Kolhapur is a city in the state of Maharashtra, India, famous for its rich cultural heritage, historical monuments, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. It is also known as the land of the goddess Mahalaxmi, who is revered as the presiding deity of the city. The City is a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of attractions for all kinds of travelers. Whether you are looking for spiritual bliss, historical insights, scenic views, or adventurous activities, The City has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the Best 13 places to visit in Kolhapur that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable.
Visit Kolhapur During Kolhapur Darshan Day Trip
Overview of Kolhapur
Kolhapur is located on the banks of the Panchganga river, about 230 km south of Pune and 380 km west of Hyderabad. It is the administrative headquarters of the Kolhapur district and the fourth largest city in Maharashtra. The City has a population of about 5.5 lakh and covers an area of 66.82 sq km. The city has a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The average annual rainfall is about 750 mm. Best 12 Places To Visit in Mahabaleshwar
The City has a rich history that dates back to the ancient times. It was the capital of the Maratha kingdom of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, who was a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha empire. The City was also a center of art, literature, music, and cinema in the 19th and 20th centuries. The city is home to many eminent personalities such as Rajarambapu Patil, Baburao Painter, Vishnu Vaman Shirwadkar, Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, and Meena Kumari.
The City is famous for its distinctive culture, cuisine, and crafts. The city is known for its Kolhapuri chappals, Kolhapuri saaj, Kolhapuri pheta, Kolhapuri misal, and Kolhapuri tambada rassa. The city also hosts many festivals and fairs throughout the year, such as the Kirnotsav, the Rankala Mahotsav, the Shivaji Jayanti, the Ganesh Chaturthi, the Navratri, and the Dussehra.
How to Reach Kolhapur
Kolhapur is well-connected by road, rail, and air to the major cities of India. The city has a domestic airport, which is about 9 km from the city center. The airport has regular flights to Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Tirupati. The nearest international airport is in Pune, which is about 230 km from Kolhapur.
The city has a railway station, which is about 3 km from the city center. The station is on the Pune-Miraj-Londa line and has trains to Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, Chennai, Goa, and other cities. The station is also a junction for the Konkan Railway, which connects the coastal regions of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka.
The city has a bus stand, which is about 2 km from the city center. The bus stand has buses to Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Goa, and other cities. The bus stand is also a hub for the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), which operates buses within the state.
Best Time to Visit Kolhapur
The best time to visit Kolhapur is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the city is in a festive mood. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C during this period. The monsoon season, from June to September, is also a good time to visit Kolhapur, as the city receives moderate to heavy rainfall and the surroundings become lush green. The temperature ranges from 20°C to 35°C during this period. The summer season, from April to May, is the least preferable time to visit Kolhapur, as the weather is hot and humid and the temperature can go up to 40°C.
Best Things to Do Kolhapur
The City offers a variety of things to do for the visitors, depending on their interests and preferences. Some of the best things to do in Kolhapur are:
- Visit the Mahalaxmi Temple, the most sacred and prominent temple in Kolhapur, dedicated to the goddess Mahalaxmi, also known as Ambabai.
- Explore the Panhala Fort, the largest and most important fort in the Deccan region, built by the Shilahara dynasty in the 12th century.
- Enjoy the beauty of the Rankala Lake, a natural lake that was once a stone quarry, and a popular spot for boating, horse riding, and relaxing.
- Visit the Jyotiba Temple, a hilltop temple dedicated to Jyotiba, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma.
- Experience the royalty of the Shalini Palace, a palace built by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj in 1931 for his daughter Princess Shalini Raje.
- Admire the architecture of the Binkhambi Ganesh Temple, a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed god, that has no pillars to support its roof.
- Witness the history of the New Palace, a palace built by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj in 1884, that has a Durbar Hall, a museum, and a zoo.
- Visit the Vishalgad, a hill fort that was the site of the famous battle of Vishalgad, where Shivaji Maharaj fought against the Adil Shahi army in 1661.
- Explore the Kopeshwar Temple, a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, that has a remarkable shikhara, a Nandi Mandapa, and erotic sculptures.
- Experience the wildlife of the Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary, a wildlife sanctuary that was established in 1958, and is home to Indian Bison, leopards, tigers, sloth bears, etc.
- Visit the Kanheri Math, a Buddhist monastery that was established in the 3rd century BC, and has a complex of caves, sculptures, paintings, inscriptions, and stupas.
- Marvel at the Laxmi Vilas Palace, a palace built by Maharaja Sahuji II in 1912, that has a grand facade, a clock tower, a fountain, a Durbar Hall, and a museum.
- Experience the culture of the Bhavani Mandap, a historical building that was the residence and the court of the Kolhapur rulers, and has a hall, a shrine, and memorabilia of the royal family.
Best 13 Places To Visit in Kolhapur
The Jyotiba Temple: A Famous Cultural and Religious Gem in India
Jyotiba Temple is a holy site of Hinduism near Wadi Ratnagiri in Kolhapur district of Maharashtra state in western India. The deity of the temple is known by the same name and is a manifestation of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma. He is also associated with Surya, the sun god, and Kartikeya, the son of Shiva and Parvati. He is worshipped as the destroyer of demons and the protector of the region. The temple is situated at a height of 3124 feet above sea level and is dedicated to Jyotiba. The temple is 21 km north-west of Kolhapur and around…
Panhala Fort: A Historical Treasure in the Western Ghats
Panhala Fort is the largest and most impressive fort in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. Situated in the Sahyadri mountain range, Panhala Fort offers us a panoramic view of the surrounding rates and hills. Panhala Fort is not only a magnificent sight but also a witness to many historical events and legends. The Panhala Fort was built by the Shilahar dynasty in the twelfth century and was later transferred to various rulers including the Yadav, Bahamani, Adilshahi, Mughals and the Marathas. Panhala Fort has witnessed many battles and sieges especially during the Maratha Empire. The fort is also associated with the events of…
Mahalaxmi Temple- Kolhapur: A Sacred and Ancient Temple
If you are looking for a place to worship and seek blessings from the Goddess of wealth and prosperity, then Mahalaxmi Temple- Kolhapur is a perfect destination for you. Mahalaxmi Temple is a sacred and ancient temple that is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, also known as Ambabai or Shri Lakshmi. The temple is one of the Shakti Peethas, where the left eye of Goddess Sati fell after her self-immolation. Mahalaxmi Temple famous temple in Kolhpaur, Visit during Kolhapur Darshan tour Package. The temple is also one of the six abodes of Goddess Mahalaxmi, where she resides along with her consort…
Rankala Lake, Kolhapur: A Beautiful and Historical Lake
If you are looking for a place to enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature, then Rankala Lake in Kolhapur is a perfect destination for you. Rankala Lake is a beautiful and historical lake that was built by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the ruler of Kolhapur, in the 19th century. The lake is named after the Rankabhairav temple that is submerged in the lake famous tourist attraction in Kolhapur, Visit during Kolhapur Local sightseeing. The lake is a popular picnic spot and a recreational center that offers a variety of activities and attractions for the visitors. In this article, we will…
New Palace, Kolhapur: A Royal and Majestic Palace
If you are looking for a place to admire the royal and majestic lifestyle of the Maratha kings, then New Palace in Kolhapur is a perfect destination for you. New Palace is a royal and majestic palace that was built by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the ruler of Kolhapur, in the 19th century. The palace is a blend of Hindu and British architectural styles, and it showcases the rich history and culture and famous tourist attraction in Kolhapur, visit during Kolhapur Darshan Tour Package . The palace is also a museum that displays some artifacts and photographs related to the Maratha…
Shalini Palace, Kolhapur: A Heritage and Luxury Palace
If you are looking for a place to experience the heritage and luxury of the Maratha kings, then Shalini Palace in Kolhapur is a perfect destination for you. Shalini Palace is a heritage and luxury palace that was built by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the ruler of Kolhapur, in 1931 as a summer resort for his wife Maharani Shalini Devi. The palace is a blend of Rajasthani and European architectural styles, and it overlooks the Rankala Lake famous tourist attraction in Kolhapur, visit during Kolhapur Darshan Tour Package. The palace is now converted into a heritage hotel and a museum that…
Binkhambi Ganesh Temple, Kolhapur: A Unique and Ancient Temple
If you are looking for a place to worship and seek blessings from the Lord of wisdom and success, then Binkhambi Ganesh Temple in Kolhapur is a perfect destination for you. Binkhambi Ganesh Temple is a unique and ancient temple that is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, also known as Ganapati or Vinayaka. The temple is named after the fact that it has no pillars (binkhambi) to support its roof famous tourist place in Kolhapur, visit during Kolhapur Local sightseeing. The temple is a marvel of engineering and art, and it attracts many devotees and tourists every year. In this article,…
Bhavani Mandap Famous Royal and Historical Monument in the City of Goddess
Kolhapur, also known as Kollapuram, is a city in Maharashtra and one of the most popular destinations in India. The city is known for its religious and cultural significance, as it is the home of the Mahalakshmi Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas (sacred sites of Goddess), Bhavani Mandap and famous temple in Kolhapur, visit during Kolhapur Sightseeing. The city is also known for its rich history and heritage, as it was the capital of the Maratha kingdom of Kolhapur from 1700 to 1949. The city has several monuments and landmarks that reflect its royal and historical glory. One…
Laxmi Vilas Palace, Kolhapur: A Grand and Glorious Palace in the City of Goddess
Kolhapur, also known as Kollapuram, is a city in Maharashtra and one of the most popular destinations in India. The city is known for its religious and cultural significance, as it is the home of the Mahalakshmi Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas (sacred sites of Goddess), Laxmi Vilas Palace famous tourist attraction in Kolhapur, visit during Kolhapur local sightseeing. The city is also known for its rich history and heritage, as it was the capital of the Maratha kingdom of Kolhapur from 1700 to 1949. The city has several monuments and landmarks that reflect its royal and historical…
Siddhagiri Gramjivan Museum(Kaneri Math) Kolhapur: A Rural and Cultural Museum in the City of Goddess
Kolhapur, also known as Kollapuram, is a city in Maharashtra and one of the most popular destinations in India. The city is known for its religious and cultural significance, as it is the home of the Mahalakshmi Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas (sacred sites of Goddess). Siddhagiri Gramjivan Museum famous attraction In Kolhapur, visit during Kolhapur Local sightseeing. The city is also known for its rich history and heritage, as it was the capital of the Maratha kingdom of Kolhapur from 1700 to 1949. The city has several monuments and landmarks that reflect its royal and historical glory.…
Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary, Kolhapur: A Natural and Biodiverse Sanctuary in the City of Goddess
Kolhapur, also known as Kollapuram, is a city in Maharashtra and one of the most popular destinations in India. The city is known for its religious and cultural significance, as it is the home of the Mahalakshmi Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas (sacred sites of Goddess). Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary famous places in Kolhapur, visit during Kolhapur sightseeing. The city is also known for its rich history and heritage, as it was the capital of the Maratha kingdom of Kolhapur from 1700 to 1949. The city has several monuments and landmarks that reflect its royal and historical glory. One…
Kopeshwar Temple, Kolhapur: A Sacred and Stunning Temple in the City of Goddess
Kolhapur, also known as Kollapuram, is a city in Maharashtra and one of the most popular destinations in India. The city is known for its religious and cultural significance, as it is the home of the Mahalakshmi Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas (sacred sites of Goddess). Kopeshwar Temple is famous temple in Kolhapur, visit during One day Trip. The city is also known for its rich history and heritage, as it was the capital of the Maratha kingdom of Kolhapur from 1700 to 1949. The city has several monuments and landmarks that reflect its royal and historical glory.…
Vishal gad, Kolhapur: A Historical and Cultural Destination
If you are looking for a place to visit that combines history, culture, and nature, you might want to consider Vishal gad, a fort located in Kolhapur district of Maharashtra. Vishal gad, also known as Khelna or Khilna, is one of the oldest and largest forts in India. Vishal gad is famous fort in Kolhapur, visit during One day trip. It was built by the Shilahara dynasty in the 10th century and later became the capital of the Maratha Empire under Shivaji Maharaj. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction in Kolhapur. Here is…
Best Tour Package For Kolhapur
1D Pune To Kolhapur Tour Package By Private Cab
Are you looking for a short and sweet getaway from Pune? Do you want to explore the historical and cultural wonders of Kolhapur in a day? If yes, then our one day Pune to Kolhapur tour package by cab is the perfect option for you. With our private cab service, you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free journey to the city of Kolhapur, which is famous for its ancient temples, palaces, lakes, and cuisine. You can visit the Mahalaxmi Temple, one of the Shakti Peethas where the goddess Mahalaxmi is worshipped as the consort of Lord Vishnu. You can also…
1 Day Kolhapur sightseeing Tour Package by Cab
Most Important
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Yes Before 1 Day
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No
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50% Advance Paymrnt
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Available All Days
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Cab
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Kolhapur Sightseeing
2D-1N Pune to Kolhapur-Jyotiba-Panhala Tour Package
Most Important
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Pune
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Yes before 1 Day
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1 dinner, 1 Breakfast
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50% Advance
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Available
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Cab
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Kolhapur, Jyotiba,Panhala
3D-2N Pune To Kollhpaur – Jyotiba – Narsobachiwadi Tour Package
Most Important
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Pune
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2 Breakfast, 2 Dinner
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50% Advance Payment
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Cab
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Jyotiba Temple, Pnhala Fort, Kolhpaur Sightseeing , Narsobachowadi
4D-3N Sadeteen Shakti Peeth Darshan From Mumbai (Kolhpur-Tuljapur-Mahurgad-Vani tour)
If you are looking for a spiritual and cultural tour of Maharashtra, then you should consider the 4D-3N Sadeteen Shakti Peeth Darshan From Mumbai package. This package will take you to the four famous Shakti Peeths of Maharashtra, which are Kolhapur Mahalaxmi, Tulja Bhavani, Renuka Mata and Saptashrungi Mata. These are the places where the divine energy of Goddess Shakti is manifested and worshipped by devotees. These Shakti Peeths are also associated with various legends and stories of Hindu mythology. By visiting these Shakti Peeths, you will get a chance to experience the power and grace of the Goddess, as…
2D-1N Pune To Kolhapur-Narsobachi Wadi Tour Package
Are you looking for a short and sweet getaway from Pune? Do you want to explore the rich culture and heritage of Kolhapur and the spiritual bliss of Narsobachi Wadi? If yes, then this 2D-1N Pune to Kolhapur-Narsobachi Wadi tour package by cab is perfect for you. You can visit One Day Pune To Kolhapur Trip By Private Cab 2D-1N Pune To Kolhapur-Narsobachi Wadi Tour Package will take you to some of the most famous attractions of these two destinations, such as the Mahalaxmi Temple, the Rankala Lake, the New Palace, the Binkhambi Ganesh Temple, the Narsobachi Wadi Temple and…
FAQ’s
What is the best way to travel within Kolhapur?
The best way to travel within Kolhapur is by auto-rickshaw, which is easily available and affordable. You can also use buses, taxis, or rental cars for longer distances.
What are the best souvenirs to buy from Kolhapur?
The best souvenirs to buy from Kolhapur are the Kolhapuri chappals, which are handcrafted leather sandals, the Kolhapuri saaj, which is a traditional necklace made of gold and silver beads, the Kolhapuri pheta, which is a turban worn by men, and the Kolhapuri masala, which is a spicy mixture of spices used for cooking.
What are the best dishes to try in Kolhapur?
The best dishes to try in Kolhapur are the Kolhapuri misal, which is a spicy curry of sprouted beans, onions, tomatoes, and farsan, served with bread, the Kolhapuri tambada rassa, which is a red curry of mutton, coconut, and spices, served with rice or bhakri, the Kolhapuri pandhara rassa, which is a white curry of chicken, coconut milk, and spices, served with rice or bhakri, and the Kolhapuri kanda bhaji, which is a deep-fried snack of onion fritters, served with chutney.
Conclusion
Kolhapur is a city that offers a glimpse of the glorious past, the vibrant present, and the promising future of Maharashtra. It is a city that celebrates its culture, cuisine, and crafts with pride and passion. It is a city that welcomes its visitors with warmth and hospitality. It is a city that you should not miss on your next trip to Maharashtra.
