Pandharpur Temple things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Basic Info
Pandharpur Temple
M8HP+42J, Chouphala, Pandharpur, Maharashtra 413304, India
4.7(453)
Open until 12:00 AM
Save
spot
spot
Ratings & Description
Info
Cultural
Family friendly
Accessibility
attractions: Shree Vitthal Rukmini temple , Pandharpur, Shri Sant Gajanan Maharaj Mandir, Shree Pundalik Mandir, Tanpure Maharaj Math, restaurants: Shree Rajbhog Veg Thali Restaurant & Dining Hall, MAHAJAN FOODS, Hotel Savera, Stavya Nasta Centre स्तव्य नाष्टा सेंटर, Hotel Renuka Bhojanalaya, Hotel sadguru sakharam, Parbramha Pure Veg, Aasra Family Restaurant, Pandharpur, Hotel pandharinath, Shree Krishna Bhojnalay
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AI.Open hoursSee all hours
SatOpen 24 hoursOpen
Plan your stay
&promo_pic=/hotel-sample/coolest.webp)
Posts
Vyjayanthi RajanVyjayanthi Rajan
Pandharpur and kholapur
On the 22nd of April 2012 five of us four adults and a child left by car from Pune to Pandharpur.. We left Pune at about 8.30 A.M.The distance from Pune to Pandharpur is 206 kms and it took us three hours to reach there. Sugarcane was just harvested and we could see carts, lorries loaded with piles and piles of the sweet plant.
We located Gajanan maharaj’s ashram and the men went to book rooms while we waited. They finally came and after parking the car we went to our rooms-AC rooms with attached baths and a balcony with a view. The cost Rs.700 per room. The rooms were neat and clean so also the toilets.After having our packed lunch went to have darshan of Panduranga and Rakmai. We located the Eastern door.
The first step was called Namdev chi payari or the step of Namdev which was reminiscent of our Kulasekhara padi. At the entrance was a blue tent like structure which was the samadhi of Chokamela a devotee of Panduranga. Even today thousands of warkaris whose mantra is RamakrishnaHari walk from Dehu Road and Alandi to Pandharpur for Ashada ekadasi..
As we stood in the line we remembered how the Lord and His consort came to Pandharpur and accepted the bricks given as asanams. Pundalika and his wife did not respect their parents and treated them with contempt. Pundalika repented and started treating his parents affectionately and respectfully. So much involved was he in serving them that when Krishna and Rukmini came in person to see them Pundalika did not stop serving his parents and threw bricks for the divine couple. Happily the Divya Dampathis accepted the asanam offered and in order to balance themselves placed their hands on their hips. This is the pose we find Them. We were lucky there was not much of a crowd. The devotees moved in a queue and we were awestruck by the sight of Panduranga with His Makara kundala and Peethambharam. We felt elated to touch His divine feet. After offering coconuts we went to have darshan of Rukmini or Rukma bai. Again we got to touch the feet of Mahalakshmi. Satisfied we went out and looked around. Ladoo Prasad was sold at a counter and after buying some we went back to our room. After some rest we took a tonga-ride (horse-cart) to the Chandrabhagha river. Since it was peak summer the water was little and muddy so we traced our steps back and visited Dwarkadeesh temple on the banks of the river. This temple resembled a palace and was built by the Rajput kings of yore. After worship we went to the shops and had lassi and bought some brass kujas (these are useful for carrying perumal theertham for those at home) for gifting. Then we went to have ‘Mukh darshan’ of Panduranga. This entrance took us through staircases and we finally reached Panduranga and Rakmabai. We bent our heads at their feet and made our way out. We went to bed early with the plan to leave for Kolhapur as soon as we could. Morning after bath and prayers we visited the Gajanan temple and had photo sessions at the place. There was a beautiful statue of Radha Krishna and we had photos taken there.
We left Pandharpur after breakfast. We reached there in about two hours and went searching for the Mahalakshmi temple. Kolhapur is the place where Mahalakshmi did Tapas when she came to earth angered by Bhrigu Maharisi kicking Vishnu on His chest which was Her permanent residence. Brighu Maharishi wanted to establish The Absolute God and tested Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. Since Vishnu was not angered even when He got kicked on His chest-the abode of Sri, Brighu concluded that He alone was worthy of worship. Though temples for Vishnu started coming up Mahalakshmi was angered and came to Kolhapur to meditate. Just a slide glance of Mahalakshmi confers all auspiciousness and wealth people throng to get Her Kataksha. After offering flowers and kumkum we came out and shopped for Laksmi pictures for friends in different sizes. But what took a longer time was the shopping for Tushi jewellery. It was then time to leave. We left the place after lunch and reached Pune by 6.00p.m.
Umesh RaneUmesh Rane
One memoreble tour with my family, and I embarked on a deeply devotional and spiritual journey to Pandharpur. Recognized as one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra, Pandharpur is nestled on the sacred banks of the Chandrabhaga River and is home to Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rukmini This journey was not just a religious visit—it was a heartfelt, soul-touching experience, deeply connected with the centuries-old tradition of the Ashadhi Ekadashi Wari.
Understanding the significance of the Wari became the highlight of our pilgrimage. According to the Hindu calendar, Ashadhi Ekadashi falls in June or July. On this auspicious day, lakhs of devotees from across Maharashtra and other states undertake a padyatra (pilgrimage on foot) to Pandharpur. The Wari has a history of over 700 years, beginning from revered spiritual centers like Dehu and Alandi, where the padukas (footwear) of saints like Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar are carried by devotees. Walking over 250 kilometers in 18 to 21 days, the devotees chant Vitthal’s name, sing devotional songs, and spread the message of unity and devotion.
Although we didn’t walk in the Wari ourselves, being in Pandharpur during that time was an overwhelming experience. The entire town echoed with chants of “Vitthal Vitthal” and “Mauli Mauli.” As we stood in the queue for darshan (holy viewing) at the Vitthal-Rukmini temple, the black stone idol of Lord Vitthal—hands on his hips, waiting patiently for his devotees—captivated our hearts.
The temple rituals were deeply symbolic and spiritually purifying. During abhishek, the idol is bathed with milk, ghee, and water. Devotees offer tulsi garlands, which are dearly loved by Lord Vitthal. Many perform pradakshina (circumambulation) of the temple and read from the Dnyaneshwari and Tukaram Gatha.
The Wari has not only religious but also scientific and social relevance. Walking such long distances builds physical endurance, mental calm, and focus. Walking barefoot and singing in groups relieves stress. It fosters unity—breaking down barriers of caste, class, and language, as people walk, eat, stay, and pray together. It also promotes eco-friendly habits—avoiding plastic and emphasizing cleanliness.
This yatra was not merely about faith in God—it was an experience that taught me faith as a lifestyle filled with love, discipline, and social harmony.
The spiritual energy in the Vitthal-Rukmini temple and the unwavering devotion of the Warkaris became a turning point in my life. Though I left Pandharpur, my heart remained at the feet of Vitthal.
As we stepped into the temple, a deep inner peace enveloped us. While waiting in line for darshan, our devotion intensified as we approached the sanctum. Witnessing Lord Vitthal standing on the brick beside Goddess Rukmini was deeply emotional and spiritually uplifting.
One sacred spot is the Namdev Step—where Saint Namdev once stood chanting the name of the Lord. Devotees bow their heads there, feeling the powerful vibrations of devotion.
Inside the temple, chants of “Vitthal Vitthal,” devotional singing, and group bhajans filled the air with divine energy. The entire atmosphere elevated the soul.
Later, we went to the banks of the Chandrabhaga River. It is believed that bathing in this sacred river cleanses sins. Many devotees were seen performing rituals while singing hymns and praying, creating a serene, divine ambiance.
We sat by the river meditating and reflecting. The sound of the gentle waves and distant prayers gave us profound peace.
This Pandharpur yatra wasn’t limited to temple visits—it became a journey of inner awakening. The devotion of the Warkaris, the sanctity of the river, and the calm of the temple filled my soul with purity.
By evening, we returned to Solapur (around 70 km away), and later that night, we boarded a train to Mumbai. Though we returned physically, spiritually, I remained in the sacred space of Pandharpur.
Narender KumarNarender Kumar
Best part of this temple is that you can have darshan of bhagwan vitthal verry near to vigrah of bhagwan, you can even touch the feet if bhagwan vitthal. Never seen this thing in any temple
Pandharpur Vitthal Rukmani Temple - Shri Vitthal Rukmani temple, Pandharpu near Solapur is the main center of worship for the Hindu deity Vitthal, believed to be a local form of god Krishna or Vishnu and his consort Rakhumai or Rukmini. Shri Vitthal Rukmani temple is the main centre of worship for Vithoba, a form of the god Vishnu . A dip in the holy river Chandrabhaga on whose banks Pandharpur resides, is believed to have power to wash all sins. Prettily placed on the majestic banks of River Chandra bagha, Pundalik Temple portrays lord Vitthal as its chief deity. Vitthal is one among the manifestations of Lord Vishnu. The main shrine is a five-story building with a pyramidal gun spire. The statue of Jaya and Vijaya flanks Lord Vithal.
The main attraction in this square shaped temple is its portico, which has a measurement of 25' by 17'. This portico holds the idol of lord Shiva, which is protected by a brass cover. It is a customary practice that the devotees should wash their feet in the warm water spring that flows adjacent to the temple before they embark their dharshan of the lord. One among the embarrassing allure in the temple premises is the iron boat of 3 ft by 2 ft, which floats in the river water but appears too heavy to raise with hands. Timings in the temple is schedules between 4 AM -7 PM.
Rukmini Mandir in the district of Solapur is one of the chief deities of Pandharpur. This temple dedicated to her is placed on the banks of Chandra Bhaga river and it is commonly called as the Panduranga Temple. Lofty walls and colossal towers are the landmark signs of this lovely shrine. Situated on a high platform the temple stands 370 feet east-west houses and170 feet northwest. The entry to the temple is through the Namdev gate which is characterized by a plight of 12 steps. The temple holds the statue of Namdev who is figured with his tambourine.
Though Rukmini is the wife of Lord Krishna she is not seen with her husband in this shrine. Legend has it that Rukmini is doing her penance and that's why she is depicted alone in her temple. Earlier the mandir has only a small shrine and portico and later a mandap, an antarala and a sabhamandap were added to the existing structures .
The Vishnupada literally is the lord's feet and the temple by this name situates with in the city limits. A lovely shrine on the majestic environ of the Chandrabhaga river is a breath taking site that allures the onlooker with its exquisite charm and prettiness. The temple is connected to the shore by a ramp.
Constructed with stone masonry, the temple is in the shape of an open hall where sixteen pillars of stone support its flat roof. The pillar portrays images of Lord Krishna and Vishnu in their typical postures. The temple enshrines the lotus feet of the lord on rock, which are placed on a square. These rocks carries the footprints in two positions and one can also see the foot prints of a cow entrenched in it. One of the footprints shows cases the typical posture of Krishna standing on his left foot and the right foot crossed and resting on his toes. The other one depicts the lord on his both feet.
Since the temple situates in the middle of the river temple shows water level up to its floor level and in the rainy months the temple is virtually submerges with the water .
Reviews
Reviews of Pandharpur Temple
4.7
(453)
4.0
1yThe Vithoba Temple, officially known as Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir (Marathi: श्री विठ्ठल्-रूक्मिणि देऊळ), is a Hindu temple in Pandharpur, in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is the main centre of worship for Vithoba, a form of the god Vishnu or Krishna, and his consort Rakhumai. It is Classified one among the 108 Abhimana Kshethram of Vaishnavate tradition.[citation needed] The temple was built by King Vishnuvardhana of Hoysala Empire between 1108 and 1152 CE upon being convinced by...
Read more
4.0
6yPandharpur and kholapur
On the 22nd of April 2012 five of us four adults and a child left by car from Pune to Pandharpur.. We left Pune at about 8.30 A.M.The distance from Pune to Pandharpur is 206 kms and it took us three hours to reach there. Sugarcane was just harvested and we could see carts, lorries loaded with piles and piles of the sweet plant.
We located Gajanan maharaj’s ashram and the men went to book rooms while we waited. They finally came and after parking the car we went to...
Read more
5.0
21wVitthal Mandir (also known as Vithoba or Panduranga Temple) in Pandharpur, Maharashtra, is one of the most celebrated pilgrimage sites in India, especially for devotees of Lord Vitthal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Origins and Historical Inscriptions: The earliest structure was erected around 1189 CE, under the patronage of Yadava king Bhillamma. However, significant developments and reconstructions are attributed to Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana (Bittideva) between 1108 and 1152 CE,...
Read morePage 1 of 7
Previous
Next
Nearby attractions of Pandharpur Temple
Shree Vitthal Rukmini temple , Pandharpur
Shri Sant Gajanan Maharaj Mandir
Shree Pundalik Mandir
Tanpure Maharaj Math
Shree Vitthal Rukmini temple , Pandharpur
4.7
(14.2K)
Open until 7:00 PM
Click for details
Shri Sant Gajanan Maharaj Mandir
4.6
(2.3K)
Open until 12:00 AM
Click for details
Shree Pundalik Mandir
4.5
(320)
Open until 9:00 PM
Click for details
Tanpure Maharaj Math
4.2
(296)
Open until 9:00 PM
Click for details
Nearby restaurants of Pandharpur Temple
Shree Rajbhog Veg Thali Restaurant & Dining Hall
MAHAJAN FOODS
Hotel Savera
Stavya Nasta Centre स्तव्य नाष्टा सेंटर
Hotel Renuka Bhojanalaya
Hotel sadguru sakharam
Parbramha Pure Veg
Aasra Family Restaurant, Pandharpur
Hotel pandharinath
Shree Krishna Bhojnalay
Shree Rajbhog Veg Thali Restaurant & Dining Hall
4.8
(966)
$
Closed
Click for details
MAHAJAN FOODS
4.7
(56)
Open until 10:00 PM
Click for details
Hotel Savera
4.0
(452)
$$
Open until 11:00 PM
Click for details
Stavya Nasta Centre स्तव्य नाष्टा सेंटर
4.6
(12)
Open until 10:00 PM
Click for details
