Vitthal Temple, Pandharpur – Maharashtra

Description :
The Vithoba Temple, officially known as Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir is a Hindu temple in Pandharpur, in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is the main centre of worship for Vithoba, a form of the god Vishnu or Krishna, and his consort Rakhumai. The temple was built by King Vishnuvardhana of Hoysala Empire between 1108–1152 CE upon being convinced by the historical figure Pundalik. Also, there is an inscription in the temple, of a Hoysala King Vira Someshwara dating back to 1237 CE, which grants the temple a village for its upkeep. It is the most visited temple in Maharashtra. The Warkaris start marching from their homes to the temple of Pandharpur in groups called Dindi (procession) to reach on Aashadhi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi. A dip in the holy river Chandrabhaga, on whose banks Pandharpur resides, is believed to have power to wash all sins. All the devotees are allowed to touch the feet of the idol of Vithoba. In May 2014, the temple became the first in India to invite women and people from backward classes as priests.

Although parts of the temple date to the 12th or 13th century, the existing structure mainly dates to the 17th century or later, and reflects the later Deccan style, with dome motifs and lobed arches.

About the Temple:

LOCATION: Main Road, Chouphala, Pandharpur, Maharashtra 413304.
COUNTRY: India
NEAREST AIRPORT:Pune International Airport(PNQ).
BUILT-IN:1108–1152 CE.
BUILT-BY: Vishnuvardhana, Hoysala King
ARCHITECTURE STYLE:Hoysala architecture.
DEITY: Vithoba alias Vitthala.
FESTIVALS:Aashadhi Ekadashi, Kartiki Ekadashi.
TEMPLE TIMINGS: 6am–11:30pm.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: October to February.