Markanda Temples are located on the banks of Waiganga River
and is around 216 km southeast of Nagpur in Gadchiroli District in Maharashtra. Two of the important
temples located here are dedicated to Sage Markanda and his father Mrkunda. The
place is also known as Markandi or Markanda Deva.
Most the temples located here contain Shivlings. Originally,
there were 24 temples but now only 18 temples are found.
The most important temples are Markanda Rishi Temple, Yamadharma Temple, Mrkunda Rishi and Shankara Temple.
The most important temples are Markanda Rishi Temple, Yamadharma Temple, Mrkunda Rishi and Shankara Temple.
The Markanda Rishi Temple is believed to have built during
the 12 century AD. The temple faces east and is cruciform in plan. The Shivling
worshipped here is known as Markandeshwara. The roof of the sanctum sanctorum
contains human and animal motifs.
The exterior of the temple is lavishly carved with
sculptures which include that of various Hindu gods and goddesses and stories
of Shiva and Parvati.
The other deities worshipped in the temple include Ganesha,
Surya, Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi and Ashta Dikpalas.