Jejuri Khandoba Temple - A Sword Competition Is Held Every Year In This Temple At Dussera Occasion

KHANDOBA TEMPLE

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Khandoba Temple is located in the city of Jejuri in Pune. It is the prime temple among the Khandoba (Martanda Bhairava) Temples across Maharashtra. In fact, there are two shrines on top of a hill in Jejuri: one is Kadepathar and another is Gad-kot Temple.

Jejuri Khandoba Temple is dedicated to Khandoba, who is also known as Mhalsakant or Malhari Martand in the region. Khandoba is the important god worshipped by Dhangar, the oldest tribes in Maharashtra. It is believed that Khandoba is a god of Sakamabhakti, the god who fulfills all the desires of his devotees. Jejuri is popular for its old Deep Mala.

As said earlier, there are many versions of the legends relating to Martanda Bhairava. One or two myths are very famous and are associated with the creation of this temple. One of the major sources is the literary work, Malhari Mahatmya. Lord Khandoba is also known as Malhari (the warrior king). According to this literary work, the battle between Khandoba and the demons called Malla and Mani is the prime story behind the birth of Lord Martanda Bhairava.

The tale says that, the demon-brothers named Malla and Mani were creating a havoc in the world as they had got a boon from Lord Brahma. All Gods got annoyed by the menace they were creating on earth but were not able to destroy them. So, they requested Lord Shiva to destroy these demons. 

It is then Khandoba (a form of Shiva) was born. Finally, Malla and Mani were killed in the battle; while dying Mani asked for forgiveness by offering his white horse to Khandoba and gains a boon to be in every shrine of Martanda Bhairava. In fact, the name Malhari or Mallari comes from the words 'Malla' and 'ari' which means the destroyer of Malla or the enemy of Malla.

The Khandoba temple in Jejuri is built on a hill and offers good views all around. One has to climb a series of almost 200 steps to reach the sanctum sanctorum. There are various stone images of elephants on either sides of the main gateway of the temple. 

The entire flat plateau above the hill is surrounded by a stone pavement in the center, of which stands the Khandoba shrine. The whole courtyard is surrounded by arched aisles on sides, from which highly ornate balconies with cypress pillars and cusped arches project out. This enclosure has three gateways and the temple faces east. The outermost portion is an arched portico- consisting of a square mandapa and a garbhagriha. 

The idol of Sri Khandoba enshrined inside the temple is simply beautiful. There are three weapons housed in Jejuri Temple, a sword, a damaru and a paral. They are very exquisite and also have historical importance attached to them. A Sword Competition is held every year at the temple, on the occasion of Dussera. The one, who lifts the sword of the temple high up, for the maximum time, is declared as the winner. It attracts people from all over the state on the occasion of Bandara festival.

By Air

Pune Airport is the nearest airport to the town of Jejuri.

By Train

Jejuri Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Khandoba Temple. You can also board trains from places like Pune and Mumbai to reach Jejuri

By Bus

Jejuri is around 50km from Pune. It is well-connected to other parts of the state. Visitors can take government run buses from Pune or hire private cabs to reach Jejuri. 

Tamhini Hill Station - It Is One Of The Wettest Destination In India

TAMHINI HILL STATION 

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Tamhini Ghat is one of the best choices to see nature at its best and also pack in a little adventure. It is during this time that the deep brown hills turn a verdant green and provide a feast for the eyes. The value addition is that you can also explore the backwaters of Mulshi Dam and spice up your vacation with a bit of river rafting.

Tamhini Ghat can be accessed from Mumbai via the Mumbai-Goa Highway. Reach Kolad and after crossing the bridge over river Kundalika, take the left turn that leads to Pune via the Mulshi Dam backwaters. Tamhini Ghat is the stretch between Kolad and these backwaters. 

The gradual climb opens the doors to a different world of green velvety carpets, gushing streams, dark grey clouds stooping low, and the occasional waterfalls. These impromptu waterfalls caused by the rains – some trickling down the hill smoothly and some literally gushing down in torrents – attract tourists from far and wide.  

The rains turn the parched land into a carpet of green with plants and flowers in full bloom. The hills stretch towards the skies like giant walls, partly covered by mist. And all along is a mysterious and enchanting play of light and shadows with the overbearing clouds and the rain creating an effect quite like a flickering lantern. 

Tamhini Ghat is simply ethereal with its sweeping views and is definitely less crowded than its cousin, Malshej Ghat. In fact, every turn in the landscape holds a surprise, offering fantastic sights. There is also a temple here dedicated to the goddess Vanjai that lies almost hidden amongst dense vegetation. The path to it will remind you of the forests that you may have read of in fairytales.

From the Tamhini Ghat you can take the road that leads to the Mulshi Dam backwaters which will also lead you to the gigantic waterfall at Palse. This particular waterfall is quite a hit with the young crowd and don’t be taken aback if you see people actually jostling each other to get absolutely drenched. 

As you approach the Mulshi backwaters, you will come across many resorts where you can opt to stay overnight and enjoy the early morning view of the lake. Further ahead is Kolad which is now becoming immensely popular for river rafting that you can do on the river Kundalika. The currents are strong and it is the only river in Maharashtra where you can experience white water rafting. Kolad now has several cottages and resorts where you can book a room.

Distance from Mumbai: 140 kms

By Air

The closest airport is at Pune.

By Rail

Tamhini is not close to any railway station. Pune is the nearest junction and smaller stations that are close-by include Lonavala and Kasarwadi.

By Road

Tamhini is 93 kms away from Pune and one has to travel via Paud. From Mumbai, take the Express way towards Pune, exit at Lonavala. From Lonavala, it’s a scenic drive via Aamby Valley to Tamhini.

Bhimashankar Temple – The Temple Inner Walls Decorated With Images From Epic Of Lord Shiva

BHIMASHANKAR TEMPLE

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Bhimashankar is a popular temple town and located about 100 km from Pune and 223 km from Mumbai. Bhimashankar is located in the village Bhorgiri in the ghat region of the Sahyadri range. Situated at an height of around 3,250 feet, Bhimashankar is surrounded by hills and is covered by thick green rainforests.

Bhimashankar gets its name from the two things that define its existence – the river Bhima, which originates here, and the temple of Shankar, or Shiva, which gives it importance.

It is considered to be one of the holiest places in India because of the jyotirlinga. Bhimashankar is also a popular destination for trekkers. Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is another important reason why people come here.

A pristine natural environment with hills, waterfalls and forests; a wild life sanctuary and an ancient temple! Bhimashankar offers the ideal setting to find spirituality. It is also the perfect place for adventure lovers with a plethora of treks. Moreover this is where you can find the shekru the giant flying squirrel which is also the state animal of Maharashtra.

The Shiva temple in Bhimashankar is the sixth jyotirlinga and one of the most popular places for the worship of Lord Shiva. It is believed that the original temple of Bhimashankar was built in 12th century CE. However, no material remains dating to that period have been found since the temple has undergone many alterations over a period of time.

The temple was renovated by Chimaji Antaji Bhide Naik in 1733 CE followed by some repair works by Dikhit Patwardhan in 1766 CE.  A well was constructed in the complex by Raghunathrao Peshwa. The famous minister of the Peshwas, Nana Phadnavis carried out a lot of renovations, including the construction of the shikhara.

The present temple sanctum (garbhagriha) and the shikhara are built in the Nagara or Indo-Aryan style and have a strong influence of Rajasthan and Gujarat on the figurines and motifs of the temple. The exterior walls of the sanctum are adorned with scenes from the Ramayana, Krishna Leela, Shiv Leela and Dashavataras. 

Inscriptions in the courtyard give a record of grants given and a large bell confiscated from the Vasai fort by the Maratha Commander Chimaji Appa hangs in front of the sabhamandapa.Bhimashankar is also the perfect place to combine adventure and trekking. Monsoon is a good season to enjoy the region’s stunning natural beauty.

By Air

The nearest airport is Pune Bhimashankar is 250 km from Mumbai and 127 kms from Pune.

By Train

Pune is the nearest railway station.

By Road

You can take the route of Pune-Rajgurunagar-Manchar- Ghodegaon–Pokhari Ghat Bhimashankar. State Transport buses are available at regular intervals from the Shivajinagar Bus Terminus and the last bus is at 5 pm. Private transport is more convenient if you would like to visit places around Bhimashankar.

Shaniwarwada Fort - This Fort Is One Of The Most Horrible Places In India

SHANIWARWADA FORT

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Shaniwarwada is an 18th century fort in Pune Maharashtra, India. Constructed in 1732, it was the place of the Peshwa rulers of the Maratha kingdom until 1818, Bajirao Peshwa built the Shaniwar Wada in 1736. It is a seven storied mansion and served as a seat of political power during its time. It acclaimed tremendous importance and is the city’s main attraction till date.

The Shaniwar Wada was largely destroyed by mysterious fires in 1827 which continued to rise during the 19th century and led to the destruction of the entire palace leaving just the mirror hall intact. When visiting the palace, one can still get a view of the leftover plinths, the fortification walls with five gateways, and nine bastions that enclosed the whole complex.

The elaborate foundations of the original palace along with the nagarkhana showcasing the wooden pillars and lattice work add up to the beauty of the mansion. The sturdy doors were designed to be protected from the enemy.

It was named Shaniwarwada from the Marathi words Shaniwar (Saturday) and Wada (a general term for any residence).On the every moon night this fort in India turns into a horror place. Where local people frequently hear a horror sound coming “KAKA MALA VACHWA" (uncle save me) from the fort in the every moon night. The place where the spirit till now and final words of his past mortal life.

At the back of Fort’s unnatural activities there are story of the murder, greediness for power and fraud. Peshwa Nanashaheb had three sons Vishwasrao, Narayanaroa, Madhavrao. After the death of Nanasahaheb in the third Panipath war Madhavarao become as Peshwa. During  the third Panipath battle Viswasrao died. After the death of Vishwasrao his brother Madhavrao also died. At that time Narayanarao was only 16 years old. He became as a Peshwa in very small age. Because of his age  his uncle Raghunathrao was take charge of the state on behalf of his young nephew.

Sumner Singh Gardi sent a group of killers who come into the room of where sleeping Narayanrao at night withour any securities. Narayanrao get up and understood that he was going to be murdered. He was run from Raghunathrao’s chamber and shouting “Uncle save me". Although he was caught by killers and cruelly killed by them. Cut into parts and then pull down in the river.

It is believed that the level of supernatural activity is on its zenith on every full moon night. The Ghost of the young Peshwa Narayanrao still now exists in in there with his painful soreness. Every moon night he cries and shouting for saving him.

By Air

Pune airport is situated in the Lohagaon area, about 12kms from the heart of city. The cities Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai are all air connected to Pune. International travelers can get connecting flight  from Mumbai International Airport.

By Train

Pune is an important railway junction in Indian railway and has excellent railway services to all major cities. Pune Junction Railway Station located in the city center is one of the major railway stations in Maharashtra.

By Bus

Pune is well connected by road with the all major cities within the state as well as outside the state. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates services to various towns and cities of Maharashtra. Private luxury deluxe buses are operated from Pune to many cities in India, including Goa, Mumbai and Hyderabad.

Tourists Flock Malshej For Monsoon Magic, Bookings At All-Time High

 State Director of Tourism Satish Soni said that almost total reservation is at Malshej, Bhandardhara, Matheran, Karla, Chikaldhara and Tadoba are at 90 per cent for the next two months

Malshej Ghat has emerged as the most popular tourist attraction in the state this monsoon, with government resorts packed with bookings for the next two months. Bhandardhara is a close second, with Matheran and Karla also avidly sought after by tourists, mainly from Pune, Mumbai and Nashik.

State Director of Tourism Satish Soni told The Indian Express that while the occupancy rate at the 22 resorts run by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is almost 60 per cent, those at Malshej, Bhandardhara, Matheran, Karla, Chikaldhara and Tadoba are at 90 per cent for the next two months.

MTDC officials said the rush this year could be attributed to the abundant rain, thanks to which these weekend getaways are likely to remain tourist hotspots till September.

Malshej Ghat is located 700 metres above sea level amid the ranges of Western Ghats, and is equidistant from Mumbai and Pune. Approximately 154 km north-west of Pune, the rugged landscape is thickly forested and laced with several rivers. The hills come alive with cascading waterfalls during the monsoon.

Despite the recent landslide that blocked the road to Malshej Ghat, the rush of tourists is unabated. “A massive landslide had toppled a truck into the valley and we have urged visitors to be careful. The road has been opened up just a day before and highway police are ensuring smooth travel for visitors,” Soni said.

In the Vidarbha region, Chikaldhara and Tadoba have had high occupancy rates and bookings are full for the next two months, Soni said. While Tarkarli and Ganpatipule MTDC resorts have a high occupancy rate throughout the year, visitors prefer to visit these places after September, as the Konkan region witnesses very heavy rain, he explained.

The hill station of Mahabaleshwar, too, has its share of tourist rush, but Malshej has emerged the hottest tourist destination this monsoon.

After online bookings showed a high occupancy rate, MTDC officials said they started getting personal calls for accommodation. “We have now decided to introduce package tours from August at affordable rates,” Soni said.

A one-day Mumbai-Malshej-Mumbai tour has been arranged for Rs 900. Other tours, such as Mumbai-Bhandardhara- Mumbai and Mumbai-Shirdi-Bhandardhara, are also being offered. “We anticipate more rush with long weekends coming up during Independence Day and Ganesh Chaturthi,” Soni said.

Aga Khan Palace – Richard Attanborough Shot The Famous Movie 'Gandhi' At This Palace For 10 Days

AGA KHAN PALACE

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This palace was built in 1892 by Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah Agakhan III. He was elected as the President of the League of Nations in 1938 and was well renowned in the field of politics and sports. 

The palace was later donated to India by Aga Khan IV in 1969 as a mark of respect to Gandhiji and his philosophy.

The Agakhan Palace Pune is a national monument of India’s freedom movement. Following the launch of Quit India movement in 1942, Gandhiji, his wife Kasturba, his secretary Mahadevbhai Desai were interned at the palace from August 9, 1942 to May 6, 1944. 

Mahadevbhai and Kasturba passed away while in captivity at the Agakhan palace and their samadhis are located in the campus.Situated near the River Mula, the palace is a simple memorial to Gandhi and his life.

The palace has developed into a national and international place of pilgrimage with over a lakh of visitors every year who come to pay homage to the samadhis here. The palace is surrounded by a sprawling garden. The famous movie 'Gandhi' was shot here.

The main palace now houses the Gandhi National Memorial where you can peek into the room where the Mahatma used to stay. Photos and paintings exhibit moments in his extraordinary life.

Both Kasturba Gandhi, the Mahatma’s wife, and Mahadeobhai Desai, his secretary for 35 years, died here in confinement. You’ll find their shrines (containing their ashes) in a quiet garden to the rear.

By Air

The nearest airport to Aga Khan Palace and Gandhi National Memorial is lohegaon air force base airport , pune which is 3 km away from Aga Khan Palace and Gandhi National Memorial

ByTrain

The nearest railway station to aga khan palace and gandhi national memorial is Pune Jn Train Station which is 3 km away from Aga Khan Palace and Gandhi National Memorial. 

ByBus

The nearest bus stand is Shivaji Nagar Bus Stand: 7-8 Km

KHANDALA

HILL STATION

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 KHANDALA

Khandala is one of the twin hill stations located near to each other, the other being Lonavala. These are in pune district of Maharastra State.

These hill stations are very popular getaway spots for people from Mumbai and Pune, which are very well-linked with Lonavala by road and rail. Monsoons are the best time to visit Lonavala/Khandala.

Khandala is one of the beautiful hill stations situated in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. Khandala is quite a tempting location for rock climbing. Khandala is situated at a distance of about 3 km from Lonavala and about 7 km from Karjat.

Located at an altitude of 625 m, Khandala is definitely a popular and trendy destination. People from Mumbai and Pune often visit this place as it is in close proximity with these cities.

 Khandala is the twin hill station of Lonavala, which is another exotic location, just 5 km away from Khandala. The hill station has a pleasant climate, with mild summer and cool winter.

 In Monsoon season when it rains, the surroundings look green and fresh, which allures lots of tourists throughout the year.

ByAir

The hill station doesn't have an in-town airport. The Mumbai international airport and the domestic airport of Pune are located near Khandala. Direct flights from outside India and other domestic flights land on daily basis at Mumbai airport. The Pune airport connects Khandala with domestic flights. One can hire a taxi or opt for a bus to reach destination.

By Train

The Lonavala railway station is the closest to Khandala. This railway station is connected with the railheads of Mumbai and Pune through regular trains which makes it easy to reach Khandala by train. There are buses and taxis to take one at the destination.

By Bus

The Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the National Highway Number 4 are the routes through which one can easily drive to Khandala. The roadways are well maintained which offer a smooth ride to visitors. The state and private volvo buses are frequented to ply regular service to the visitors.