Baneshwar Temple, nestled in the forested village of Nasrapur along the tranquil Shivganga River, is a rare blend of Maratha history, natural beauty, and ancient water engineering. Built in 1749 by Nanasaheb Peshwa, the temple’s name — “Baneshwar” or “God of the Forest” — reflects its serene woodland setting. Approaching the temple, guests walk beneath towering trees alive with birdsong, arriving first at the 5.5-foot trident (trishul) and a majestic stone gateway that leads into the temple’s complex

The highlight here is the integrated water management system: natural springs and channels feed a series of ornamental stepwells (pushkarnis) in front of the temple. Three interconnected tanks hold colorful fish and turtles, including rare golden and white varieties that were once state-funded. These tanks are linked to clever stone conduits shaped as the Mrityunjaya Yantra, ensuring water levels remain equal, with excess draining out—a feat of ancient hydraulic engineering. A stone Gomukh spout funnels water to a fourth tank, whose overflow runs directly onto the Shiva linga in the sanctum, earning Baneshwar its “Water Temple” legacy

The temple’s structure uses sixteen pillars, with lotus-carved capitals supporting the walls and roof. Its black stone sanctum houses a symbolic Shiva linga above a cavity containing five lingas, which are always moist with spring water. The sanctum is adorned with niche idols of Ganesh, Hanuman, and Vishnu–Lakshmi, while intricate wall details and the Nagara-style spire bear the marks of both Maratha artistry and local folk traditions. Hanging above the entrance is a large Portuguese bell acquired during the Maratha victory at Bassein in 1739, inscribed with the year 1683 and a Christian cross. Festivals like Mahashivratri, Shravan Mondays, and Tripurari Purnima are celebrated enthusiastically, when thousands gather to light lamps and offer prayers. Visiting hours run from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m

The temple adjoins the Baneshwar forest garden and wildlife sanctuary, home to rare birds, butterflies, and a seasonal waterfall. Temple guests can stroll the leafy walks, watch wildlife, and enjoy picnics or one-day hikes in this beloved retreat near Pune