KOLHAPUR

ABOUT KOLHAPUR:

• It was the erstwhile capital of an important Maratha state and is dotted with some splendid palace and royal homes.
• Kolhapur is also known as the ‘Dakshina Kasi’, as the temples here are considered amongst the most important in Maharashtra.
• The town was also an important centre of arts, wrestling, leather footwear and Marathi film industry.

MODE OF COMMUNICATION:

• Airport: Belgaum Airport, Belgaum (IXG), 105 kms away from Kolhapur town.
• Rail: Kolhapur Railway Station, Kolhapur, 2 kms away from centre Kolhapur town.
• Road: Well connected by road.

ATTRACTIONS OF KOLHAPUR

• Ambabai/ Temple of Mahalaxmi:
  • This imposing 7^th century temple was built by the Chalukyan King Karnadev Ray.
  • It is a fine example of Hemadpanti style of architecture.
  • Main sanctum enshrines an idol of goddess Mahalaxmi, weighing 40 kgs.
  • It is believed that the idol has not been created by human hands, but is in natural form, a primeval monolith of uncut diamonds and precious stones.
  • Shrine attracts a large number of devotees.

• New Palace:
  • The palace was built between 1877-1884 and is the residence of the royal family of Kolhapur.
  • There is a Clock Tower, gardens, lake a wrestling ground, small zoo, museum and swimming pool around the palace,

• Old Palace:
  • The 200 year old palace has a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhavani.

• Shalini Palace:
  • This modern palace id built in Indio-Saracenic style.

• Rankala Lake:
  • It is a popular picnic site.