Some Unheard Facts About the Nagchandreshwar Temple, Ujjain

Situated on the third floor of Mahakal Temple in Ujjain, Nagchandreshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This 11th century temple built by Parmar Dynasty’s Raja Bhoj is unique in many ways including the fact that it opens for the devotees only once a year on Nag Panchmi. It is also the only place in the world where instead of Lord Vishnu, Shiva is seen seated on the ten-faced snake. Here are more such interesting facts about Nagchandreshwar Temple in Ujjain that we bet you did not know.

• The gates of Nagchandreshwar Temple are opened only on Nagpanchami. This means the temple opens only for one day in a year. And on that day, more than two lakh people visit this coveted temple.
• As per the forklore, during Nagpanchami, Nagraj Takshak himself remains present in the temple.
• The temple premise encloses an 11th century idol of Lord Shiva that completely stands apart from the rest of the statues of Shiva found around the world. It is in this temple only where instead of Lord Vishnu, Mahadeva sits on the throne of a snake with ten wide hooded heads. Other than Ujjain there is no such place in this world where Shiva is seated on a snake throne.
• History says that the statue was transferred in this temple from Nepal. The Shiva is seated here along with his consort Goddess Parvati and their son Ganesha. Hanging snakes from Shiva’s neck and arms gives the idol a distinct look.
• The temple rests on third floor of the third floor of the world-famous Mahakal Temple. Legend has it that this temple was constructed by Parmar King Bhoj in 1050 AD. After this, King Ranoji of Sindhia revamped and fortified the entire structure including the Mahakal Temple and Nagchandreshwar Temple in 1732.
• It is said that Nagraj Takshak performed great penance to appease Lord Shiva. Happy with his penance, the lord gifted him with immortality.
• If legends are to be believed, one can get rid of any form of sarpdosh after paying reverence at Nagchandreshwar Temple.