Walkeshwar Temple Mumbai
A historic 12th-century Shiva temple and sacred tank, offering spiritual solace and a glimpse into Mumbai's ancient past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful darshan & cool air
Walkeshwar Temple Mumbai
Best Time
Peaceful darshan & cool air

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 12th-century Shiva temple and sacred tank, offering spiritual solace and a glimpse into Mumbai's ancient past.
"A hidden gem in Mumbai that beautifully blends spirituality, mythology, and history."
🎯 Combine with Banganga Tank
Don't miss a stroll around the sacred Banganga Tank; it complements the temple visit beautifully. :world_map:
👗 Respectful Attire is Key
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to show respect at this holy site. :clothing:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Walkeshwar Temple Sanctum
Main prayer hall
Experience the serene ambiance of this ancient Shiva temple, steeped in mythology and devotion.
Banganga Tank
Adjacent to the temple
A sacred water tank with a rich history, perfect for a peaceful stroll and reflection.

Walkeshwar Viewing Point
Near the temple
Enjoy scenic views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline from this elevated spot.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Serenity
Dress Modestly, Explore Fully
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
south bombay
🎯 Combine with Banganga Tank
Don't miss a stroll around the sacred Banganga Tank; it complements the temple visit beautifully. :world_map:
👗 Respectful Attire is Key
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to show respect at this holy site. :clothing:
Staircase near Banganga, Walkeshwar
Which area of mumbai is this view from?
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby Temples
The area has many smaller temples; explore them for a deeper spiritual experience. :temple_building:
📸 Capture the Serenity
Visit during quieter hours for the best photography opportunities of the temple and tank. :camerawithflash:
What to do after Siddhivinayak
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Combine with Banganga Tank
Don't miss a stroll around the sacred Banganga Tank; it complements the temple visit beautifully. :world_map:
👗 Respectful Attire is Key
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to show respect at this holy site. :clothing:
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby Temples
The area has many smaller temples; explore them for a deeper spiritual experience. :temple_building:
📸 Capture the Serenity
Visit during quieter hours for the best photography opportunities of the temple and tank. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Walkeshwar Temple for its deep spiritual significance, ancient history, and serene atmosphere, especially when combined with the adjacent Banganga Tank. Many appreciate the peaceful ambiance as a welcome respite from Mumbai's bustle, highlighting its mythological connections and well-maintained grounds. Some note that the area can get crowded during festivals.
"🛕 Shree Walkeshwar Temple, Mumbai
Shree Walkeshwar Temple is one of Mumbai's oldest and most revered temples, nestled in the serene locality of Malabar Hill. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple holds immense religious significance and historical value. The name "Walkeshwar" is derived from "Valuka Ishwar," meaning 'God made of sand'—a legend that connects the temple to Lord Rama, who is believed to have built a sand lingam here during his journey to Lanka.
Originally built in the 12th century by the Silhara dynasty, the temple was later reconstructed in the 18th century by a Gaud Saraswat Brahmin philanthropist. Over time, it has become a spiritual hub for devotees, especially during the occasion of Maha Shivratri, when thousands gather here to offer prayers.
The temple complex also houses the Banganga Tank, a sacred water tank believed to be created by Lord Lakshmana by shooting an arrow into the ground. The tank and temple together create a tranquil spiritual atmosphere amidst the bustling city.
Whether you're seeking peace, cultural insight, or divine blessings, Shree Walkeshwar Temple offers a timeless spiritual experience rooted in myth, history, and devotion."
varun surve
"Had the opportunity to visit the Walkeshwar Shri Kashi Math Sansthan, and the experience was truly special. The interiors of the Math are stunning — clean, thoughtfully designed, and radiating a sense of tradition blended with grace.
The sanctum and prayer hall are peaceful, with a quiet energy that makes you want to just sit and reflect. The entire place feels well-maintained, and even with a few visitors around, there's a strong sense of discipline and spiritual decorum.
Located close to Banganga, the setting of the Math adds to its charm — a perfect combination of heritage, devotion, and calm surroundings."
Janhavi Raut
"Shri Walkeshwar Temple, located at Malabar Hill in Mumbai, is a serene and historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, locally known as “Walkeshwar” or the Lord of the Sand. It is one of the oldest temples in Mumbai, with deep mythological significance linked to the legend of Lord Rama.
The temple is beautifully perched near the famous Banganga Tank, adding a peaceful charm to the area amidst the bustling city life. According to legend, this is the place where Lord Rama stopped during his search for Sita and created a Shiva Lingam out of sand to worship Lord Shiva. This gives the temple its name, “Walkeshwar” (Valuka = sand, Ishwar = God).
Inside the temple, the main sanctum has a calm, spiritual atmosphere, and the Shiva Lingam here is considered very sacred by devotees. The temple also has shrines of other deities like Lord Hanuman, Ganesha, and others. Its stone-carved interiors, ancient architecture, and soothing bells create a blissful aura.
The temple complex is clean and well-maintained. Festivals like Mahashivratri attract a large number of devotees, and the area lights up with devotional activities, music, and rituals. The Banganga Tank nearby also offers a picturesque and spiritually charged experience.
Tips:
• Visit early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan.
• Combine your visit with a stroll around Banganga Tank.
• Modest attire is recommended.
Verdict:
A hidden gem in Mumbai that beautifully blends spirituality, mythology, and history. Perfect for those seeking calmness, devotion, and a glimpse into Mumbai’s heritage amidst the urban rush."
Gangeshwar Nashine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Walkeshwar Temple is located in the Malabar Hill area. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to the temple. Local buses also ply to nearby stops, followed by a short walk. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Yes, local buses are a viable option to reach the vicinity of Walkeshwar Temple. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the temple and Banganga Tank.
From South Mumbai, a taxi or ride-sharing app is the most convenient. Alternatively, you can take a local train to Grant Road or Charni Road station and then a taxi or bus to Walkeshwar.
Parking can be challenging in the Malabar Hill area due to narrow streets. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transport if possible.
Walkeshwar Temple is approximately 15-20 km from Bandra, depending on the route. Travel time can vary significantly due to Mumbai's traffic, usually taking 45 minutes to over an hour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to visit Shree Walkeshwar Temple. It is a place of worship, and entry is free for all devotees and visitors.
The temple is generally open from early morning around 6 AM to 9 PM. However, it's best to visit during the day for a complete experience of the temple and Banganga Tank.
No advance booking is required as there is no entry fee. You can visit anytime during the temple's operating hours.
Yes, modest attire is recommended. Visitors should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered out of respect for the religious site.
Photography rules can vary. While general photography might be allowed in some areas, it's best to be discreet and avoid using flash inside the main sanctum. Always check for signage or ask temple authorities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Banganga Tank is a sacred water tank believed to have been created by Lord Lakshmana. It's a significant pilgrimage site where devotees often perform rituals. The tank and temple together form a historically and spiritually rich complex.
For a truly peaceful experience, visit early in the morning (around 6-8 AM) or in the late evening (around 7-9 PM). This is when crowds are minimal, and the atmosphere is most serene.
Yes, the Banganga Tank is right next to the temple. Malabar Hill also offers the Hanging Gardens and Kamala Nehru Park, providing beautiful city views.
The temple complex is relatively flat, and the Banganga Tank area is good for a gentle stroll. However, some steps might be involved depending on the exact path taken.
The name 'Walkeshwar' comes from 'Valuka Ishwar,' meaning 'God made of sand.' Legend has it that Lord Rama built a sand lingam here to worship Lord Shiva during his journey to Lanka.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Malabar Hill area and nearby Girgaum offer various dining options, from local eateries serving Maharashtrian snacks to more upscale restaurants. You can find diverse cuisines within a short distance.
You can find authentic Maharashtrian thalis, street food like pav bhaji and vada pav, and also cafes and restaurants offering Indian and international dishes in the vicinity.
Absolutely. Many restaurants in the area cater to vegetarians, offering a wide range of pure vegetarian dishes. Ask locals for recommendations for the best vegetarian experiences.
While the immediate temple vicinity might be more focused on religious offerings, the broader Girgaum and Malabar Hill areas have popular street food stalls, especially in the evenings.
It's generally advisable to eat at established eateries or popular street food vendors with good hygiene practices. Look for places with high turnover to ensure freshness.
📸 📸 Photography
The Banganga Tank offers picturesque views, especially during sunrise or sunset. The temple architecture itself, with its intricate carvings, is also a great subject. The Walkeshwar viewing point provides panoramic city and sea vistas.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more serene atmosphere. Sunrise over the tank and sunset views from the viewing point are particularly stunning.
While general photography might be permitted in outdoor areas, it's wise to avoid flash photography inside the main temple sanctum and to be respectful of devotees. Always look for 'no photography' signs.
From the Walkeshwar viewing point, you can capture expansive shots of the Arabian Sea, the coastline, and parts of the Mumbai skyline. It's a great spot for landscape and cityscape photography.
Be mindful and respectful when photographing rituals. It's best to ask for permission if you intend to photograph people performing religious ceremonies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Visit during cooler parts of the day, like early morning. Ensure children are dressed modestly. While the temple is peaceful, keep an eye on younger ones near the tank. Consider combining the visit with the nearby parks for a more varied family outing.
🧘 Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Recommendations: Visit during off-peak hours for maximum solitude. Engage with the local culture respectfully. The nearby viewing points on Malabar Hill also offer peaceful spots to watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Aim for early mornings or late afternoons for the best light. Be respectful of religious activities and avoid intrusive photography. The intricate details of the temple carvings and the daily life around the tank are also great subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mythology and History of Walkeshwar
The adjacent Banganga Tank is equally steeped in legend. It is believed that Lord Lakshmana, Lord Rama's brother, shot an arrow into the ground here, causing a stream of the holy Ganges River to emerge, thus forming the tank. Devotees often take a dip in its waters, believing it to be purifying. The confluence of these ancient tales and historical architecture makes Walkeshwar Temple a unique spiritual destination in Mumbai.
Experiencing the Banganga Tank
Walking around the tank provides a glimpse into traditional life and religious practices. The surrounding narrow lanes are also home to several other smaller temples, each with its own history and significance, contributing to the area's deeply divine aura. It's a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and soaking in the spiritual ambiance of old Mumbai.
Navigating Malabar Hill's Charm
The Walkeshwar viewing point, often mentioned by locals and visitors, provides an excellent vantage point for photography and enjoying the sea breeze. Exploring Malabar Hill offers a blend of spiritual solace, natural beauty, and stunning urban vistas, making it a well-rounded destination for any visitor.
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