Tourist places in and around Kolhapur
Ambabai/Temple of Mahalaxmi
This imposing 7th century temple was built by the chalukyan king karnadev Ray and is a fine example of Hemadpanti style of architecture. The main sanctum enshrines an idol of goddess Mahalaxmi, weighing 40kgs. It is believed that the idol has not been created by human hands, but is in natural form, a primeval monolith of uncut diamonds and precious stones. The shrine attracts a large number of devotees.This is one of the most Respected and worshiped temple of Maharashtra. The Goddess Mahalakshmi is popularly known as Goddess Ambabai. The grand temple of Mahalakshmi is constructed facing to the west. The idol of the Devi is made of precious stone, weighing about 40 Kgs. This is where Shivaji used to seek blessings before venturing on expeditions.
New Palace
The palace was built between 1877-1884 and is the residence of the royal family of Kolhapur. There is a clock Tower, gardens, lake, a wrestling ground, small zoo, museum and swimming pool around the palace.Old Palace
The 200 years old palace has a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhavani.Shalini Palace
This modern palace is built in Indo-Saracenic style.The Shalini Palace was built in 1932-34 at a cost of Rs. 8 lakhs and was named after Princess Shrimant Shalini Raje of Kolhapur.
Rankala Lake
It is a popular picnic site. Other attractions are - Khasbaug Stadium, Ganesh Temple, Kotiterth, Panchaganga, Town Hall, cenotaph, Irwin Museum and Rani's garden.Located at a distance of half a kilometer from the Mahalakshmi Temple is a huge lake called "RANKALA LAKE". Formerly, this was an extensive mine of black stone. During 800-900 AD, there were earthquakes, which transformed the mines and the land caved in to form huge lakes of ground water. Rankala, This is the oldest of all, it is thought and was given more importance in the past as a big temple of Nandi and a fine resort called 'Sandhya Math' have been built. The idol of Nandi is very big and rare.
Bavani Mandap or the old palace
When Kolhapur became self-governed, in the reign of II Shivaji Maharaj (1785-1800 AD) this palace was built. It has fine and sound construction with 14 squares. In 1813 the Muslim King Sadatkhan invaded the palace and a part of it was burnt. After repair, 7 squares survived. At the center is the temple of Kulswamini Tulja Bhavani.Panchganga
The city of Kolhapur is situated on the banks of the river Panchganga.Town Hall
This spot is important, as it adds to the splendour of the city. At the heart of the town, the garden proudly stands in an extensive area .The building was erected during 1872-1876 and has been converted into a museum of historical things, including ancient idols, ancient coins, statues, sandal idols, weapons etc.timings: 1030-1300 hrs, 1330-1730 hrs