SHIVMANDIR, BALARAM

SHIVMANDIR, BALARAM

Balaram, 16 kms from the town of Palanpur is the site of a beautiful Shivmandir. Today, it has also become famous as a picnic spot, frequented by devotees and tourists alike.

It is the site of the temple of Balaram Mahadev. This ancient Shivling temple lies amidst a dense forest. The Balaram river flows alongside and finally forms a natural lake called Gangasar. Many natural springs, which originate in the Aravalli mountains, are also seen alongside. The Dhara Mata and Hanuman temples are also located nearby.



Legend has it that during a drought a long time ago, the adivasis unknowingly left a baby behind when they migrated from this place. A year later, when they returned, the baby was still alive and so, they named this place 'Balaram'.

Devotees of Shiva flock to Balaram in large numbers to pray and offer Billipatra to Mahadev. They are seen in large numbers, especially on Mondays and in the month of Shravan.

There are many buses, rickshaws and jeeps that ply from Palanpur to Balaram. It is also accessible by train - the nearest station being Chitrasani Railway Station, 2 kms from Balaram.



The Palanpur Hindu Samaj runs a Dharamshala and a kitchen there for the convenience of visitors. There is also a Gujarat State Guest house there.

The Nawab Saheb of Palanpur's palace at Balaram has been converted into a luxury hotel.