Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Kolhapur: a weekend gateway from Pune. I wanted to share my experience to help others plan their trip to this beautiful destination.
About Kolhapur
Kolhapur is a city located on the banks of the Panchganga River in the southern part of Maharashtra. It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and unique food culture, including the famous Kolhapuri cuisine. The city is often referred to as “Dakshin Kashi” or “Mahateerth” due to its spiritual significance. Kolhapur is also famous for its handcrafted and braided leather slippers known as Kolhapuri chappal.
How I Traveled
I started my journey from Pune on a Saturday morning, boarding a train at 4 AM. The train ride was comfortable, and I reached Kolhapur by 12:30 PM. Kolhapur is well-connected by road and air as well, making it easily accessible.
Exploring Kolhapur
After arriving in Kolhapur, I checked into a hotel near the railway station. Once we freshened up, we began our exploration by hiring a two-wheeler. Our first stop was the Jyotiba Temple, a serene and spiritual place. From there, we headed to the Panhala Fort, where we spent some leisure time and enjoyed snacks.
Next, we visited Rankala Lake, a popular spot for street food and relaxation. The lake area also offers various activities for kids, including play areas and gardens. After enjoying the lake, we tried the famous Rajabhau Bhel and then visited the Mahalaxmi Temple, a significant Shaktipeeth.
Near the temple, we indulged in some shopping, particularly for Kolhapuri footwear. After a delightful dinner, we returned to our hotel for the night.
Day Two Adventures
The next morning, we revisited the Mahalaxmi Temple and had breakfast near Bhavani Mandap, savoring local delicacies like Appe and Thalipeeth. Our next destination was the New Palace, a historical site worth exploring.
For lunch, we couldn’t miss the famous Shiva Misal. Kolhapur is renowned for its non-vegetarian cuisine, but being a pure vegetarian family, we didn’t try it and thus can’t recommend any specific dishes.
About Mahalaxmi Temple
The Mahalaxmi Temple, also known as Ambabai Temple, is one of the most important Hindu temples dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi. It is one of the three and a half Shakti Peethas listed in various puranas of Hinduism. The temple was built in the 7th century by Karnadeva of the Chalukya Empire and is known for its Hemadpanti architecture. The deity, Goddess Mahalaxmi, is worshipped as the Supreme Mother and is believed to grant salvation or fulfill desires. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site and attracts devotees from all over the country.
About New Palace
The New Palace in Kolhapur is a magnificent structure built between 1877 and 1884. It is an excellent example of Indian architecture, constructed in black polished stone. The palace features extensive premises with a garden, fountain, and wrestling ground. The building is eight-angled with a central tower, and the clock on it was fixed in 1877. The ground floor of the palace houses the Shahaji Chhatrapati Museum, which showcases memorabilia of the Kolhapur rulers, including costumes, weapons, games, jewelry, and more. The museum also has a collection of stuffed animals hunted by the royal family, such as tigers, lions, and bears. The New Palace remains the residence of Shahu, the direct descendant of Shivaji.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Kolhapur is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing.
- Local Transport: Hiring a two-wheeler is a convenient way to explore the city. Alternatively, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available.
- Dress Modestly: When visiting temples and other religious sites, it’s important to dress modestly and respectfully.
- Try Local Delicacies: Don’t miss out on trying local snacks like Rajabhau Bhel and Shiva Misal. If you’re a non-vegetarian, Kolhapur is famous for its spicy non-vegetarian dishes.
- Shopping: Kolhapur is known for its Kolhapuri chappals and other leather goods. Make sure to visit the local markets for some shopping.
- Include Kaneri Math: If you have some extra time, consider including Kaneri Math in your itinerary. It’s a beautiful and serene place worth visiting.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
Conclusion
After a fulfilling lunch, we boarded a bus from Kolhapur at 3 PM and reached Pune by night. This trip was a perfect blend of spirituality, history, and culinary delights. I hope my experience helps you plan your journey to Kolhapur.
Few more pics
