Are you planning your next spiritual trip to Maharashtra and want to explore some ancient wonders? We have got you covered up here! We’ll virtually explore stunning temples in Maharashtra—historical temples in Maharashtra you must visit on your spiritual tour!
Maharashtra, the heartbeat of India, is a blend of a thriving economy, vibrant culture, and rich heritage. Picture yourself witnessing the brilliant architecture adorned with detailed carvings that tell you the tales of gods and goddesses, and the atmosphere of the temple heals your spiritual wounds.
From the bustling metropolis cities to the serene countryside, Maharashtra has a stunning collection of temples. Get ready to be on a virtual tour of the spiritual side of this beautiful state and explore 13 of the most historical temples this state has to offer.
Unveil the Rich Cultural and Spiritual Legacy of Maharashtra: A Guide to 13 Must-Visit Historical Temples
The lively state can surely contribute to the experience of spirituality you are going to have! Grab your masala chai and let’s dwell on the blog now!
1. Shri Siddhivinayak Temple
One of the most visited and holy temples of Hinduism, Shri Siddhivinayak, is located in Mumbai to honor Lord Ganesha. The historical temple was built in 1801 by Laxman Vithu. It is one of the 8 sacred Ganesha temples in Historical Temples in Maharashtra, and one significant feature of this must-visit temple is that, generally, the idol of Ganesha has its trunk to the left side, but here, the trunk of Lord Ganesha is turned to the right side.
The god who removes obstacles, known as Vighnaharta, is believed to be worshiped before starting anything new. This historical temple is visited by devotees from all over the country throughout the year. The architecture of this beautiful temple will leave you mesmerized.
Also, nobody leaves the city without offering their prayers to Lord Ganesha! You should also begin your journey by seeking blessings from Vighnaharta, the place where faith, devotion, and community come together
2. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
Shirdi, a small town in Maharashtra, became the spiritual hub for the people of Hinduism and Islam because of the widely followed and respected saint, Sai Baba. His teachings of universal brotherhood, peace, and love are still inspiring millions of people.
The Samadhi Mandir, where Sai Baba’s mortal remains are worshipped, is the heart of Shirdi. The historical temple is constructed with white marble, while the Samadhi is adorned with detailed carvings and a life-size marble statue of Sai Baba.
You must have heard the Bollywood song ‘Shirdi wale sai baba, aaya hai tere dar pe sawali‘ which is a representation of how so many devotees seek solace and follow the path shown by Sai baba.
Additionally, the most celebrated festivals are Guru Purnima, Ram Navami, and Vijayadashmi, which attract the highest crowds of visitors.
3. Shani Shignapur Temple
A popular historical temple of Lord Shani Mahadev, who is a Hindu god associated with Planet Saturn (Shani Graha), is located in the Sonai district of Maharashtra. It is believed that the god Shanidev still resides in the Shani Shingnapur temple. Historical Temples in Maharashtra are known for their deep spiritual significance and unique traditions, and this temple is a prime example
The must-visit temple has a 5-foot and a half-foot tall black stone along with a Trishul as the representation of the god. According to the folktales, it is believed that the shrine of the Lord appeared mysteriously, and he expressed his wish to stay in the village and provide protection to the residents from theft. So, there are no doors in the houses of the people.
Furthermore, the historical temple receives a large number of visitors on Saturdays and on Shani Trayodasi. Do not enter the temple without bathing and wearing traditional attire.
4. Hazur Sahib Gurudwara
‘Ik onkar, satnam, karta purakh, nirbhau,
Nir vair, aakaal murat, ajooni se bhang,
Gur parsaad. Jap.
Aad sach jugaad sach,
Hai bhi sach naanak hosi bhi sach.’
Do you also feel extra calm and composed listening to the prayers and hymns while sitting in the Gurudwara? Hazur Sahib Gurudwara is the place for you! located in Nanded, is the place where Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, has his final resting place. The Gurudwara was built in the 19th century by Maharana Ranjit Singh to honor the site where Guru Gobind Singh Ji spent his last days.
The sacred pilgrimage of Sikhs is a stunning architectural masterpiece, featuring a golden dome and white marble, and holds immense religious and spiritual significance. Devotees come together to celebrate all Sikh festivals, participate in prayers, and hold free langars for the attendees.
Hazur Sahib Gurudwara is not just a place of worship but a spiritual retreat, offering solace and inspiration to all who visit. Historical Temples in Maharashtra showcase the diverse spiritual heritage of the region, and this Gurudwara is a significant part of that legacy
5. Bhimashankar Temple
Bhimashankar is a popular historical temple located in Bhorgiri. Built in the 13th century, this holy temple is also one of the twelve traditional ‘Jyotirlingam‘ shrines of Lord Shiva in India. Historical Temples in Maharashtra are renowned for their ancient heritage, and Bhimashankar stands out as a significant spiritual site
Bhimashankar is surrounded by serene hills and thick green rainforests. According to the Hindu folktales, the name Bhimashankar of the historic temple was derived from the river Bhima, which evaporated due to the war generated between the Lord Shiva and the demon Tripurasura.
If you are a trek lover and wildlife enthusiast, you should definitely visit this temple! The perfect beauty of the temple will enhance your journey of spirituality.
6. Mayureshwar Temple, Morgaon
Another notable Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is Shri Mayureshwar Mandir, located in Morgaon, Pune district, Maharashtra. The historical temple is also known as Shri Moreshwar Temple.
Considered the ‘adhya pitha’ or the center of worship, Morgaon is a holy place for the Ganapatya sect, people who actively worship Ganesha as the supreme Lord. Historical Temples in Maharashtra like this one hold great significance for devotees and reflect the rich spiritual heritage of the region
The historical temple holds immense religious significance as it is the starting and ending point of the Ashtavinayak pilgrimage, a circuit of eight Ganesha temples. Do you know that the legend says that the temple is related to the story of Lord Ganesha destroying the demon Sindhura?
If you are seeking spiritual healing and power to deal with difficulties in your life, you should definitely visit this temple and seek blessings from the supreme god.
7. Trimbakeshwar Temple
One of the popular and must-visit pilgrimages of Maharashtra, the Trimbakeshwar temple is located in the beautiful city of Nashik. The historical temple was built by Sri Nana Saheb Peshwa between 1755 and 1786 AD to honor Lord Shiva. It is also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India.
Built in the Nagara style of architecture, the temple features a black stone jyotirlinga with three faces of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Mahesh. Historical Temples in Maharashtra such as Trimbakeshwar offer a profound connection to India’s spiritual heritage
There is a crown studded with precious stones resting on top of this linga, which is said to belong to the Pandavas. This crown is decorated with various precious stones like emeralds, diamonds, and many other varieties and is displayed every Monday from 4 PM to 5 PM.
If you are a dedicated devotee of Lord Shiva, you cannot miss this beautiful temple. The atmosphere around the temple will soothe your soul.
8. Mahalakshmi Temple
One of the important Hindu temples dedicated to goddess Mahalakshmi, wife of Lord Vishnu, is located in Kolhapur. The historical temple, built by Karnadeva in 634 CE under the Chalukya empire, is renowned for its association with attaining salvation. The local people also worship the goddess by the name of Amba Bai. Timeless Historical Temples in Maharashtra like this one highlight the rich spiritual and cultural tapestry of the region
Devotees shared that the temple is mentioned in several puranas as well, which increases its religious and spiritual significance. Adding to it, we were told that without offering your prayers here at the historical temple Amba Bai, the darshan of Sri Balaji at the Tirumala Devasthanam in Andhra Pradesh remains incomplete.
Trust me, the famous temple will be worth the visit, and the aura of the temple of the goddess is something different; words won’t do justice to it. You should experience it for yourself.
Check out https://itihaaskikhoj.in/11-historical-temples-of-south-india/ to learn more about the temples in south India that you must visit!
9. Grishneshwar Temple
India’s spiritual heritage is represented beautifully in the form of the historical temple Grishneshwar Temple of Maharashtra. Being one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The historical temple is considered ancient, but it was significantly damaged during the Delhi Sultanate period. The last restoration was carried out by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. Majestic Historical Temples in Maharashtra like Grishneshwar reflect the enduring spiritual legacy and resilience of India’s sacred sites.
The Grishneshwar Temple has the most powerful presence of Lord Shiva with divinity in the air around you. There are higher chances of you feeling overwhelmed while visiting the temple because your spiritual self will feel closer to the Lord. The architecture will
It is a must-visit for anyone exploring the spiritual heart of India.
10. Tulja Bhavani Temple
One of the top pilgrimage places in Maharashtra, Tulja Bhavani Temple is a notable Hindu temple that you must visit. The historical temple was built in the 12th century in the Dharashiv district of Maharashtra to honor goddess Bhavani by Maratha.
Mahamandaleshwara Maradadeva of the Kadamb dynasty. Must-See Historical Temples in Maharashtra include this revered site, which plays a significant role in the region’s spiritual landscape
The name of the goddess translates to ‘giver of life’ making her a mother figure to all the devotees. Maa Bhavani is known for her strength, motherly love for her children and devotees, and for providing justice by killing Asuras. The historical temple of Maa Bhavani is one of the 51 shakti peethas.
Trust me, you are going to be mesmerized by the beauty and calm surrounding the temple. You can spend time searching for who you actually are and what your purpose in life is.
Also, do visit the temple to seek blessings and power for your soul during the festivals like Navratri, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and Holi. The powerful and divine aura of the goddess can be felt in the air too!
11. Vitthal Rukmani Temple
The famous Hindu temple Vithhal Rukmani, also known as Vithoba Temple, is a renowned historical temple. Built in the 12th or 13th century by King Vishnuvardhana of Hoysala to honor the divine union of Lord Vishnu’s form, Krishna, and his wife, Rukmani, the temple is celebrated for its beautiful idols of the Lord and his consort, Rukmani. Historical Temples in Maharashtra like this one showcase the rich spiritual and architectural heritage of the region.
The historical temple is going to win your heart with the detailed carvings on the walls and its huge and vibrant architecture. You will definitely feel the devotion and love in the air once you enter the premises of the temple.
It is a must-visit temple if you are in search of divine love and some moments of peace in this chaotic world.
12. Khandoba Temple
The most iconic temple, Khandoba, is a revered site dedicated to Lord Khandoba, worshipped by the ancient Dhangar tribal community of Maharashtra. This historical temple, also known as the Malhari Martand Temple, holds immense spiritual significance as one of the holiest temples in the region. Farmers and warriors alike view Lord Khandoba as their protector and source of strength. Historic Temples in Maharashtra such as Khandoba embody the deep-rooted traditions and cultural heritage of the area.
The calm and divine atmosphere of the temple will have your spiritual soul at peace, and the beauty will leave you awe-struck. The temple has unique features like the Deep Mala (a circular arrangement of lamps).
The devotees visit the temple throughout the year to seek blessings from the lord, and the main attraction of the historical temple is a sword competition held annually during Dussera.
13. Yamai Devi Temple
The ancient Yamai Devi Temple is situated on a hilltop at Aundh in the Satara district of Maharashtra. The temple is a significant site in the holy pilgrimage of Hindus. While the exact builder of this historical temple is unknown, research indicates that it has ties to the Pant Pratinidhi Family, the former rulers of Aundh. Historical Temples in Maharashtra like Yamai Devi Temple are integral to the region’s spiritual and historical legacy.
While talking to the locals there, we got to know that many Maharastrian families have Yamai Devi as their family deity. The idol of Devi Mahishasur Mardini in black stone is almost 2 meters high in a cross-legged sitting position. You can reach the temple either by using steps that start at the bottom of the hill or by direct road access, which is also available to the hilltop.
The Yamai Devi Yatra is annually celebrated on Paush Purnima, or full moon day, in Paush month as per the traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Maharashtra. This festival attracts large numbers of devotees.
Conclusion
The temples of Maharashtra are an absolutely stunning and beautiful representation of the rich culture and religious heritage of our country. These 13 historical temples in Maharashtra are the epitome of devotion and love among the devotees for their god and goddess. From the beautiful architecture of the temple to the serene beauty of the environment around it, you are going to love this spiritual journey to Maharashtra.