Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Maharashtra is home to a variety of unique religious destinations and among them, the Akkalkot Temple is indeed one of the most popular and is dedicated to Swami Samarth. Located in the Solapur district in Maharashtra, Akkalkot Temple draws in devotees from across the country, especially due to its spiritual aura. It is also a cherished destination among spiritual seekers looking for an escape from the daily chaos of life. If you are in Maharashtra planning a getaway to a unique place and a little off the grid, Akkalkot Temple is an absolute must.
Quick Details
Akkalkot Temple Address: Shree Vatavruksha Swami Maharaj Devasthan, Juna Adat Bazaar, Vidyanagar, Akkalkot, Maharashtra
Akkalkot Temple Timings: 7 AM to 8 PM
Deity: Shri Swami Samarth
Entry Fee: None
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearest Airport: Solapur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Akkalkot Road Railway Station
About Akkalkot Temple
Photo: Naresh Balakrishnan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Akkalkot Temple, also known as Shri Vatavruksha Swami Maharaj Devasthan, is a popular religious and spiritual destination in Maharashtra. The temple is a place of immense faith and devotion, dedicated to Samarth Maharaj, admired as a living incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. Swami Samarth lived in Akkalkot for over two decades until his Mahasamadhi in 1878. The temple complex, also known as Swami Samarth Maharaj Math, is a sanctum for followers of the Dattatreya tradition.
How To Reach Akkalkot Temple
Photo: Joydeep / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: While Solapur Airport is the nearest airport to the temple, it is not as serviceable as the cities and states around. So, it is ideal if you book your flight to Pune International Airport and then take a taxi to get to the temple.
By Rail: Akkalkot Road Railway Station is your nearest railhead from the temple, located around 8 km away. Outside the railway station, you will find taxis and other local transportation to take you to the temple.
By Road: Akkalkot is well connected to nearby cities like Solapur and Pune, so you can plan your visit without any hassle. You can either opt for state buses or you can choose private vehicles, depending on your convenience and budget.
Things To Do At Akkalkot Temple
To have a worthwhile visit exploring the Akkalkot Temple, you have to keep a list of all the important activities around.
1. Meditate Under The Sacred Neem Tree
Photo: Msvamsi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Akkalkot Temple complex is home to an ancient Neem tree, believed to have been blessed by Shri Swami Samarth. Legend has it that the saint used to meditate under this very tree, and it remains a spot for devotees to experience a sense of inner peace. So, if you want to feel the same kind of peace in your mind, consider sitting under the neem tree and indulging in some meditation.
2. Visit The Samadhi Of Shri Swami Samarth
Photo: Kuarun / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Last but undoubtedly the most significant part of visiting the Akkalkot Temple is to explore the Samadhi of Shri Swami Samarth. It is believed that the saint’s spiritual energy continues to dwell in the Samadhi. The Samadhi is a simple yet powerful place, and spending a few moments here in prayer can be a deeply transformative experience.
Places To Visit Near Akkalkot Temple
After offering your prayers at the Akkalkot Temple, you can then take your time to go around and explore the places around you.
1. Solapur Siddheshwar Temple
Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Around a one to two hours drive from the Akkalkot Temple is the Solapur Siddheshwar Temple, which is another popular religious destination. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by a beautiful lake, which adds to the beauty of the experience. You can offer your prayers to the deity and even indulge in taking a dip in the lake.
Distance From Akkalkot Temple: 38.5 Km
Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
2. Tuljapur Bhavani Temple
Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons
To continue your religious tour around Solapur, you can next head to Tuljapur Bhavani Temple. It is one of the most popular devi temples in the state, dedicated to Goddess Bhavani. It is believed that Goddess Bhavani gifted the legendary sword to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, blessing him to protect the land. One of the most unique things about this temple is its location on top of a hill, demanding the devotees to embark on a short trek.
Distance From Akkalkot Temple: 81.1 Km
Timings: 4 AM – 10 PM
3. Gangapur Dattatreya Temple
Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Roughly 60 km from Akkalkot Temple is the Gangapur Dattatreya Temple, which is another popular religious destination to add to your travel plans. The temple is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya and is frequented by devotees every year. The temple is located on the banks of the Bhima River, and many pilgrims take a holy dip here before offering prayers. The serene environment and the spiritual significance of this temple make it a spot that you must explore.
Distance From Akkalkot Temple: 63.4 Km
Timings: 3 AM – 9 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Khadeeja Yasser / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Akkalkot Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination in Solapur, so you won’t have a hard time finding good accommodations. There are several hotels and lodges available including Shriguru Guest House, Hotel Ajinkyatara, Hotel Kalika Residency, Krishna Guest House and Samarth Sawali Guest House.
Where To Eat
Photo: Shakti Rajpurohit / Unsplash
After offering your prayers at Akkalkot Temple, you are bound to get hungry. There are a few local eateries and restaurants available around the temple, which you can check out. Some of the best options include B.B.C. Kitchen’s Hotel Annapurna Pure Veg Restaurant and Lodging, Balaji Pure Veg Restaurant and Ojas Coffee House.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Gihan Tharindu / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
When visiting Akkalkot Temple in Solapur, you can follow the tips to have a great experience exploring.
- October to March is ideal for pleasant weather, so plan during that time.
- If you wish to attend the daily Aarti, arrive early since the crowds get overwhelming as the day goes on.
- Akkalkot can get hot, especially during summer months, so carry water and wear cotton clothes.
- While there are a few ATMs, some places only accept cash.
- Since the temple is a sacred site, ensure you dress modestly.
Akkalkot Temple in Maharashtra is one of the most unique pilgrimage destinations in the state. Not just the historical significance, the temple’s natural surroundings add to the charm of the visit. As you are planning your getaway to Solapur with TripXL, ensure that you aren’t missing out on this temple and immerse yourself in the authentic culture and spiritual charm!
Cover Photo: Abhimanyu7793 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
