Kolhapur Tourist Places: Explore the Best Places to Visit
Kolhapur, a charming city in Maharashtra, is renowned for its rich history, ancient temples, majestic forts, and serene lakes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or a nature lover, Kolhapur offers something for everyone. In this Kolhapur Tourist Places guide, we’ll explore the top attractions along with essential details such as entry fees, ratings, and timings.
Top 12 Must-Visit Tourist Places in Kolhapur
1. New Palace
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5 (17K reviews)
- Entry Fee: ₹30 for Adults
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
The New Palace, also known as the Shahu Palace, was built in 1877–1884 by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. This magnificent structure showcases Neo-Gothic and Indo-Saracenic architectural styles.
Inside the palace, you will find a museum displaying royal artifacts, weapons, paintings, and personal belongings of the Kolhapur rulers. The palace is surrounded by lush gardens and offers a breathtaking view of the city.
2. Town Hall Museum
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5 (733 reviews)
- Timings: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Located in the heart of Kolhapur, the Town Hall Museum is a treasure trove of historical artifacts, sculptures, coins, and paintings. It was built during British rule and features Gothic-style architecture.
The museum is perfect for history buffs and art lovers, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kolhapur.
3. Panchganga Ghat
- Rating: ⭐ 4.4/5 (1,826 reviews)
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Panchganga Ghat is a significant spiritual and historical site in Kolhapur, where the sacred Panchganga River flows. Devotees visit this ghat for ritual baths and religious ceremonies, believing that the waters purify the soul. The site also offers a peaceful environment, making it ideal for meditation and spiritual reflection.
4. Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapur
- Rating: ⭐ 4.8/5 (90K reviews)
- Timings: 4:30 AM – 10:00 PM
The Mahalaxmi Temple, also known as Ambabai Temple, is the most revered temple in Kolhapur. Dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, this temple is over 1,300 years old and is one of the Shakti Peethas in India. The temple features intricate carvings and an impressive black stone idol of Mahalaxmi adorned with precious jewels.
5. Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Rajmahal
- Rating: ⭐ 4.7/5 (1,099 reviews)
- Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
This majestic royal palace was the residence of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the visionary ruler of Kolhapur. The palace is an architectural masterpiece with stunning interiors, showcasing artifacts, paintings, and memorabilia from the Maratha era. A must-visit for those interested in royal heritage and history.
6. Rankala Lake
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5 (2,328 reviews)
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Rankala Lake is one of Kolhapur’s most scenic and popular tourist spots, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and leisure activities. The lake, believed to have been formed naturally, is surrounded by lush greenery, gardens, and historic structures.
7. Shalini Palace
- Rating: ⭐ 4.3/5 (444 reviews)
- Type: Historical Palace & Museum
- Timings: 9 AM–1 PM, 4–6 PM
Shalini Palace is a majestic heritage palace in Kolhapur, known for its stunning Indo-European architecture and royal history. Built in the early 20th century, the palace was once the royal residence of the Kolhapur rulers and later converted into a museum and luxury hotel.
8. Kaneri Museum
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5 (687 reviews)
- Entry Fee: ₹120 for Adults, ₹60 for Children
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Kaneri Museum, also known as Siddhagiri Gramjivan Museum, showcases rural life in Maharashtra through life-size sculptures. It is an open-air museum depicting the traditional lifestyle, occupations, and culture of Maharashtra.
9. Pohale Caves
- Rating: ⭐ 4.3/5 (410 reviews)
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Pohale Caves, also known as Pohale Buddhist Caves, are an ancient rock-cut site showcasing the influence of Buddhism in Maharashtra. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, these caves feature intricate carvings, meditation chambers, and stupas, offering insight into the Buddhist way of life.
10. Shree Jyotiba Devsthan, Kolhapur
- Rating: ⭐ 4.7/5 (35,808 reviews)
- Timings: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Shree Jyotiba Temple, perched on a picturesque hill, is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Jyotiba, an incarnation of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple’s distinct pink color, breathtaking hilltop views, and annual grand fairs attract thousands of devotees every year. It is considered a powerful spiritual site where people come to seek divine blessings.
11. Teen Darwaja (Panhala Fort)
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5 (7.4K reviews)
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Teen Darwaja, meaning “Three Gates,” is a majestic gateway in Panhala Fort. It served as a defense structure during the Maratha Empire. The three arches and intricate carvings showcase Mughal and Maratha architectural influences.
12. Sajja Kothi
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5 (1.6K reviews)
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Sajja Kothi is a historical structure in Panhala Fort, built by the Adil Shahi dynasty. It is believed that Shivaji Maharaj planned strategic battles here.
The place offers a spectacular view of the valley, making it an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and photographers.
Nearby Attractions
- Shree Kopeshwar Mandir – 60 kms
- Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary – 72 Kms
- Vishalgad Fort – 80 kms
- Sagareshwar Deer Sanctuary – 64 Kms
Book a Cab with Tanushree Cabs
Planning to explore these amazing places? Tanushree Cabs provides reliable, comfortable, and affordable transportation across Kolhapur. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or in a group, book a cab for a stress-free travel experience.
Conclusion
Kolhapur is a perfect mix of history, spirituality, and nature. From the sacred Mahalaxmi Temple to the scenic Rankala Lake and historic Panhala Fort, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a history lover, adventure seeker, or a spiritual devotee, Kolhapur will leave you mesmerized.
So, plan your trip today and explore Kolhapur like never before!
