Photo: Tanweer Morshed, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Large Shiva Temple
About Large Shiva Temple
The Large Shiva Temple, also known as the Bhubaneshwar or Pancharatna Shiva Temple, is the first temple most people see as they drive into Puthia, about 25 km east of Rajshahi city. Built in 1823 by Rani Bhubanmoyee Devi of the Puthia zamindar family, it stands on a high platform beside the Shiv Sagar pond.
The temple has a tall central spire surrounded by four smaller ones, a style called pancharatna (five jewels), and its outer walls have decorated niches and some surviving stone and plaster carving. Inside is a large black stone Shiva lingam, and the temple is still used for worship.
From the temple it is a short walk to Puthia Rajbari, the Boro Govinda Temple, the Chota Anhik Mandir, the Chota Govinda Mandir and the Dol Temple. Evergreen Bangladesh Tours visits the Puthia group on private tours of Rajshahi.
Things to do
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Climb to the platform
Steps lead up to the raised platform, which gives a good view of the pond and the town.
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Watch daily worship
Devotees come to offer flowers and water to the lingam; watch quietly from a respectful distance.
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Pond-side photography
The five spires reflected in Shiv Sagar make a classic Puthia photograph.
Getting there
From Rajshahi: About 25 km east by car, roughly 40 minutes. The temple is near the entrance to Puthia town.
From Dhaka: Fly or take the train to Rajshahi, then continue by car.
Where to stay
Stay in Rajshahi city and visit Puthia as a half-day trip.
Tours that visit Large Shiva Temple
Holiday Tours
Bangladesh Cultural and Heritage Discovery Tour
from $800 per person
Short Tours
Heritage Treasures of North Bengal
from $550 per person
Questions
When was the Shiva Temple in Puthia built?
In 1823, by Rani Bhubanmoyee Devi of the Puthia zamindar family.
Is it still an active temple?
Yes, it is used for worship. Dress modestly and remove your shoes.
Can non-Hindus visit?
Visitors are generally welcome; follow the caretaker’s guidance and ask before photographing worshippers.
How far is it from Puthia Rajbari?
A few minutes’ walk.