The epic journey to city on banks of Panchganga River

 

Kolhapur
Dakshin kashi
But beyond that incredible India has just always held an inexplicable draw for me. A delightful 7 hrs driving from Mumbai through Khandala, Pune & Karad roads that are surrounded by lush greenery and scenic beauty that open into the Kolhapur. A boutique property amidst a sizeable expanse of sugarcane trees and bajara crops.

 

When the prospect of visiting Kolhapur in Maharashtra looked close to after my son's exam, it was a welcome relief and an indicating that life might be getting back to some normality. The idea of a road trip from Mumbai to Kolhapur via Pune and Karad lightened our mood and heightened our enthusiasm. Places to visit in Kolhapur were lined up long before what to pack for the road trip was prepared. 

The subcontinent to me stood for a land of energy, History, Spirituality, color and nature. I fantasied about road trip and smelling heat and energy of the place. Of seeing Nature, forts, devotional environment, Prayer ceremonies on the banks of Panchgangas and so much more.

The town derives its name from "Dakshin Kashi", of its spiritual history and the antiquity of its Mahalakshmi Mata, better known as 'Ambabai'. Before independence of India, Kolhapur was princely state under the Bhosale Chhtrapati of the Maratha empire. One of the prominent king from maratha empire was Chhtrapati Rajashri Shau Maharaj from Kolhapur promoted cost free education to people of all caste. 

Places to visit in Kolhapur

1. Panhala Fort

The most notable "battle of Pavan Khind" transpire in Panhalgad. It is strategically located looking over a pass in the sahyadri mountain range which was a major trade route from Bijapur. Great antiquity is behind this fort. Several parts of the fort and the structures within are still intact. It is also called as the "Fort Of Snakes" as it is zigzagged in shape. With help of Baji Prabhu Deshpande, Shivaji Raje win back the fort, and history inherent. 

1. Mahalakshmi Temple (Ambabai Temple)

Mahalakshmi Temple was built in the late 7th century which is referred to multiple Puranas. Chhtrapati Shivahi Maharaj, Chhtrapati Sambhaji Maharaj ruled this area and they also visited the temple regularly. The murty of crowned goddess is made of a gemstone. It is customary among Hindus to visit Tirumala Venkateswara Temple,   Kolhapur Mahalakshmi Temple and Padmavathi Temple as a yatra (Pilgrimage). It is believed that visiting these temples as a pilgrimage helps achieve moksha (salvation).

2. Rankala Lake 

Before the eighth century, Rankala was a stone quarry. In the 9th century, an earthquake caused immense structural damage to the quarry and lake formed. Historical treasure and scenery admirers always attracts tourist to lake. Rankala features the "Shalini Palace" to the north, the "Padmraje Garden" to the northeast. Activities like horse-riding and boating can also be experienced. 

3. Shree Jyotiba Temple

Jyotiba Temple is a holy site of Hinduism. Legend says the tridev, Bramha, Vishnu and Mahadev came together to incarnate as the deity Jyotiba. Jyotiba helped Ambabai in her fight with the demons. On Chaitra poornima of Hindu calendar, a big fair is held. Due to scattering of "Gulal" by the devotees the entire temple complex appears pink. 

4. Kaneri Math (Siddhagiri Gramjivan Museum)

A sculpture museum fascinate tourist to Kaneri Math. This museum showcases different aspects of Gramjivan (Village-life). The museum is spread over 7 acers and surrounding countryside is beautiful, with lush greenery. 
 

5. New Palace Kolhapur

This Palace took 7 years to complete. It has extensive premises with a garden. fountain and wrestling ground. It is the residence of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. The ground floor of the new palace accommodate the Shahaji Chhtrapati Museum, It dedicates to the fine collection of their costumes, weapon, games, jewellery, embroidery memorabilia. 

8. Kolhapuri Chappal market

These Chappals are great specimen of decorative handcrafted and braided lather slippers that are locally tanned using vegetable dye. They are commonly referred to are a style of open toe. It has a history that is in 12th century encourage Kolhapuri Chappal production to support local cobblers. You will find lots of varieties of all the rage. 

Famous Cuisine :

1. Kolhapuri Misal

Kolhapuri Misal pav is one of the famous dishes which will get you easily in city. It is a spicy, tasty Indian street food. Spicy usal is topped with a spicy thin gravy and is served soft fresh bun. 

2. Tambda, Pandhra Rassa

One of the well-known nonveg cuisine tambda and pandhra rassa from Kolhapur. Mutton is served in white and red gravy make this dish mouthwatering thali. These gravies are served with jowar brads. 

3. Kolhapuri Bhadang

     

It is not just a snack, but it is portrayal of the flavors and colors of Maharashtrian cuisine. It is spicy, crispy puffed rice, perfect for your evening snacks. Garlic, curry leaves and peanuts gives determined taste of Indian culture.