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"Vishalgadh fort : A fort Sized Kolhapur Heritage"

The Vishalgadh fort where the food belonged to the Maratha empire but later changed hands to join the Deccan state agencies of the British Empire. It was initially governed by the Deshastha Brahmins, who were the torchbearers of the Kolhapur tradition.

History of the place

The Vishalgadh fort has a legacy of bravery in its history. The literal meaning of the word Vishalgadh refers to “grand” or “large”. The walls of the fort bear's legacy of the relentless and gallant soldiers of the Marathas Empire. It’s historical significance after the battle was fought in the palace between Sardar of the Maratha empire Baji Prabhu and Siddhi Masood of the Bijapur Sultanate. This enormous fort was given by King Shivaji once he took hold of this fort in 1659 and is a significant landmark in  Kolhapur history.

Significance of the place

Vishalgadh fort has been the place of the great battle called the Battle of Pavan Khind, very numerable Marathi soldiers gallantry and dauntlessly laid down their lives and you’re determined not to lose in front of the Deccan troops, increasing the legacy of the Kolhapur heritage. The battle took place on 13th July 1660. The battle was a fierce battle with blood all around and the soldiers of the Maratha empire gave their lives to do anything to protect their king and ultimately Shivaji escaped the fort after the Deccan troops seized the Panhala fort. Baji Prabhu the loyal servant of Shivaji along with 300 men helps the troops of the Deccan so that their king can safely depart.

How to reach the Vishalgadh fort

By Air - Kolhapur airport is the major airport that is well connected to the Vishalgadh fort. The airport has daily flights connecting different parts of the country.

By Train - Kolhapur railway station is the nearest rail route. The city is well connected through the railway with various parts of the country.

By Bus - Kolhapur public bus service is quite apt for local as well as interstate transfers. You can find the majority of the adjacent places being connected through the bus route.

Things to do in Vishalgadh fort- sightseeing and many more!

It is said by local mythology that the Vishalgadh fort was initially built in the 11th century and was initially called the Khilgil fort. The Fort is set up at a magnificent height of 3,500 feet over the ground and the perspective that it expands will simply make your day away. From every one of the corners, it is encircled by the lavish green limits and broadens an ideal melange of history and nature. The food has several features of sightseeing and can be used as an attraction of tourist travel with places like Amruteshwar Temple, Shri Nrusinha Temple, Takmak Tok, Sati’s Vrindavan, and The Dargah or tomb of Hazrat Malik Raihan, with the taste of the Kolhapur arts.

Conclusion

This fortification is of principal significance about the historical backdrop of Maharashtra and Shivaji Maharaj. It’s an absolute necessity to visit this place for everybody.

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"Town Hall : Blast from the Past"

What is a museum? How do museums become tourist places? Are you aware of the famous museums in Kolhapur? In Kolhapur, you can visit one of the most famous museums, which is popularly known as the Town Hall museum. Why is this museum famous in Kolhapur? Kolhapur museum Town Hall is the witness to a rich history, cultural significance, and many other golden tales of past eras.

The architecture style used here is neo-gothic which is the single such architectural beauty in the entire city. The museum also has traces of Brahmapuri civilization containing pottery fragments, beads, and coins from that era. This beautiful building or museum was constructed in 1876. You will notice beautiful European cannons at the entrance gate. These cannons were used way back in 1610.

Significance of Town Hall museum

This museum has beautiful items from the past which are known as Satavahana. You will notice a pair of elephant cultures. This elephant sculpture is of the medieval age. They are made from a specific type of Stone age axes and guns used at the time of World War One. This museum is unique from any other museum in the world. Due to the beautiful artifacts, it comes as an emerging talent of history.

Want to visit the town Hall museum?

June to February is considered as the best month to visit this historic site.

By Air - The nearest airport is Ujalaiwadi Airport, which is approximately 10 Km away from the main city of Kolhapur. Once you reach Kolhapur city, you can take any local transport to reach the museum.

By Train - Talking about the nearest railway station to the town Hall in Kolhapur it is the Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj terminus. This rail route is well connected to all the major cities and adjacent places of the country.

By Public Transport - You can also visit here with a private bus between Mumbai and Kolhapur. From Pune to Kolhapur it takes three hours to visit. From Mumbai, it will take 8 hours to visit this place.

Things to do in Town Hall Kolhapur

Kolhapur museum is a well-known museum. The place offers an interesting day-out feature for people across all age groups. If you are interested in history and it’s artifacts then this place is for you. Here you can have a look at our glorious past and we promise you are bound to be mesmerized by the same.

The Town Hall Museum has a large array of beautiful flowering trees as well as a huge fountain that offers a picturized view to the tourists. Mahadevi Temple is also situated within the complex and tourists can also club visiting the temple along with this museum.

Some nearby attractions to this place are - Rankala Lake, New Palace Mahalaxmi Temple, Chhatrapati Shahu Museum, and many others.

Conclusion

The Town Hall Museum in Kolhapur is famous. You should visit once and get knowledge about the past historical artifacts. From this museum, you will learn some better events about the past.

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"Siddhagiri Museum- Gateway to History "

Kolhapur city connects the borders of different states from Karnataka to Goa. It is known as a center point adjoining Pune-Banglore Highway. The Highway passes through interesting cultural places located near Kolhapur and is about 10 Kms away linking Pune Banglore Highway. Kaneri Math is the village popularly known for the ancient Shiva temple which is more than 1000 years ago. Later the development of the museum took place to attract tourists. There is a setup of village life in the most detailed and calm manner. Kaneri Math is situated over the mountain. It looks so peaceful to be here due to the blessing of nature.

History

Shri. Adrushya Kadsiddheshwar Swamiji is 27th Mathadipathi with a strong motive and contributing to eternal social causes. He has considered a revolution in the place and initiated different projects over there. The place is serving free medical facilities along with a health care center with all the necessary equipment. The village life is scripted in the form of sculptures and statues which signify the then history of Mughals who ruled Maharashtra in those days. The primary object of the village life description is to clarify the system of having 12 Balutedar and 18 Alutedars.

Significance of the Place Kaneri Math Museum

The first phase of the Museum is quite covered with an area of approximately 7 acres. The museum has a thorough display of 80 main scenes exposed with 300 statues of persons, animals, birds, situations, equipment, etc. It is not just a vogue presentation of the situations but also enriched with perfection. The expressions of statues are beyond imagination. The statues are similar to real ones. Swamiji had a personal touch over every scene gathered in the village life. Even there is a description written to understand the concept of the village.

If you want to visit the Museum you must go with the entire family. This museum project is interestingly made which connects kids as well as makes the adults nostalgic. The visitors are expected to pay entrée fees before entering the museum. The place has got so many expensive things. Also, the construction cost for the scenes and statue made it more prominent. You will get clean water, fresh air, and an extremely soothing experience.  

How to reach there

By Air - Kolhapur airport is the nearest airport that is approximately 8.9 km from Siddhgiri Museum. The airport has daily running flights connecting throughout the country.

By Train - Kolhapur railway station is just 13 Km away from this historic museum. The train route is quite diverse and well connected.

By Road - Travellers can visit the place by road as it is just beside the national highway 4 of Pun-Banglore. Taxis, Cars and private autos can be taken to the Museum via Road. It is 15 km in the total distance if you count from the city.

Things to do-

Siddhagiri Gram Jeevan visits with interesting incidents depicted with a creative ideology. Huge Shiva statue and Nandi statue are tourist attractions. Also visiting a temple of shiva is another soothing experience for devotees of Lord shiva.

Conclusion

The Balutedars were professional people who were designated for a specific job. Alutedars were known for their contribution to equipment provision. Each designation is portrayed with the finest work quality. The idols of gods and goddesses are also appealing.

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"Shalini Palace - Living like a royal "

Shalini Palace is a conglomerate of hotels having its location at Kolhapur, Maharashtra rightly regarded as a family-friendly oriented hotel. It is regarded as a tour packaging model for the heritage buildings that have been built around Kolhapur and highlighting the traditions of the place along with its cultural and socio-economic factors that are attached to the buildings.

History Of The Palace

Historically the palace at Kolhapur is named after the raja or Peshwas of Kolhapur. It is a kind of museum and is one of the exquisite names in the tours and traveling business. It has a great ambiance and accommodation facilities and the travelers are astonished by the great historical stories of Kolhapur arts that are attached to it while it was making a name worldwide.

Significance Of The Palace

Culturally the city of Kolhapur is the meeting point of great cultures that at one point in time had been established over there. The location is easily accessible using transport facilities that are well built up and nineteenth century-old buildings that are strikingly old artifacts structure that was made by the king which is an example of Kolhapur tradition. The Marathas are the main rulers of Kolhapur who are the worthwhile rulers of the Kolhapur heritage. Shalini Palace has attained its grandeur by giving a world-class service to its people and has earned a name in the hospitality industry. Politically the government of Maharashtra has taken great steps in making the place named after Kolhapur art and architecture.

How To Reach Shalini Palace

Shalini Palace Is easily accessible as it is located at the heart of Kolhapur and is much near to Mumbai.

By Air - Kolhapur airport has daily running flights connecting this part of the country to several other areas. 

By Road - Kolhapur is 450 Km away from Mumbai via road. Several Volvo buses connect Kolhapur to adjacent cities.

By Train - The name of Kolhapur railway station is Chh. Shahu Maharaj Terminus. All the major cities are connected to Kolhapur through railways.

Things To Do At Shalini Palace

There is the Chhatrapati clan built in the vicinity of Shalini Palace as the Peshwas have ruled the place for much time and also the masterpieces of the Mant's clan are located in the nearby places which is a place to look at. The location of the palace at the Rankala lake adds aesthetic beauty to the place and gives a charismatic touch to the place. The structure of the place is very appealing to the visitors and the Shalini Palace is converted into a five-star hotel. For the sightseeing, there are verandahs and porches of the hotels that were used for the shooting of films. The amazing tower clock adds a magnificent color to the place and is great for sightseeing. I also have great recreational facilities that are helping the municipal corporation of Mumbai immensely with regards to augmenting the revenue collection.

Conclusion:

Overall Shalini Palace is a nice visitor’s place having great ambiance with facilities of parks for children and to enjoy the beautiful beaches located nearby.

[kolgold]

"Chhattrapati Shahu Maharaj: Legacy of a Visionary Leader"

Shahu Maharaj also called the “Maharaja of the Maharajas” was the king of the princely state of Kolhapur during 1894-1922 in the times of Britishers. He was not only a king but also a great social worker and did commendable work towards the upliftment of the poor and Harijan society. He laid the foundation of a modern India by setting up a model of growth and modernity in Kolhapur which later became a roadmap for all other states.

Personal life

Shahu Maharaj was born in June 1874 in the Ghatge family of the place Kagal. He was named “YashwantRao” by his father JaysinghRao and mother RadhaBai. Soon after birth, at the age of three, he lost his mother and in 1884, was adopted by AnanaBai, the wife of the late king of Bhosle dynasty Shivaji Maharaj IV.

After this, he went to Dharwad for his education where he studied politics, world history, and English. He was very fond of wrestling from a very early age and then later during his reign, he established the famous Wrestling ground known as “Khasbag Maidan” which gave shelter to many great Indian wrestlers during the time. Even today a lot of people come to Kolhapur today to learn wrestling skills.

At the age of 17, he married Laxmibai, who was the daughter of a Maratha gentleman from Baroda. His wife was only 12 years old at the time of marriage. In 1894, he was ready to become the king of Kolhapur and was coronated at the age of 20.

Shahu Maharaj’s remarkable work

Shahu Maharaj was very ahead of his time when he took over as the king of Kolhapur. He laid the foundation of how modern India should look like by setting an example in Kolhapur. Even today, his reform actions and policies are used all across the country and his reign became a role model for all other princely states at that time. He was not only a king but also a social reformer who worked effortlessly towards the welfare of Harijans of the society and created an ecosystem of equality. Some of his remarkable work is mentioned below :

Starting of Reservation System: Shahu Ji Maharaj started the reservation model for the first time in the history of the country in 1902. The model gave 50% reservation to backward classes in government jobs. This model is still used as national law and is embedded in the constitution of India.

Free and compulsory primary education: Even after 75 years of independence, India is not able to raise the literacy rate even closer to a perfect 100 percent. Shahu Maharaj in those times made primary education free and compulsory for the people of Kolhapur. This shows the vision he had for Kolhapur and how he was well aware of what education could bring to the welfare and upliftment of society.

Starting Railways in Kolhapur: During his reign, the first train started from Miraj to Kolhapur in 1888.

Laws for castism: After the Vedokta case, Shahu Maharaj was sure that for giving the Harijans an equal society and eradicate casteism, it’s important to go by the law. He legislated laws against untouchability and inter-caste marriage in Kolhapur. He also demolished the slave labor practice prevalent in those times. He worked closely with Dr. Ambedkar to uplift the backward class in society and was very influenced by the revolutionary thoughts of Dr. Ambedkar.

Business Development: For creating jobs within Kolhapur, it was important to start new business opportunities in the state. In this direction, Shahu Maharaj started snipping mills with huge investments and also started the famous Jaggery market to support local jaggery makers of the state. It became a go-to place for people to buy jaggery made in Kolhapur.

Satyashodhak Andolan support: After Jyotibafule died, the Satyashodhak Andolan lacked his leadership and alignment and at this time, the Maharaj took over and gave the whole moment a direction, it needed at that point of time. He also started schools in Kolhapur named after the movement called “Satyashodhak School”.

Infrastructure Development: Shahu Maharaj built the first “Radhanagri Dam” in Kolhapur which was made of soil. He also rebuilt the Ranakara lake and created a tourism spot out of this. Along with this, he established the famous wrestling ground in Kolhapur state called “Khasbag Kushti Maidan”.

Ban on cow slaughter: Since cow slaughter was a sentimental spot for the Hindu community and was always a bone of contention amongst different communities in the state, Shahu Maharaj in 1901 started a ban on cow slaughter in the state.

Shahu Maharaj’s awards and honors

For the remarkable work done by Shahu Maharaj, he was awarded many awards and honors during his reign. Some of the most significant one’s  are listed below :

The L.L.D degree by Cambridge University in 1902.

The ‘Maharaja’ title by Queen Victoria in 1900.

The CGSI (Knight Grand Commander) by Queen Victoria in 1895.

The ‘Rajashree’ title by Kshatriya Parishad in Kanpur in 1919.

Shahu Maharaj’s Death

The last days of Shahu Maharaj’s life were full of grief as he lost his son Shivaji in an accident which affected his health badly and his diabetics went out of control. Due to this bad health, he could not survive and died in Mumbai on May 6, 1922, post a cardiac arrest at the age of 48. It was a dark day in the history of Kolhapur and an era of reforms and growth ended.

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"Sathmari : Witness the majestic elephant fighting"

Sathmari is a game of elephant fighting once popular in Kolhapur. And the Sathmari ground of Kolhapur is an important tourist spot there. It is one of the most important parts of Kolhapur heritage.

The History

It was introduced there by Chhatrapati Shahu, Maharaja of Kolhapur in 1915. The elephant fighting was great entertainment for royal families and also the masses. It used to occur between two male elephants usually when they were in heat. The game sometimes used to become very gory, too. Sometimes the game used to get played between an angry elephant and a group of brave players. The players used to prick the elephant and get him more and more aggressive. The irritated animal tried to catch the players and when it tried then it used to get pricked by the other players from the opposite side. The players used to hide in the stone towers of the Sathmari ground. And if the elephant manages to catch a player anyhow the others then should make the animal leave their companion by frightening it with fireworks or arrows. There is almost no incident of an elephant killing a player in Sathmari.

Significance of Sathmari:

Sathmari has a great significance in Kolhapur history. It is a historical place of Kolhapur where you can visit and understand the Kolhapur culture. The memories of the heartless game sathmari are still alive there. Now the ground has transformed into a tennis court named Shahu stadium.

How to Reach Sathmari:

To reach Sathmari, one has to reach Kolhapur first. Kolhapur can be reached very easily from any part of the country, India.

By Air:

Kolhapur Airport is the nearest air connectivity that has daily running flights from all the major cities of the country.  After reaching Kolhapur there are multiple transportations available to reach Sathmari.

By Road:

Kolhapur is connected with NH4. NH4 also connects Mumbai and Bangalore. Kolhapur has good road connectivity with Pune, too. So, one can reach Kolhapur from Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore by road very easily. The roads connecting Kolhapur from these cities are excellent in condition and so the bus service is very smooth.

By Train:

Kolhapur has its railway station. It is around 5 km away from the city center. There are regular trains from the major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Satara, and Tirupati to reach Kolhapur. If you are from somewhere that does not have direct railway connectivity with Kolhapur then take a train to any of the above-mentioned cities and get to Kolhapur from there.

Things to Visit in Sathmari:

Sathmari ground is the main thing that should be visited here. It carries the evidence of the old elephant fighting games. You can see the stone towers that used to be a part of the game. There is a museum where some of the equipment of the game is still kept. The present tennis court of Shahu stadium deserves a visit, too.

Conclusion

Sathmari ground is a must-visit if you are traveling to Kolhapur and thinking of exploring the city.

[kolgold]

"Sagareshwar deer sanctuary : Rejoice the beauty of nature "

Sagareshwar deer sanctuary is a protected area located at the center of three Tehsils of Sangli district that are Kadegaon, Walva, Palus in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Sagareshwar deer sanctuary is a biosphere reserve. It is a famous sightseeing place in Kolhapur full of natural beauty that will soothe your eyes as well as your mind too.

History of Sagareshwar Deer Sanctuary

Sagareshwar deer sanctuary is famous for its religious, archaeological, and cultural significance. The sanctuary gets its name from an ancient lord Shiva temple. Thousands of devotees visit this temple throughout the year. The construction of the temple is constructed with a variety of stones and the temple is present from the Satvahana period, founded by king Simuka in the 1st century BCE.

Significance of the place

Sagareshwar deer sanctuary was covered by grassy hill slopes. It is a dry mixture and thorn deciduous forest. The sanctuary is popular for its wide variety of flora and fauna including trees like Tamarind, Neem, Acacia, Khair, Nilgiri, vast varieties of deer including, Sambar deer, Chital, blackbucks, Muntjac. Having vast varieties of deer populations makes it a deer sanctuary. Blackbucks are mostly found here.

Blackbucks are the central attraction of this sanctuary. Hyena, fox, porcupines are some small carnivorous animals found in this area. A large population of insects and reptiles is also present here.

The sanctuary preserves the IUCN enlisted endangered species to maintain the threshold extinction level. It also protects the flora and fauna from poachers and predators.

It is spread over a range of 11 square km of the region. August to September is the peak tourism season. It is open at 8:30 AM and closed at 5:00 PM.

Sagareshwar is the most important forest reserve in the world. It is also famous for its hill station and Lord Shiva temples.

How to reach

The best time to visit Sagareshwar Deer Sanctuary is from August to September.

By air: Travelers can reach the Sagareshwar Deer Sanctuary via Kolhapur airport which is 36 km away from the place.

By train: The nearest railway station from the Sagareshwar Deer Sanctuary is Kolhapur railway station which is approximately 67 Km away from the place.

By road: There are regular MSRTC buses that connect Sagareshwar to all the major adjacent areas. These are good quality buses that can handle majority of passengers.

Things to do in Sagareshwar Deer Sanctuary

If you are interested in wildlife then it is a perfect place for you. You can enjoy sunset scenes from the beautiful temple. There is a watchtower, to overlook the entire forest.

Hiking to the top of a hill in the sanctuary is the most popular tourist activity. Flowing of the Krishna River through the fields of grapevines and sugarcane is another site of attraction. Lord Shiva temple also creates a center of attraction as it is the source of devotion to the people.

Conclusion

Enjoy the essence of nature and wildlife in the sanctuary during jeep safaris.

You can also spend a golden time with your family and loved ones by taking pictures at the grassy hill slopes.

[kolgold]

"Sadguru Chile Maharaj Temple, Paijarwadi: A place of Devotion"

If you want to visit Kolhapur city then your traveling will remain incomplete without visiting Sadguru Chile Maharaj Temple. This temple is located at Paijarwadi near the Kolhapur district in Maharashtra. Chile Maharaj is recognized as an avatar of Guru Dattatreya. This great saint of the Datta tradition was an idol of Dharma. He spread love and humanity among the people. Later the Sadguru Chile Maharaj Temple was built remembering this great saint's ideal. The people of Kolhapur worship this great saint and find this temple as a source of peace.

History of the Sadguru Chile Maharaj Temple

This holy Hindu temple is situated on Kolhapur Ratnagiri road at the foothills of Panhala fort. This temple was designed in the shape of a tortoise as he loved animals a lot. Looking at his love for the tortoise, his devotees decided to do so. This temple was constructed without any pillar as a tortoise’s structure. A canopy that looks like a tortoise head is well-decorated inside this temple.

Significance of Sadguru Chile Maharaj Temple

This place is significant for its spiritual prospects. Every year the holy festival, Chile Maharaj Punyatithi is celebrated here on Shravan Krishna Paksha Ashtami. This day is observed on eight-day during the waning phase of the moon in Shravan month. This day is observed in Maharashtra following the Hindu lunar calendar.

During the Punyatithi, the Hindu rituals like charity, prayers, spiritual programs are performed here. Devotees from different countries gather here during this time. Following the old tradition of Kolhapur, the people of Kolhapur, despite being rich and poor, come here each year to witness this holy festival.

How to reach Sadguru Chile Maharaj Temple

It is the best time to visit this temple during Shravan month during the festival of Chile Maharaj Punyatithi. This holy festival will fill your mind with love and peace.

By air- Kolhapur airport has daily equipped flights connecting major parts of the country. It has daily connectivity to all the major capital cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Pune.

By train- Kolhapur railway station is well connected to nearby places. You can find regular trains running from different parts of the country for Kolhapur.

By road- Paijarwadi village is connected with Kolhapur city by road. For being a short distance it takes less time to reach SadguruChile Maharaj temple by road from its district headquarter Kolhapur which is approx 21km away from the village. There are also frequently running buses from Kolhapur connecting to nearby places.

Things to do

This temple is a Repository place of ‘Parampujya Sadguru Chile Maharaj’.This is a spiritual place where your soul will find peace while visiting. His ideas and sayings will influence you and if you visit this place, you will come to know about our ancient ‘Hindu Dharma’.

You will also be amazed after seeing the wonderful design of the temple. It also attracts tourists.

Conclusion

So don’t miss the opportunity to visit this devotional place, Sadguru Chile Maharaj Temple while you will visit Kolhapur.

[kolgold]

"Rankala Lake - The beauty of waters "

Have you ever visited a Lake? Are you planning to visit Kolhapur? You might be wondering about visiting some tourist place in Kolhapur? Kolhapur is situated in Maharashtra State. Have you ever heard of Rankala Lake?

Read this article in detail to understand the basic history behind this Lake. You must visit this lake at least once in your lifetime. This place is surrounded by greenery and a garden. Those who visit this place are bound to be completely mesmerized by this.

History of Rankala Lake?

This lake dates back to the 8th century. Kolhapur Lake was flooded by an earthquake in the 9th century. The name Rankala was given from Rankabhairav Temple. This temple is submerged at the center of this Lake. The Shiv Arrival known as Nandi is used for traveling to this beautiful Lake. According to various facts if Nandi reaches the Lake it will destroy the whole world. This Lake is a beautiful Lake surrounded by a garden, city view, amazing structure, and Shalini Palace. This is the small history behind this Lake.

Significance of Rankala lake

This Kolhapur tourist lake is accumulated by water. The famous temple of Lord Shiva will give potential and strength to people. The strength of lord Shiva can destroy the whole lake. The Northeast side of Padmaraje Garden makes the scene of the lake more wonderful. The basic story behind the lake is of Nandi. The lake is surrounded by Chowpatty and other pathways. The garden is surrounded by mouth-watering snacks like Bhel- puri, Ragda Petis, PaniPuri, etc. This place was converted into a hotel recently. The biggest problem is the pollution that is noticed by visitors and is majorly due to the waste thrown into the lake.

How can you visit this place?

The weather is quite pleasant in winters and thus Oct-Feb is considered as the best time to visit this lake. You can also plan a trip around June - Sep to this place.

By Air - Kolhapur airport is just 10 Km away from this place and the airport is well connected to all the major cities of the country.

By Train - Kolhapur railway station is the nearest railway station that is connected to all the major cities of this place.

By Road - Kolhapur lies on NH 4 that is well connected to the nearby places through roadways. After reaching Kolhapur, you can take any local transport and reach Rankala Lake.

Things to do in Rankala lake?

Thinking about how you can spend your time in Lake. Read the following guidelines and get a challenging experience.

Kolhapur land walk is for those who like visiting lakes and oceans. You can have fun with your families and enjoy that day.

Rankala lake is allowing you to have a picnic. Beside this Lake is the mountain where you can enjoy trekking.

You can play exciting outdoor games with your friends. Enjoy your evening and make your evening wonderful.

Get your early morning happening and achievable.

Rankala lake is famous for boating and horse riding.

Conclusion

Come and grab the opportunity and never miss the chance to visit this lake. Plan your tour in Kolhapur and visit the lake too. Have faith in fortune and spend your time here.

[kolgold]

"Radhanagari Dam: the massive hydroelectric power project in Kolhapur"

Radhanagari Dam: the massive hydroelectric power project in Kolhapur

Visionary Rajarshi Shahu had initiated the construction of the Dam on 18 February 1907. Today the dam is popular enough for irrigation as well as hydroelectricity power. It is beautiful in terms of the cynic surrounding in the backdrop of the thick forest cover. It is a scheme of Panduranga Rao Shinde.

History of Radhanagari Dam

The plan by British Consulting engineer Henry Howard to the Kolhapur state ensures that this dam proves to be useful for the municipal power requirement, agriculture, and industry. Shahu Ji Maharaj had built the dam, who was the ruler of Kolhapur and could meet the purpose of providing irrigation and water to the citizens.

Significance of the Radhanagari Dam

The project is highly useful for irrigation purposes presently. It is popular for irrigation and hydroelectricity. The scenic beauty is something that you won't forget for a lifetime. The dam is today also well known for hydraulic technology and is one of the major reasons for the flourishing agriculture, sugarcane, and the jaggery industry in the Kolhapur district.

The mesmerizing beauty of this dam draws the attention of plenty of tourists around the globe. Radhanagari Dam has been constructed across the Godavari River, and it is the century-old dam that is still a famous spot of interest for tourists. 

How to reach Radhanagari Dam 

The best season to visit this location is between January and May and again from October to December.

By Air - You can access a location with assistance from the nearest airport Kolhapur that is around 55 kilometers from this location.

By Train - Belgaum is around 120 kilometers from this location. The nearest railway station to this location is Kolhapur that is 55 kilometers, Kankavli at 59 kilometers, and Kudal around 96 kilometers.

By Road - You can also consider taking buses to reach Kolhapur. Kolhapur bus service is well connected to all the major parts of the adjacent places.

Things to do

You can indulge in a sightseeing tour to this stunning location that can give you spectacular views of nature while also showing you the capacity of this large Dam. Besides, you can also hit the locations like the Kawla Naka, Jyotiba Temple, Maharaja's Palace, Bhavani Mandap, all of which are some of the nearest locations.

What's more incredible is that you can have a look at the Radhanagari wildlife sanctuary. There are plenty of wild animals, and you will almost love the time of stay. This is one of the most incredible parts of the site seen at Radhanagari. The location is the best one for Authentic Kolhapuri traditional products. So, you can do some nice shopping here. Go for the Kolhapur handmade shopping, which can give you an incredible experience.

Final words

Book your trip to the dam today and get some of the exciting moments of watching the beauty of nature while also learning the importance of the project. We are sure you and your family will love this amazing time.

[kolgold]

"Panhala Fort - A Glimpse into the golden era"

The most significant figure in the city of Panhala is the Panhala fort located 20 kilometers northwest of the Kolhapur town. This grand fort was associated with Shivaji when he defeated the Bijapur general Afzal Khan and captured the fort.

History of the place

It is said that the grand citadel was built by Bhoja II and Ibrahim Adil Shah I during the years 1178 to 1209 and was used actively till the year 1947. The grandeur of the place was such that it was further expanded during the years of 1489 to 1557, and made completely of stone and lead.

The legend also says that in the battle of Pavan Khind, nearly three-quarters of his force died and the fourth ultimately fell into the hands of Adil Shah, Shivaji finally occupying it in 1673. The Panhala Fort is an embodiment of the Kolhapur heritage, enriching it day by day. It is also said that the Panhala fort was the shelter for 15000 horses and home to more than 20,000 soldiers of Shivaji during his time at the fort.

Significance of the place

Panhala fort is one of the torchbearers of Kolhapur history and there’s a connection of God Parshuram with the forts in the Deccan region.

It also has a large political influence and significance as it was the home to several great rulers including Shivaji, Yadav, and Bahmani dynasties. It was the same place where Baji Prabhu sacrificed his own life for the sake of Shivaji’s escape.

Not only political and historic significance but also Panhala fort is a place to be remembered due to its cultural heritage. It is a place filled with several beautiful and culturally significant temples including Ambabaji temple, Someshwar temple, and many more beautiful temples which are a delight to the visitors’ eyes.

Ways to reach the Panhala Fort

By Air - The aerial route is said to be the fastest route to reach the Panhala fort. The nearest airport to the Panhala Fort is the Kolhapur airport. This airport is well connected to all the major parts of the country via direct running flights on a daily basis.

By Train - The Kolhapur railway station is located just around 30 kilometers from the city by the canal and is connected to major cities like Mumbai and Pune and many other places.

By Road - Public transport and both state and private buses have regular interactions with Panhala and are very easy to reach fron nearby places.

Things to see!

Find definitive spots for youngsters in Panhala, be it water parks, amusement parks, or jungle gyms. Panhala is a great spot for adventure sport-loving enthusiasts, as it has several interesting things to do like Bungee Jumping and water sports. Also, it is one of the best places for photography lovers as well.

Bottom note

It is one of the best travel destinations with temples, and ancient Indian architecture on offer for tourists to sightsee! Enjoy Panhala as it is the perfect destination to fall in love with the Kolhapur lifestyle and good old golden days.

[kolgold]

"Narsobawadi: Confluence of the two rivers "

The pilgrim spot for the Shri Dattatreya devotees Narsobawadi is one of the particular locations of the Confluence of the two rivers PanchaGanga and Krishna.

History of Narsobawadi

Narasimha Wadi is a small town in Shirol Tahsil, Kolhapur district, Maharashtra. It is the famous pilgrimage site for the Kolhapur district. The Devasthan temple is in the name of Saraswati Swami Datta and is situated at Narsobawadi, Kolhapur. You can find out the history of Narsobawadi in Guru Charitra, one of the Ancient Hindu literature.

Narasimha Saraswati had visited the PanchGangasagar river, which is located in the Narsobawadi. Besides, he had stayed there for 12 years, and so the temple of Amareshwar on the other bank is the place that is also referred to as Amarapur. The temple dedicated to Saraswati Ji is the incarnation of Lord Sri Dattatreya.

Significance of Narsobawadi

Located in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra, this place is also referred to as Narsobawadi. The archaeological significance makes it one of the most famous locations for tourists. Besides, it is a pilgrim Centre known for the incarnation as Narsingh Saraswati, who lived here for 12 years.

This archaeological significance has been drawing the attention of the tour over the years. So it is one of the important locations where you can experience the highest state of Liberation. The pilgrim spot is the religious place situated at the confluence of Krishna and PanchGanga.

How to reach Narsobawadi

The best time to visit Narsobawadi is February to September.

By Road - Kolhapur is well connected through nearby bus services. A large number of Volvo buses keep running from your city that can connect you easily through Kolhapur. So, book a bus ticket and reach Narsobawadi to witness this amaizng beauty.

By train - You can reach Narsobachi Wadi Yeshwantpur railway station situated on Miraj Kolhapur Railway. You can take the direct State transport buses from Miraj Sangli or Kolhapur to reach this place.

By Air - The Kolhapur airport is around 53 kilometers away from Narsobawadi. Kolhapur airport has direct running flights on an everyday basis connecting all the major parts of the country. From the airport, you will have to take a cab service to reach to the spot. 

Things to do

The archaeological importance site in the Kolhapur district is well known for the presence of the Sri Narasimha Saraswati Temple. You can also watch out for the Confluence of PanchGanga and Krishna. You can hit the special landmark in the nearby locations on the bank of the Krishna.

This is one of the most important locations that you can see. Unfortunately, this isn't a location where you can expect adventurous sports. In the well-known location, you can also buy some of the high-quality Authentic Kolhapuri traditional products. 

Final words

Narsobawadi is an amazing location where you can spend some nice time touring with your friends and family. So, book your trip to Narsobawadi today and experience the closeness to spiritualism. 

[kolgold]

"Mahalakshmi temple : Convergence of blessings and beauty"

Are you well versed with the Kolhapur temples? Mahalakshmi temple in Kolhapur has a significant story behind it. In this article, you will get complete detail about the Mahalakshmi temple in Kolhapur. What is the history behind the place, significance like the political, historical result, how can you reach the place? Kolhapur is well known for its lifestyle and various organizations.

History of the Mahalakshmi temple!

Interested in knowing the history behind the Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur? This temple is a powerful temple of Kolhapur. History says that there was a huge fight between goddess Laxmi and Lord Vishnu. This fight was noticed by a Saint named Bhrigumuni. This made him angry and he kicked Lord Vishnu on his chest. Lord Vishnu was the Supreme and the entire controller of the world. Lord Vishnu had a strong chest and said that if anyone wants to defeat him, beat him in his legs. Hearing this saint Bhrigumuni didn’t miss the chance to hit him on the legs. This made goddess Laxmi very angry, disrespecting her husband made her furious and she decided to stay on the earth. Goddess Laxmi's furious first-ever journey was to Kolhapur and she resided at this temple. This is the complete history of the Kolhapur temple. Later this temple was named after goddess Laxmi.

Significance of the Mahalakshmi Temple

The beautiful idol of goddess Lakshmi Is the main Idol and you cannot take your eyes off it. To watch this beautiful glimpse, huge crowds gather in this temple every day. This temple is 6000 years old. The Crown of goddess Mahalakshmi is made of gemstone which is 40 kilograms. The image of the goddess is four feet in height and has a remarkable black stone. In the walls, Shri Yantra is carved. The goddess holds objects in her four hands which signifies symbolic value.

How can you visit Kolhapur?

Planning to visit Mahalakshmi temple in Kolhapur? You have three options.

By Air - Mahalakshmi temple in Kolhapur has Kolhapur airport as the nearest air connectivity.

By Train - Kolhapur railway station is well connected by major places all over the country. Thus, you can easily reach this place by taking a connecting train from your boarding city.

By Public Transport - Few private buses are running between Kolhapur and adjacent places. Have a look at the buses running slots accordingly. 

Things to do in Mahalakshmi temple

Mahalakshmi temple offers you a much-needed escape into a religious and pious environment. Visit with your family members and enjoy the day. Take blessings from God and fulfill all your needs and desires in your life. Ask God to fulfill your dreams so that you can move further in life.

Conclusion

Visit Kolhapur Temple and worship goddess Laxmi. Goddess Laxmi and Lord Vishnu were the divine couples. You will feel immense happiness within you after visiting this place. Many tourists visit this place and take blessings from Lakshmi.

[kolgold]

"Kolhapur Lifestyle"

Lifestyle for any city means “The overall representation of the people living there; their earnings, beliefs, traditions, and opinions….”.

While multiple groups living in a region contribute to a diverse lifestyle still there are some underlying ways of life with which the people in the city operate. This could be defined as the soul of the city as well.

Kolhapur is considered one of the best cities to live in in Maharashtra. People who belong to Kolhapur claim even if they have to migrate to other parts of the world, they still wanna come back to the city for the simplistic and contenting lifestyle it offers to the residents. Kolhapur is fertile land and on top of it, the city also has a lot of local handicraft and artifacts businesses. Overall the per capita income of the city is much higher than many other contemporary cities of Maharashtra. With this economical growth, the city is attracting many brands to expand into the cities, and a wide range of shopping, salon and tech brands are opening their retail stores in the city.

Kolhapur’s traditional lifestyle is very simple. The energy of a typical household is full of enthusiasm and high spirits. The crime rate of the city is also relatively very low and people like to live a peaceful life enjoying their local delicacy food on a daily basis and enjoying a walk around the riverside with the family. Some underlying traditions of Kolhapur that are famous all across the country are :

Kolhapur ‘Pheta’ and ‘Sadra’

The traditional families really value their unique turbans called “Pheta”. It’s a matter of honor in Kolhapur and is offered to all prestigious guests and on all special occasions and marriages, it is a must for all men in the family. The turban is a 3.5-6 meter long cloth wrapped around the head in a unique way with its end popping out in a discrete way. Leheriya Pheta is a variant of a ‘Pheta’  which is made of a special print of the fabric. Pheta represents the pride people take in their traditions and values. A muscular wrestler wearing a festive color turban is the most iconic heritage of the city. It’s a usual tradition to welcome the most important guests with a Pheta and it’s an absolute credit of respect for the guests. Sadra is the unique style of dhoti that men in Kolhapur wear on all cultural occasions and again is an important aspect of the Kolhapuri lifestyle.

World-famous Kolhapuri Chappals

Any item on the Kolhapur lifestyle is incomplete without mentioning the world-famous Kolhapuri chappals which are also an integral part of the traditional people of Kolhapur. These chappals are beautiful leather outers on a rubber sole. In spite of so many new types of footwear coming in, you will still find people of Kolhapur wearing them most of the time with pride.

“Saaz” and the “Nauvari Saree”

Kolhapur people are very used to their old traditions and lifestyle. Even today at weddings, people prefer traditional jewelry designs. A very famous Kolhapuri design is called “Saaz”, which is a necklace made of a traditional design and can be uniquely identified. Also, the “Nauvari saree” which newlyweds wear is a beautiful tradition Kolhapur stands for to date.

Modern influence of Kolhapur’s lifestyle

In the times of globalization, when the youth is going out and getting exposed to so many different types of cultures outside the city, they are gradually accepting some changes and enjoying the modern tweaks in their lifestyles.

Recently so many gyms, salons, and spas are opened in the city whereas this culture was absolutely new to the people of Kolhapur a few years ago. The mall culture is also expanding vastly in the city and attracting kids and youth of the city.

These changes are inevitable and possible with changing times but what matters is that Kolhapur still runs on the Missal and people still love their traditions so much. This mix of values will take the city towards a path of more success and happiness.

[kolgold]

"Kolhapur Cuisine"

The cuisine for every region represents its culture, ingrown crops, and local spices. Kolhapur being a fertile land has a diverse cuisine to offer which is famous across the whole country. On one hand, it offers the famous spice  “Lavang” Mirchi and on other hand, the Kolhapur Jaggery is famous for its unique characteristics and sweet profile. Over a period of time, Kolhapur is known for its Misal Pav, the spicy non-veg curries, and the PranPoli made from Kolhapuri Gur (jaggery). A wide range of authentic Kolhapur Gur (jaggery) is also available on the KolGold website.

 While in a traditional Kolhapur household, the authentic thali or the meal consists of curries, rice, Rotis or Bhakris, and sweets in the same order. The meal is usually served in a metal thali and in Kolhapur, while serving food, a bowl of saffron-scented water is also given to guests to avoid mixing any flavors. While Kolhapur’s red meat preparation is famous for its taste and spice, the basic soul food for every Kolhapur household is Pithila Bhakri i.e. the gram flour-based curry served with Bhakri or roti.

There is also a famous tradition in Kolhapur for milkmen to sell their milk called “Dudhkatta”. Here during evenings, milkmen take their cows out and milk them in front of customers where they come out and buy milk fresh directly from the milkmen. In some rural or internal areas, milkmen also take their cows directly to people’s houses and sell them directly. This is a unique way of selling fresh milk and is a significant aspect of Kolhapur’s food culture.

From snacks to accompaniments and main courses, there are multiple dishes famous in Kolhapur. Some of the most famous dishes are :

Kolhapur cha Misal Pav: The spicy misal pav is an everyday food item consumed in Kolhapur made of boiled moat beans, boiled potato, onion, tomato, and Farsan prepared in a hot red gravy made from local spices, garlic, ginger, and coconut. This is usually served with pav or Ladi pav as they call it in Maharashtra. Misal is a synonym for spice for many people outside Kolhapur are not used to spicy food on a regular basis but it is definitely a must-try in Kolhapur and a delicacy famous around the country.

Kolhapur soups:  “Tambra Rassa” and “Pandra Rassa”‘ are famous accompaniments of a traditional Kolhapuri meal served along with the main course. While “Tambra Rassa” is a spicy red soup made with hot spices and mutton stock, the “Pandra Rassa” is a mild and soothing white soup made with coconut milk and mutton stock. They both compliment each other’s flavor and enhance the overall food experience.

Mutton fry:  With the curries or soups, the main course is usually fried mutton and people from Kolhapur swear by it. It is well-cooked roasted mutton or red meat usually served dry. On all occasions, this is a must on the menu and with different spices, the different versions of the same are cooked in various parts of Kolhapur. “Ghaati Mutton” is another delicacy of red meat very famous in Kolhapur usually made from roasted mutton in coconut and a secret Kolhapur spice mix.

Kolhapur Bhel:  Bhelpuri is very famous all across Maharashtra and served in all regions, the Kolhapur Bhel is slightly different and a spicier and hotter version of the regular Mumbai Bhel. It’s people’s famous snack while taking a walk at the Rankara Chaupati. While Khasbag “Khau Gali” offers all the street food of Kolhapur including Bhel, If you ask locals, they will suggest “RajaBhau Bhel” without a doubt. The Bhel joint is extremely famous now and even the foreign tourists visit and enjoy the delight.

Kolhapur Veg:  Although nonveg specialties are most popular in Kolhapur, there are a few vegetarian dishes that are also popular. One is, Veg Kolhapur which is made from different vegetables cooked in a mixed Kolhapuri masala mix and coconut flavors. Another popular dish is Stuffed eggplant called Bhara Varli. The vegetarian thali usually has this on the thali and vegetarians enjoy these delicacies with roti or Bhakri.

Pithala Bhakri:  The soul food for every Maharashtrian is Pithla Bhakri where a curry made from besan flour is served with Jowar Bhakri, raw onions, and also the Kolhapuri mint coriander chutney.

Puran Poli:  No occasion or festival is complete without Puran Poli in Maharashtra. It is basically a paratha wrapped with an exquisite filling made of Kolhapur Gur(Jaggery) and Chana pulse. On all major festivals in Maharashtra including Gudi Padwa(Maharashtrian New Year) and marriages, Puran Poli is served for sure and is a local sweet delicacy enjoyed by the locals as well as the tourists.

[kolgold]

"New Palace, Kolhapur : Experience the best of grandeur"

Do you keep wondering about the kind of lavish lifestyle of the ancient rulers? If yes, then it's time to catch a glimpse of a striking monument.

Spending beautiful family time with loved ones turns out to be memorable when you reach a popular destination that has huge historical importance. One such location is New Palace Kolhapur. Situated in Kolhapur, the remarkable monument in terms of its historical importance took seven years to complete from 1877 to 1884.

History of the New Palace

The excellent specimen of the Indian architecture built on the black polished stone is very attractive to the tourists. The extensive premises with the fountain Garden and the wrestling round make it so stunningly distinct from any other monuments in India. The monument has an attractive tower in the middle.

The new palace was previously referred to as Maharaja Palace. It bears the symbol of Meenakshi. New Palace Kolhapur resembles itself as one of the strongest pillars of belief and trust in the kinship of the Maratha Empire. It was built during the reign of Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj.

Significance of the New Palace

The black polished stone composition in this excellent specimen of Indian architecture makes it eye-catching. The stone makes it highly attractive to tourists. Extensive premises also show picturesque places that date back to the last two centuries. The monument has always contributed a lot to the historical significance of Kolhapur.

The ancient building on the Bhavani Mandap Kasaba Bavda road is the most attractive site in Kolhapur. It also shows the amalgamation of British and Hindu architecture. Overall, the place can give you an idea about the Kolhapuri tradition.

Today the lower floor is a Museum where you can find plenty of the possessions of the Maratha rulers.

In the new Wallace, you can see the dedicated fine collection of the possessions of Chhatrapati of Kolhapur like the weapon, games, jewelry, embroidery, and paraphernalia. There is also a letter from the British Viceroy and Governor-General of India. Everything collected in the memorabilia bears significant importance. The Shivaji Chhatrapati Museum makes it one of the most valuable sections of the palace.

The stuffed Tiger, Sloth bear, wild dog, Tiger head, wild buffalo, Black Panther, blackbuck, Wild Boar, and several other animals show the hunting zeal of the ancient rulers. The double height space in the middle of the palace has sidewalls. The dark field with the stained Glass illustration depicts the scenes from the life of Shivaji.

The carved columns, along with the temple-like brackets, always support the cast-iron balcony. The throne is at the end of the hall. Some photos also show Maharaja with the hundredth dead Tiger, elephant hunt, and similar other hunting.

How to reach there?

By Air - The nearest airport is Kolhapur airport, which is approximately 18 kilometers away.

By Railways - The distance from the railway station ST stands CVS is around 3 kilometers.

By Road - Kolhapur bus stand is just 4.2 km away from this historic site. And MSRTC buses connect Kolhapur to nearby places.

Things to do at New Palace Kolhapur

This monument is not one of the popular sites for adventurous sports, but the historical value is something that you won't find elsewhere.

The costumes, games, weapons, and jewelry that are collected here can show the insight of the rule of Maharaja. Right after spending some time in the New Palace, you can go shopping for Made in Kolhapur products.

Final words

So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets today and hit the location with family and friends to catch a glimpse of the beauty of the New Palace. It's promising and won't make you regret your time of stay in Kolhapur.

[kolgold]

"Khidrapur : Seek Blessings from the Almighty"

Khidrapur is famous for the Kopeshwar Temple, Kolhapur district, Maharashtra. It is right at the border of Maharashtra and Karnataka and is accessible from Sangli. Built in the 12th century by Shilahara king Gandhar Aditya between 1109 and 1178 CE, it is today's most popular destination. Situated at the east of Kolhapur, the ancient and artistic temple on the banks of the Krishna River is an eye-catching beauty for visitors.

History of Khidrapur

The entire Temple has parts named Swarga Mandapa, Sabha Mandap, Kaksha as well as Garbha Guha. The exterior shows the stunning carvings of the deities and sacred figures. You can spot Vishnu and Shivling facing north in the entire place.

The semicircular ceiling is a major attraction for visitors. The separate Pandal, old pillars, hall, and the god's cravings make this Temple very attractive. The village panchayat located in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra today is very famous for this temple. Plenty of visitors around the world come to relish the beauty of the location.

Significance of the Khidrapur

There is a legend associated with this Temple. The belief is that Daksha, who didn't like the youngest daughter Sati marrying Lord Shiva, had conducted a Yagna where he had not invited the couple. The town had once witnessed the two major battles, one of which took place in 1058 CE between Chalukya king Ahavamalla and the Chola King Rajendra.

The second Battle had taken place between Shilahara King Bhoja II and Devagiri Yadav King Singham II. The history of ancient cities in Maharashtra is very famous today because of this Temple. The temple has plenty of different sections and also the depiction regarding the periods of these kings.

There are dozens of inscriptions on the outside as well as inside of the temple. They are still in good condition still for giving the knowledge regarding the culture back then. Besides, you can also hit the nearby market to buy some Authentic Kolhapuri traditional products.

How to reach Khidrapur 

The best time to visit this location is from June to September. It is open between 7 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Again you can visit it between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.

By Road - You can reach the location by road by considering private vehicles and Cabs. Kurundwad, Jaysingpur, Ichalkaranji are some of the nearby towns that can give road connectivity to Khidrapur.

By Train - The nearest railway station is Kolhapur railways station. The distance is approximately 60 Km from the main site.

By Air - Kolhapur airport is approximately 56 Km away from Khidrapur. It has daily running flights connecting different parts of the country. 

Things to do

It is one of the top sightseeing places in Kolhapur and is good enough for giving you a glimpse of the Temple.

It's worth noting that you cannot expect bungee jumping to be any other kind of adventurous sport in this place. But the remarkable time of stay in this historical place will be quite significant for you and your family.Kolhapur traditional shopping is very famous here. So, on your way back home, you can buy some for yourself.

Final words

So, what are you waiting for? Just grab the opportunity to enjoy a time of stay there with your family or friends. The location will be incredibly beautiful for a fun time.