Ankuri Mahadev

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Ankuri Mahadev is a Hindu temple in Mahadeva village, Saptari District, Nepal. The main shrine houses a Shiva Linga, and nearby temples feature statues of Parvati and Hanuman. The Shiva Linga has a fist-sized dent on top.

Legend says the site was once a cremation ground and was isolated. Cowherds from nearby villages would visit, trying to move the Shiva Linga to their homes, but it always returned to its place. It is said that anyone who took the Linga home would suffer misfortune, with a family member becoming ill or dying.

The cowherd’s leader later built a temple on the same spot to enshrine the Shiva Linga. Ankuri Mahadev is a well-known pilgrimage site for Lord Shiva devotees, and large fairs are held during festivals such as Shivaratri and Anant Chaturdashi. It is also considered a sacred place for yajnas (ritual offerings).