Maharashtra is a state that’s immersed in culture, traditions, and history. However, beyond the staple tourist attractions, the state also stands out with its various temples. Among them, the devi temples in Maharashtra are one of the most sacred spaces of worship. Every Devi temple that you visit in Maharashtra has a story to tell. If you are looking for some spiritual solace, these temples happen to be one of the best spots to explore. As you are exploring different cities in Maharashtra, take your time to visit the popular devi temples that each city and town has to offer.
Top 10 Devi Temples In Maharashtra
The Devi temples in Maharashtra hold a special place in the hearts of devotees, be it the locals or tourists.
1. Mahalakshmi Temple
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Known as the Shri Mahalakshmi Ambabai Temple, it is one of the most famous devi temples in Maharashtra. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi, who is considered the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity. Also, the temple is one of the Shakti Peethas, further explaining its importance among the devotees. The temple’s construction reportedly dates back to the 7th century and is an amazing example of the Hoysala architecture, especially with the carved stone pillars and mandapas. Inside the inner sanctum, the idol of the Goddess is adorned with jewellery and embellished attires too. The locals call the Goddess “Ambabai”.
Location: Mahalaxmi – Ambabai mandir, Mahadwar Road, B Ward, C Ward, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416012
Timings: 4:30 AM – 10 PM
2. Tulja Bhavani Temple
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Talking about one of the most popular Devi temples in Maharashtra, the Tulja Bhavani Temple is another destination you have to visit. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. In this temple, Goddess Tulja Bhavani is worshipped, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is famous for its connection with Shivaji Maharaj, who was an ardent devotee of Tulja Bhavani and sought her blessings for his military victories. The actual temple complex is vast and has several shrines dedicated to other deities besides the Goddess. It is believed that worshipping and seeking blessings from the Goddess grants strength and courage to her devotees.
Location: Shri Tulja Bhavani Temple, Mahadwar Road, Jijamata Nagar, Tuljapur, Maharashtra 413601
Timings: 4 AM – 10 PM
3. Saptashrungi Devi Temple
Photo: AmitUdeshi / Wikimedia Commons
While you are in Nashik, another one of the Devi temples that you have to visit is the Saptashrungi Devi Temple. It is alternatively known as the Vani Saptashrungi Devi Temple as well. Located in a serene atmosphere, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Saptashrungi, who has 18 arms in the constructed idol that resides in the main shrine. The temple is believed to be one of the three-and-a-half Shakti Peethas of Maharashtra. Not just that, the climb to the top of the temple involves 510 steps, which makes it quite challenging. However, once on the top, you get to soak in the views of the surrounding forests and hills, which add to the charm of the visit.
Location: Saptashurngi, Maharashtra 422215
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
4. Renuka Devi Temple
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Located in Mahurgad, the Renuka Devi Temple there is another one of the top Maharashtra Devi temples that you have to visit. This is an ancient temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Renuka, who is the mother of Lord Parshuram. The temple is located on a hilltop, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Renuka Devi is considered to be the incarnation of Goddess Durga, and this temple holds immense religious importance, especially among the people of Vidarbha. One of the most unique elements of this temple is that it is part of the Mahur Fort complex. Visiting the temple and seeking blessings from the Goddess further brings good fortune and protection.
Location: Bhopi Near Tea Point, Patil Colony, Mahurgad, Maharashtra 431721
Timings: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM
5. Ekaveera Devi Temple
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While on the topic of Renuka Devi Temple, another devi temple dedicated to Renuka Devi that you can consider exploring is the Ekaveera Devi Temple in Karla. The temple is located near the Karla Caves, which is an ancient Buddhist cave site. Also, it is believed that the temple holds a lot of significance among the Koli community. Like a lot of the best devi temples in Maharashtra, even this one sits on top of a hill. The goddess is considered to be a fierce form of Durga, and the temple is particularly crowded during Navratri. The majority of the pilgrims visiting this temple often come to seek protection and blessings from their families.
Location: Ekvira Devi Rd, Karla, Maharashtra 410405
Timings: 24*7
6. Mumbadevi Temple
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If you are in the bustling city of Mumbai, visiting the Mumbadevi Temple is an absolute must. It is one of the oldest temples in Mumbai and due to its location in Mumbai, that’s where the name comes from. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mumbadevi, the city’s guardian deity. Though the temple is not grand in size or architecture, it holds significant cultural and religious importance. One of the unique highlights of this temple is that the Goddess’ idol doesn’t have a mouth, further symbolising her silent yet powerful presence in the lives of her devotees. The temple is usually frequented the most by the devotees during Navratri and Diwali too.
Location: 45/47, Dhanji St, Mumbadevi Area, Kalbadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400003
Timings: 6:30 AM – 8:45 PM
7. Shree Devi Yogeshwari Temple
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Another one of the must-visit devi temples in Maharashtra is the Shree Devi Yogeshwari Temple in Ambajogai. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Yogeshwari, who is an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The idol of the goddess is considered to be highly powerful, and devotees believe that a visit here can cure ailments and bring peace to troubled souls. Furthermore, there is a lot of folklore that suggests the temple’s connection to Maharashtra’s cultural fabric. You can visit the temple during Navratri, which is considered the highlight time to visit.
Location: Mandi Bazaar, Ambajogai, Maharashtra 431517
Timings: 5:30 AM – 10 PM
8. Shree Vajreshwari Yogini Devi Temple
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Roughly 71 km from Mumbai, Shree Vajreshwari Yogini Devi Temple is another one of the devi temples you can’t miss out on. One of the main highlights of this temple lies in its Maratha architecture. Also, the inner sanctum inside the temple has six idols. Among them, the saffron-coloured idol is that of Vajreshwari Yogini Maa, who is the presiding deity. The temple has historical significance as it was built by the Marathas after the Bassein battle. Also, the area surrounding the temple is quite picturesque. There are hot springs nearby that have healing properties, further attracting devotees.
Location: Vajreshwari Rd, Vajreshwari, Maharashtra 401204
Timings: 5:30 AM – 9 PM
9. Kalubai Devi Temple
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Located on top of the Mandhardevi hill, Kalubai Devi Temple is also a popular devi temple in Maharashtra that you can visit to seek blessings. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kalubai, a form of Goddess Durga. The trek to the temple is challenging but rewarding, as devotees believe that Kalubai grants wishes and protects them from evil. There is an annual fair held in January, which attracts thousands of devotees as well. Since the temple is located on top of a hill, the views and the serenity that you get to witness from the top are truly breathtaking.
Location: Katraj – Kondhwa Road, Narhe Gaon Road, Narhe Ambegaon Rd, Mokarwadi, Pune, Maharashtra 411046
Timings: 5:30 AM – 7 PM
10. Shree Bhavani Mata Temple
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Last but not least is the Shree Bhavani Mata Temple in Pune. The temple is dedicated to Maa Bhavani, who is another form of Goddess Durga. The temple is located centrally in the main city, making it an easily accessible temple. Also, it is said that people who are struggling with a hard time and want to bring some peace and success to their lives often visit the temple. Offering your prayers to the Goddess often brings you out of challenges. You will find numerous local shops at the entrance of the temple from where you can find all the pooja essentials.
Location: 826, Mahatma Phule Rasta, New Nana Peth, Bhawani Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411002
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 10 PM
Devi temples in Maharashtra are centres of devotion and spirituality. The next time you are exploring the state, spend a few days visiting the renowned and powerful devi temples to seek blessings from the presiding deities. Each temple offers a profound spiritual experience that is both enriching and memorable. So, plan your trip to Maharashtra with TripXL to immerse yourself in one of the most rewarding religious experiences.
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