
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Kolhāpur, Mahārāshtra, India
1. Mahalaxmi-Tribhuvaneshwar Temple
A temple complex with two faces, one facing north and the other south, representing Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Dual Faced: It is rare to find a temple with two distinct entrances, each dedicated to a different deity.
- Temple Complex: The temple complex also houses other shrines and structures, making it an interesting place for visitors.
- Architectural Significance: The intricate carvings and architecture make it a unique attraction in Kolhapur.
2. Statue of Shivaji Maharaj on Horseback
A massive statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj riding a horse atop a hill in Panhala.
- Giant Statue: The statue is one of the tallest equestrian statues in India, standing at over 150 feet.
- Historical Significance: It commemorates the great Maratha king Shivaji Maharaj and his contributions to Indian history.
- Panoramic Views: The location offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a popular tourist spot.
3. Ballekilla Hanuman Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman with an unusual statue of the deity brandishing a cricket bat.
- Cricket Bat Wielding Hanuman: The statue is unique in that it depicts Hanuman with a cricket bat, which is rare and interesting.
- Sports Connection: It reflects the deep love for cricket in India and Kolhapur's connection to this sport.
- Temple Architecture: The temple's architecture is also worth noting, with intricate carvings and design elements.
4. Kopil Dargah Sharif
A sacred Islamic shrine believed to be the resting place of Hazrat Peer Baba, a Sufi saint.
- Sacred Shrine: It is a significant pilgrimage site for Muslims across India.
- Historical Significance: The dargah is said to have been built in the 18th century, making it an important historical landmark.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Visitors can experience a peaceful and spiritual environment at the dargah.
5. Jyotiba Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Jyotiba, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, located in the heart of Kolhapur.
- Unique Deity: The temple is unique as it is dedicated to Lord Jyotiba, a less common deity among Hindu temples.
- Architectural Beauty: The architecture of the temple is stunning, with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Central Location: It's conveniently located in the city center, making it easily accessible for tourists.
6. Gogal Lake
A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery and a beautiful garden.
- Natural Beauty: The scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings make it an ideal spot for relaxation and photography.
- Garden Atmosphere: The adjoining garden, Gogol Garden, offers a peaceful environment to spend time in.
- Boat Rides: Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake, adding to the overall experience.
7. Chandrakant Mandare Wax Museum
A unique wax museum showcasing life-like figures of famous personalities from India and around the world.
- Wax Figures: The museum is home to hundreds of wax figures, offering a fascinating glimpse into history.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can interact with the figures, making the experience more immersive and enjoyable.
- Educational Value: It provides an educational experience, helping visitors learn about historical figures and events.
8. Siddhagiri Museum
A unique museum that showcases the rich culture, history, and traditions of Maharashtra.
- Cultural Insights: It offers a deep insight into the culture and history of Maharashtra, which is not commonly found in other museums.
- Interactive Exhibits: The museum houses interactive exhibits that engage visitors and make learning fun.
- Unusual Attractions: Some of the attractions in the museum, like the life-size dinosaur models, are quite unusual.
9. Rankala Lake
A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery and a beautiful temple.
- Natural Beauty: The scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings make it an ideal spot for relaxation and photography.
- Temple Atmosphere: The adjoining temple, Rankala Mandir, offers a peaceful environment to spend time in.
- Boat Rides: Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake, adding to the overall experience.
10. Panhala Fort
A massive hill fort built by the Maratha kings during the 16th century.
- Historical Significance: It is an important historical landmark, offering a glimpse into the past.
- Architectural Marvel: The fort's architecture and design are a marvel, with several palaces, temples, and gardens.
- Scenic Views: The fort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a popular tourist spot.
11. Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
A wildlife sanctuary located near Kolhapur, home to various species of flora and fauna.
- Wildlife Spotting: Visitors can spot various species of animals, including the Bengal Tiger and Indian Gaur.
- Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary offers stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and dense forests, making it a beautiful destination.
- Eco-Tourism: It promotes eco-tourism, encouraging sustainable practices and conservation efforts.
12. Kopeshwar Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near the Mahalakshmi-Tribhuvaneshwar Temple.
- Architectural Beauty: The temple's architecture is stunning, with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Historical Significance: It is an ancient temple, offering a glimpse into the past.
- Temple Complex: The temple complex also houses other shrines and structures, making it an interesting place for visitors.
13. Mahalaxmi Hot Water Springs
A natural hot water spring located near the Mahalakshmi-Tribhuvaneshwar Temple.
- Natural Hot Spring: It is a rare natural hot water spring, attracting visitors for its healing properties.
- Historical Significance: The spring has been used for religious purposes since ancient times.
- Relaxation: Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the warm waters of the hot spring.
14. Tulja Bhavani Temple
A temple dedicated to Goddess Tulja Bhavani, an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
- Unique Deity: It is unique as it is dedicated to Goddess Tulja Bhavani, a less common deity among Hindu temples.
- Architectural Beauty: The architecture of the temple is stunning, with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Historical Significance: It has been a significant religious site for centuries, attracting devotees from all over India.
15. Siddhagiri Griffin World
An amusement park with a unique collection of Griffins, mythical creatures with the body of a lion and an eagle's head.
- Mythical Creatures: The park is home to a unique collection of Griffins, making it a fascinating attraction.
- Amusement Rides: It also offers various amusement rides and attractions, catering to all age groups.
- Educational Value: The park provides an educational experience about Griffins in mythology and folklore.