Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is the home for more than a million people. The versatility of Mumbai lies in the fact that here everyone can practice and follow their religious rituals. There are many renowned temples, churches, mosques and each festival is celebrated in the same vigour.

Babulnath temple is the oldest temple which is located in the heart of Mumbai city. The temple is situated at the end of the popular Marine Drive to the South of Malabar Hills. The temple that stands 1000 feet above sea level was built in 1780. Here, Lord Shiva is considered to be in the form of a Babul tree and a single stone Lingum of Lord Shiva is worshipped. Many devotees visit the temple every year. Saint Pushpadanta wrote songs praising Lord Shiva known as the Shiva Mahimnah Stotram, which is sung by devotees even today during the time of Shiva Pujan.

The temple offers a sense of peace and calmness to the people even in the hustle and bustle of Mumbai city is unbelievable but true.

History of Babulnath Temple

As per history, the temple was built on the land that belonged to the Parsi community. There were resistance from their part for the construction of temple. But in 1800, the issue was settled and temple was constructed. The temple was renovated in 1890 into a bigger temple complex with contribution from the Gujarati community. The temple was tallest in Mumbai city till 1960, when a lightning strike damaged the structure.

The magnificent art works on the walls of the temple is also very special in its architectural grandeur. In the initial days, the temple was only visited by saints but today thousands of devotees visit the temple daily.

Best Time to Visit

Babulnath temple is throughout the year crowded and thousands of devotees come here to offer prayers to their Lord Shiva. Monday is the main day of worship. Maha Shivratri is the special day for celebrations and the main celebration takes place just one day before ‘Amavasya’.

How to Reach

As Babulnath temple is located in the heart of the Mumbai city and next to the famous Girgum Chowpatty, it very easy to reach the temple. Hiring a rickshaw or taxi from Charni Road station can take one to the temple. Alternately, the temple is at a walkable distance of 20 to 30 minutes from Charni Road Station.