Maharashtra, a treasure trove of spirituality and architecture, is home to some of the most beautiful temples in India. Temples in Maharashtra offer a blend of divine tranquillity and exquisite craftsmanship, inviting explorers and devotees alike.
Boasting a wealth of cultural and religious sites amidst its bustling metropolitan areas, this region offers an unforgettable journey. From the economic vibrancy of Mumbai to the historic splendour of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, a visit here promises a blend of modernity and ancient heritage that is uniquely captivating.
While there are many excellent major sites and locations to explore, one may also go on a pilgrimage because the state contains many ancient temples. Many Temples in Maharashtra provide for an ideal pilgrimage, from the famed holy village of Shirdi to the prominent Siddhivinayak Temple located in the heart of Mumbai city.
Bring your family on a Maharashtra temple tour to seek the good wishes of different gods.
Shirdi
The renowned Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is situated 258 kilometres from Mumbai and is a must-visit destination. The temple is well-known for being Sai’s residence. Every year, a large number of supporters and worshippers go to Shirdi in search of Sai Baba’s graces. Sai Baba is regarded as one of the ultimate saints. Shirdi is a prominent shrine among the temples in Maharashtra since it is where Sai Baba reached Samadhi. The temple city has indeed been developed into a fairly contemporary area with numerous tourist destinations throughout the decades.
Kopeshwar temple
Kopeshwar temple is an architectural marvel located in Khidrapur village in Maharashtra. When you enter the Kopeshwar temple, you will notice a circular platform that is open to the sky. Your eyes will be attracted upward. This platform is supported by deities such as Ganesh and Indra. You may observe the deity, Shiva, in the main sanctuary by situating oneself in the centre of the terrace.
You may see Lord Brahma on the left and Lord Vishnu on the other side. The holy Hindu trinity may be seen at a sight. The religious place draws worshippers along with history buffs because of its beautiful architecture and renowned structure.
Shani Shingnapur
Shani Shingnapur is located around 72 kilometres from the sacred village of Shirdi. It is one of the state’s most prominent Temples in Maharashtra and should, therefore, be explored. Shani Mahadev, the Hindu deity connected with the planet Saturn, is honoured at the temple. It is a well-known pilgrimage site in Maharashtra as it is a jagrut devasthan, which indicates the god still lives inside the temple.
The ancient Maharashtra temple attracts a large number of people seeking the divine blessings of Shani and Lord Shiva. On a few of the auspicious days, such as Saturdays, Amavasya, and Shri Shaneshchar Jayanti, the passion and fervour reach new heights.
Trimbakeshwar temple
Trimbakeshwar temple lies 28 kilometres from Nashik’s holy sites, at the base of the Bramhagiri mountain, which would be the origin of the Godavari river. It is the Indian peninsula’s longest river and a sight to behold. This temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples erected in place of an older temple by the third Peshwa Balaji Bajirao (1740-1760) and is among the most famous temples in Maharashtra.
The grounds are constructed in traditional style and also mention the Kushavarta or Kunda, which is supposed to be the source of the holy river Godavari. The Jyotirlinga’s three faces in the Trimbakeshwar temple represent Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Rudra, respectively.
Only male worshippers are permitted in the temple’s central section, known as the ‘garbhagriha.’ Visitors are required to wear a sovala or silk dhoti here. The temple itself is relatively modest, but the surrounding ambience is wonderful. Furthermore, as you go through the town, you will come across additional exquisite temples on your route to Bramhagiri Mountain.
Bhimashankar Temple
Bhimashankar is not just one of Maharashtra’s most recognized hikes, but it is also a prominent shrine in the province. The famed Hindu temple is nestled in the lush green Sahyadri hills. Bhimashankar Temple is without a doubt one of the most prominent temples in Maharashtra and will be on your itinerary of religious destinations. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is one of the country’s 12 Jyotirlinga temples.
Five of the country’s twelve Jyotirlingas are found in Maharashtra itself. The shrine is perhaps the origin of the Bhima River where devotees take a holy plunge as it is believed, it will wash away a person’s sins. Also, it has recently garnered prominence after being designated as the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Yamai Devi Temple
The renowned Yamai Devi Temple in Maharashtra is located in the centre of Aundh. The pilgrim is home to Yamai Devi, also known as Devi Mahishasur Mardini. Yamai Devi’s idol, embellished with Trishul, arrow, gada, and paan Patra, stands tall within the temple grounds.
The famous Maharashtra temple is set on a hill overlooking the picturesque valley of Aundh. Visitors must bring their families on a religious pilgrimage to the temple to receive the goddess’ blessings. Besides the temple, there are other scenic spots to explore for an incredible time.
Siddhivinayak Temple
The Siddhivinayak Temple is considered one of the most noteworthy temples in Maharashtra. It is devoted to Lord Ganesha and is said to be one of the country’s wealthiest temples. It is a 6-story structure with a dome at the top. This massive dome is gold-plated and contributes to the shrine’s allure. Every year, thousands of people head to the temple since it is a major tourist destination in Maharashtra.
On Tuesdays, which are regarded as auspicious, many worshippers walk from their homes to the shrine. Also, witness the massive statue of a mouse, which is said to represent Ganesha’s legendary chariot. Many followers speak their desires into their ears, hoping that they will be fulfilled.
Mahalaxmi Temple
The Mahalakshmi temple, erected by Chalukya monarchs in the 7th century, is among the six abodes of ‘Shakti’ (Goddess of Power) from which one might receive fulfilment and deliverance of aspirations. Mahalakshmi is a Hindu Goddess who is also recognized as Goddess Ambabai. The black stone figure of Mahalaxmi stands 3 feet tall. The shrine is regarded as among the most prominent pilgrimage locations in the list of temples in Maharashtra. It is around 5 kilometres from the town’s railway station and central bus terminal.
Apart from this, there is a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhavani near the temple. After viewing the temple, visitors may purchase at the different kiosks and businesses that sell local food. Artwork of the idols, prayer objects, food products, fruits, and perhaps even Kolhapuri slippers may be purchased.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, nestled in the Aurangabad district, is one of the 10 leading temples to see in Maharashtra. The holy structure is devoted to Lord Shiva and houses one of the jyotirlingas described in the Shiva Purana. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva has several identities, such as Ghrushmeswara, Grishneshwar, Kusumeswarar, and Ghushmeswara, and is said to be the 12th jyotirlinga.
The structure was erected using red volcanic rock during the reigns of Rani Ahilyabhai Holkar and Maloji Raje Bhosale and is considered the best temple to visit in Maharashtra. During Maha Shivratri, the area comes alive with celebrations.
The Ambarnath temple
The Ambarnath temple was constructed around 1060 AD. King Chittraja of the Shilahara dynasty is credited with its creation. Under his rule, his son Mummuni erected the temple near the Vadavan River in the Hemadpanthi architecture. It’s completely made of black stones. The dome is as meticulously crafted as the columns, lending the temple a unique symmetry. The sacred site is devoted to Shiva, one of the Hindu trinity of deities.
The appearance of two Brahma sculptures seen here is quite uncommon in Hindu temples. The Mahashivratri festival is the most important event observed in this temple. The celebrations commence two days before Mahashivratri and finish two days after. They get so many people that they have to block the roads surrounding them.
Each temple, with its unique deity and distinct design, weaves together stories of faith, history, and artistry that span centuries. These sacred spaces not only provide solace to the soul but also offer a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of cultural and religious practices that have shaped Maharashtra.
Visiting these temples is not merely a pilgrimage but a journey through time, offering insights into the profound spiritual ethos and the architectural genius that has flourished in this land. For travellers and devotees alike, Maharashtra’s temples remain a must-visit destination, promising experiences of serenity, beauty, and awe.
Read more: Latest
