7 most popular Temples: History, taxi fares, things, photos

Explore the rich history, locations, visiting hours, key attractions, activities, and transportation options for the seven most ancient and famous temples in Mahabaleshwar. Learn about taxi fares and waiting times to make your visit smooth and enjoyable. Kshetra Mahabaleshwar is a sacred destination, also known as Old Mahabaleshwar.

7 Famous Temples in Mahabaleshwar

• Panchganga Temple Mahabaleshwar 
• Lord Shiva Temple in Mahabaleshwar 
• Krushna Mai Temple In Mahabaleshwar
• Ganesh Temple In Mahabaleshwar 
• Bhavani Matta Temple in Pratapgad Mahabaleshwar 
• Adishakti Shri Ram Vardayini Temple in Mahabaleshwar 
• Hanuman Mandir Venna Lake Mahabaleshwar 

Mahabaleshwar Temples

 1. Panchganga Temple

• History – The Panchganga Temple is an old temple from which five rivers — Krishna, Venna, Savitri, Koyna, and Gayatri — originate. The temple’s history stretches back thousands of years, showcasing an architectural style that is over 4500 years old. The temple was initially built in the 13th century. Subsequently, during the 16th and 17th centuries, it underwent repairs and renovations under the supervision of Chandrarao More and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

To reach the Panchganga Temple from Mahabaleshwar:

• Mahabaleshwar Bus Services: Regular bus services run from Mahabaleshwar to the temple. The frequency of buses to Panchganga Temple can vary, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule ahead of time. You can usually find the latest bus timings at the local bus station or online.
• Mahabaleshwar Taxi Services: Taxis are readily available in Mahabaleshwar and can be hired to take you directly to the Panchganga Temple. The fare for a taxi ride to Panchganga Temple will depend on the type of taxi you choose and your bargaining skills. Generally, it’s an affordable option, making it a convenient choice for most travelers.
• Opening Hours –The temple is open to visitors from 5:00 am to 7:00 pm every day.

For your visit to the Panchganga Temple in Mahabaleshwar, here are the updated transportation costs:

• Taxi Fares: The fare for a taxi from Mahabaleshwar to the Panchganga Temple is INR 400. This includes a waiting time of 1 hour. If you require the taxi to wait longer, there may be additional charges.
• Bus Fares: The bus fare from Kshetra Mahabaleshwar village to the temple is INR 20. Please note that this is only for a one-way drop to the temple.

It’s always a good idea to confirm the prices before starting your journey to ensure there are no surprises.

Read More – How to get to Arthur’s Seat from Mahabaleshwar?

2. Lord Shiva Temple

• History – The Mahabaleshwar Temple indeed has a rich history and spiritual significance. 

Origin and Architecture:

• Dating back to the 16th century, the Mahabaleshwar Temple is a classic example of Hemadpanthi architecture.
• Its ancient design features a pyramidal tower atop a plain exterior, while the interior boasts intricate carvings.
• The temple grounds feature a variety of statues and sculptures depicting Nandi, the sacred bull, and Kalabhairava
• The temple’s simple architecture is beautifully framed by the stunning Sahyadri mountain ranges.

Unique Shivalinga:

• The temple houses a 6-foot-tall Swayambhu (self-originated) Shivalinga, known as the Mahalingam.
• This linga, believed to be thousands of years old, is unique in the world for its resemblance to a Rudraksha bead.
• The sanctum sanctorum holding the linga is over 500 years old, with other parts of the temple added later.

Spiritual Significance:

• It is said that the deity of the temple showers immense blessings upon devotees, even upon those who simply gaze upon it.
• A local belief holds that Lord Shiva visits the temple nightly, as evidenced by the disheveled state of the bed each morning.
• The temple complex houses artifacts linked to Lord Shiva, believed to have been used during His nocturnal visits.

Historical Events:

• A notable feature within the temple complex is the square platform, a site where Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is said to have performed Tuladan (weighing oneself against gold) to aid the less fortunate.
• The tranquil and serene ambiance, coupled with lush greenery, renders it an ideal spot for contemplation and meditation.

Tourist Attraction:

• • As a major tourist attraction in Mahabaleshwar, the temple attracts visitors from all over India.
  • Devotees of Lord Shiva visit throughout the year, with peak attendance during the festivals of Navaratri and Maha Shivaratri.
  • The temple’s distinctive architecture and the singular Shivalinga make it an essential destination for both pilgrims and tourists.

To visit the Lord Shiva Temple from Mahabaleshwar, you can use the following transportation options:

• Mahabaleshwar Bus Services: There are regular bus services that can take you to the temple. It’s wise to check the bus schedules in advance, as they can be subject to change.
• Mahabaleshwar Taxi Services: You can also hire a taxi to reach the temple directly. The fare can vary based on the type of taxi and your negotiation skills, but it’s generally quite reasonable.

• Taxi Fares: The fare for a taxi from Mahabaleshwar to the Panchganga Temple is INR 400, which includes a waiting time of 1 hour. For any additional waiting time, the charge is INR 200 per hour.
• Bus Fares: The bus fare from Kshetra Mahabaleshwar village to the temple is INR 20. This fare covers a one-way drop to the temple only.

3. Krushna Mai Temple

• History – The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features an idol of Lord Krishna, symbolizing the confluence of two significant deities in Hinduism.

• Construction: Erected in 1888, the temple stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the era.
• Architecture: Renowned for its stone-carved ceilings and columns, the temple’s architecture showcases a unique style that seamlessly blends spirituality with artistry.
• Gomukh: A remarkable feature is the Gomukh, or cow’s mouth, from which water flows into a tank, signifying the birthplace of the Krishna River.
• Spiritual Significance: Revered as the source of the Krishna River, the temple holds immense spiritual significance, attracting devotees eager to witness the river’s origin.
• Cultural Significance: As one of the region’s oldest and most historic shrines, the Krishnabai Temple offers visitors a serene and sacred environment, perfect for reflection and worship.
• Transportation to Temples in Mahabaleshwar:
• Bus Services: Regular buses are available. It’s wise to check the bus schedules in advance as they may vary.
• Taxi Services: Taxis can be hired directly to the temple, with fares generally being reasonable and subject to negotiation.

Costs:

• Taxi Fares: INR 400 for a taxi from Mahabaleshwar to the Panchganga Temple, including 1 hour of waiting time. Additional waiting time costs INR 200 per hour.
• Bus Fares: INR 20 for a one-way drop from Kshetra Mahabaleshwar village to the temple.

4. Ganesh Temple ( Machutar Village)

Swayambhu Ganesha Temple:

• Location: The temple is located just 6 km away from the Machutar village, making it easily accessible for visitors.
• Age: Steeped in history, this temple is approximately 400 years old and holds significant importance for both historical and religious reasons.
• Architecture: The temple features classic architectural elements with enduring characteristics. Inside, it houses a unique statue of Lord Ganesha, believed to have manifested on its own, which is quite remarkable
• Significance: The Swayambhu Ganesha Temple is one of the many sacred sites in Mahabaleshwar. It attracts numerous visitors and worshippers who seek tranquility and blessings.

Getting There:

• Buses: Buses run frequently to the temple.  it’s advisable to check the schedule before planning your visit.
• Taxis: Taxis provide direct service to the temple. The fares are reasonable, and there’s always room for negotiation.

Cost:

• Taxi: The taxi fare to the temple is INR 500, which includes 1 hour of waiting time. If you require the taxi to wait longer, it costs an additional INR 200 for each extra hour.
• Bus: The bus fare from the nearby village to the temple is just INR 10 for a one-way trip.

    5. Bhavani Matta Temple

• History – The Bhavani Mata temple is located at Pratapgad It was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj pleased Goddess Bhavani and received the Bhavani sword. As a result, many enemies were defeated. Bhavani Mata is the ancestral deity of the Maratha region. Many devotees come here for darshan. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj himself killed Afzal Khan with the Pratapgad fort’s dagger. this temple is 22 km from Mahabaleshwar. 
• Taxi Fares: The fare for a taxi from Mahabaleshwar to the Bhavani Mata temple is INR 1200, which includes a waiting time of 3 hour. For any additional waiting time, the charge is INR 200 per hour.
• Bus Fares: The bus fare from Wada Mahabaleshwar village to the temple is INR 30.

6. Adishakti Shri Ram Vardayini Temple

• History – The history of this temple is ancient, and the architecture is imposing. Adjacent to it lies the Shankar Bhagwan temple. The atmosphere surrounding the area is delightful. Devotees gather here annually for the darshan of the Palkhi. To experience the full beauty of nature, one should visit in September.

1. How many temples does Mahabaleshwar taxi cover?
    Mahabaleshwar taxi covers 3 temples.

2. How many tourists can sit in a taxi?
    4 many tourists can sit in a taxi.