History:

is one of the most sacred sites in the Indian State of Maharashtra. It is located at the foot of the Raigad Fort, in Raigad district of Maharashtra. The temple complex is dedicated to the revered 17th century Maratha ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji. The temple was founded in 1836 by Srimant Appasaheb Maharaj, the son of Shahaji and Sambhaji Raje Bhosle, as a prominent centre of reverence and worship for all followers of Shivaji's legacy. The temple complex features two radiant white-painted shrines, devoted to Lord Balaji and Goddess Bhavani, which are favourites of the devotees. There are several other small shrines located within the temple complex that are dedicated to several manifestations of Lord Shiva and Shivaji's consorts, along with some smaller idols of deities related to the Maratha dynasty. Devotees can also view the huge portrait of Shivaji Maharaj that stands tall in the centre of the temple complex. The temple also houses a number of ancient paintings and manuscripts, comprising various documents, edicts and letters donated by the Maratha rulers. The temple is a popular destination for spiritual seekers, being one of the most economically and culturally prosperous places in the Maharashtra. The temple complex houses religious activities such as religious discourses, Kathak performances and various ceremonies, as well as regular pujas. There are accommodations for devotees who wish to stay longer and take part in the spiritual activities. The temple also organizes regular festivals like the Balaji Jayanti and the Navratra Utsav. Aside from its religious importance, the temple is a major tourist attraction for its majestic royal ambiance. Locals come here to pray and seek blessings from Lord Balaji and Goddess Bhavani. The temple complex is surrounded by tall walls and towers, making it a perfect destination for a historical trip. It is one of the best temple in Maharashtra which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Temple is one of the most famous religious sites in Maharashtra. 2. The temple is located on the Raigad fort in Mahad, Maharashtra, and is dedicated to the Hindu god Shivaji. 3. The temple was built in the early 1630s by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj himself, and is now a source of great reverence for his followers. 4. The temple is surrounded by eight walls which represent the eight directions of the universe. 5. The inner sanctum of this famous temple houses an idol of Shivaji, as well as idols of other gods like Vishnu and Mahadev. 6. Inside the temple, devotees can be seen offering prayers to the gods, as well as render songs and hymns in praise of them. 7. The temple is also said to house many sacred books and manuscripts that were gifted to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at the time of his coronation. 8. Every year, a grand festival called the Raigad Utsav is held at this temple, which is attended by thousands of devotees from all across the country, who come to pay their respects to the great king. Here are some facts about the Maharashtra temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Maharashtra

Worship Method:

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Temple in Raigad in Maharashtra is based on a very simple system of worship. worshippers start their journey from the entrance gate, up a long flight of stairs and through the four gateways before reaching the inner sanctum. Here priests perform the Shodashopachara ritual, which includes an offering of flowers, water, incense sticks, lamps, Prasad, and other items. The main deity of the temple is Lord Shivaji, whose idol is installed at the centre of the shrine. Offering of special flowers and fruits is also done. The temple also includes shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Naga Devata, and Bhairava. Worshippers can also take part in Abhishekam, a ritual of pouring milk over the idol of Lord Shivaji and Lord Vishnu, and perform special poojas and archana. This most visited temple in Maharashtra

Opening Timing:

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Temple at Raigad in Maharashtra opens at 8am and closes at 8pm daily. top temples in Maharashtra

How to reach:

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Temple is located in Raigad District, Maharashtra. By Air: The nearest airport to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Temple is the Mumbai Airport, located at a distance of about 143 km. Once you reach the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple. By Train: The nearest railway station to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Temple is the Karjat Junction, which is located at a distance of about 69 km. Once you reach Karjat Junction, you can take a cab or bus to reach the temple. By Road: The temple is well connected to other parts of the city by a network of roads. There are regular buses and cabs available at regular intervals from all major cities in Maharashtra to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Temple. famous temples in Maharashtra