the Mughal era. This palace was constructed by the Mughal governor, Shah Badgah Khan, for Emperor Akbar's Hindu wife. On the walls here are some inscriptions which state that the great Mughal Emperor Akbar passed through this place in his 44th year of rule i.e. 1599-1600 AD while going on a campaign of Deccan. The northern part of the palace is open to enjoy the captivating view of the valley. There are rooms on the western and southern sides along with the court hall. There is a fountain in the center of the court hall which gets water from the waterfall on the southern end.

Timings: 6 AM - 7 PM

Entry: Free