bigtravelbuzzKolhapur is a city located in the southwestern part of Maharashtra, India. It is known for its rich history, culture, and culinary traditions. Here are some things to do and see in Kolhapur:
Visit the Mahalakshmi Temple: The Mahalakshmi Temple is one of the most famous temples in Kolhapur and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mahalakshmi. It is known for its stunning architecture and is an important pilgrimage site.
Explore the New Palace: The New Palace is a beautiful 19th-century structure that was built by the Maharaja of Kolhapur. It is now a museum that houses a vast collection of weapons, costumes, and other artifacts.
Take a walk in the Rankala Lake: The Rankala Lake is a picturesque lake located in the heart of the city. It is a popular spot for picnics and evening walks.
Taste the famous Kolhapuri cuisine: Kolhapur is famous for its spicy and flavorful cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying the iconic Kolhapuri mutton curry, tambda rassa, and pandhra rassa.
Visit the Panhala Fort: The Panhala Fort is an ancient fort located about 20 km from Kolhapur. It is known for its rich history and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Shop for traditional Kolhapuri footwear: Kolhapur is known for its traditional leather footwear, which is famous for its quality and craftsmanship.
Attend the Mahalakshmi Fair: The Mahalakshmi Fair is an annual festival that is held in Kolhapur and attracts thousands of visitors. It is a celebration of the goddess Mahalakshmi and features traditional music, dance, and food.
Kolhapur is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The best time to visit Kolhapur is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Places to Visit in Kolhapur
Kolhapur, located in the state of Maharashtra, India, is known for its historical and cultural significance. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kolhapur:
Mahalaxmi Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mahalaxmi and is one of the most visited places in Kolhapur.
Rankala Lake: This picturesque lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy boating, horse riding, and other activities here.
Panhala Fort: This historic fort is situated atop a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Jyotiba Temple: This temple is located on a hilltop and is dedicated to the Hindu god Jyotiba. It is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts a large number of devotees.
New Palace Museum: This museum showcases the royal heritage of Kolhapur and houses a collection of artifacts, weapons, and paintings.
Siddhagiri Gramjivan Museum: This open-air museum depicts rural life in Maharashtra and features life-sized statues of farmers, craftsmen, and artisans.
Shri Chhatrapati Shahu Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and works of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the ruler of Kolhapur.
Khasbag Maidan: This is a popular picnic spot in Kolhapur and is known for its beautiful gardens and walking trails.
Bhavani Mandap: This historic building was once used as a court of law and is now a popular venue for cultural events.
Gaganbawda: This scenic hill station is located near Kolhapur and is known for its natural beauty and trekking trails.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Kolhapur. Make sure to also try the local cuisine and explore the city’s bustling markets during your visit.
Best Time To Visit Kolhapur
The best time to visit Kolhapur is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather during this time is pleasant with cool temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The monsoon season from June to September is also a good time to visit Kolhapur, as the region receives a good amount of rainfall and the surrounding landscape becomes lush green. However, heavy rains can cause some inconvenience and may hamper outdoor activities.
The summer months from March to May are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. This may not be the best time to visit Kolhapur, especially if you are not comfortable with the hot weather. However, if you plan to visit during this time, make sure to carry light cotton clothes and stay hydrated.
Overall, the winter months are considered the best time to visit Kolhapur due to pleasant weather conditions and festive celebrations such as the Kolhapur Mahotsav, which takes place in January.
Things to Do in Kolhapur
Kolhapur, located in Maharashtra, India, is a city with a rich history and culture. Here are some of the top things to do in Kolhapur:
Visit the Mahalaxmi Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mahalaxmi and is a popular pilgrimage site in Kolhapur.
Explore the Rankala Lake: This picturesque lake is a popular spot for boating and other water activities.
Trek to the Panhala Fort: This historic fort is situated atop a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Attend a cultural event at the Bhavani Mandap: This historic building was once used as a court of law and is now a popular venue for cultural events.
Enjoy local cuisine: Kolhapur is known for its spicy and delicious cuisine, including the famous Kolhapuri Misal and Tambada Rassa.
Visit the Siddhagiri Gramjivan Museum: This open-air museum depicts rural life in Maharashtra and features life-sized statues of farmers, craftsmen, and artisans.
Explore the New Palace Museum: This museum showcases the royal heritage of Kolhapur and houses a collection of artifacts, weapons, and paintings.
Visit the Jyotiba Temple: This temple is located on a hilltop and is dedicated to the Hindu god Jyotiba. It is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts a large number of devotees.
Shop at the local markets: Kolhapur is famous for its leather footwear and jewelry, which can be found at the city’s bustling markets.
Relax at a spa: Kolhapur has several spas that offer rejuvenating massages and other therapies.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Kolhapur. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or food, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.
How to get around in Kolhapur
Kolhapur is a popular tourist destination in Maharashtra, India, and there are several ways to get around the city:
Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Kolhapur. They are easily available and can take you to your destination quickly. However, make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.
Buses: Kolhapur has a well-developed bus network, with both state-run and private buses plying on various routes. You can buy bus tickets at the bus stand or on board the bus.
Taxis: Taxis are also available in Kolhapur, and you can either book them through a taxi service or hire one at the taxi stand. They are a good option if you want to travel in comfort and privacy.
Car rental: If you want to explore Kolhapur at your own pace, you can rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies in the city.
Two-wheelers: Two-wheelers such as scooters and motorcycles are also available for rent in Kolhapur. They are a good option if you want to navigate through the narrow streets and alleys of the city.
Walking: Kolhapur is a relatively small city, and you can explore many of its attractions on foot. Walking is a great way to soak in the local culture and experience the city at a leisurely pace.
Overall, there are many options for getting around in Kolhapur, and you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Where to eat in Kolhapur
Kolhapur is famous for its spicy and delicious cuisine, and there are many restaurants and eateries in the city where you can enjoy the local food. Here are some of the top places to eat in Kolhapur:
Hotel Parakh: This is one of the most popular restaurants in Kolhapur and is known for its spicy Kolhapuri cuisine, especially the Kolhapuri Misal and Tambada Rassa.
Padma Guest House: This is another popular restaurant that serves authentic Kolhapuri cuisine. Their mutton thali and chicken sukka are highly recommended.
Opal: Opal is a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves Indian, Chinese, and Continental food. They have a rooftop seating area that offers a great view of the city.
Hotel Chaitanya: Hotel Chaitanya is known for its non-vegetarian food, especially the mutton thali and chicken fry.
Hotel Maratha Regency: This is a fine dining restaurant that serves Indian and Continental cuisine. Their seafood platter and tandoori chicken are highly recommended.
Mitravihar: This is a vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious Maharashtrian food, including thalis and snacks like vada pav and sabudana vada.
Hotel Tourist: This is a popular restaurant that serves North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese cuisine. Their biryanis and butter chicken are highly recommended.
Madhura Bakery: This bakery is famous for its Kolhapuri Bhakarwadi and other snacks. It’s a great place to pick up some local snacks to take back home.
These are just a few of the many places to eat in Kolhapur. Whether you are a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian, and whether you prefer spicy Kolhapuri food or something more mainstream, you will find something to suit your taste buds in this vibrant city.
Famous street stalls in Kolhapur
Kolhapur is known for its vibrant street food culture, and there are many street stalls in the city where you can enjoy local snacks and delicacies. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Kolhapur:
Phadtare Misal: This stall is located near the Mahalaxmi Temple and is known for its spicy and flavorful Misal. The Misal is served with pav and topped with farsan, onions, and lemon.
Waman Dhokla Centre: This stall is located near Rankala Lake and is famous for its Dhokla, Khaman, and other Gujarati snacks. Their Khaman is especially popular.
Bajrang Pakode Centre: This stall is located near the New Palace and is known for its crispy and delicious Pakodas. They serve a variety of Pakodas, including potato, onion, and mirchi.
Shahu Chat Centre: This stall is located near the Shahu Market and is famous for its chaat and snacks. Their Bhel Puri and Sev Puri are highly recommended.
Apsara Ice Creams: This ice cream parlor is located near the Shivaji University and is known for its delicious ice creams and shakes. Their Mango and Sitaphal ice creams are highly recommended.
Kirti Kulfi: This stall is located near the Mahadwar Road and is famous for its creamy and rich Kulfi. Their Mango and Kesar Pista Kulfi are highly recommended.
Om Shri Ganesha Bhel Centre: This stall is located near the Rankala Lake and is known for its spicy and tangy Bhel. Their Bhel is made with a special chutney that gives it a unique flavor.
These are just a few of the many famous street stalls in Kolhapur. Whether you are a foodie or just looking to sample some local snacks, these stalls are definitely worth a visit.
Where to stay in Kolhapur
Luxury accommodation
Kolhapur offers a variety of luxury accommodations that cater to the needs of discerning travelers. Here are some of the top luxury hotels in Kolhapur:
The Fern Residency: This is a luxurious hotel located near the Mahalaxmi Temple. The hotel features spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites that are equipped with all modern amenities. The hotel also features a rooftop swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
Sayaji Hotel: This is a luxurious hotel located near the railway station. The hotel features elegantly furnished rooms and suites that come with all modern amenities. The hotel also features a rooftop swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
Hotel Pearl: This is a luxurious hotel located near the Mahalaxmi Temple. The hotel features spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites that are equipped with all modern amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, a bar, and a banquet hall.
Hotel Vrishali Executive: This is a luxurious hotel located near the Tarabai Park. The hotel features elegantly furnished rooms and suites that come with all modern amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, a bar, and a banquet hall.
Citrus Hotel Kolhapur: This is a luxurious hotel located near the New Palace. The hotel features spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites that are equipped with all modern amenities. The hotel also features a rooftop swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
These are just a few of the many luxury hotels in Kolhapur. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, these hotels offer the perfect blend of comfort and luxury to make your stay in Kolhapur truly memorable.
Where to stay in Kolhapur
Budget accommodation
Kolhapur offers a variety of budget accommodations that cater to the needs of budget-conscious travelers. Here are some of the top budget hotels in Kolhapur:
Hotel Rasika Renaissance: This is a budget hotel located near the Mahalaxmi Temple. The hotel features clean and comfortable rooms that are equipped with basic amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant and a travel desk.
Hotel Atria: This is a budget hotel located near the Tarabai Park. The hotel features simple and clean rooms that come with basic amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, a bar, and a banquet hall.
Hotel K Tree: This is a budget hotel located near the railway station. The hotel features comfortable rooms that come with basic amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant and a travel desk.
Hotel Tourist: This is a budget hotel located near the Mahadwar Road. The hotel features basic and clean rooms that come with basic amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant and a travel desk.
Hotel Skylark: This is a budget hotel located near the Tarabai Park. The hotel features simple and clean rooms that come with basic amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant and a travel desk.
These are just a few of the many budget hotels in Kolhapur. Whether you are a solo traveler or traveling with a group, these hotels offer comfortable and affordable accommodations to make your stay in Kolhapur hassle-free.
Travel Tips Kolhapur
Here are some travel tips for visiting Kolhapur:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Kolhapur is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and cool. Avoid visiting during the summer months as the temperatures can soar and make sightseeing difficult.
Transportation: Public transportation in Kolhapur is limited, so it’s best to hire a taxi or a private car to get around. You can also use the local rickshaws or buses, but be prepared for slow and crowded journeys.
Accommodation: Kolhapur has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Food: Kolhapur is famous for its spicy and delicious cuisine. Be sure to try the local delicacies such as Misal, Kolhapuri chicken, and Tambada Rassa. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, it’s advisable to stick to bottled water and avoid street food.
Culture: Kolhapur has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s recommended to explore the city’s temples, museums, and historical sites. Remember to dress conservatively and remove your footwear before entering any religious sites.
Safety: Kolhapur is generally a safe city, but it’s recommended to take precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash and avoiding dark and isolated areas at night.
Language: Marathi is the main language spoken in Kolhapur, but Hindi and English are also widely understood. It’s always helpful to carry a phrasebook or download a translation app to communicate with locals.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Kolhapur.