Top 10 Kolhapur Temples: Exploring The City’s Religious Heritage

Located on the banks of the Panchganga River, Kolhapur is one of the famous cities in Maharashtra. Apart from the various attractions, the city is home to numerous ancient temples that are gloriously basking in history. From the architecture to religious significance, Kolhapur Temples are true historical marvels. If you seek divine blessings or learn the religious history of the city, Kolhapur temples have something in store for everyone.

10 Kolhapur Temples For Your Itinerary

Unravel the spiritual side of Kolhapur with the temples listed here and enrich your experience further:

1. Jyotiba Temple

Photo: Dharmadhyaksha / Wikimedia Commons

When it comes to famous temples in Kolhapur, it is hard not to mention Jyotiba Temple. Built by Ranoji Shinde in the 17th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Jyotiba, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. It is said that Lord Jyotiba is the amalgamation of three deities, including Lord Mahesha, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma. Throughout the year, you will find the exterior walls of the temple clad in pink colour offered to Lord Jyotiba by devotees and pilgrims.

Address: Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416001
Timings: 4 AM – 11 PM

2. Mahalakshmi Temple

Photo: Lovelitjadhav / Wikimedia Commons

If you are looking for grandeur then visit Mahalakshmi Temple, which is the biggest temple in Kolhapur. Home to goddess Amba Devi, the temple was built in the 7th century during the Chalukya period. As one of the Shakti peethas, the temple holds a significant place in the heart of Hindu devotees. Every year, thousands of devotees flock to the shrine to catch a glimpse of the goddess and offer their prayers. As for the architecture, it features a magnificent design, good enough to halt your steps and take a good look at it.

Address: Mahadwar Rd, B Ward, C Ward, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416012
Timings: 5 AM – 10 PM

3. Bhavani Mandap

Photo: Tripal P / Wikimedia Commons

A unique religious site, Bhavani Mandap in Kolhapur is not to be missed, especially if you are visiting Mahalakshmi Temple. Since both the temples are located within a short distance, you can easily cover them on the same day. Back in the day, Bhavani Mandap was an important meeting site, but today, it is turned into a temple of Goddess Tulja Bhavani, the elder sister of Goddess Lakshmi. While you are in the temple, you have the opportunity to explore the architecture up close.

Address: C Ward, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416002
Timings: 6 AM – 11 PM

4. Nrusinhawadi Temple

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Another popular temple in Kolhapur that needs to be in your itinerary is Nrusinhawadi Temple. Located at the confluence of Panchganga and Krishna Rivers, the temple holds a significant place in Maharashtrian history. According to sources, the temple was constructed several centuries ago by Adil Shah, a Muslim King from Bijapur, whose daughter had lost her eyesight. Upon seeking guidance, he was advised to visit Nrusinhawadi and use the ashes from the ritual to help his daughter’s eyes.

Address: Narasoba Wadi, Nrusinhawadi, Maharashtra 416104
Timings: 6 AM – 9:30 PM

5. Bahubali Temple

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Visiting Bahubali Temple allows you to witness the giant statue of Lord Bahubali, perched on a hilltop. Besides the main idol, the temple houses other deities like Lord Shantinath, Lord Adinath Digambar, and Lord Chandraprabhu. However, to reach the temple, you are required to climb 70 steps to the top. Once you reach the entrance, you will see the idol of Lord Bahubali in a standing position. According to legend, Lord Bahubali resided at the same place hundreds of years ago.

Address: Narande – Kumbhoj Rd, Bahubali Kumbhoj, Maharashtra 416110
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM

6. Gagangiri Maharaj Math Temple

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Regarded as the Best temple in Kolhapur, Gagangiri Maharaj Math Temple is a must-visit site for devotees of Lord Shiva. Located on a hilltop, the temple is surrounded by lush greenery that adds to the overall appeal of the site. Known for its peaceful environment, math offers a perfect place for meditation and yoga. Besides offering prayers and worshipping the deities, you can explore the beautiful surroundings and have a good time. Many people visit the temple to find their inner peace and feel the divine energy.

Address: Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416205
Timings: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM

7. Kopeshwar Temple

Photo: Shivajidesai29 / Wikimedia Commons

Although not the oldest temple in Kolhapur, Kopeshwar Temple is ancient enough to have been built several centuries ago. According to reports, the temple came into existence in the 7th century. But at that time, the temple was incomplete due to ongoing wars between the rulers of the region. Later, the temple was completed by the Yadava and the Shilhara rulers in the 12th century. Since then, it has been home to Lord Shiva, drawing large crowds of devotees every year. The highlight of the temple is the Swarga Mandap which features a stunning architectural design.

Address: 57.8 Km from Kolhapur
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM

8. Temlabai Mandir

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Located on Temlabai Hill, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Temlabai, sister of Goddess Lakshmi. According to legends, Goddess Temlabai along with Goddess Lakshmi fought against evil to protect the region. Due to this reason, she is considered a protector of the city. Besides the religious significance, the temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. While the shrine receives a large number of devotees every year, it is most crowded during the Navratri festival.

Address: Police Head Quarters, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416006
Timings: 24 hours

9. Uttareshwar Mahadev Temple

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A revered religious site, Uttareshwar Mahadev Temple belongs to Lord Shiva. Built on the banks of the Rankala River, the temple offers a serene place of worship to devotees. People from different corners of the city come here to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. For those who don’t know, the Shivling at the temple is one of the biggest in the city. As far as the architecture is concerned, it features a beautiful design and consists of various traditional elements. While you are at the temple, you can spend your time enjoying the peaceful ambience that is perfect for meditation and devotion.

Address: Uttareshwar Peth, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416002
Timings: 5 AM – 10 PM

10. Khol Khandoba Mandir

Photo: Yogesh Hanjage / Wikimedia Commons

An ancient shrine, Khol Khandoba Mandir is located at the Papachi Tikati region in the district. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple houses a 25 – 30 feet long Shivling. However, you cannot see the Shivling from the outside as it is positioned in the centre of the temple. According to reports, the temple was built in the 13th or 14th century during the Mughal era. Despite being several centuries old, the temple remains a significant place of worship for Hindus. Standing outside the shrine, you will notice a large dome that houses the main deity.

Address: C, Shaniwar Peth, D Ward, Papachi Tikati, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416002
Timings: 5:30 AM – 9 PM

Visiting Kolhapur Temples allows you to explore the rich history and culture of the city. From Jyotiba Temple to Khol Kandoba Mandir, every temple is significant and holds years of history. If you plan on exploring the city, make sure to book your trip with TripXL and check out some of the best ancient temples.

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