Pandharpur

Pandharpur is a pilgrimage centre situated on the banks of the Chandrabhaga river in Solapur district in Maharashtra. Known for its Shri Vitthal and Shrinati Rukmini Temples, attraction thousands of devotees every year, the place is popularly called as the Southern Kashi of India. Aashadhi and Kartiki Ekadashi are the most festive season that begins from September and lasts till the end of October.

The town of Pandharpur is considered to be the spiritual capital of Maharashtra and revered as the 'Supreme God of the Universe.' The square shaped vitthal temple is a five-story building with the idol of Lord shiva in the portico. The temple of Rukmini, the consort of Vitthala is just behind the main temple. Believed to be established in the 13th century, the temple chiefly celebrates Ashadha Ekadashi and Kartika Ekadeshi among other major festivities. Kaikadi Maharaj Math and Tanpure Maharaj Math are among the other main attractions in the town. The Chandrabhaga River, named after its crescent moon shape, enhances the beauty of the place.