The State of Maharashtra is one of the most gifted regions in India. It is filled with history, architecture, beaches, natural wonders, cuisines and much more. Many tourists come from all over the world to experience the richness of the western state, including the local tourists in Mumbai, Pune, and nearby cities. Along with many historical and natural wonders, there are many temples in Maharashtra that you should not miss.
These temples have a rich history and mythology behind them, and they attract pilgrims across Maharashtra, India and the World. There are so many temples that it will be impossible to list all of them here. So We have listed the 10 Best Temples In Maharashtra For A Mesmerizing Religious Experience!
1. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple - The Most Iconic Temple In Maharashtra
Shirdi is one of the most iconic pilgrimages sites in India. The Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is one of the most iconic temples in Maharashtra and attracts devotees from across the world. Sai Baba is one of the most well-known religious figures. He was a fakir who made miracles happen. He used to help those in distress and solve problems that could not be solved by ordinary means.
Sai Baba’s Samadhi is placed at the Sai Baba Temple. He is worshipped as a god incarnate at this temple. It is the second richest temple in India and it is spread over 200 square metres. It is located in Shirdi village. More than 60,000 people visit this temple daily.
2. Shree Siddhivinayak Ganpati Temple - A Famous Ganesh Temple In Mumbai
It is one of the most famous and richest temples in Maharashtra. It is located in Mumbai and was built in 1801. The main idol in the temple is referred to as Siddhi Vinayak Ganesha. The temple has a small mandap and the doors are carved with the images of Ashtavinayak, the 8 manifestations of Ganesha in Maharashtra.
The Inner roof of the Sanctum is plated with gold and the main idol is that of Lord Ganesha. There is also an idol of Lord Hanuman on the periphery. If you visit Mumbai, you should not miss this temple.
3. Ganpatipule Temple in Maharashtra
Ganpatipule temple is considered to be one of the most well-known temples in Maharashtra. The temple is located on the sea coast 25 kilometres from Ratnagiri.
The temple is known as the property deity - "Dwar Devata" of Western India. Shree Mahaganpati is the main deity of this temple. Devotees believe that this Ganesh will fulfil any wish or desire they have and is considered to be the Supreme One.
The structure and architecture of this temple in Maharashtra are beautiful and unique. During the Peshwa rule, Shrimant Nanasaheb Peshwa constructed a lamp tower in front of the temple. Shrimant Mahadevrao Peshwa's wife Ramabai had built a Dharamshala, i.e resting place for the devotees.
This temple should be visited if you are visiting Konkan.
4. Keshavraj Temple - A Temple Amidst The Forests
Want to have a nice forest trail and visit a quaint temple nearby? Then Keshavraj Temple is the one for you! Located in Asudbaug, it is 6 kilometres away from the Dapoli - Harne Road near Dapoli. The trail towards the temple starts from Dakhewadi. It is among the most picturesque temples in Maharashtra.
There are coconut and palm trees on both sides of the path which have existed for hundreds of years. There is a water stream that flows throughout the year. After crossing the bridge, you will come across some steps that will lead you to the temple.
The temple was built during the Peshwa period. The idol of Lord Vishnu is visible standing in the dim light of lanterns. The idol of Lord Ganpati is on the left of the temple. The temple is surrounded by stone pavement on all four sides.It is among the most unique temples in Maharashtra. Cool and freshwater flows from the Cow's mouth-shaped stone - Gomukha, throughout the year.
5. Kadyavarcha Ganpati Temple In Maharashtra
Located in the scenic village of Anjarle, Kadyavarcha Ganpati Temple is one of the many beautiful temples in Maharashtra. The Anjarle village is surrounded by coconut trees, and you can reach the Kadyavarcha Ganpati Temple by climbing the steps from the village.
The Anjarle village is situated on the route between Dapoli and Kelshi. While entering the village, you will notice the Ganesha temple situated on a small hill to the right. The temple is known as Kadyavarcha Ganpati. The temple was established 600 years ago. The temple was reconstructed in the 1780s in Peshwa architecture.
6. Trimbakeshwar Temple - One Of The Twelve Jyotirlingas
Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple is one of the ancient Hindu temples in Maharashtra located in the town of Trimbak, 28 kilometres from Nashik. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Trimbak is the origin of the sacred Godavari River.
The present temple structure is said to have been built between 1740 - and 1760 by Third Peshwa, Balaji Bajirao. The entrance to the temple has deep malas - pillars to hold lamps. The mandap area has a big idol of Nandi. The Shiva Linga is installed in the Sanctum of the temple. It is among the famous temples in Maharashtra.
The temple has many smaller shrines in its vicinity and also has a ritual water tank. The Godavari river also originates from a hill near the temple called Brahmagiri.
7. Velneshwar Temple - Beach Temple In Maharashtra
If you want to visit Guhagar, then you shouldn't miss the Velneshwar Temple. The temple is surrounded by lush coconut grooves and the pristine blue waters of the Arabian Sea. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be situated here in ancient times.
The village on the seashore is said to be 1200 years old. The current structure of the temple is said to have been built around 400 years ago. It is one of those temples in Maharashtra that one should not miss.
8. Dhootpapeshwar Temple In Maharashtra
Located amidst the waterfalls of the Mrudani river, Dhootpapeshwar Temple is one of the many treasures of Konkan. The road to the temple is filled with greenery and free from pollution. The atmosphere is best during the rainy season when the Mrudani river flowing from the hills generates waterfalls around the temple. It is among the most beautiful temples in Maharashtra.
The temple has an old banyan tree which is hundreds of years old, and its aerial roots resemble the jatas of Lord Shiva. The temple has a hall, a pavilion and a sanctum. Dhootpapeshwar Temple is said to be almost 1000 years old. A big festival takes place during Mahashivratri and is also crowded with devotees during Shravani Somwar and Vijayadashami.
9. Bhimashankar Temple
Bhimashankar Temple is a renowned Shiva Temple in Maharashtra. It is a Jyotirlinga shrine located in Khed, which is near Pune. Bhimashankar is the source of the river Bhima.
The temple is constructed using Nagara-style architecture. The temple dates back to the 13th century while the Sabhamandap was built by Nana Phadnavis in the 18th century. The temple also has a large Roman-style bell which the Peshwa had taken after winning against the Portuguese at Vasai Fort.
You should visit this temple if you come to visit Maharashtra.
10. Mahakali Temple
Mahakali Temple is located in Adivare, a village near Rajapur, Ratnagiri. There are five gods situated on the temple premises - Shri Yogeshwari, Shri Mahalakshmi, Shri Mahakali, Shri Mahasaraswati and Shri Rawalnath.
The Statue of Shri Mahakali is made up of black stone and is said to be facing southwards. There is the long-followed tradition of bathing the idol with coconut milk and oil on every full moon and no moon.
With so many beautiful temples in Maharashtra, you will love exploring the state. Check out our blogs to know more about vacations, sites and getaways!