Places to visit in Kolhapur

• Mahalaxmi Temple: This temple holds a special religious significance for being one of the six abodes of ‘Shakti’ (Goddess of Power). With intricately carved walls adorned with beautiful sculptures, this temple is an architectural marvel of the ancient era. The construction started in the 7th century by Chalukya rulers and later enhanced by Yadavas in the 9th century AD. The best time to visit the temple is during Kirnotsav to experience a unique phenomenon of sunlight falling directly on the Mahalakshmi idol at the time of sunset.
• Jyotiba Temple: According to local beliefs, you should visit Jyotiba Temple after visiting Mahalaxmi Temple. Established in 1730, this beautiful temple is located at the height of 3124 feet above the ground level to worship Lord Jyotiba – the reincarnation of Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. To reach the temple complex having 12 jyotirlingas, you need to climb more than 100 steps. One exciting aspect of this place is that the pilgrims offer gulal to the deity as a token of their sincerity. The best time to visit this temple is in the months of Chaitra and Vaishakh on a full moon night.

Kolhapur is also home to many more temples that include Tembabai Temple, Bhavani Mandap, Kopeshwar Temple, Katyayani Temple, Bahubali, Gagangiri Maharaj Math and Binkhambi Ganesh Mandir.

• Panhala Fort: This majestic Fort is a testimony to Shivaji Maharaj's glorious reign and considered the largest of all the Deccan Forts. It boasts a 7 km structure known as Panhalla, Panalla or Panhalgad, which means 'the house of serpents'. Although most of the Fort is in ruins, there are specific spots within the Fort that you must visit, such as the hidden well. These include - Andhar Bavadi, the central granary – Ambarkhana, additional granary - Dharma Kothi, Sajja Kothi, Kalavanticha Mahal – ladies residence, Wagh Darwaza, Teen Darwaza and hidden exit from the Fort – the Rajdindi bastion.
• New Palace: The first thing to notice about this structure is its architecture that reflects a mix of Hindu and Jain culture influenced by Gujarati and Rajasthani styles. The present Maharaja resides at the first floor of this lavish palace. Popularly known as ‘Maharaja’s New Palace’, this palace houses a museum displaying a collection of guns, garments, jewellery and trophies of the Kolhapur rulers. You must visit the Durbar’s side wall which is made of strained glasses and exhibits various scenes from Shivaji’s life.

High-end shopping/luxury shopping/shopping malls in Kolhapur

• DYP City Mall
• Reliance Mall

Street shopping in Kolhapur

• Kolhapuri chappals are among the topmost items to buy from the city. These handcrafted leather t-strap sandals are a must-buy. Next, you must check out Kolhapuri ‘saaj’ – a traditional design for a necklace wherein the artisans combine beautiful designs with religious figures. Another popular item that you must include in your shopping list is the Kolhapuri saree, known for ethnic designs and vibrant colours. Kolhapuri jaggery is another popular item due to its authentic flavour. So, before heading back home, pack some authentic Kolhapuri stuff with you as a memoir from this beautiful city.

• Mahadwar Road: The market surrounds an arched gateway famous for its notable architecture. You will get to experience the culture of the city by walking down the narrow lanes of Mahadwar Road. It is usually very crowded and among the oldest shopping areas in Kolhapur.

• Bahusinghji Road: Pick your favourite pair of Kolhapuri chappals in varied designs from this market. You can also grab some other leather goods such as shoes and belts. Have a gala time walking around the market, and don’t forget to bargain to get the best deal.

Nightlife or party places in Kolhapur

• Kolhapur Hikers
• Vishay Chichkhalcha
• Shamrao Patil Well
• Shohrat Club
• Dhanlaxmi Bobin & Warping
• Cafe Maxico Bar
• Rajarampuri Talim

Rankala Lake

If you are looking out for a place away from the city's hustle bustle, visit Rankala Lake. Known as Kolhapur’s Marine Drive (due to its similar kind of feel), the lake got its name from Rankabhairav Temple, believed to be under the lake. The lake is spread across a massive area of 107 hectares and is one of the top tourist destinations in Kolhapur. It boasts a pathway on the southeast bank of the lake wherein you can sit, enjoy horse riding or boating and taste some delectable local snacks. You can also visit Shalini Palace, which is situated on the west of the lake along with Padma Raje Gardens, on its east.

Panhala to Pawankhind trek

Shivaji Maharaj, along with his army, walked over a distance of 47km for about 20 long hours while fighting with their enemies. You can also walk the same route and relive the glorious history by going on a trek from Panhala to Pawankhind. It’s a three-day tour that takes you through some fascinating stories from the Maratha legacy. The trek includes Panhala Fort, the village of Pandharpani and Pawankhind. Experience the country life during your trek and do stay overnight at a local house in Pandharpani.

Gudi Padwa

Gudi Padwa is widely celebrated across the state of Maharashtra, but Kolhapur adds a unique charm to the event. This festival attracts a number of tourists from across the country. The entire town is decorated with colourful garlands, Gudis (auspicious decorations) and embellished saffron flags at every nook and corner.

Kolhapur Rankala Mahotsav

One of the biggest and the most popular annual festivals in Kolhapur, the Rankala Mahotsav, brings forth the vibrant and liveliness of the city of Kolhapuri. This five-day festival attracts several tourists from across the country amidst the extravagant showcase of Kolhapuri traditions and culture.