KONCH - KONCHESWARA MAHADEV TEMPLE

This is a much controversial temple. Eminent and world famous scholars, archeologists and historians wrangled over it for long and produced their own findings - some claiming it to be a Buddhist Chaitya, and others refuting it established that it was a Hindu temple dedicated to Koncheswara, one of the names of Maheswar. As it resembles the famous Mahabodhi temple of Bodh Gaya, the opinion of the scholars is not unanimous. Whatever may be the verdict arrived at with colour glasses or no glasses, the temple is an ancient one enshrining a Sivalinga, representing Maheswar. Its tower, structural design and ornamentation resemble ancient Hindu temples and it bears a striking resemblance to Dev and Umga temples in Gaya district.

It is a largely visited temple and pujas offered conform to the Saivagama injunctions. During Sivaratri festival and other auspicious days, thousands of locals and yatris participate in several devotional activities with unprecedented religious zeal. A mela conducted during Sivaratri festival lures lakhs of people. It is a neglected one, and if adequate attention is paid by bringing it under protected monuments, its glory once again  touch . the pinnacle to the contentment of devout Hindus.

It lies about 25 km off Gaya on the Gaya Danbad National Highway and accessible from Gaya railway station by four wheelers.

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