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Vitthal Temple, Pandharpur

Vitthal Temple

The Vitthal Temple—officially the Shri Vitthal–Rukmini Mandir—in Pandharpur, Maharashtra, is the principal center of devotion for Lord Vitthal (a form of Vishnu/Krishna) and his consort Rukmini.

“जहाँ विठोबा का नाम गूंजता है, वहाँ भक्ति स्वयं नृत्य करने लगती है।”

― Vitthal Temple

It holds a vital place in the Vaishnavate tradition and is among the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams.

Mythological Significance & History

The temple was originally constructed by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana between 1108–1152 CE, following his inspiration by the devotee Pundalik
An inscription from 1237 CE by Hoysala King Vira Someshwara grants a village for temple upkeep.
Subsequent renovations and expansions occurred in the 17th century, integrating Deccan architectural elements—namely, domes and arches—funded by the Peshwas, Shindes, and Holkars

Significance of the Temple

Founded on the legendary devotion of Pundalik, Lord Vitthal is believed to have stood on a brick (“Vit”) as a mark of humility and dedication.
Exceedingly popular—devotees are allowed to perform Padha Darshan (touch the deity’s lotus feet), a rare allowance in Hindu temples.
The town is the focal point of the Warkari pilgrimage. During Ashadhi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi, lakhs of pilgrims walk to Pandharpur singing bhajans and chanting “Vitthal Vitthal.”

Architecture of the Temple

The temple blends styles—Rashtrakuta base, Yadava stone features, and later Maratha/Deccan enhancements, reflecting centuries of devotion and architectural evolution.

The gopuram was rebuilt in the 1700s in a tall form with ornate carvings and painted motifs, including a smiling Vitthal and Krishna scenes.

The interior houses a spacious wooden hall and the famed Sola Khambi (16-pillared hall). The main idol—Vitthal standing on a brick—is located in a basalt sanctum.

The temple complex includes shrines for Rukmini, Lakshmi, Garuda, and smaller guardians, merging simplicity with spiritual symbolism.

How to Reach to Temple

By Road: 70 km from Solapur, 215 km from Pune, and 375 km from Mumbai. Well-connected by state-run and private buses.

By Train: Pandharpur Railway Station is just 2–3 km from the temple, accessible via direct trains from major cities.

By Air: The closest airports are Pune (~200–210 km) and Solapur (~75 km). From there, taxis or buses connect to Pandharpur.i International Airport, Hyderabad (~80 km).

Temple Timings

  • Morning Temple Opening & Closing Timing

    5:00–6:00 AM

  • Evening Temple Opening & Closing Timing

    11:00–11:15 AM

Temple Location

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