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If you are in Raigad, Maharashtra, a visit down to the Harihareshwar Temple is one of the most important activities for you to indulge in. Being one of the most powerful Shiva temples in the region, it is of prime religious significance. The temple is also known as “Dakshin Kashi”, or the Kashi of the South. Offering a blend of spiritual significance and scenic surroundings, the experiences that you get to immerse yourself in are truly one-of-a-kind. So, the next time you plan your getaway to Maharashtra, consider spending a few hours at the temple, located along the Konkan Coast.
Quick Details
Harihareshwar Temple Address: X2VF+F23, Harihareshwar, Maharashtra 402110
Harihareshwar Temple Timings: 06:00 AM to 08:00 PM
Deity: Lord Shiva
Entry Fees: N/A
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
Nearest Railway Station: Mangaon
About
Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The temple in Maharashtra holds a lot of significance, especially if you are interested in unfolding details about Hindu mythology. It is a significant pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva looking for some peace and prosperity in their lives. The temple complex is situated between four hills: Harihareshwar, Harshinachal, Bramhadri, and Pushpadri, making it a pretty tranquil retreat that is surrounded by natural beauty all around. The temple’s architecture in itself is pretty alluring, blending traditional Konkan designs with elements of ancient Indian temple architecture.
How To Reach
Photo: Randy Breese / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: If you are considering taking a flight, Pune International Airport is your nearest airport to the temple. You’d have to get a taxi or a public bus service to reach Harihareshwar from where the temple is within walking distance.
By Rail: Mangaon is the nearest railway station. From Mangaon, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
By Road: Harihareshwar is quite easily accessible via roads from nearby cities like Mumbai, Pune and Mahad. You can choose to either drive to the temple, hire a taxi or you can choose the public buses if you are on a budget.
Things To Do
1. Explore The Harihareshwar Temple Complex
Photo: ScaryJoker / Wikimedia Commons
Since the temple is such a popular pilgrimage site, the first thing you need to do is take your time to explore the temple complex. The temple complex, featuring both the main shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and a smaller shrine for Kalbhairav is an architectural marvel. The calm and spiritual ambience within the complex is enhanced by the ancient stone carvings that adorn the temple walls, narrating mythological tales from Hindu epics.
2. Visit Ganesh Gully
Photo: Sanjib Samanta / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Another one of the activities that are a must-do when you are visiting the temple is visiting the nearby Ganesh Gully. This is a narrow passage between two gigantic rock formations leading to the sea. This gully is about 3 feet wide and stretches towards the sea. What makes Ganesh Gully fascinating is the local legend associated with it. It is believed that during low tide, a submerged idol of Lord Ganesha becomes visible in the water.
3. Undertake The Pradakshina Around The Temple
Photo: Pramod jois / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Hindu rituals depict that taking pradakshina around the temple or walking around the temple’s perimeter is considered to be an auspicious activity. Unlike other temples, the pradakshina around the temple takes you through an adventurous trail, adding to the religious experience. The Pradakshina route, often called the Parikrama Path, is carved along the rocky terrain of the adjacent hills and offers stunning panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscapes.
Places To Visit Around Harihareshwar Temple
1. Diveagar Beach
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Starting with Diveagar Beach, which is one of the most beautiful yet offbeat beach locations in Maharashtra, not infiltrated by excess crowds. The beach is also famous for its historical significance, as it once housed the Suvarna Ganesh, a pure gold idol of Lord Ganesha, discovered by a local family Although the idol has been moved for security reasons, the Suvarna Ganesh Temple still attracts devotees. You can also indulge in numerous water sports and activities.
Distance From Harihareshwar Temple: 37.7 km
Timings: 24*7
2. Shrivardhan Beach
Photo: Camille Minouflet / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Another beach that is a must-visit from the temple is the Shrivardhan Beach. Known for its clean, shallow waters, Shrivardhan Beach is ideal for swimming and family outings. The surroundings of the beach feature palm trees and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Also, compared to the other beaches, Shrivardhan Beach is less crowded, offering a peaceful atmosphere for tourists to explore the beach at their convenience.
Distance From Harihareshwar Temple: 21.4 km
Timings: 24*7
3. Bankot Fort
Photo: Glasreifen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Also known as Himmatgad, Bankot Fort is another one of the historical forts that you have to add to your travel plans next. It is a 16th-century fort that has seen control by various rulers, including the Portuguese, Marathas, and the British. The fort holds significant historical value, as it was the first possession of the Maratha Empire under the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Distance From Harihareshwar Temple: 10.9 km
Timings: 24*7
Where To Stay
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When you are planning to spend a few days exploring the temple and the nearby tourist attractions, there are several hotels worth booking your stay in. Some of the highly-rated options include MTDC Resort, Harihareshwar Shriya Agro Tourism, Samarth Holiday Home, and Harihareshwar Omshree Family Homestay.
Where To Eat
Photo: Sarabpreet Singh Bahi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Be it Konkani cuisine or traditional Marathi cuisine, there are numerous local eateries around the temple serving some amazing food to the visitors. A few of the popular food joints you should check out are Ashokvan Pure Veg, Mtdc Sea View Restaurant and Guru Gita.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- The best time to visit Harihareshwar is during the winter months to beat the heat and have a comfortable time exploring.
- Carry comfortable clothing and footwear, as you may need to walk a lot.
- Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Be mindful of the temple’s rules and regulations.
- Taking Harihareshwar Temple photos from the outside is allowed but not inside the temple complex.
Harihareshwar Temple is one of the least explored yet must-visit destinations the next time you are in Maharashtra. The simplicity and charm of this place deserve for you to spend a few hours exploring it in and out. You can seek blessings from Lord Shiva to bring prosperity into your life as well. Plan a trip with TripXL, make sure you don’t forget to add this temple to the list.
Cover Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
