The place derives its name from the mythological lore of the demon Kolhapur who was killed by the mother goddess Mahalaxmi. It is also known as the ‘Dakshin Kashi’ due to its spiritual history. The city is believed to be blessed by Goddess Ambabai. Mahanandi, a religious scholar, established a religious education institution here around 1055 CE. Famous for its leather work, and Kolhapuri jutti, classic slipper artworks and fabric or Maharashtrian silk etc, Kolhapur gives back the exclusive feeling of being one of its kind.
If you're planning to have a shahi trip onwards throughout the way, you must pack your bags up and woohooo!!
Kopeshwar Shiva Temple
This shrine built in respect for the supreme God, Lord Shiva is located in Khidarpur, Kolhapur. It was constructed by the Shilaharas in the 12th century and despite being Jain rulers the Shilahars built and restored various Hindu temples. The shrine is covered with various carvings inside-out including the myths of Shivleelamrut and is an architectural masterpiece.
Jyotiba Temple
Dedicated to goddess Jyotiba this shrine is situated near Wadi Ratnagiri in Kolhapur. The temple has multi-faceted Shikharas and the architectural style indicates both the use of Deccani and Southern Indian styles.
Chinmaya Ganadhish Temple
Located at a distance of 15km from Kolhapur in Toap-Sambhapur this site has a 61 feet tall idol of Lord Ganesha. It is the largest Ganesha idol in the world and was built in 2001. Dedicated to lord Ganesha, this temple represents the incarnation of Ganpati named Chinmaya which means living long !
Mahalaxmi Temple
Built in reverence of the mother goddess Mahalaxmi it is situated on the Mahadwar road in Kolhapur. It was built by the Chalukyas in the 7th century which was also a symbolic representation of their power and valourous kingdoms throughout the bharat lands.
Temlabai Temple
Dedicated to Renuka Devi who is an incarnation of Goddess Durga, this shrine is situated on the top of Temlabai Hill in Kolhapur. It is also believed to be visited and worshipped by Adi Shankaracharya.
Uttareshwar Mahadev Temple
It is the oldest surviving wooden architecture in India and is located along the bank of the Rankala river in Kolhapur. This shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built around the 5th-6th century.
Khol Khandoba Temple
Built in a similar way to a mosque this temple houses a Shiva Linga and is situated near Burud Galli in Kolhapur. It was constructed around the 13th-14th century and is built in Islamic style architecture. The Shiva-Lingam is situated deep in the ground of the temple floor.
