Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple, the Shiva temple that disappears twice a day!

India is a land of many ancient and mysterious temples. One such is a Shiva Temple, a temple that disappears twice a day. This lesser-known ancient temple of Lord Shiva, Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple is in Gujarat, and puts on a disappearing act at least twice a day.

Also known as the Gayab Mandir or the Lost Temple, this temple is special in its own way, and lures visitors from far and wide.
If this has you intrigued, read on.

Legends associated with Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple

Set in the Kavi Kamboi village in Jambusar, Gujarat, it’s believed that the Devas (gods) headed by Lord Kartikeya installed this Stambheshwar Mahadev Linga, after eliminating a demon named Tarakasur. The Skanda Purana refers to a pillar called Vishwanandak Stambh, which was set up by the Devas at the Mahi Sagar Sangam Teerth Kshetra. Legends add that despite being a demon, Tarakasaur was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. He had undergone intense penance to please him which, of course, managed to please Lord Shiva. It’s said that the demon took advantage of the opportunity and asked for a boon, which can shield him from death. But as death is inevitable, Lord Shiva asked him to ask for another boon. Tarakasur then wished for a blessing, which stated that none other than the six-day-old son of Lord Shiva can kill him. Lord Shiva then granted his wish, after which Tarakasur created havoc in the three worlds and caused massive destruction. To put an end to this, Lord Shiva created Lord Kartikeya from the flame of his third eye, which put an end to the story.

Also, there is another version that states Lord Kartikeya, who punished Tarakasur, was also in awe because of his devotion for Lord Shiva. As a gesture of appreciation, he installed a shivalinga at the site, where Tarakasur was executed.

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Why does this temple disappear?

Located a few meters away from the seashore, this temple submerges during high tide and reappears in low tide. And since the sea level rises twice during the day, the temple disappears and emerges when the water recedes. As per the records, the garbha griha or the sanctum gets fully covered with the sea water, and only the top of the temple structure remains above water.