About Nawabhat 108 Shiva Temples
The Nawabhat 108 Shiva Temples is a historic Hindu temple complex located at Nawabhat on the outskirts of Bardhaman in Purba Bardhaman district, West Bengal. Built in 1788, it consists of 108 small aat-chala style temples arranged in two concentric circles, with 74 temples in the outer circle and 34 in the inner circle. Each shrine houses a black stone Shiva lingam and the complex is noted for its unique geometric layout and terracotta-influenced architecture.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large open temple courtyard containing 108 identical small brick temples arranged in two concentric circles. Each temple is built in the Bengal aat-chala style with a Shiva lingam inside, all facing the centre. The outer circle has 74 temples and the inner circle has 34. The complex is set in a maintained garden-like enclosure near Grand Trunk Road. Visitors can walk around both circles, view the uniform architecture, observe worship activities, and take photographs of the symmetrical layout.
Key highlights
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108 aat-chala style Shiva temples arranged in two concentric circles
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74 temples in outer circle and 34 temples in inner circle with Shiva lingams in each shrine
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Built in 1788 during the Bardhaman Raj period
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Uniform Bengal temple architecture with distinctive curved roofs
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Important Shaivite pilgrimage centre especially during Maha Shivratri
History of Nawabhat 108 Shiva Temples
The complex was constructed in 1788 by Maharani Bishnukumari Devi, wife of Maharaja Tilakchand and mother of Maharaja Tejchand of the Bardhaman Raj, to commemorate the transfer of the Bardhaman estate. It was later renovated in 1840 by Maharaja Tejchand Bahadur. The temples represent the late medieval Bengal aat-chala temple style and the patronage of the Bardhaman zamindari.
Culture & Context
The site is a significant Shaivite religious centre dedicated to Lord Shiva. All 108 lingams are worshipped regularly and the complex draws large gatherings during Maha Shivratri and the month of Shravan. Its circular plan symbolizing a rosary (japa mala) holds religious importance for devotees.
Route
| By air |
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