Kalachand Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Hingoli district of Maharashtra, India. The temple is very ancient having been established in the 8th century AD and is considered one of the most important temples in Hingoli. The temple is a famous pilgrimage site and attracts large numbers of devotees from all parts of Maharashtra. Kalachand Temple: Overview Kalachand Temple is considered to be one of the most important temples of Hingoli, Maharashtra. It is believed to have been constructed in the 8th century AD and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is situated near the banks of the Manjara River and has many unique features about it. Many festivals are celebrated at the temple and large numbers of devotees from all parts of Maharashtra visit it during these occasions. Kalachand Temple: Prominent Features 1. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva and is considered to be a very sacred and important place of pilgrimage in Hingoli, Maharashtra. 2. The entrance of the temple is marked by a giant Lion sculpture, which was sculpted in the Maratha style. 3. There is a deep tank inside the temple which is believed to have been created at the time the temple was established. 4. On the main shrine stand the 6-feet-high black stone sculpture of Lord Shiva. 5. The temple houses numerous other sculptures depicting Hindu gods and goddesses including Ganesh, Parvati, Brahma, Vishnu, and Saraswati. Kalachand Temple: History Kalachand Temple was built in the 8th century AD by the Rashtrakuta Dynasty. It is believed to have been built by the then Hindu King Rudra Vaman of the state. The temple is believed to have been built to appease Lord Shiva and to thank Him for the many blessings that he bestowed upon the king and his subjects. The temple has been renovated several times over the centuries and has retained its ancient charm and grandeur over the centuries. Kalachand Temple: Interesting Facts 1. The temple is considered to be one of the oldest temples in the entire Maharashtra state. 2. Every year, thousands of devotees come to Kalachand Temple to pay their respects to Lord Shiva the main deity of the temple. 3. During Maha Shivaratri, a large fair is held at the temple with numerous stalls and many cultural programs to entertain the devotees. 4. In the main Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) of the temple is the 6 feet tall black stone sculpture of Lord Shiva. 5. Many devotees also offer various items to the God in this temple during different religious ceremonies and festive occasions.