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Mandhardevi Temple, Wai

Mandhardevi Temple

Mandhardevi Temple—also known as Kalubai Mandir—is a revered shrine situated near Wai in the Satara district of Maharashtra.

“जो एक बार मंधरदेवी के दरबार आता है, उसका जीवन माँ की कृपा से संवर जाता है।”

― Mandhardevi Temple

Perched on a hill at an elevation of approximately 4,650 feet above sea level, the temple offers a serene vantage point overlooking the Purandar and Pandavgad forts.

Mythological Significance & History

Although exact records are absent, local tradition holds that this over 400-year-old temple was constructed during the era of Shivaji Maharaj and the Maratha rule.
The name Mandhardevi is said to derive from the presence of sage Mandhar at this site, where Goddess Kali (as Kalubai) rested during her mission to vanquish demons. She is also revered as Kaleshwari or Mandeshwari Devi.
The idol of Kalubai is especially ornate—adorned with two silver masks and silk finery. These masks are ceremonially carried by the Gurav family, the hereditary priests of this shrine.

Significance of the Temple

The temple is the focal point of the annual Kalubai Jatra, a 10-day pilgrimage in January. The climax occurs on the full moon night, featuring a 24-hour festival where devotees offer puran poli (a sweet) and curd rice to the goddess. Over 300,000 pilgrims attend, often engaging in traditional rituals, including animal offerings.—
Shakambhari Purnima is another key day, marked by special ceremonies including a midnight mask procession and dhol-tasha music that highlight the sacred transformation of the goddess.

Architecture of the Temple

The temple exudes simplicity and harmony with nature—built in a traditional style that blends gracefully with its forested surroundings.

It features a modest yet spacious sabha mandap (assembly hall) and a candle-lit deepmala (lamp pillar) in front. Sculptural motifs, including depictions of cows and lions, adorn the temple’s kalash (finial).

The surroundings include smaller shrines to Mangir Baba and Pimparni-Chafya tree, rich with local lore—such as the legend of a mystical serpent appearing during the main procession.

How to Reach to Temple

By Road: Approximately 20 km from Wai, with decent road connectivity from Pune or Satara. One can drive up to the hill’s base and park nearby.

By Bus: Frequent services connect Pune and Satara to Wai, from where the temple is accessible

By Train: The closest station is Satara Railway Station, well-connected to major cities.

By Air: Pune Airport (~88 km away) is the nearest; onward access via road

A scenic stone stairway leads up to the temple, surrounded by cool forest and melodic birdlife—an uplifting prelude to spiritual communion.

Temple Timings

  • Morning Temple Opening & Closing Timing

    6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

  • Evening Temple Opening & Closing Timing

    11:00 to 11:15 AM

Temple Location

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