Are you ready to embark on a divine journey to the most famous temples in Maharashtra? From the majestic Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai to the serene Trimbakeshwar Temple in Nashik, Maharashtra boasts an abundance of stunning temples that are a must-visit for every spiritual seeker. You’ll be amazed by the intricate carvings, intricate architecture, and the rich history behind each temple. Whether you’re seeking blessings or just looking to admire the beauty of these sacred places, you’ll find something to awe-inspire you in Maharashtra. So come along with me as we explore the popular temples to visit in Maharashtra that you simply can’t miss!
Let’s find out about them;
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Shirdi
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, located in the small town of Shirdi is undoubtedly one of the most revered and famous temples in Shirdi, Maharashtra. The temple attracts thousands of devotees from all over the country who come to seek the blessings of Sai Baba.
The temple is known for its serene ambiance, beautiful architecture, and the divine presence of Sai Baba. The temple complex houses several shrines, including the Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai, Chavadi, and the Khandoba Temple.
Devotees believe that visiting this historical temple in Maharashtra and offering prayers to Sai Baba can bring peace, prosperity, and fulfillment to their lives. The temple also offers various seva and darshan options for devotees, including the famous aarti ceremony that is performed four times a day.
The temple has played a crucial role in the promotion of spiritualism and the propagation of Sai Baba’s teachings, which have influenced millions of people worldwide.
Location: Shirdi, Maharashtra
Est Year: 1900
Prasad: Laddu
Nearest Station: Kopargaon Railway Station
Good time To Visit : December to February
Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai
The Siddhivinayak Temple is a grand, revered, and best temple to visit in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is a divine abode of Lord Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom, intellect, and new beginnings. This temple is not just a place of worship but a symbol of faith, devotion, and inspiration for millions of people.
The Siddhivinayak Temple stands out as the best temple in Maharashtra due to its rich history, stunning architecture, and spiritual significance. People from all over the world visit this temple to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha and find solace amidst the chaos of city life. The serene atmosphere and positive energy of the temple provide a sense of calmness and peace to its visitors.
From the moment you step foot inside, you feel a sense of calm and peace, and as you offer your prayers to the Lord, you feel a sense of connectedness with the divine.
Location: Mumbai
Est Year: 1801
Prasad: Modak
Nearest Station: Dadar Railway Station
Good time to visit: June to December
Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapur
Mahalaxmi Temple, situated in the picturesque city of Kolhapur, is one of the most famous devi temples in Maharashtra. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of prosperity and wealth, Mahalaxmi.
One of the unique features of this temple is the idol of the goddess, which is made of black stone and stands 3 feet tall. The temple also houses idols of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, making it a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of all three deities.
Mahalaxmi Temple is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of cultural heritage. The temple complex is surrounded by a beautiful garden and a lake, adding to its serene and peaceful ambiance.
This is the best temple in Maharashtra that celebrates various festivals throughout the year, including Navratri, Diwali, and Chaitra Yatra. During these festivities, the temple is beautifully decorated with lights and flowers, attracting thousands of devotees from across the country.
Location: Kolhapur
Est Year: 1831
Prasad: Ambabai Peda
Nearest Station: Kolhapur station
Best time to visit: October to February
Trimbakeshwar Temple, Nashik
Trimbakeshwar Temple, located in the picturesque town of Nashik, is an ancient temple in Maharashtra dedicated to Lord Shiva. This magnificent temple is not just a religious site, but an architectural marvel as well. Built in the Hemadpanthi style, it boasts intricate carvings and sculptures that are sure to leave you awestruck.
Trimbakeshwar Temple is famous for its unique feature of having three lingas representing Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva. It is also believed to be the origin of the holy river Godavari, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Trimbakeshwar Temple, the most significant temple to visit in Maharashtra, also hosts the Kumbh Mela every twelve years, drawing millions of devotees from all over the world. The temple’s rich cultural and religious significance makes it one of the best temples in Maharashtra and a must-visit to anyone seeking a spiritual experience.
Location: Nashik
Est Year: 1740-1760
Prasad: Trimbakeshwar Ladoo
Nearest Station: Nashik Road
Best time to visit: November to February
Bhimashankar Temple, Pune
Bhimashankar Temple, located in the breathtakingly beautiful Sahyadri Mountains near Pune, is one of the most famous temples in Pune, Maharashtra. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built in the 13th century. It is said that the temple’s location is where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Bhima, the son of Kumbhakarna, who sought his blessings.
The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and exquisite sculptures, and the courtyard features a huge bell that is said to have been brought by Chimaji Appa, the brother of Peshwa Baji Rao.
Bhimashankar Temple is not only a place of worship but also a natural wonder, and it is no surprise that it is considered one of the best temples in Maharashtra. A visit to this temple will undoubtedly leave one spiritually rejuvenated and awestruck by the beauty of nature.
Location: Pune
Est Year: 12th Century
Prasad: Bhimashankar Chocolate Barfi
Nearest Station: Karjat Station
Best time to visit: November to February
Grishneshwar Temple, Aurangabad
Grishneshwar Temple, located in Aurangabad, is one of the most popular temples to visit in Maharashtra and an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. This temple is the abode of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is therefore highly revered by devotees.
The temple’s intricate carvings, intricate sculptures, and stunning architecture leave visitors in awe, and the peaceful atmosphere inside the temple is truly divine.
Apart from its religious significance, the temple’s location amidst lush greenery adds to its charm. Surrounded by natural beauty, it provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its grandeur and spiritual aura makes it the best temple to visit in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Location: Aurangabad
Est Year: 16th Century
Prasad: Grishneshwar Prasad
Nearest Station: Aurangabad Station
Best time to visit: Monsoon
Pandharpur Vithoba Temple, Solapur
The Pandharpur Vithoba Temple in Solapur, Maharashtra is a spiritual haven for pilgrims from all over India. Considered one of the best temples to visit in Maharashtra, it is dedicated to Lord Vithoba, a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is believed to be over 800 years old and has a rich history and culture associated with it.
Devotees flock to this oldest temple in Maharashtra in large numbers during the annual Ashadi Ekadashi festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show. The temple complex is also home to various smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, making it a comprehensive spiritual destination.
The aura of devotion that surrounds the temple is palpable. Visiting the Pandharpur Vithoba Temple is an experience of a lifetime, where one can truly connect with the divine and experience inner peace. It is not just a temple, but a place that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul.
Location: Solapur
Est Year: 11th Century
Prasad: Jowar Bhakri, Bharli Vangi
Nearest Station: Kurdwadi Station
Best time to visit: July to February
Tulja Bhavani Temple, Osmanabad
Tulja Bhavani Temple in Osmanabad is truly a marvel of spiritual architecture and devotion. Situated on a hillock, it is said to be one of the most famous temples in Maharashtra that is also powerful, with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Tulja Bhavani, who is known for her fierce and protective nature.
As you climb the steps leading to the temple, the aura of mysticism and divinity begins to envelop you. The intricate carvings and sculptures on the walls of the temple are a testament to the skill of ancient artisans. The temple also houses a beautiful idol of the goddess, adorned with jewels and offerings from devotees.
For those seeking spiritual solace, Tulja Bhavani Temple is undoubtedly one of the best and most famous devi temples in Maharashtra.
Location: Osmanabad
Est Year: 12th Century
Prasad: Tulja Bhavani Amba Barfi
Nearest Station: Osmanabad Station
Best time to visit: July to August
Jejuri Khandoba Temple, Pune
Jejuri Khandoba Temple, located in the picturesque town of Jejuri near Pune, is a true gem among the many historical temples in Maharashtra. Known for its unique blend of mythology, history, and spirituality, this famous temple in Pune is a must-visit for anyone seeking a spiritual experience.
As you approach the temple, you’ll be greeted by a magnificent staircase leading up to the temple complex, which sits atop a hill. Once inside, you’ll be mesmerized by the intricate carvings, colorful murals, and stunning architecture. But it’s not just the aesthetics that make this temple special.
Jejuri Khandoba Temple is dedicated to Lord Khandoba, a fierce deity known for his warrior-like qualities and association with the 12th-century saint-poet Dnyaneshwar. The temple’s rich history, combined with its unique mythology, gives it an aura of mystique that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Location: Jejuri, Pune
Est Year: 12th-13th Century
Prasad: Jejuri Pedha
Nearest Station: Jejuri Station
Best time to visit: November to February
Narsobawadi Temple, Kolhapur
Nestled in the serene and lush green surroundings of Kolhapur, Narsobawadi Temple is a divine abode of Lord Dattatreya. This ancient temple, built during the 12th century, is considered the best temple in Maharashtra due to its historical significance and spiritual importance.
The temple complex is adorned with beautiful sculptures and carvings, and its unique architecture is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage. This ancient temple in Maharashtra is also known for its natural hot water spring, which is believed to have healing properties and attracts devotees from far and wide.
This famous temple in Kolhapur hosts various cultural and religious events throughout the year, including the grand Datta Jayanti festival, which is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm. Devotees also come here to seek the blessings of Lord Dattatreya and offer their prayers at the sacred Samadhi of Shri Nrusimha Saraswati, a revered saint and spiritual leader.
Location: Kolhapur
Est Year: 12th-13th Century
Prasad: Basundi
Nearest Station: Sangli Station
Best time to visit: Right after the monsoon.
Shani Shingnapur Temple, Ahmednagar
Shani Shingnapur Temple, located in Ahmednagar, is the most famous temple in Maharashtra. It is a unique temple where there is no idol or statue of the deity, but instead, there is a self-manifested black stone that is believed to be the representation of Lord Shani, the God of Justice. This temple is known for its exceptional faith and trust in the deity, as the doors of the houses in the village are left open without locks, as it is believed that the Lord himself protects the village and its inhabitants.
This oldest temple in Maharashtra has a rich history and is visited by devotees from all over the country. The temple premises are well maintained, and the devotees can perform rituals and prayers as per their beliefs. The temple also has magnificent architecture that mesmerizes visitors. The vibrant atmosphere, the chanting of hymns, and the fragrance of flowers make the temple a spiritual haven for visitors.
Location: Ahmednagar
Est Year: 400 years
Prasad: Sesame Ladoo
Nearest Station: Rahuri Station
Best time to visit: September to November
Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple, Pune
Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple, located in the heart of Pune, is undoubtedly one of the most renowned and revered temples to visit in Maharashtra. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and has a rich history that dates back over 125 years. The temple’s grandeur and architectural beauty are unmatched, making it an excellent representation of Indian art and culture.
This popular temple in Pune has a captivating aura that instills a sense of calmness and serenity. Devotees from all over the world flock to this temple to seek blessings from Lord Ganesha. The grand festivities during Ganesh Chaturthi, where a magnificent tall idol of Lord Ganesha is worshipped, is a sight to behold.
The temple’s charitable activities, such as providing food and education to underprivileged children, make it stand out from other temples. It is not just a place of worship but a center of social welfare as well.
Location: Pune
Est Year: 1893
Prasad: Modak
Nearest Station: Shivajinagar Station
Best time to visit: August to September
Jyotiba Temple, Kolhapur
Jyotiba Temple, located atop a hill in Kolhapur, is a shining gem among the plethora of temples. This ancient temple in Maharashtra is dedicated to Lord Jyotiba, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and is renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and spiritual significance.
This most famous temple in Maharashtra is believed to be built in the 16th century and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva. The journey to the temple involves a thrilling ride on a ropeway that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests.
The temple’s main sanctum houses the holy idol of Lord Jyotiba, which is believed to possess healing powers and is revered by the devotees.
Apart from its spiritual significance, Jyotiba Temple is also famous for its vibrant festivals, especially the Navaratri festival, when the entire temple is adorned with colorful lights and decorations, attracting thousands of devotees from all over the country.
Location: Kolhapur
Est Year: 1730
Prasad: Bhakri and Thecha
Nearest Station: Kolhapur Station
Best time to visit: During Winters
Kailash Temple, Ellora
Kailash Temple, located in Ellora, is not just a popular temple to visit in Maharashtra, but a magnificent piece of art that has stood the test of time. Built over 1200 years ago, it is one of the finest examples of rock-cut architecture in the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
What makes Kailash Temple truly unique is the fact that it is entirely carved out of a single rock, from the top down. It took over 200 years to complete, and the intricate carvings and sculptures on the temple walls and ceilings are a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans who created them.
As you enter the temple, you’ll be awestruck by the sheer size and grandeur of the structure. The main sanctum is located at the heart of the temple, and the surrounding walls are adorned with beautiful carvings of deities, mythological creatures, and scenes from Hindu epics.
A visit to Kailash Temple is a truly unique experience that transports you back in time to an era of incredible artistic and architectural achievement. If you’re looking for a temple that is truly awe-inspiring, then Kailash Temple in Ellora is the best temple to visit in Maharashtra.
Location: Ellora
Est Year: 8th Century
Prasad: Ellora Prasad
Nearest Station: Aurangabad Station
Best time to visit: September to March
Ekvira Aai Temple, Lonavala
Nestled amidst the picturesque Sahyadri Mountains in Lonavala, Maharashtra, lies the Ekvira Aai Temple, a place of immense religious significance and breathtaking natural beauty. Dedicated to the goddess Ekvira, an incarnation of the Hindu goddess Renuka, this temple is considered to be one of the best temples to visit in Maharashtra.
The temple is situated inside the Karla Caves, one of the oldest Buddhist caves in India, and is believed to have been built in the 1st century BC. It is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Visitors can expect to be awestruck by the stunning views of the mountains and valleys that surround the temple, as well as the serene atmosphere that pervades the entire area. The temple is particularly famous for its annual festival, held during the Navratri season, which attracts devotees from all over India.
Location: Lonavala
Est Year: 2nd Century BC- 2nd Century AD
Prasad: Puran Poli
Nearest Station: Lonavala Station
Best time to visit: Anytime
In a land where spirituality and culture run deep, the temples of Maharashtra stand as proud symbols of the state’s rich heritage. Thus, make sure to pay a visit to this divine temple if you’re a believer looking for comfort or a wanderer hoping to catch a glimpse of Maharashtra’s spirit. You won’t be dissatisfied!
