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If there’s one thing Maharashtra doesn’t fall short of, it is its history and religious significance. There are a plethora of spiritual and religious destinations in the state, each catering to different faiths of the locals and the tourists. Among them, one of the oldest and most visited temples in Maharashtra is the Mahabaleshwar Temple. If you’re a devout pilgrim or a history enthusiast, the temple promises a holistic experience. As you are curating the travel plans for Maharashtra next, ensure that you don’t fall short of including the popular temple in your itinerary.
Quick Details
Mahabaleshwar Temple Address: Old Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra 412806
Mahabaleshwar Temple Timings: 6 AM – 8:30 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Wathar Railway Station
Major Attractions: Spiritual significance, serene environment, historical importance
About
Photo: POOJAN THANEKAR / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Also known as the Mahabali or Shri Mahabaleshwar Mandir, is one of the most popular Shiva temples in the state. The origins of this temple date back to the 16th century wherein it was built by the Chanda Dynasty. The temple reflects the unique Hemadant architectural style wherein you can witness the towering peaks and the intricate carvings all over the walls of the temple. Devotees visit this temple from across the country, offering their prayers to the sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. The Shivalinga is housed within a deep underground sanctum (garbhagriha) that radiates a mystical ambience.
How To Reach
Photo: Phoenixhit / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: You’d have to land at Pune International Airport and then take a taxi from outside the airport to get to Mahabaleshwar where the temple resides. The journey by road from Pune takes about 3-4 hours through scenic routes.
By Rail: One of the closest railway stations from Mahabaleshwar is Wathar Railway Station, which is roughly 60 km away. Outside the station, you will find numerous taxis and public buses that will take you to Mahalabeshwar from where the temple is within walking distance.
By Road: Mahabaleshwar is easily accessible by road, especially from all the nearby cities like Pune and Mumbai. Regular Maharashtra State Transport buses and private buses run from these cities to Mahabaleshwar. For a comfortable journey, you can hire a taxi or drive yourself.
Things To Do
1. Seek Blessings At The Mahabaleshwar Temple
Photo: Krishsa / Wikimedia Commons
To kick things off, you can start by seeking blessings at the temple, from the Shiva Lingam that’s housed inside the primary shrine. The Swayambhu Shivalinga is the primary deity of the temple, believed to be over 5000 years old. You can participate in the daily Aarti and offer prayers. The temple has a unique spiritual energy, especially during Mahashivratri and other significant Hindu festivals, when special rituals and celebrations are conducted. Since the temple is so popular, you might have to stand in long queues and wait for your turn for the darshan and pooja.
2. Explore The Temple Complex
Photo: Chinmayee Mishra / Wikimedia Commons
Not just the actual shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, you can also take your time to explore the temple complex and the surroundings. The stone structure and the carvings on the temple happen to be a major attraction among tourists. Unlike a lot of the other bigger Shiva temples in Maharashtra, this one isn’t as big. However, you do get to explore the complex leisurely and find out more details about what has gone into the construction of the temple.
3. Enjoy A Scenic Boat Ride At Venna Lake
Photo: Nitin Bhagwate / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This is not an activity you do directly inside the temple but the adjoining Venna Lake is a major attraction among the tourists. So, after you finish your darshan and pooja inside the temple, you can take your time to step out and enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Venna Lake nearby. You can rent paddle boats or rowboats since there are numerous different options available for tourists.
Places To Visit Around Mahabaleshwar Temple
1. Panchganga Temple
Photo: Sharvarism / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Old Mahabaleshwar, Panchganga Temple is one of the main attractions to visit from the temple. Panchganga Temple is a vital religious site dedicated to the five holy rivers: Krishna, Koyna, Venna, Savitri, and Gayatri. One of the main attractions of this temple is its intricate stone sculpture, carvings and architecture. The temple is renowned for its unique feature—a cow’s mouth-shaped spout from which water flows, believed to be the origin of the five rivers.
Distance From Mahabaleshwar Temple: 300 m
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
2. Krishnabai Temple
Photo: Karthik Easvur / Wikimedia Commons
To continue your religious tour, head to Krishnabai Temple, which is a short distance from the temple. This temple is dedicated to River Krishna, which is believed to have originated here. The temple’s architectural design features captivating stone carvings and sculptures. The temple houses a unique stone spout that releases water, marking the origin of the Krishna River. The site also offers stunning views of the Krishna Valley and the surrounding landscape, adding to the charm of the visit.
Distance From Mahabaleshwar Temple: 37.4 km
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
3. Pratapgad Fort
Photo: Shivajidesai29 / Wikimedia Commons
Pratapgad Fort is a historical fort in Mahabaleshwar that attracts all the history buffs. The fort was built in 1656 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and played a significant role during the Maratha Empire. The fort is famous for the Battle of Pratapgad, fought between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan. Inside the fort lies the shrine of Bhawani Mata, adding to the religious significance of the place as well. You can trek to the fort if you are in the mood for some adventure.
Distance From Mahabaleshwar Temple: 25.4 Km
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Engin Akyurt / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Given how popular a tourist destination Mahabaleshwar is, there is no shortage of places where you can book your stay in. Some of the most popular hotels include Berry Hill Resort, C.P. Cottage, Hotel Silver Inn and Hotel Rahil International.
Where To Eat
Photo: SwingingUvula / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Be it a café or a proper restaurant, there are numerous options near and around the temple. You can indulge in the local strawberries too that the hill station is renowned for. Some of the must-visit restaurants around are Evershine Café, Cafe Peter Mahabaleshwar and Mad Smokehouse.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Thought Catalog / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the temple and nearby attractions require a bit of walking.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowd in the temple.
- Carry water and snacks if you plan to visit multiple locations in a day.
- Check the weather beforehand, as Mahabaleshwar can get misty and rainy, especially during the monsoon.
- Photography is allowed at most points but always check local guidelines.
Mahabaleshwar Temple stands out with its deep-rooted history and spiritual significance. Not only do you get to offer your prayers to Lord Shiva, but you also get to witness the scenic surroundings. Simply basking in the tranquillity of the temple is enough to bring you mental peace and the blend of nature too. Plan a trip with TripXL and even explore the beauty of Mahabaleshwar while you are at it.
Cover Photo: arun sambhu mishra / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
