<div>The 77-year old Toy Train in Matheran is a sheer enchantment to take a ride on! The oldfangled Toy Train in Matheran is Matheran`s best bet that posits the visitors under the shady greens of the serene and unpolluted hill station of Maharashtra. It is from the window of the toy train that one can lap up bonnie of Matheran.<br></div><div><br></div><div><b>Matheran-Neral Toy Train</b> is one of the four historic toy trains functioning in India since the age of Raj rule. This Matheran Toy Train runs from the Neral to Matheran wrapping up the journey of 20 km uphill. The Toy Train`s acclivity begins at a little further to Harder Hills followed by Jamnapatti station - where the scene appears to be of the horizon with road and rail almost come together. A 90-minutes to train journey is through the clump of visual delight, greenery and fresh air 2,636 ft above the ground. Winding its way through the zig-zag mountain creases the toy train at Matheran lets many charms and enchantment of the hill station. As the trains take up curls and curves amidst the valley, the scenery changes from grassy sides to shady to tree-blanketed hills. And, before you occupy your senses in the fast-changing reel of sceneries, the coming on and off the food vendors selling their range of snacks, the children who hop board the train - while it is still moving- tells you how slow-paced the train is. Interestingly, when the train passes through the horse-shoe embankment, located near Mount Barry, the picture grips the eyes because of its beatification leashed here. This route runs for another one mile before it merges into “one kiss tunnel” on the way. Thereafter, the train crosses the Panorama Point and the Simpson Tank to reach straight to the Matheran Bazaar.</div><div><br></div><div>Matheran also presents the delight of having a ride on four identical toy trains that ply on the same route. These are toy trains that are cozy, small trains with the capacity to adjust 100 people. However, a relatively comfortable journey can be booked in advance in the first-class apartments.<br></div><div><br></div><div>The Matheran Toy Train leaves Neral in the mornings at 7.30 a.m, 8.50 a.m. and 10.15 a.m. There`s also an afternoon departure at 5 pm. From Neral the train departs to Matheran at 7 am., 9.45 am, 1.40 pm., 2.45 pm. and 4.25 pm.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Kiomoi quick tips:</b> The train timing is a subject to change and must be cross-checked with the railway sites/authorities. It is advisable to book the train in advance as the train fills up fast. The station code for Neral is NRL, and Matheran MAE. Keep in mind that there`s also a place near Mumbai called Nerul, so don`t get the two confused!</div><div><br></div><div>Toy Train Route - Neral - Hardar Hill - Jammapatti Station - Bhekra Station - Mount Barry- Panorama Point - Simpson Point - Matheran Bazaar.</div>

<div>Pandharpur is located in Maharashtra and many devotees of Lord Vitthal visit this sanctum every day and on some special occasions. Legend has that <b>Lord Vithal</b> once visited Pundalik, an ardent devotee of Vitthal. However, Pundalik was busy serving his parents. As Pundalik was busy, he threw a brick that was handy in that direction of his divine visitor. He asked him to stand on the brick. Later Pundalik forgot all about his visitor and remained absorbed in his own work. Veet in Marathi means brick and that is how the word Vitthal came into existence. Vitthal would not leave without his permission and thus has been standing on the brick ever since. The river Bhima gets the name Chandrabagha as the Moon God, Chandra, once bathed in its waters to get rid of his sins. This river is also called so because of its crescent shape here. <b>The Vitthal Temple</b>, said to be two million years old, has a scripture that dates back to 1195. Devotees rub their back in the belief that they will be exempted from 84 lakhs births. The roof and the stone pillars of the Vitthal temple have exquisite carvings. The main entrance is known as the Mahadwar. The Shrine of <b>Saint Namdeo</b>, Lord Vitthal’s ardent devotee has his shrine on the first step of the entrance. This is called as Namdeo Payari(step). To pay tribute to Namdeo’s saintly devotion, it is a custom not to touch it with the one’s feet, but to worship it. The newly constructed Darshan Mandap, opposite the main temple entrance, can accommodate 80,000 devotees during the Vari (procession). Inside the temple, there is another huge hall known as the Solkhambi Mandap. It is an imposing 16 pillared stone structure, constructed in 1802. All the pillars have exquisite carvings, while the inner one is known as Garuda Khamb, and has been working in Silver.</div><div><br></div><div>As per tradition, embrace this pillar before praying to the lord. This temple is said to be about 2,000 years old and is better kept. The minute devotees enter the temple, they are pursued by Pujaris to part with money and perform pujas, a test of one’s nerves. But the black sandstone idol of Lord Vitthal and Rukmini are truly enchanting. During the Vari, the temple remains open for 24 hours, for the god is believed to remain awake for his devotees. In fact, after the Vari is over, the temple is washed with water and the idols are given the diet of spices and sugar and a new set of clothes since they are said to be tired after a hectic day! During Navaratri and Dussehra, the deities are adorned with new clothes. Both <b>Vitthal and Rukmini</b> have an exquisite array of jewelry that includes gold, pearls, and the Navratnas. There is a warm water spring outside the temple and people wash their feet in it before entering it. Outside the temple, there is a small stone boat. It is approximately 3ft by 2ft, too heavy to lift with bare hands. But when put it in water it actually floats. One legend says that Sant Tukaram sang some abhangs, which made it float.</div><div><br></div><div>The timings of the temple are 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM and it remains open for 24 hours during Vari. Take a ferry across the river to Gopalpur, where Lord Krishna used to graze cattle. It is a small centuries-old stone temple. Also on the other bank is the ISCKON temple, a quiet place to pray. An old stone temple to Mhasoba also stands on the opposite of the Chandrabhaga. These temples are about half a kilometer from one another, and the ferry stops at each.</div><div><br></div><div>There are also good numbers of the budget as well as luxury Hotels in Pandharpur which offers excellent accommodation to travelers. Comfort and luxury are assured to make the entire tour simply the most cherished experience. Besides this, the restaurants at Hotel Aishwarya and Hotel shamiana are some of the best-known accommodations amongst the chain of Pandharpur hotels. During some spare time, the travelers can think of visiting other tourist destinations lying a few kilometers from Pandharpur. Pandharpur is definitely the place pulsating with great spiritual energy. The pilgrims who want to get their wishes fulfilled and relieve themselves from all sins must visit the <b>Lord Vitthal Temple</b>. Besides this, the travelers who wish to visit Pandharpur can also avail <i>Pandharpur Tour Packages </i>through an online booking provided by Kiomoi.</div>

<div>You might smack wet your lips when hearing the word ‘Chikki’. Let alone the chimera of hills, dams and nature bounties, Chikki compels you to recall sugar-coated groundnuts that do wonder to your taste buds. A trip to Lonavala is never complete without stuffing bags with few kilos of Chikki — the signature dish of Lonavala. Chomping a bite of Chikki just bought from some seller is not all about the confection. Chikki, the roasted groundnut confection, is available in 30 makes and combo of different recipes across the length and breadth of Lonavala.</div><div><br></div><div>As a new entrant to Lonavala shopping for Chikki needs a good knowledge of the right places to buy from, a sound acquaintance of its varieties, brands, and quality. Giving in to the taste and tact of Chikki sellers is easy than buying the right quality from the right place. A trend among visitors is to get guided by billboards and banner hanging overhead, but these are not a big help rather bombardment of advertisements for the product.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Chikki ingredients and varieties</b></div><div>Before you barge in some shop to lay hands on the emblematic concoction of Lonavala make sure you know all about the dish. Chikki is prepared with jaggery, sugar syrup, groundnuts and cashews (optional). However, this is a basic preparatory method and over the years there developed several varieties cooked with many more ingredients and in several tastes. Unlike jams and jellies tasting Chikki before buying is not so common here, so one will have to depend upon the word of mouth or trusted old shops known to be the masters in the trade. Or, alternatively, make a choice out of preferences suchlike chana, Kesar, Pista, Badam, coconut, rajgira, kurmura, til (linseed), dry fruits and combination of all these. Ginger, honey, mint and peanut crushes are some scrummy innovations that add to the existing choice. Scouting Lonavala further and you are bound you come across fruity avatar of Chikki available in the all-new taste of strawberry, mango, and chocolate. An even newer version for health freaks is the sugar-free Chikkies which are low in calorie count and prepared to serve the non-sugar customers.</div><div><br></div><div>Lonavala has a whole industry that specializes in Chikki but there are specific places where you can get to taste the real Chikki in its purest form. A range of 30-40 brands makes the choice difficult but few trusted quality and tastes that can be bulk-shopped are Maganlal, National and A-1. Well, these do not set rule-of-thumb in the buying business and there are many other makers that promise you even better flavor. Some of the brands that have a history of freshness and taste can be rightly purchased from National, Maganlal, Rupam, Navratna, Mahavir, Raval, Super, Vaishali, Mangal, Panchratna, Coopers, National Chikki Mart.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Chikki that taste</b>...... crisp and not soft is said to better quality. Chikki buffs ask you to mandatorily perform a color check for the chikki; a light brown suggests moderate use of jaggery and a darker tinge is a compromise with taste. Similarly, poor or inexpensive quality misses out dry fruit coatings or layered cake that adds to the taste of concoctions. Beware of the old stuff that smells stale and impure. The minimum price bids at Rs 80 per kg to Rs 200. Bargaining is not that big an option but taste is, so discounts are available just on bulk purchases!</div>

<div>The Bhawani temple is the same place where the great warrior Shivaji was given a sword by the goddess Bhawani. Situated in Tuljapur, Maharashtra, a few steps below the hill known as Bala Ghat, in the Central Osmanabad is the Tulja Bhawani Temple. The goddess here is also known as Kulaswamini, the patron deity of Maharashtra. With Shivaji’s many many conquests attributed to her, she has defined the state both geographically and spiritually. It is said that the goddess herself gave the Bhawani Talwar, divine Sword to the great warrior Shivaji. He set forth upon many battles, after having sought the blessings of Ma Bhawani, his favorite deity. From a far distance, the travelers can view the pinnacle of the temple hood shimmering with the golden paint.<br></div><div><br></div><div><b>Architecture and Antiquity</b></div><div>To the left of the entrance 40ft by 16 ft stone tank, is the Kallol Tirth. Bathing in it before sunrise is said to rid the devotee from all the diseases. At the Gomukh Tirth, which is a few steps ahead from the Kallol Tirth, water flows from the stone cow’s head, set at a height of 6ft. Equated to the river ganges, people in huge numbers visit this water pool. On the other side is the Vishnu Tirth. This temple is located on the North Eastern side of the Bhawani temple. It has stone steps and three entrances. It is said that Lord Vishnu blesses the devotee, so that he may get the blessings of the goddess Bhawani. According to the priests taking care of the temple, it is inevitable to do the darshan of Lord Vishnu. The pilgrims who go directly to the goddess temple; are said to left with the incomplete divine tour.</div><div><br></div><div>As the part of the every day ablutions,chickens and goats are offered to the deity Bhawani. A practice that pilgrims may be witness to. Two enticing artifacts generally called as ‘Deepmalas’ had been built in the glory of the wars fought by the royal king Shivaji. It was built by Shivaji as the memorabilia of his triumph against Afzal Khan, which stand on the either side of the homa kund.</div><div><br></div><div>Inside the temple, a stone pillared sabha mandap features images of gods and goddesses. The exquisite idol is adorned with a fine array of jewellery on festive days. The goddess is said to be possessed with eight to nine petya(boxes) of ornaments, where one box equals a kilogram of gold!!One of the necklaces, named tikli, bears the name of Chatrapati Shivaji on each of its gold pieces. A beautiful marble statue of a lion, a bed upon which the goddess rests, her delicately carved silver Simhasan (throne), and a Shivaling are also to be seen in the temple.</div><div><br></div><div>Behind the Bhawani temple is a round stone known as Chintamani . It is believed to help the devotee to take the right decision. To its right is the temple of Matangi, the goddess who slayed the demon Matanga. Uniquely, the shrine is cared for by mahars, members of a Dalit community.</div><div><br></div><div>Shrines of Khandoba, Yamaee Devi and Narsimha are also situated in the temple premises. The Chabina, a special palanquins is painted with the images of animals and other creatures. On this chariot, the idols of deities are carried on the festive occasions and Tuesday, Friday, Sunday and Poornima(full moon day). The procession which starts around 9.30 Pm and goes around the main temple, is witnessed by thousands of devotees. Sindoor and turmeric powder are thrown in the air as the millions of pilgrims chant the name of the goddess.</div>

<div>Discover what paradise can offer amidst azure skies as you move ahead with your laced ones. Trekking to Mahabaleshwar could provide you an eye satiating view of the landscapes and an opportunity to flaunt its wealth in your still or video camera. There are times when travelers go through a miserable situation and they are not able to reach the right place about which they have always dreamt. This could be called a lack of knowledge or the dearth of extensive research due to which tour operators charge extra amount from you and eventually at the end you feel duped.&nbsp;<br></div><div><br></div><div>Similarly, in a stance to Trek from Mahabaleshwar to <i>Pratapgarh</i> which is strategically located in the Western Ghats of <i>Maharashtra</i>, the aspiring travelers can walk on the roadmap which is smartly designed for them. While Trekking from Mahabaleshwar to Makarandgad, the aspiring vacationers could take a jeep or bus which could approximately consume the time frame of 6-7 hours. Dotted 12 to 15 KMS away from the main Mahabaleshwar Hill Station, the vacationers could en route their entire journey commencing, Trekking from Mahabaleshwar to Zolai Khind, Dhidhgaon, Chatubet, Ghonaspur, Makarandgad and at last they could finally reach to Pratapgad. However, while following the trail to Pratapgad, the tourists must book a guide for themselves which could charge an amount ranging from 250 to 1000 rupees.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>While on a long spur to the region, the vacationers can enjoy the mesmerizing spectacle and irresistible charm of Dudhgaon which is genuinely clubbed between the dense cover of the forest and sunbathed Koyna River. Eventually, the trail comes up from the emanating point of Koyna Lake which is entrenched near the dusty lanes of Dabbe village. For a very valid reason, the trekkers who really want to explore the mysticism of the region could cover this distance of few kilometers by walking. But in order to prevent your self from extreme frustration, the enthusiasts could also avail the full advantage of launch service which connects Dabhe to other villages of the region. The blend of culture and natural beauty suffused in the region could steal your heart for a few hours. Additionally, if you are a honeymoon couple then the feeling of romanticism may magnetize your senses and could force you to fall head over heels with your loved ones. Perhaps, aggravated by the series of emotional trance with your partner or family, you can en-route your Trekking from Ghonaspur to Makrangad, from where you can visit Mahadev Temple, uncanny caves and an encounter with Jangam tribe would definitely take you back in the glorious past of the region.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Trekking from Makarandgad to Pratapgad Fort it will take around 1 hour during which you can visit Maruti Temple. From Parapar village followed by the trail to Sondpar village, it will take the time of 30-45 minutes leading you to Afzals Khan’s Tomb. Afzal Khan was a barbaric general of the Mughal Empire who tried to stab Shivaji with an act of evil gambit. But Shivaji with his brisk mind game stashed Afzal Khan by his concealed tiger claws. Supported by the series of events the base of the fort which is 10 minutes away from the village is honored with the bronze statue of Maratha Chief Shiva Ji.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Close to Mahabaleshwar, there is Bhavani Mata Temple which houses an idol of Mahishasur Mardine made from a single ammonite fossil brought by Shivaji from Nepal in the year 1661. While Trekking from Partapgad the vacationers can embrace the tantalizing scenic view of Raigad, Torna, Rajgad and several other destinations. The entire region of Mahabaleshwar-Pratapgad will greet you with chilly winds at night and invigorating climate, strong enough to rejuvenate your tired mind with cosmic energy.</div><div><br></div><div>They're also good numbers of budget, Luxury, as well as Home, Stays in Mahabaleshwar located near the tea gardens provide all the comforts and luxuries at best price tags. The travelers can also avail Mahabaleshwar Tour Packages which include a stay at one of the finest hotels in Mahabaleshwar, a platter of meals and cab service to commute within the precincts of the region.</div>

<div>The Vari (procession) time of the year is back in the monsoons. Asia’s largest <b>pilgrimage</b>, Alandi-<b>Pandharpur Yatra </b>is undertaken by many people in Maharashtra and several parts of India. The Alandi-Pandharpur Yatra is seen to be the most sacrosanct procession with a history as old as eight-sanctuaries. The tradition traces back to Sant Dyaneshwar who founded the Bhagats sect adopted by Sant Namdeo, Sant Tukaram, and Eknath in due course of time. All these Saints contributed immensely to the <b>Varkari tradition</b>. Thus, the Vari is the procession that carries the Padukas, the wooden footwear of the four saints to <b><i>Lord Vitthal’s Temple</i></b> in Pandharpur.</div><div><br></div><div>Every year more than 150 Palkhis (palanquin) commence from southern and western parts of India, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Devouts walk for 10 days to three weeks to two months during the yatras. The concluding date is fixed but there is no fixed date to start the yatra. Varkaris reach Pandharpur on the Ashadi Ekadashi in July.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>The Route</b></div><div>The beginning point for Alandi-Pandharpur Yatra is at Aland. There are fixed halts at Pune, Saswad, Jejuri, Walha, Lonad, Phaltan, Barad, Natepute, Malshiras, Taradgaon, Bhandi-Shegaon, Velapu, Varkhari ( the point where the Palkhis of Sant Dyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram meet), and Pandharpur. The Yatra goes as schedule but there are many schedules that allow days of rest en route. Several stretches of the Yatra allow an easy walk and others are facilitated with comforts to the Varkaris, and still others stretches are ecstatic with chants and abhangs of Sant Dyaneshwar.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>The Varkaris</b></div><div>Taking up the Vari is not that difficult as there are dindis who carry appropriate rations, medical aid and other help in material and kind. The dindis provide food and accommodation on registration of a nominal fee. Aspiring Varkaris can register with Sriharikatha Seva Pratisthan Charitable Trust for any medical aid and assistance. The Pandharpur Vari is just not about the temple and lords. The Vari is a great opportunity to taste local delicacies and Villagers are always keen to know how the Varkaris like their product. All halts have small meals and dance. There are several conquests such as Ringan and Dhava that mark the uniqueness of the Vari tradition. During the Ringan a sacred horse called Maulincha Ashva, who is believed to be the soul of the saint whose idol is being carried in the Palki runs through the rows of pilgrims who try catching the dust particles kicked off and smear their head with the same. Dhava is another kind of race where everyone wins and it is held to commemorate the same way Saint Tukaram caught the view of Pandharpur Temple and started running in sheer exhilaration.</div>

<Count> Pandharpur Tour Packages: Holiday Deals Starting @Rs.<PRICE>

Pandharpur

Mahabaleshwar

Tuljapur

<div><b><i>"The Spiritual Capital of Maharashtra"</i></b></div><div>Pandharpur’s acclamation in several of Holy Scriptures and books of Hindu evidences its piousness and sacredness sought by tens of thousands of devotees daily from several parts of India. Pandharpur’s aura and its serenity make the true ardent swore by its piousness. There is no dearth of hymns, poetry and verses sung in the praise of the great Lord Vithal, the statuette Lord of Pandharpur Temple. Everyday hundreds of boats carry pilgrims to the temple at the Mahadwar Ghat from across the river Bhima. Pandharpur is hallowed with presence of the “Kuladivat” of Maharashtra: Shree Vithoba / Vithal or Panduranga and Rukmini, on the bank of the river. The specialty of the Sabbath to the Pandharpur is the two world’s feeling one gets on the river and across the river. Feel the serenity under the ripples of Bhima water and assay a divine darshan of Sri Vitthal.</div><div><br></div><div>Pandharpur (also spelt as Pandarpur) is located in Solapur, the south-eastern district of Maharashtra, on the banks of river Bhima or Chandrabhaga, the tributary of river Krishna.</div>

Find complete information about pandharpur tourism including attractions, things to do, weather, festivals, how to reach and much more. Don't forget to read this guide before you plan your trip!

Pandharpur Travel Guide, How to Reach, Places to Visit - Kiomoi

<div><b>How to Reach Pandharpur by Airways:</b> Nearest Airport is located near Pune (212 km) and further shuttling is done in taxis and cars (Rs 2500 to Rs 3000).</div><div><br></div><div><b>How to Reach Pandharpur by Train:</b> Pandharpur Railway Station at Kurduwadi located at a distance of 52 km is the nearest railway point but has limited trains, However, Solapur is the best convenient with a broad gauge and more connectivity. Solapur is located 74 km from the town of Pandharpur. The taxi charge is about Rs 1,000.</div><div><br></div><div><b>How to Reach Pandharpur by Road:</b> The National Highway 9 is connected Pandharpur to Solapur. A number of buses ply from Solapur to Pandharpur on an interval of 15 minutes. Similarly, there are buses from Mumbai, Pune, and Dadar.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Driving Directions</b></div><div><b><br></b></div><div>Pandharpur is a century-old sanctum in Maharashtra, dedicated to Lord Vithal. Millions of pilgrims visit Pandharpur and the pilgrimage destinations dotted around it. The Pundalik Temple, Rukmini Temple, Vishnupad temple, and Pandurang temple are the well-known attractions of the region which can be visited by the travelers while on a tour to Pandharpur. The nearest airport to Pandharpur is at Pune which is just 203 km away from this holy city. The travelers who want to travel to other cities in the Pandharpur region can choose Kuruduwadi railhead station. This railhead is 73 Kms away from Pandharpur and can easily be reached by boarding auto-rickshaw, taxi or bus. The state-owned transport buses also provide their services from Pandharpur to other destinations girdling it. NH 9 and NH 13 are the Key links which connect Pandharpur with Mumbai, Pune, Ahmednagar and various regions of Gujarat.</div>

<div><b>Pandharpur Legends and Mythology</b><br></div><div>A popular myth in Pandharpur narrates how Lord Vitthal got the name here. An avatar of supreme Lord Krishna, the god once visited the Pundalik, one of the residents of Pandharpur and a devout Lord Vitthal. When the god visited Pundalik he found his devotee serving his parents wholeheartedly. On hearing his name from the divine visitor Pundalik threw a stone, handy at the time, in the direction of his visitor requesting him to stand on it as he was busy. However, so engrossed was Pundalik that he forgot all about the visitor. Later, when he went out to check he saw that his divine visitor turned into the brick as the Lord wouldn’t have left without the permission of his staunch devotee. The Lord got his name from the Veet, meaning brick in Marathi, on which he stood. Since that time he came to be called Lord Vitthal. Thus, from that day Vitthal stands in the brick on the bank of Chandrabhaga River in Solapur.&nbsp;<br></div><div><br></div><div><b>The Vithal Temple Architecture and Antiquity</b></div><div>The temple structure defies the senescence but the witness to a two millennia-old temple is the scripture that was written in 1195. Exquisite carvings can be seen on the pillars and roofs of the temple. There is another shrine of Saint Namdeo, Lord Vitthal’s ardent devotee. Also, there is a small well called as Namdeo Payari constructed in the name of saint Namdeo. Recently renovated, the temple has a Darshan Mandap, built with the capacity to accommodate 80,000 devotees during the vari (Marathi) or procession. Inside there is another hall known as Solkhambi Mandap, a 16 pillared stone structure, constructed in 1802. All 16 pillars have intricate carvings and the innermost is made of silver. There is a custom among people to embrace the silver pillar before praying to the Lord. There is a total of six gates in the shrine and the eastern entrance is the main entranceway into the temple. Also, a total of 25 temples comprising shrines of famous saints are found in the temple.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>The Vitthal Temple</b></div><div>Temple Timings: 6am-10.45pm</div><div>The age of the temple is said to be more than 2,000 years old. The idol of Rukmini and Vitthal wear a splendid look and it seems that the Lord is staring at you with his consort. On special days such as during Vari (procession) time, the temple remains open throughout day and night. After a month-long procession, the temple is washed with water and the Sri Vitthal and Rukmini idols in the temple are bathed and a new diet of sugars and spices are offered along with a whole new set of clothes since it is believed that the lords get tired of the busy days. As a custom, one has to offer earnest orison to the Lord at ‘Pad Sparsh Darshan’, which is bowing and touching the feet of the Lord Vitthal. Irrespective of caste any devotee can enter the sanctum sanctorum and can place his/ her head at the feet of Vitthal. Pilgrims can participate in the Kakad Aarti (early morning puja), Mahapuja (Mega worship), Mahanaivedya (offering food to god), Poshak (offering of clothes to the lord) that are performed regularly.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Pundalik Temple</b></div><div>Timings: 4am-7pm</div><div>This temple is dedicated to Vitthal’s devotee Pundalik and the temple is managed by the fisher folks who live by the side of the sea. Devotees wash their feet at the warm water spring Outside the temple is a small stone boat 2-3 ft long and extremely heavy to lift. Miraculously, back in the days of yore, an abhang (a couplet sung in the praise of Lord) from Saint Tukaram made the boat afloat in water one evening. Additionally, a ferry across the river takes you to Gopalpur which is supposed to be the cattle grazing ground where Lord Krishna took his cows to. A small old dilapidated mandir here stands to evidence the fact. Adjacent to these temples is situated the ISKCON temple, a quiet place to pray, and Mhasoba Temple.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Vishnupad</b></div><div>Vishnupad is a rock in the center of the Chandrabhaga River and nearing this pious rock one gets a beautiful view of the river. It is also the best place to click a few snaps.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Alandi Pandharpur Yatra</b></div><div>Every year more than two lakhs of people set on to vari, the word which means something which should be done again and again, to Pandharpur to get the blessing of their Lord Vitthal.</div><div><br></div><div>Every year more than two lakhs of people set on to vari, the word which means something which should be done again and again, to Pandharpur to get the blessing of their Lord Vitthal.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Nearby places and excursions:&nbsp;</b></div><div><b><br></b></div><div><div><b>Tuljapur: </b>the abode of holiest of the holy goddess Kulaswamini, is a consecrated pilgrim center in Maharashtra, almost 430 km to the South East of Mumbai. Tuljapur Kulswamini is the patron deity of Maharashtra and there are tales of Goddess’s miraculous blessing on Shiva ji, the great Maratha who attributed his many conquests to his kul devi (patron god). The holy temple of Maa Bhavani appeals in many ways and one of which is its turmeric and vermillion tinged exuberant carvings on the temple top. Inside the precincts, the goddess welcomes one in the same searing gaze and ferocity as she blessed Shivaji with a divine sword. Revered by many, the Tulja Bhavani Mandir is thronged by more than 10,000 devotees on a daily basis in its prangan (common area).&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Kolhapur</b></div><div>On the banks of Panchganga River, Kolhapur is home to the famous Mahalaxmi Temple, New Palace, Kolhapuri Chappal, Kolhapuri Lavang Mirchi, Kolhapuri Gur (Jaggery) and delicious cuisines. A fusion of religiosity and modernity, Kolhapur is the seat of Shakti — the giver of power. As the holy puranas state, Kolhapur is throne of Mahalaxmi, the giver of wealth and prosperity. Thousands of pilgrims visit the goddess to receive her divine blessings.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Solapur</b></div><div>A small, quiet town in the heart of Maharashtra, Solapur holds melange of several cultures beside its tourist attraction. The fourth largest district in Maharashtra, Solapur is popular for its small, medium scale industries and bedding accessories. Solapur is also a pilgrimage of Sri Siddeshwara Temple where a huge procession is carried out during the Makar Sankranti attended by millions of devotees. Some important tourists draw at Solapur are Markandeya Temple, Balaji Temple, Rupabhavani Temple, Nagareshwar Temple, Temple of Lord Siddharameshwar, Hipparga Lake - a scenic nature area, Kambar Lake, newly named as Sambhaji lake, IndraBhavan - Solapur Corporation building, Bhui-Kot Castle - castle of 15th century and under the Bahamani period and Hutatma Garden.</div><div><br></div></div>

<div><b>Festivals: </b>Pandharpur Vithoba Shrine of Lord Krishna is a godly place where numbers of festivals are observed every month and year to pay reverence to the Lord. Ekadashi and Palkhi are two major festivals of the Pandharpur shrine that are observed weekly and annually.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Palki Procession: </b>At Pandharpur Temple, every Wednesdays is regarded as the most auspicious day in the Week after ekadashis, often the most auspicious couplet days in the month according to the Hindu calendar. Pandharpur Temple hosts four important religious yatras in a year. Out of these four Yatras, the three Aashadi Yatra, Kartiki Yatra, Magh and Chaitra Ekadashi’s are processional festivals celebrated annually. Aashadi and Chaitra Yatra are more popular with the crowd and are attended by more than 8 to 10 lac people. Pandharpur Palki festival is celebrated in full pomp and gaiety accompanied by small and big palanquins of renowned saints of India. The colourfully ornate palanquins are first gathered at Wakhri, 5 km before Pandharpur. After Wakhri, pilgrims take bath in the river water of Bhima and proceed to have a darshan of Lord Vitthal.</div><div>A 1000-year-old tradition, Palki Festival commences in the month of Jyestha of Hindu calendar. Preparations for the festival start a month before the date of Palki Festival when Palanquins are constructed in beautiful wooden frameworks and painted in various shades. Before carrying out the procession, the idols of Saint Dyaneshwar and Tukaram are kept inside the palanquin. The procession euphoria along with the temple lasts for 3 weeks. Over more than sixty Palkhis from all over the Maharashtra gather at Wakhri to participate in the Pandharpur procession. The Palanquins of Dnyaneshvar sets out from Alandi while that of Tukaram from Dehu, of Nivrittinath from Tryambakeshwar, and of Ekanath from Paithan. All the Palkhis reach to Pandharpur during the 2st half of the 11th day in the Hindu month of Aasadh. The final day of the Palki is ever most enchanting wherea union of all pilgrims hallow the air with the chants of Jai Vithoba Jai Rukmini!</div>

<div>Pandharpur witnesses different types of weather conditions. Summers, monsoons and winters are the three seasons of this region. More details on weather conditions of Pandharpur are as follows:<br></div><div><br></div><div><b>Summers:</b> The Summers in Pandharpur are hot. The temperature during this season ranges from 31 degree Celsius to 40 degree Celsius. March to June are the hottest summer months of the season. The travelers can avoid going to this place during this season.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Monsoon:</b> During the monsoons, the entire region gets draped in the lush green beauty. Pandharpur receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. July to September are the three months when the travelers can plan to arrange the short trips.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Winter: </b>Winter season is the most appropriate time to visit the Pandharpur region. October to February are the 5 months best suited to visit this holy place. The temperature in the winter season range from 25 degree to minimum 15 degree Celsius.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Quick Useful Facts</b></div><div><b><br></b></div><div><b>State: </b>Maharashtra</div><div><br></div><div><b>Important temples</b>: Vittthal and Rukmini Temple, Vishunupad Temple.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Location:</b> In Solapur in South-Eastern Maharashtra, Pandharpur is situated by the banks of the vast Bhima, a tributary of the River Krishna.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Distances:</b> 212Km SE of Pune, 366 Kms of SE of Mumbai, 74 Km W of Solapur.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Route from Mumbai:</b> Mumbai-Pune Expressway to Pune; NH9 to Shetfal via Indapur; district road to Pandharpur Via Ashti</div><div><br></div><div><b>Where to go: </b>Any time of the year. If you wish to witness the tumultuous vari, then June to July is the best time to go, Fro a more peaceful darshan any other time is fine. The Chandrabagha is at its beautiful best soon after the monsoon.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Where to Eat:</b> Pandharpur has small eateries without much to recommend. The restaurants at Hotel Aishwarya and hotel Shamiana serve South Indian and Chinese food.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Where to Stay:</b> Hotel Aishwarya, Hotel Shamiana Bhakta Niwas , Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan and Mangal Niketan are the accommodations which the travelers can be availed by the travelers according to their budget.</div>

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