Pisarnath Mahadev Temple
Ancient Shiva temple by Charlotte Lake, Matheran's oldest, featuring a unique 'L'-shaped lingam and serene surroundings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Pisarnath Mahadev Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient Shiva temple by Charlotte Lake, Matheran's oldest, featuring a unique 'L'-shaped lingam and serene surroundings.
"Really peaceful place to have rest for sometime and that temple was really beautiful.."
🛕 Serene Temple Visit
Experience the peaceful ambiance of this ancient Shiva temple, especially beautiful by Charlotte Lake.
🚶♀️ Walk or Rickshaw
Reach the temple from Matheran market via a 25-30 min walk or a hand-pulled rickshaw.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pisarnath Mahadev Temple
Near Charlotte Lake
Ancient Shiva temple with a unique 'L'-shaped lingam, offering a serene spiritual experience by the lake.
Charlotte Lake
Adjacent to the temple
A tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a peaceful stroll and enjoying the natural beauty.
Lord's Point Trail
Near the temple
A trail starting near the temple offering panoramic valley views and a chance to spot hidden wonders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Matheran
Getting Around Matheran
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛕 Serene Temple Visit
Experience the peaceful ambiance of this ancient Shiva temple, especially beautiful by Charlotte Lake.
🚶♀️ Walk or Rickshaw
Reach the temple from Matheran market via a 25-30 min walk or a hand-pulled rickshaw.
🐒 Watch Your Belongings
Be mindful of wild monkeys in the area; keep your belongings secure.
📸 Scenic Photo Ops
Capture the beauty of the temple, Charlotte Lake, and the surrounding hills.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛕 Serene Temple Visit
Experience the peaceful ambiance of this ancient Shiva temple, especially beautiful by Charlotte Lake.
🚶♀️ Walk or Rickshaw
Reach the temple from Matheran market via a 25-30 min walk or a hand-pulled rickshaw.
🐒 Watch Your Belongings
Be mindful of wild monkeys in the area; keep your belongings secure.
📸 Scenic Photo Ops
Capture the beauty of the temple, Charlotte Lake, and the surrounding hills.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Pisarnath Mahadev Temple for its serene atmosphere and beautiful location by Charlotte Lake. The unique 'L'-shaped lingam and its historical significance as the oldest temple in Matheran are frequently highlighted. While the peaceful ambiance is a major draw, some mention the presence of monkeys as a minor concern.
"Really peaceful place to have rest for sometime and that temple was really beautiful..name is pisarnath Mahadev mandir great to watch"
Pratham Logade
"The Pisharnath Mahadev Mandir is a Shiva temple located in the hill-station of Matheran in Maharashtra, India. This temple is the oldest in Matheran and the deity Piśarnāth is the grama devata (village deity). The lingam here is swayambhū and appears in an extraordinary titled ‘L’ shape and is covered with sindoor. This ancient temple is located on the banks of a lake now known as "Charlotte". The surroundings of the temple are extremely beautiful and secluded. The place is at an altitude of about 2516 feet above sea level. Matheran itself is a very famous hill-station and is an attractive tourist spot.
Pisharnath Temple is an ancient shrine positioned on the left banks of the unruffled Charlotte Lake. Adorned with lush greenery on all the sides, it is a noteworthy religious destination sited in the township of Matheran. Known to be the divine abode of Lord Pisharnath, this Hindu shrine attracts a huge number of devotees. According to local legends, the presiding deity of this temple possesses the power of bestowing good fortunes upon his devotees. The temple is located in a serene spot, in the vicinity of the immaculate Charlotte Lake. Plush, velvety lawns encircle the holy premises creating a tender and tranquil haven for visitors to repose and recline. A perfect setting for engaging in some soul-searching that will bring you immense peace of mind. Once you are done meditating, observe and get engrossed in the dazzling beauty of the Charlotte Lake appearing incredibly magnificent and splendid."
pranoti giram
"This temple is located in the hill-station of Matheran in Maharashtra, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
This is the oldest temple in Matheran and the deity Pisarnath is the grama devata of Matheran village.
The idol of Lord Shiva in this temple is 'Swayambhu'(self-manifested) and appears in an extraordinary titled ‘L’ shape. The entire idol is covered with 'Sindoor'.
The temple has a simple house like structure constructed in brown stone.
This ancient temple is on the banks of a lake which is now known as "Charlotte Lake".
The surroundings of the temple are extremely beautiful and secluded.
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Note: Please take care of your belonging as there are lots of wild monkeys present."
Shwetali Shreya Ashok
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is about a 25-30 minute walk from the Matheran market. You can also hire a hand-pulled rickshaw for a more relaxed journey.
No, Matheran is an automobile-free hill station. You'll need to walk or use a rickshaw from the nearest parking area outside the town.
You can reach Neral by local train and then take a taxi or bus to Dasturi Naka, the entry point to Matheran. From there, it's a walk or rickshaw ride.
The temple is located near Charlotte Lake and is a common stop on many walking routes within Matheran. It's also a starting point for the trail to Lord's Point.
It's conveniently located near Charlotte Lake and is a good starting point for exploring other points like Heart Point and Eco Point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to visit the Pisarnath Mahadev Temple itself. However, there is an entry fee for Matheran hill station.
The temple is generally open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It's advisable to check locally for any changes.
Yes, Matheran is beautiful during the monsoon, but be prepared for slippery paths. The temple remains open.
Photography is generally allowed in the temple premises, but it's always respectful to ask if unsure and avoid disrupting prayers.
No, tickets are not required for the temple. You only need to pay the Matheran hill station entry fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's the oldest temple in Matheran, dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring a unique 'L'-shaped swayambhu lingam covered in sindoor.
You can relax by Charlotte Lake, enjoy the cool breeze, and explore the trail to Lord's Point for panoramic views.
Basic facilities might be available near Charlotte Lake, but it's advisable to use restrooms in the Matheran market before heading to the temple.
The area is generally safe, but be cautious of wild monkeys and keep your belongings secure.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene atmosphere away from the weekend crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the temple's architecture, the serene Charlotte Lake, and the lush green surroundings. The view from Lord's Point is also spectacular.
Drone usage might be restricted in protected areas or near religious sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Nature photography, landscape shots of the lake and hills, and spiritual photography of the temple are popular.
While not directly on the horizon, the surrounding hills offer beautiful light during sunrise and sunset, especially from viewpoints like Lord's Point.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a standard zoom can capture the temple details. A telephoto lens is useful for distant views from Lord's Point.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water and snacks, as options might be limited once you leave the main market area. The temple itself is a peaceful spot for a brief visit, and the open lawns around the lake provide space for children to move around. Consider hiring a hand-pulled rickshaw if the walk seems too long for younger children.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Peace-Lovers
Many visitors find the atmosphere incredibly calming, often spending extended periods simply absorbing the serenity. The cool breeze from the lake and the absence of vehicular noise contribute to a deeply relaxing environment. It's a perfect place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with oneself amidst nature's beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Pisarnath Mahadev Temple
The temple's simple, house-like structure, built with brown stone, blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Its proximity to Charlotte Lake, a tranquil water body, creates a picturesque setting that is both visually appealing and spiritually calming. Many visitors find solace and a sense of deep peace when spending time here, often resting for extended periods to soak in the cool breeze and the near-perfect views.
Beyond its religious importance, the temple serves as a significant landmark and a meeting point for various trails within Matheran. It's a place where history, spirituality, and nature converge, offering a unique experience for pilgrims and tourists alike. The blend of natural beauty and religious devotion makes Pisarnath Mahadev Temple a must-visit in Matheran.
Exploring Charlotte Lake and its Surroundings
The area around Charlotte Lake is ideal for leisurely walks and quiet contemplation. The cool breeze emanating from the lake is often described as awesome, providing a refreshing respite, especially during warmer parts of the day. Many visitors choose to rest here for over 30 minutes, simply enjoying the serene environment and the picturesque views. The lake's beauty is particularly striking, offering a splendid backdrop for relaxation and photography.
From the vicinity of the temple and lake, you can also access trails leading to other viewpoints. One such trail starts near the temple and leads to Lord's Point, offering exotic views of the entire valley. This combination of natural beauty, spiritual sites, and access to scenic viewpoints makes Charlotte Lake and its surroundings a highlight of any Matheran trip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit