History:

is a temple dedicated to the goddess Chandika, located in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. The temple has been in existence since the 11th century and is famous for its distinctive architecture and intricate carvings. It is one of the four Shakti Peethas located in Maharashtra. The temple draws a large number of pilgrims from around the nation and is known for its annual celebrations. According to legend, it is believed that a part of the Sati body fell at this particular site, and hence the goddess attained the name of Shankari or Chandika Devi. It is also believed to be a powerful seat of fertility and prosperity. It is one of the best temple in Maharashtra which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Chandika Devi Temple is located in the city of Kolhapur, in Maharashtra, India. 2. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, also known as Chandika Devi. 3. It has a seven-tiered Gopuram (sacred gateway), and is renowned for its huge silver images of Mahalaxmi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati. 4. Every year, during the celebration of Navratri, the temple draws thousands of devotees from all over India, as it is considered a major pilgrimage site. 5. The temple is believed to have been built around the 13th century, with its main deity being the Dakshina Kali or Mahishamardini. 6.The temple complex also houses the Jyoti Nivas, a large belltower, and the Nagsabha, a place of worship dedicated to Nag Devata, the serpent deity. 7. The temple is one of the 6 Shakti Peethas in Maharashtra, and is believed to have been built by Vishwakarma, the Vedic architect god. 8. The temple is managed by the Kolhapur Devasthanam, and visitors are expected to follow certain rules while visiting, like removing their footwear, abstaining from smoking, not entering wearing a suit, and avoiding footwear, both inside and outside the temple. 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 worship method at Shri Chandi Devi Temple is a Vedic ritual called Puja, which includes hymns, flowers, fragrance, fruits, offerings, and meditational activities. Every morning and evening, special arati (religious offerings) is performed for the divine mother. Different rituals are performed during the festivals of Navaratri, Raksha Bandhan, and Shivaratri. During Shravan month, an aarti is organized for Lord Shiva and Parvati. Special pujas are offered to Shri Chandika Devi on Pratipada Tithi, Purnima, and Ekadashi. Offerings such as Kumkum, rice, sandalwood paste, fruits, and incense sticks are offered to the deity. Additionally, devotees often circumambulate the temple while chanting mantras. This most visited temple in Maharashtra

Opening Timing:

The temple of Shri Chandika Devi in Kolhapur is open every day from 4:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. top temples in Maharashtra

How to reach:

The easiest way to reach Shri Chandika Devi Temple in Kolhapur is by road. It is located approximately 4 km from the city of Kolhapur and the route passes through Kolhapur Highway. By road, you can reach the temple by public or private transport (auto-rickshaws, taxis, buses). Another way to reach Shri Chandika Devi Temple in Kolhapur is by rail. Kolhapur is a major railway junction and is well-connected to different cities in India. The nearest railway station to the temple is Kolhapur Junction which is about 6 km away from the temple. famous temples in Maharashtra