Jata Shankar Cave

About Jata Shankar Cave

Of all the places to visit in Pachmarhi, Jata Shankar is the one where the landscape and the mythology fit together most exactly. Spiritual tradition holds that Shiva concealed himself here from the fury of Bhasmasur, and the cave has been a place of worship ever since.

It is a limestone cave with stalactites and stalagmites, and the hanging formations are seen as the matted hair, or jata, of Shiva, which is where the name comes from. Inside there is a natural shivalingam and a massive rock formation taken to resemble the hundred-headed Sheshnaga. The combination of natural rock read as sacred form makes this a particular favourite among devotees rather than a general sightseeing stop.

Inside the cave

The stalactite roof

The limestone formations hanging from the roof are what give the cave its name, understood as Shiva's matted hair. Let your eyes adjust before you try to make sense of them, because the light inside is low.

The natural shivalingam

A shivalingam formed naturally in the rock is the focus of worship here. It is not a carved installation, which is precisely the point for the devotees who come.

The Sheshnaga rock

A large rock formation in the cave is taken to resemble the hundred-headed serpent Sheshnaga. Along with the stalactites it is the formation visitors are shown first.

Planning your visit

The cave is on the Pachmarhi circuit and involves a short descent on steps from the road. It is an active shrine, so the usual temple conventions apply.

• Footwear is removed before entering.
• The floor and steps stay damp; wear something with grip.
• The interior is dark, so go when there is daylight outside.
• Shivratri brings large numbers of devotees to the cave.

Best time to visit

October to March is the comfortable season on the plateau and the best time to walk down to the cave. Shivratri is the most significant occasion here. During the monsoon the approach is slippery and water drips heavily inside the cave.