15 Temples in Pune for a Spectacular Religious Getaway

Pune, known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, is not only a vibrant city but also a hub of religious heritage. It is home to numerous temples that attract spiritual seekers from all over the world. If you’re planning a religious getaway, Pune offers a treasure trove of divine experiences. Here, we present a list of 15 temples in Pune that promise a spectacular religious journey.

1. Parvati Hill Temple, Pune

Brought into existence by the great Peshwa ruler Balaji Baji Rao in the 17th century, Parvati Hill Temple stands tall at over 2,000 feet, offering a sweeping view of the city of Pune. Located in the south-east part of Pune, this temple is a serene oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The pleasant climate throughout the year adds to the charm of this hilltop temple.

2. Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Pune

Situated on the Jangli Maharaj Road in Pune, Pataleshwar Cave Temple is enshrined by Lord Pataleshwar, the God of the Underworld and a form of Lord Shiva. Carved out of a single magnanimous rock, this spellbinding monolithic find is located right in the heart of the city. The temple’s walls are adorned with intricate carvings and miniature paintings, showcasing the rich heritage of Hinduism.

3. Dehu, Pune

Dehu Gatha temple, one of the largest temples near Pune, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. At the entrance of the temple lies the statue of Sant Tukaram Maharaj, a revered saint. The temple walls are adorned with carvings depicting the legends and stories (Gathas) of Sant Tukaram, making it easy for visitors to read and appreciate. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the floating Gathas on the Indrayani River near the temple.

4. Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, Pune

A divine place of worship devoted to Lord Ganapati, Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati temple is extremely famous for its religious festivities. Located in Pune, Maharashtra, the temple attracts a considerable crowd of devotees every day who come to attend the daily pooja, abhisheka, and the Arti of Lord Ganesh. The idol of Lord Ganapati, adorned with almost 40 kilos of gold, stands 2.2 meters high and 1 meter wide.

5. Sri Balaji Mandir, Pune

Sri Balaji Mandir of Pune is a close replica of the renowned Venkateshwara temple at Tirumala, Tirupati. Along with the similar architectural aesthetics, this temple also follows the rituals and religious activities of its influencer. Surrounded by beautiful, lush green surroundings, the temple offers a serene environment. The provision of free meals adds to the experience, making it a great alternative for those unable to visit the original temple.

6. ISKCON NVCC Temple, Pune

Located in the less congested area of Kondhwa, near Pune, ISKCON NVCC (New Vedic Cultural Center) is a temple devoted to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha. The temple, nestled amidst lavish green hills, provides visitors with a serene ambience. As you enter the prayer hall, you’ll be awe-struck by the stunning idols of Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha, exuding divinity and beauty.

7. Chaturshringi Temple, Pune

One of the revered temples of Pune, the Chaturshringi Mandir holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. Located on Senapati Bapat Road near Pune University in Gokhale Nagar, this temple has been a place of worship for devotees of Mahakali and Shri Chaturshringi for ages. The temple’s name, derived from “Chattu,” meaning “Mountain with four peaks,” signifies faith and power. In addition to Mahakali, the main temple also houses idols of Goddess Durga, Ashtavinayaka, and Ganesha.

8. Sarasbaug Ganpati Temple, Pune

Sarasbaug Ganapati Temple, named after the island it is situated on, holds great historical significance. The temple is dedicated to Siddhi Vinakayak Ganesh and was established by the Maratha ruler Shrimant Sawai Madhavrao Peshwa in 1784. Located at the foot of Parvati Hills, the temple’s surrounding lake is believed to have been the venue of secret meetings held by the Peshwas during boat rides.

9. Bhuleshwar Temple, Pune

Rich in ancient history and peculiar architecture, Bhuleshwar temple stands as a holy site devoted to Lord Shiva. Situated on a small hill in the village of Yavat, around 54 kilometers from Pune city, this temple offers a calm and cool ambience for devotees to offer their prayers. The unique architecture and tranquil surroundings create a peaceful experience.

10. Katraj Jain Temple, Pune

Peace and tranquillity are the two dominant forces at the Katraj Jain Temple. Situated on a hillock between the Pune-Satara highway, this temple offers a mesmerizing view of the Pune city. As you enter the temple, the refreshing breeze and serene atmosphere transport you into a state of calmness, allowing you to immerse yourself in spirituality.

11. Shree Omkareshwar Temple

Formerly a funeral site for Hindus, the Shree Omkareshwar Temple is an 18th-century Shiva temple located near the Balgandharva Rang Mandir in Shanivar Peth. The temple, built by Shivram Bhat, the spiritual teacher of the renowned Peshwa family, showcases exquisite white stone Shikhara with five layers, each adorned with sculptures and carvings of different Hindu deities. The temple also houses smaller temples dedicated to Ganesh, Vishnu, and Shani.

12. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Pune, located on Narhe Ambegaon road, is renowned for its cleanliness and well-maintained premises. The temple’s beautiful lawn surrounds the main temple, which is carved out of red stone. With specific timings for daily activities, including Thal or Bhog offering, the temple ensures a disciplined and sacred atmosphere. The temple follows a strict set of guidelines to maintain the respect and glory of the premises.

13. Nageshwar Temple

Nageshwar Temple in Somwar Peth, Pune, stands as one of the oldest temples in the city. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple was built in the 13th century AD in the Yadava style of architecture. The temple sanctum also houses shrines for various other deities, including Lord Vishnu, Almighty Maruti, and Shree Dattatreya. The temple celebrates Mahashivratri, Hanuman Jayanti, and Vinayaka Chaturti, attracting devotees throughout the year.

14. Shri Kasba Ganpati Temple

The Kasba Ganapati Temple, located in Kasba Peth, Pune, holds historical significance in the Maratha Dynasty. This temple gained popularity when seven prominent Maratha families migrated to Pune in 1630. Despite its humble size, the temple is adorned with beautiful paintings of Lord Ganesha on the walls. The main festival celebrated here is Ganesh Chaturthi, a 10-day grand celebration initiated by Bal Gangadhar Tilak in the 19th century.

15. Shri Mahalaxmi Mandir

Shri Mahalaxmi Mandir, situated in Pune, is dedicated to the trinity of goddesses—Mahasarwati, Mata Laxmi, and Mahakali. With its Dravidian style architecture, the temple stands tall, approximately 55 feet high and 24 feet wide. The main idol of the goddess is made from ancient marble. During the Mogra festival, the idols are decorated with thousands of flowers, creating a vibrant and divine atmosphere. The temple also celebrates various other festivals, including Navratri, Holi, Brahma Utsav, Ram Navmi, and Janmashtami.

In conclusion, Pune offers a plethora of temples for a spectacular religious getaway. These 15 temples showcase the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the city. Whether you seek tranquility, architectural marvels, or divine experiences, Pune’s temples have something for everyone. Embark on this spiritual journey and immerse yourself in the religious fervor of Pune.

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