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Kolhapur City Tour

A tour of Kolhapur is a delightful dive into Maratha royalty, ancient temples, vibrant markets, and unique local cuisine. Known as the “City of Temples” and the land of the mighty Chhatrapatis, Kolhapur offers a rich and regal experience.

Here is a comprehensive Kolhapur city tour guide to help you plan your visit.

Kolhapur at a Glance

  • Famous for: Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapuri Chappals, Jewellery (Kolhapuri Saaj), Wrestling (Kushti), and spicy, flavorful non-vegetarian food.

  • Ideal Duration: 2-3 days to explore the city and nearby attractions comfortably.

  • Best Time to Visit: October to February (pleasant winter weather). Avoid the heavy monsoon season.

A Suggested 2-Day Kolhapur Itinerary

Day 1: Spiritual & Royal Kolhapur

Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Mahalaxmi Temple and Surroundings

  • Mahalaxmi Temple (Ambabai Temple): Start your day at the most sacred site. This 7th-century temple is one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas and the spiritual heart of Kolhapur. The architecture is a beautiful blend of Chalukyan and Hemadpanti styles. Be prepared for crowds, especially on Tuesdays and during festivals.

    • Tip: Dress modestly. You can purchase offerings (prasad) from shops outside.

  • Binkhambi Ganesh Temple: Located just behind the main Mahalaxmi Temple, this is a unique temple where the idol of Lord Ganesha is not under a roof but under the open sky. It’s believed that the Lord here fulfills all wishes.

Late Morning (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM): Rankala Lake

  • A short drive from the temple, Rankala Lake is a perfect place to unwind. You can take a peaceful stroll along the promenade, enjoy a horse-carriage ride, or simply sit and relax. The Shalini Palace on its banks (now a hotel) adds to the scenic beauty.

Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM): Authentic Kolhapuri Thali

  • Head to a renowned restaurant like Hotel Opal or Khasbag Hotel to experience the legendary Kolhapuri Misal and a full-on non-vegetarian Thali (Pandhara Rassa & Tambda Rassa are a must-try).

Afternoon (2:30 PM – 5:00 PM): The Royal Legacy – New Palace

  • Shree Chhatrapati Shahu Museum (New Palace): This is a must-visit to understand Kolhapur’s royal history. Built in 1884, the palace is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The museum inside houses an impressive collection of swords, armour, costumes, and the famous personal belongings of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. Don’t miss the stuffed tiger and the magnificent Durbar Hall.

Evening (5:30 PM onwards): Shopping & Street Food

  • Explore the bustling Mahadwar Road near the Mahalaxmi Temple. This is the best place to buy:

    • Kolhapuri Chappals: Look for genuine leather ones.

    • Kolhapuri Saaj: A traditional necklace, often in green and red.

    • Sarees: Particularly Kolhapuri Narayan Peth sarees.

  • For dinner, try the street food or head to a popular local eatery for more Kolhapuri delicacies.

Day 2: Cultural, Historical & Culinary Delights

Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Temples and Wrestling

  • Bhavani Mandap: Located in the old palace complex, this was the seat of the Kolhapur rulers. The area also houses several other temples and a museum with ancient sculptures.

  • Visit a Talim (Akhada): Kolhapur is synonymous with wrestling. If you’re interested, ask a local guide to take you to a traditional wrestling gym (Akhada) in the morning to see the wrestlers (Pahalwans) train. It’s a unique cultural insight.

Late Morning (12:30 PM – 2:00 PM): Panhala Fort (Day Trip)

  • Drive up to Panhala Fort, located about 20 km northwest of the city. This is one of the largest forts in the Deccan and holds immense historical significance.

    • Key sights within the fort: Andhar Bavadi (a hidden, intricate stepwell), Sajja Kothi (where Shivaji Maharaj’s son Sambhaji was imprisoned), and the majestic Ambabai Temple. The views of the Sahyadri ranges are breathtaking.

Lunch (2:00 PM – 3:00 PM)

  • Have lunch at a local restaurant in Panhala or drive back to the city.

Afternoon (3:30 PM – 5:30 PM): Art and More

  • Shalini Palace: Even if you’re not staying there, you can visit the grounds or have a coffee at this beautiful palace-turned-hotel by Rankala Lake.

  • Town Hall Museum: For history buffs, this museum has a good collection of sculptures, coins, and artifacts from the region.

Evening: Relax and Reflect

  • Take a final stroll around Rankala Lake or indulge in some last-minute shopping. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant for a view of the illuminated city.

Other Notable Attractions (If you have more time)

  • Jyotiba Temple: A famous hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Jyotiba, about 18 km from the city. The climb and the atmosphere are highly rewarding.

  • Narsobachi Wadi: A temple town on the banks of the Krishna River, about 50 km away, known for the temple of Lord Dattatreya.

  • Gaganbawda: A scenic spot known for its waterfalls and lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers.

Kolhapur’s Famous Food – A Culinary Checklist

  • Non-Veg: Tambda Rassa (spicy red curry), Pandhara Rassa (mild white curry), and Sukka Mutton (dry mutton).

  • Veg: Kolhapuri Misal (extremely spicy sprout curry), Thalipeeth (multi-grain pancake).

  • Sweets: Kandi Pedhe, Javala Halua.

  • Where to Eat: Hotel Opal, Khasbag Hotel, Purepur Kolhapur, Padma Hotel.

Travel Tips

  • Language: Marathi is the primary language. Hindi and English are understood in hotels and tourist areas.

  • Getting Around: Auto-rickshaws are the most common mode of transport. You can also hire a cab for a full day for convenience.

  • Shopping: Always bargain at the local markets. For authentic Kolhapuri chappals, buy from certified government shops or reputed stores.

Enjoy your royal and spiritual journey through the magnificent city of Kolhapur