Traveling from Pune to Pandharpur offers a blend of spiritual fulfillment and cultural richness. Pandharpur, located on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River in Solapur district, is a prominent pilgrimage destination dedicated to Lord Vitthal, a revered form of Lord Krishna. With its deep-rooted spiritual heritage and vibrant local culture, a visit to Pandharpur is truly enriching.
Getting to Pandharpur from Pune
By Car
Route:
– Distance: Approximately 210 km
– Duration: Around 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions
Directions:
Start from Pune and head towards Hadapsar.
Take the Solapur Highway (NH 65) via Saswad or take the Pune-Solapur Highway through Indapur.
Drive straight to Pandharpur via Tembhurni and Mangalwedha.
Tips:
– Start early in the morning to avoid traffic.
– The roads are generally good, but be cautious in rural stretches.
– Fuel stations and eateries are available along the highway.
By Bus
Several state-run and private buses operate daily between Pune and Pandharpur.
Options:
– MSRTC (ST Buses): Look for semi-luxury, Shivneri, or ordinary services.
– Private Operators: Various private buses offer sleeper, AC, and non-AC coaches.
Booking Tips:
– Book tickets in advance, especially during festivals like Ashadi and Kartiki Ekadashi.
– Buses usually drop passengers near the Pandharpur bus stand, from where you can walk or take a rickshaw to the temple.
By Train
Pandharpur is well connected by train from Pune and other major cities.
Trains:
Direct trains like Pune–Pandharpur Express operate regularly.
Check IRCTC for availability and current timings.
Travel Tips:
– Pandharpur Railway Station is about 2 km from the Vitthal Temple.
– Auto-rickshaws and shared tempos are easily available outside the station.
By Taxi or Cab
Hiring a private taxi or cab is a convenient way to travel, especially for families or groups.
Tips:
– Book through trusted local travel agencies or app-based services.
– Confirm the round-trip fare and driver’s experience with the route.
Things to Do in Pandharpur
1. Visit the Vitthal-Rukmini Temple
The spiritual heart of Pandharpur, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rukmini. It attracts lakhs of devotees, especially during yatra seasons.
Timings: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Tips:
– Visit during early morning or late evening to avoid peak crowds.
– Offer tulsi garlands and participate in traditional bhajans.
2. Take a Dip in the Chandrabhaga River
The crescent-shaped river is considered sacred. Pilgrims believe that bathing here purifies the soul before entering the temple.
Best Time: Early morning
Caution: Take care near the ghat steps, especially during monsoons.
3. Explore the Town’s Spiritual Heritage
Walk through the temple lanes filled with devotional music, ancient mathas (monasteries), and historical buildings that echo Pandharpur’s rich spiritual past.
Activity: Heritage walk
Tips: Hire a local guide for insightful stories and legends.
4. Visit Gopalkrishna Temple and Pundalik Temple
These lesser-known yet significant temples are worth visiting to understand the complete pilgrimage circle of Pandharpur.
5. Shop for Local Handicrafts and Devotional Items
From brass idols to colorful bangles, glassware, pooja items, and tulsi malas, the temple market offers plenty of souvenirs to take home.
6. Try Local Cuisine
Taste authentic Maharashtrian dishes like Puran Poli, Misal Pav, and Sabudana Khichdi in the local eateries. Don’t forget to try the famous Pandharpur Pedhas.
Planning Your Trip
Weather Conditions:
Winter (October to February): Ideal for sightseeing and attending religious festivals.
Monsoon (June to September): The river is full and scenic, but roads can be slippery.
Summer (March to May): It can get quite hot; plan temple visits during early morning or late evening hours.
Accommodation Options:
Options:
Budget lodges, dharmshalas, mid-range hotels, and a few premium guesthouses.
Booking Platforms:
Online: MakeMyTrip, Goibibo, and Booking.com
Offline: Walk-in options are available near the temple, but advance booking is advised during yatra periods.
Additional Resources
Maharashtra Tourism
– Website for destination info, cultural events, and updates.IRCTC & MSRTC
– For train and bus bookings.TripAdvisor & Google Reviews
– Read experiences and tips from fellow travelers.Local Tour Guides
– Enhance your visit with insightful history, temple traditions, and mythological anecdotes.
By following this guide, your journey from Pune to Pandharpur can be a fulfilling experience—combining devotion, culture, and discovery. Whether you seek spiritual solace or a break steeped in tradition and simplicity, Pandharpur offers a heartfelt retreat for every traveler.
