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The Cave Shiva Temple of Marleshwar
Marleshwar is situated in the Sangameshwar in Ratnagiri district, in Maharashtra. Marleshwar is known for the cave Shiva temple. The devotees in the Marleshwar temple interact with venomous snakes present all over the temple.
The shocking fact is that not a single death has occurred so far by the bite of any venomous snake inside the temple. In fact, the venomous snakes and cobras are very friendly with the devotees.
Right at the entrance of the Marleshwar temple, there is a pond (kund) of cold water. Marleshwar is known for its natural beauty all around. Marleshwar has a beautiful waterfall called as Dhareshwar waterfall. It is visible right from the cave of Shiva temple but the exact height of the waterfall cannot be estimated from there.
Makarsankranti is the most popular fest in this place. On Makarsankranti, Marleshwar and Girijadevi’s marriage takes place. It is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm. There are many fares organized on Mahashivarati and Poornima.
The Shiva linga was brought to this temple way back in the 18th century.
The best connectivity to come to Marleshwar is by buses and trains. Marleshwar mandir is also known amongst some, as it has the aashram of Swami Swarapanand. Some of the places around to check out are Malgund, Pawas, and the Jaigad fort. This fort is high on the mountain cliff and provides a view that is worth seeing.
Marleshwar is a site that is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. The special astonishing fact is that of the venomous friendly snakes which are rare to find anywhere else.