Pandharpur Temple, also known as the Vitthal Rukmini Temple, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vitthal and his consort Rukmini, located in the town of Pandharpur in Maharashtra, India.
The temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for the devotees of Lord Vitthal, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
The history of the temple dates back to the 12th century when the temple was built by the Yadava dynasty.
The temple was renovated and expanded by various dynasties, including the Bahmani Sultanate, Adil Shahi dynasty, and the Maratha Empire.
The temple complex consists of several shrines dedicated to various deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ganesha, among others.
The main deity of the temple is Lord Vitthal, who is depicted as a standing figure holding a conch and a discus.
The idol of Lord Vitthal is believed to be a self-manifested one and is considered to be very powerful. The idol is adorned with precious jewels and is covered with a silk cloth. The temple also houses the idols of Lord Rama, Lord Hanuman, and several other deities.
History of Pandharpur Temple
The temple has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. It is believed that the temple was built by the Maratha ruler, Yadava dynasty, in the 13th century.
The temple was later renovated and expanded by various rulers, including the Bahmani Sultanate and the Maratha Empire.
The temple gained prominence in the 16th century when the saint and poet, Saint Tukaram, became a devotee of Lord Vitthal and composed many bhajans (devotional songs) in his honor.
Saint Tukaram’s influence on the temple and its devotees is still felt today, and his teachings and writings are considered an important part of the temple’s history.
The temple has undergone many changes over the centuries, including renovations, additions, and repairs.
The most recent renovation of the temple was completed in 2008, which included the installation of new marble flooring, restoration of the sanctum sanctorum, and the addition of new facilities for the convenience of the devotees.
Quick Facts
- Address: Muthu Malai Murugan, Muthu Malai Temple Rd, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 642109
- District: Coimbatore
- Affiliation: Hinduism
- Deity: Lord Vitthal and his consort Rukmini
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 4 AM – 11 PM
- Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Dress Code: decent outfit recommended
- Festivals: Pandharpur Wari, Kartik Ekadashi
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Pooja Timing
| Aarti | Timings |
| Temple Door Opening | 4.00 a.m |
| Kakada Aarti | 04.30 to 05.00 a.m. |
| Nitya Pooja (Regular Pooja) | 05.00 a.m to 06.00.a.m |
| Mahapuja by devotees | 07.00 a.m. to 08.00.a.m. |
| Maha Naivedya | 11.00 a.m. to 11.15 a.m. |
| Pshakh (dressing) | 04.30 to 05.00 p.m |
| Dhoop Aarati | 07.00 to 07.30 p.m. |
| Padya pooja | 10.00 to 10.30 p.m. |
| Shejarati | 11.00 p.m. |
Dress code in Pandharpur Temple
Pandharpur Temple dress code is traditional wear.
Men should wear dhoti, pyjama or formal pants and shirt.
Women should wear a sari, churidar or a half saree. Children should wear any fully covered dress. There should be an upper cloth present for both men and women.
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Festivals Celebrated
The temple is famous for its annual yatra, also known as the Pandharpur Wari, which is a pilgrimage undertaken by millions of devotees from all over Maharashtra and other parts of India.
The yatra starts from various locations and culminates at the temple on the day of Ashadhi Ekadashi, which falls in the month of July. The yatra is a significant event in Maharashtra’s cultural calendar and is attended by people from all walks of life.
The temple is also famous for its various festivals, such as the Kartik Ekadashi, which is celebrated with great pomp and show. The temple is decorated with lights, and devotees offer prayers and perform various rituals during the festival.
Architecture of the Pandharpur Temple
The architecture of the Pandharpur Temple is a beautiful blend of various styles, including the Hemadpanti and the Indo-Aryan style. The temple complex covers a vast area and consists of several shrines, courtyards, and halls.
The temple’s main entrance is known as the Namdev Gate, named after the famous saint Namdev who is believed to have been associated with the temple. The gate is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various mythological tales.
The temple’s main shrine, where Lord Vitthal and Rukmini are worshipped, is a beautiful structure built in the Hemadpanti style.
The Hemadpanti style is characterized by the use of black basalt stone and lime mortar. The temple’s outer walls are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various scenes from Hindu mythology.
The temple’s main hall, known as the Sabhamandap, is a spacious structure built in the Indo-Aryan style. The Sabhamandap is supported by a series of pillars, each of which is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
The temple complex also consists of several other shrines dedicated to various deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Hanuman.
The shrines are built in different styles and are adorned with beautiful carvings and sculptures.
The temple’s facade is adorned with beautiful carvings and sculptures depicting various scenes from Hindu mythology.
The temple’s gopuram, or the gateway tower, is a magnificent structure adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
How to reach Pandharpur Temple?
By Air
The nearest airport to Pandharpur Temple is the Lohegaon airport in Pune which is situated at a distance of 205 km from the city.
One can board a bus or hire a taxi from Pune to reach Pandharpur.
By Rail
The Pandharpur railway station connects various cities and towns in Maharashtra like Pune, Nagpur, Solapur, Latur, and Kopergaon.
The Kurduvadi station located about 50 km from Pandharpur caters to devotees from several major cities in India.
By Road
The Maharashtra State Transport Corporation operates regular buses from cities like Mumbai, Bijapur, Belgaum, Pune, Solapur and Khandala. Private buses also operate on the route.
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