Mangalnath Temple

Mangal' is the planet Mars, worshipped on Tuesdays. Devotees throng this temple on the third day of the week, climb up the long flight of steps, reach the base of the plinth of the temple, walk clockwise around it, then stop to look up at the image of a ram, vehicle of Mangal. All temples dedicated to any of the celestial bodies are, essentially, Siva temples, as this one is.

Even though this is known as the Temple of Mars, the principal idol is that of Siva and it is directly in front of the flight of steps leading up the plinth, past Nandi gazing into the sanctum. Mars is enshrined in a subsidiary shrine to one side of the sanctum. From the base of the steps accessing the plinth, there is an impressive view of the Shipra River flowing below. Devotees often assure visitors that this temple gives an excellent view of the red planet, Mars. This, however, seems to be more a matter of faith than observation.