Lutru/Mutru Mahadev Cave Lord Shiva’s Home Arki, Himachal Pradesh

In the Arki region of Solan district, there is a famous Luturu Mahadev temple known for its Shivling adorned with serpent motifs. The temple was built in the year 1621 by the king of Baghal principality. It is constructed inside a massive cave with a length of about 61 feet and a width of 31 feet. Within this cave is a self-manifested Shivling adorned with Shiv’s serpent motifs. On the right side of the cave, just above, there is a circular opening about 5 meters in diameter, through which sunlight falls directly onto the Shivling. Himachal Pradesh, the land of gods, is home to many temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of which is Luturu Mahadev temple, situated atop a beautiful hill. This temple is located 4 kilometers away from Arki town in Solan district. In Himachal’s land of gods, there are many temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is believed that Lord Shiva is fond of cannabis and datura. Hence, they are specially used in his worship. However, there is also a temple where Lord Shiva enjoys smoking cigarettes with great relish. You might be surprised to hear this, but it’s true. The ancient Luturu Mahadev cave is like a marvel. Constructed from imposing rocks, the cave measures approximately 25 feet from east to west and 42 feet from north to south. Its height ranges from 6 to 30 feet above ground level. Light enters the cave from a tapered rock formation above it. The cave’s height from sea level is 5500 feet, and around it, a 150-foot area is spread with extensive rock formations. In the middle portion of the cave, there is an 8-inch long ancient natural Shivling. On the ceiling of the cave, in the form of separate rock formations of various lengths, small cow-shaped Shivlings can be seen. According to mythological beliefs, a stream of milk used to flow from these Shivlings, but now a few drops of water drip from these natural formations, which astonish humans when seen.