Pandaripuram

Sculptered by many divine stories the famous Pandaripur temple's origin dates back to 13th and 17th centuries as noted from the worship to Lord Vittala, a incarnation of Sri Krishna by saints Dnyaneshwar, Namdev, Sant Eknath, Purandara Dasa, Vijaya Dasa, Gopala Dasa, Jagannatha Dasa, Chokhamela, Janabai and many others. The sanctum enshrines a standing image of Vithoba(Vittala). Stylistically the image dates back to the 5th century BC.

The main deity is Vittal and the Goddess is Rukmani devi. Rukmani devi embraces her devotees with her enchanting beauty and smile giving kukkum as prasad. Within the main sanctum, there is a pillar which is still a mystery as it whispers the name of Vittal as we keep our ears on it. And can visualise all devotees dancing and singing the fame of vittal over there.

The temple is noted for its construction made of wood. Its really amazing and the Gopuram from inside the temple gives us a breadthaking view.

It is located 65 km west of Sholapur, on the banks of the river Bhima, which is also known as Chandrabhaga. It is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra. The temple premise celebrates Ekadashi of every month, Gudhi Padawa, Ram-Navami, Dasehara and Deepavali festivals. Every wednessday is regarded as an auspicious day here.

Nearest railhead is Pandharpur on the Kurduwadi - Miraj line of South Central Railway. But a more convenient railhead is Solapur, 74 kms. Shirdi Saibaba temple is the nearest pilgrimage. Apart from it Pandaripur is also noted as a good shopping place for bags, and textiles.