Sharaneshwar Shiva Temple

Sharaneshwar Shiva Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in Abhapur village within the Polo Forest in Sabarkantha district, Gujarat. Situated on the banks of the Harnav River, it is part of the historic Polo Forest temple complex dating between the 10th and 15th centuries. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is noted for its stone architecture, intricate carvings, and serene forest surroundings, attracting pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and nature visitors.

Visitors can expect a historic stone Shiva temple set inside the dense Polo Forest near the Harnav River. The temple features traditional Hindu architecture with carved pillars, shikhara and a lingam shrine. The surroundings are forested and quiet with ancient ruins nearby. Visitors can explore the temple courtyard, view stone carvings, experience a peaceful forest environment, and combine the visit with nature walks and sightseeing of other nearby Polo Forest temples.

Sharaneshwar Shiva Temple is part of the Polo Forest group of temples near Abhapur, which includes Hindu and Jain temples built between the 10th and 15th centuries. The temples were constructed during the period of regional Rajput and Solanki influence and later abandoned as the settlement declined. The ruins exhibit Nagara-style stone architecture and are protected as heritage remains within the Polo Forest area.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and remains an active place of worship for local communities. It holds religious importance especially during Maha Shivratri and Shravan month when devotees visit for prayers. As part of the Polo Forest cultural landscape, it reflects the region's historic Hindu temple tradition and forest-associated pilgrimage heritage.