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Ekvira Temple, Lonavala

Ekvira Temple

Ekvira Devi Temple, also known as Ekvira Aai Mandir, is a revered Hindu shrine located adjacent to the Karla Caves near Lonavala, Maharashtra.

“लोनावला की ऊँचाइयों पर विराजमान है मां एकवीरा – शक्ति, श्रद्धा और शांति का स्वरूप।”

― Ekvira Temple

Dedicated to Goddess Ekvira, an incarnation of Renuka Devi, it holds profound cultural and spiritual importance for local communities.

Mythological Significance & History

Legendary Origins: Believed to have been established by the Pandavas during their exile, the temple’s lore narrates that the Goddess Ekvira appeared and challenged them to build the temple overnight—impressed by their devotion, she granted them protection.
Kuladevata Worship: Ekvira Devi is worshipped as the family deity (Kuladevata) by the Koli, Agri, Sunar, CKP, and Daivadnya Brahmin communities.

Significance of the Temple

The temple stands on a hill near the Karla Caves and requires ascending approximately 500 steps to reach the shrine, offering lush views along the way.
Architecturally, it features three west-facing shrines, of which the central and southern ones remain intact, flanked by sixteen smaller deities’ shrines around them.
At the entrance lies a maha-mandapa (main hall), varsha-mandapa (rain hall), and a gopura (gateway). The shrine of Jogesvari Devi is situated to the left of the main deity.

Architecture of the Temple

The temple is a major pilgrimage site, especially during Navaratri and Chaitra Navaratri, when devotion is marked by folk dance, music, vibrant decorations, and large fairs.

The Goddess is believed to possess protective, wish-fulfilling powers, particularly cherished by the Koli and Agri fisherfolk. Animal offerings like goats or chickens are traditionally made to appease her.

How to Reach to Temple

By Road: Situated about 8–10 km from Lonavala, accessible via the old Mumbai–Pune highway or Expressway. A prominent gate leads devotees toward the temple.

By Train: Nearest station is Lonavala Railway Station (~8 km away), with onward access via taxi or auto-rickshaw.

By Air: Pune International Airport, approximately 62 km away, is the closest. From there, taxis can be taken to Lonavala and onward to the temple.

Temple Timings

  • Morning Temple Opening & Closing Timing

    5:00 AM – 12:00 PM

  • Evening Temple Opening & Closing Timing

    4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Temple Location

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