Famous Pilgrimage Sites in Maharashtra
Maharashtra is a state that is rich in culture, history, and spirituality. It is a state that has many pilgrimage sites that attract devotees from all over the country and the world. These pilgrimage sites are dedicated to various gods and goddesses of Hinduism, as well as saints and sages of different sects and traditions. Here are some of the famous pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra that you should not miss. Many Tourist and Pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra visit during One day Trip From Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Kolhapur
Maharashtra is a state in India that is known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. It is also a state that has many famous pilgrimage sites that attract millions of devotees and tourists every year. These pilgrimage sites are not only places of worship, but also places of learning, inspiration, and peace. They represent the diversity and harmony of Maharashtra’s religious and spiritual traditions.
Whether you are a Hindu, a Muslim, a Buddhist, or a follower of any other faith, you will find a pilgrimage site in Maharashtra that will appeal to your soul. In this article, we will explore some of the best pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra that are a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the divine grace and glory of this state. Some of these sites are
1. Pandharpur is Famous Pilgrimage Sites in Maharashtra
Pandharpur is Famous Pilgrimage Sites in Maharashtra
Pandharpur is a town located on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River, near Solapur city in Solapur district of Maharashtra. It is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra, and among the best places to visit near Aurangabad. Pandharpur is home to the shrine of Vithoba, also known as Vitthal or Pandurang, who is a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple attracts about a million Hindu pilgrims during the major yatra (pilgrimage) in Ashadha (June–July). visit during One day Pune to Pandharpur Darshan By Private Cab.
The temple is also visited by many saints and poets of Maharashtra, such as Dnyaneshwar, Tukaram, Namdev, Eknath, Nivruttinath, Muktabai, Chokhamela, Savata Mali, Narhari Sonar, Gora Kumbhar, Meera Bai, and Gajanan Maharaj.
- Location: Pandharpur, Solapur district, Maharashtra
- How to Reach: Pandharpur is well connected by road and rail to major cities of Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Pune airport, which is about 210 km away. The nearest railway station is Pandharpur railway station, which is about 4 km away from the temple.
- Things to Do/Must See: Worship at the main shrine of Vithoba and receive his blessings. Listen to the melodious chants and prayers that are recited throughout the day. Participate in the aarti (ritual of offering fire) and prasad (offering of food) that are held every morning and evening. Visit the nearby attractions, such as Pundalik Temple, Rukmini Temple, Vishnupad Temple, Kaikadi Maharaj Math, and Chandrabhaga River.
- Overview: Pandharpur is a town that is steeped in devotion and tradition. It is a town that celebrates the love and grace of Vithoba and his devotees. It is a town that will fill your heart with joy and peace.
2. Kolhapur is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Kolhapur is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Kolhapur is a city and the district headquarters of Kolhapur district in Maharashtra. It is one of the popular pilgrimage sites in India, and among the must include places in Maharashtra tour packages. Kolhapur is famous for its Mahalakshmi Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The temple was built in the 7th century by Chalukya kings and later renovated by Shilahara kings in the 9th century. You can visit during One Day Pune To Kolhapur Trip By Private Cab
The temple has a magnificent idol of Lakshmi made of black stone and adorned with gold ornaments and jewels. The temple also has shrines for other deities such as Ganesh, Shiva, Vishnu, Durga, Surya, and Kashi Vishweshwar.
- Location: Kolhapur city, Kolhapur district, Maharashtra
- How to Reach: Kolhapur is well connected by road and rail to major cities of Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Kolhapur airport, which is about 10 km away from the city center. The nearest railway station is Kolhapur railway station, which is about 5 km away from the temple.
- Things to Do/Must See: Worship at the main shrine of Mahalakshmi and receive her blessings. Listen to the soothing chants and prayers that are recited throughout the day. Participate in the aarti (ritual of offering fire) and prasad (offering of food) that are held every morning and evening. Visit the nearby attractions, such as Rankala Lake1, New Palace Museum2, Jyotiba Temple3, Panhala Fort, and Siddhagiri Museum.
- Overview: Kolhapur is a city that reflects the glory and grace of Mahalakshmi and her devotees. It is a city that showcases the culture and heritage of Maharashtra through its art, cuisine, jewelry, leather products, and festivals. It is a city that will make you feel rich and prosperous.
3. Nashik is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Nashik is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Nashik or Nasik is the third-largest city by population in Maharashtra. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Maharashtra, and among the famous places to visit near Mumbai. Nashik is situated at an altitude of 700 m on the banks of the Godavari River, which is considered as one of the holy rivers in Hinduism. Nashik is famous for its numerous temples that can be visited as part of Nashik Tour Packages. you can visit during One day Pune to Nashik Darshan By Private cab.
Panchavati, Someshwar, Ram Kund, Muktidham Temple, Coin Museum, Pandavleni Caves, Sinnar, Anjaneri, and Trimbakeshwar are some of the popular places to visit in Nashik. Nashik also holds Kumbha Mela, the largest religious gathering held once every 12 years. A large number of pilgrims, sadhus, and holy men attend this magnificent fair and take bath in the holy river Godavari. you can visit during Nashik Darshan One Day Trip From Mumbai by Private cab
- Location: Nashik city, Nashik district, Maharashtra
- How to Reach: Nashik is well connected by road and rail to major cities of Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Nashik airport, which is about 25 km away from the city center. The nearest railway station is Nashik Road railway station, which is about 10 km away from the city center.
- Things to Do/Must See: Explore the temples and their exquisite details. Learn about the history and significance of Nashik from the information boards or audio guides. Visit the Panchavati area, which is believed to be the place where Lord Rama spent some time during his exile. Take a dip in the Ram Kund, which is a sacred tank where Rama and Sita bathed. Visit the Muktidham Temple, which is a white marble temple that has replicas of 12 Jyotirlingas and verses from Bhagavad Gita inscribed on its walls.
- Visit the Coin Museum, which displays a collection of coins from different periods and dynasties of Indian history. Visit the Pandavleni Caves, which are ancient rock-cut caves that date back to the 1st century BCE and have Buddhist sculptures and paintings. Visit the Anjaneri Hill, which is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman, the monkey god and devotee of Lord Rama. Visit the Trimbakeshwar Temple, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a source of the Godavari River.
- Overview: Nashik is a city that combines the ancient and the modern. It is a city that celebrates the legends and stories of Hindu mythology and culture. It is a city that offers a spiritual and scenic experience to its visitors.
4. Pune is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Pune is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Pune is a city and the second-largest city by population in Maharashtra. It is one of the popular places to visit near Mumbai, and among the must include places in Maharashtra packages. Pune is known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, as it has a rich history and heritage of Maratha Empire, Peshwas, British Raj, and Indian freedom movement. Pune also has many pilgrimage sites that attract devotees from all over the country and the world. You can visit during One day Mumbai to Pune Trip – Visit Beautiful Pune.
Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple, Chaturshringi Temple, Parvati Hill Temple, Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Osho Ashram, Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganpati Trust, Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, Saras Baug, Sinhagad Fort, Khadakwasla Dam, and Bhimashankar Temple are some of the popular places to visit in Pune. Visit during Pune one day tour by cab
- Location: Pune city, Pune district, Maharashtra
- How to Reach: Pune is well connected by road, rail, and air to major cities of India. The nearest airport is Pune airport, which is about 15 km away from the city center. The nearest railway station is Pune railway station, which is about 3 km away from the city center.
- Things to Do/Must See: Explore the temples and their magnificent details. Learn about the history and significance of Pune from the information boards or audio guides. Visit the Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple, which is one of the most famous and revered Ganesh temples in India. The temple has a huge idol of Ganesh made of gold and adorned with jewels. The temple attracts millions of devotees during Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Visit the Chaturshringi Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Chaturshringi, who is considered as
- Things to Do/Must See: Explore the temples and their magnificent details. Learn about the history and significance of Pune from the information boards or audio guides. Visit the Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple, which is one of the most famous and revered Ganesh temples in India. The temple has a huge idol of Ganesh made of gold and adorned with jewels. The temple attracts millions of devotees during Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Visit the Chaturshringi Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Chaturshringi, who is considered as the presiding deity of Pune.
- The temple is located on a hill and has four peaks, representing the four aspects of the goddess. Climb the 100 steps to reach the main shrine and receive her blessings. Visit the Parvati Hill Temple, which is situated on a hillock and offers a panoramic view of the city. The temple complex has five temples dedicated to Shiva, Parvati, Ganesh, Kartikeya, and Vishnu.
- Overview: Pune is a city that combines the ancient and the modern. It is a city that celebrates the legends and stories of Hindu mythology and culture. It is a city that offers a spiritual and scenic experience to its visitors.
5. Sambhaji Nagar is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Sambhaji Nagar is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Sambhaji Nagar is a town located in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. It is one of the important places of pilgrimage in Maharashtra, and among the best places to visit near Aurangabad. Sambhaji Nagar is famous for its Ellora Caves, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The caves are a group of 34 rock-cut caves that date back to the 6th to 10th centuries CE. The caves represent the three major religions of India: Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The caves have several sculptures and carvings depicting various aspects of these religions and their mythology and philosophy. The most famous cave is Cave 16, which has the Kailasa Temple, which is a massive monolithic structure dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Location: Sambhaji Nagar, Aurangabad district, Maharashtra
- How to Reach: Sambhaji Nagar is well connected by road and rail to major cities of Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Aurangabad airport, which is about 30 km away from the town. The nearest railway station is Aurangabad railway station, which is about 28 km away from the town.
- Things to Do/Must See: Explore the caves and their exquisite details. Learn about the history and significance of the caves from the information boards or audio guides. Visit the Kailasa Temple, which is one of the largest and most impressive rock-cut temples in the world. The temple has a pyramidal shape, a two-storey gateway, a huge courtyard, a Nandi mandapa (hall), a sanctum with a Shiva linga (symbol), and several sculptures and carvings. Visit the nearby attractions, such as Grishneshwar Temple, Daulatabad Fort, Bibi Ka Maqbara, and Aurangabad Caves.
- Overview: Sambhaji Nagar is a town that showcases the artistic and religious achievements of ancient India. It is a town that displays the harmony and diversity of India’s religious traditions and practices. It is a town that will make you marvel at the wonders of human creativity and devotion.
6. Shirdi is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Shirdi is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Shirdi is a town located in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. It is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India, and among the must include places in Maharashtra tour packages. Shirdi is home to the shrine of Sai Baba, who was a saint and a spiritual leader who preached universal love and tolerance. Sai Baba lived in Shirdi for most of his life and performed many miracles and teachings for his devotees. He died in 1918 and his body was buried in his samadhi (tomb) in Shirdi. The shrine attracts millions of devotees every year from all faiths and walks of life.
- Location: Shirdi, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra
- How to Reach: Shirdi is well connected by road and rail to major cities of Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Shirdi airport, which is about 14 km away from the town. The nearest railway station is Sainagar Shirdi railway station, which is about 3 km away from the town.
- Things to Do/Must See: Worship at the main shrine of Sai Baba and receive his blessings. Listen to the soothing chants and prayers that are recited throughout the day. Participate in the aarti (ritual of offering fire) and prasad (offering of food) that are held four times a day: at dawn, noon, sunset, and night. Visit the nearby attractions, such as Dwarkamai, Chavadi, Gurusthan, Lendi Baug, Khandoba Temple, Sai Heritage Village, and Wet N Joy Water Park.
- Overview: Shirdi is a town that radiates peace and love. It is a town that celebrates the life and teachings of Sai Baba and his devotees. It is a town that will make you feel calm and happy.
7. Shani Shingnapur is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Shani Shingnapur is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Shani Shingnapur is a village located in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. It is one of the unique places of pilgrimage in Maharashtra, as it has no doors or locks in its houses or shops. The village is famous for its temple of Shani, who is one of the nine planets (navagraha) in Hindu astrology and the god of justice and karma. The temple has a black stone idol of Shani, which is believed to be self-manifested and swayambhu. The temple attracts thousands of devotees every day, especially on Saturdays, which are considered as the day of Shani.
- Location: Shani Shingnapur, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra
- How to Reach: Shani Shingnapur is well connected by road to major cities of Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Aurangabad airport, which is about 120 km away from the village. The nearest railway station is Belapur railway station, which is about 35 km away from the village.
- Things to Do/Must See: Worship at the main shrine of Shani and receive his blessings. Learn about the history and significance of the village and the temple from the information boards or audio guides. Experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the village, where people live without doors or locks and trust in Shani’s protection and justice. Visit the nearby attractions, such as Sonai Renuka Devi Temple, Shri Dattatreya Temple, and Ranjangaon Ganpati Temple.
- Overview: Shani Shingnapur is a village that reflects the faith and devotion of its people. It is a village that follows the principles and values of Shani and his devotees. It is a village that will make you respect and admire the power and grace of Shani.
8. Bhimashankar is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Bhimashankar is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Bhimashankar is a town located in Pune district of Maharashtra. It is one of the important places of pilgrimage in Maharashtra, as it has one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, which are the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. The temple was built in the 13th century by Nana Fadnavis, a minister of the Peshwa dynasty. The temple has a Nagara style architecture, with a shikhara (spire), a sabha mandapa (assembly hall), and a garbha griha (sanctum). The temple also has a large bell, which was gifted by Chimaji Appa, a general of the Maratha Empire.
- Location: Bhimashankar, Pune district, Maharashtra
- How to Reach: Bhimashankar is well connected by road to major cities of Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Pune airport, which is about 95 km away from the town. The nearest railway station is Pune railway station, which is about 110 km away from the town.
- Things to Do/Must See: Worship at the main shrine of Bhimashankar and receive his blessings. Listen to the soothing chants and prayers that are recited throughout the day. Participate in the aarti (ritual of offering fire) and prasad (offering of food) that are held every morning and evening. Visit the nearby attractions, such as Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Hanuman Lake, Gupt Bhimashankar, Nagphani Point, and Bombay Point.
- Overview: Bhimashankar is a town that showcases the glory and grace of Shiva and his devotees. It is a town that displays the culture and heritage of Maharashtra through its architecture and history. It is a town that offers a spiritual and scenic experience to its visitors.
9. Trimbakeshwar is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Trimbakeshwar is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Trimbakeshwar or Tryambakeshwar is a town located in Nashik district of Maharashtra. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in India, as it has one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, which are the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. The temple was built in the 18th century by Peshwa Balaji Bajirao, who was also known as Nana Saheb. The temple has a Hemadpanthi style architecture, with a shikhara (spire), a sabha mandapa (assembly hall), and a garbha griha (sanctum). The temple also has three lingas (symbols) representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
- Location: Trimbakeshwar, Nashik district, Maharashtra
- How to Reach: Trimbakeshwar is well connected by road to major cities of Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Nashik airport, which is about 40 km away from the town. The nearest railway station is Nashik Road railway station, which is about 30 km away from the town.
- Things to Do/Must See: Worship at the main shrine of Trimbakeshwar and receive his blessings. Listen to the soothing chants and prayers that are recited throughout the day. Participate in the aarti (ritual of offering fire) and prasad (offering of food) that are held every morning and evening. Visit the nearby attractions, such as Brahmagiri Hill, Kushavarta Kund, Gangadwar, and Anjaneri Hill.
10. Grishneshwar is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Grishneshwar is Famous Pilgrimage Site in Maharashtra
Grishneshwar or Ghushmeshwar is a village located in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. It is one of the important places of pilgrimage in Maharashtra, as it has one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, which are the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. The temple was built in the 18th century by Ahilyabai Holkar, a queen of the Maratha Empire. The temple has a South Indian style architecture, with a shikhara (spire), a sabha mandapa (assembly hall), and a garbha griha (sanctum). The temple also has a large Nandi (bull), which is the vehicle of Shiva.
- Location: Grishneshwar, Aurangabad district, Maharashtra
- How to Reach: Grishneshwar is well connected by road to major cities of Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Aurangabad airport, which is about 30 km away from the village. The nearest railway station is Aurangabad railway station, which is about 35 km away from the village.
- Things to Do/Must See: Worship at the main shrine of Grishneshwar and receive his blessings. Listen to the soothing chants and prayers that are recited throughout the day. Participate in the aarti (ritual of offering fire) and prasad (offering of food) that are held every morning and evening. Visit the nearby attractions, such as Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort, Bibi Ka Maqbara, and Aurangabad Caves.
- Overview: Grishneshwar is a village that showcases the glory and grace of Shiva and his devotees. It is a village that displays the culture and heritage of Maharashtra through its architecture and history. It is a village that offers a spiritual and scenic experience to its visitors.
- Overview: Trimbakeshwar is a town that showcases the glory and grace of Shiva and his devotees. It is a town that displays the culture and heritage of Maharashtra through its architecture and history. It is a town that offers a spiritual and scenic experience to its visitors.
FAQ
Q: What is the best time to visit Maharashtra?
A: The best time to visit Maharashtra is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and dry. The summer months (April to June) are very hot and humid, while the monsoon months (July to September) are wet and windy.
Q: How to get around Maharashtra?
A: Maharashtra has a well-developed transport system that includes buses, trains, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and ferries. You can also rent a car or a bike to explore the state at your own pace. However, be prepared to face traffic congestion and pollution in some areas.
Q: What are the best places to eat in Maharashtra?
A: Maharashtra is a state that offers a variety of cuisines and dishes from different regions and communities. Some of the best places to eat in Maharashtra are:
Mumbai: A city that is famous for its street food, such as vada pav, pav bhaji, bhel puri, pani puri, and kulfi. Mumbai also has many restaurants that serve continental, Indian, and Chinese food.
Pune: A city that is known for its Maharashtrian delicacies, such as misal pav, thalipeeth, puran poli, and modak. Pune also has many cafes and pubs that serve snacks, sweets, and beverages.
Nashik: A city that is famous for its wine industry and grape cultivation. Nashik also has many eateries that serve vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, such as khandeshi thali, sabudana khichdi, kheema pav, and shrikhand.
Kolhapur: A city that is famous for its spicy and flavorful food, such as kolhapuri misal, kolhapuri chicken, kolhapuri mutton, and pandhara rassa. Kolhapur also has many sweet shops that sell jaggery, peda, and basundi.
Q: What are the best places to shop in Maharashtra?
A: Maharashtra is a state that offers a range of products and items from cheap and cheerful to expensive and exclusive. Some of the best places to shop in Maharashtra are:
Mumbai: A city that has many markets that sell clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and antiques at bargain prices, such as Colaba Causeway, Crawford Market, Fashion Street, and Chor Bazaar. Mumbai also has many malls that have a mix of shops, restaurants, cinemas, and entertainment zones, such as Phoenix Market City, High Street Phoenix, R City Mall, and Inorbit Mall.
Pune: A city that has many markets that sell traditional and ethnic items, such as sarees, jewelry, handicrafts, and books at reasonable prices, such as Laxmi Road, Tulsi Baug, Hong Kong Lane, and Juna Bazaar. Pune also has many malls that have a variety of shops, restaurants, cinemas, and entertainment zones, such as Amanora Town Centre, Phoenix Market City, Seasons Mall, and Westend Mall.
Nashik: A city that has many markets that sell fresh fruits and vegetables,
Conclusion
Maharashtra is a state that is rich in culture, history, and spirituality. It is a state that has many pilgrimage sites that showcase the beauty and diversity of various religions and sects. Maharashtra is a state that offers a glimpse of the sacred and the sublime through its temples, caves, forts, and ashrams. Here are some of the famous pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra that you should not miss.
We hope that this article has helped you plan your trip to Maharashtra and discover its famous pilgrimage sites. We hope that you have a wonderful time in Maharashtra and enjoy its beauty and splendor.