Divya Kshetra · Kolhapur · Maharashtra

Mahalaxmi Temple

In the heart of Kolhapur stands the magnificent Mahalaxmi Temple, a sacred shrine that radiates divine energy, devotion, and centuries-old heritage.

Discover

About Mahalaxmi Temple

Mahalaxmi Temple

In the heart of Kolhapur stands the magnificent Mahalaxmi Temple, a sacred shrine that radiates divine energy, devotion, and centuries-old heritage. Also known as the Ambabai Temple, it is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, revered as the divine embodiment of wealth, prosperity, and power.

The temple holds immense spiritual significance and is traditionally associated with the Shakti Peetha tradition, attracting devotees and pilgrims from across India and beyond.

The magnificent temple architecture showcases intricate stone carvings, sculptures, and traditional craftsmanship associated with the Chalukyan architectural tradition. At the heart of the temple is the beautifully adorned idol of Goddess Mahalaxmi, worshipped with deep devotion by millions of devotees.

The temple comes alive every day with the sound of bells, devotional chants, rituals, and prayers, creating a deeply spiritual and serene atmosphere. With its rich history, remarkable architecture, and profound religious importance, Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapur, remains one of the most revered pilgrimage centres dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi.

Main Deity – Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapur:

The main deity of the temple is Goddess Shri Mahalaxmi, popularly known as Ambabai. She is revered as the goddess of wealth, prosperity, abundance, and divine power.

The sanctum houses a black stone idol of Goddess Mahalaxmi, depicted with four arms and richly adorned with jewellery and traditional ornaments. A stone lion, regarded as her vehicle (vahana), is positioned behind the deity.

Devotees believe that worshipping Ambabai brings prosperity, blessings, strength, and spiritual well-being. The deity is the central focus of daily worship and major festivals at the temple.


Temple Architecture

The Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapur is an excellent example of ancient Chalukyan-style temple architecture, featuring massive stone construction, intricate carvings, and finely sculpted pillars.

Key Architectural Features:
Stone Construction:

The temple is primarily built using large, finely dressed stones, giving the structure a strong and imposing appearance.

Chalukyan Influence:

Its architectural elements reflect the craftsmanship and design traditions associated with the Chalukya period.

Sanctum (Garbhagriha):

The central sanctum houses the sacred idol of Goddess Mahalaxmi (Ambabai).

Intricately Carved Pillars:

The temple contains beautifully decorated stone pillars featuring traditional motifs and sculptural details.

Sculptures:

The walls and architectural elements are decorated with ancient carvings depicting deities, mythological figures, animals, and ornamental patterns.

Temple Complex:

The complex contains shrines dedicated to other important deities, including Goddess Mahakali and Goddess Mahasaraswati.

Kirnotsav Alignment:

One of the temple's most fascinating architectural features is its alignment with the movement of the Sun. During Kirnotsav, sunlight passes through the temple and falls directly on the deity.

The temple's combination of sacred design, stone craftsmanship, sculpture, and astronomical alignment makes it an outstanding example of India's ancient temple architecture.

Location

Kolhapur

Deity

Mahalaxmi

State

Maharashtra

District

Kolhapur

Dress Code

Visitors are expected to wear modest and traditional attire while visiting the temple.

Men
  • Dhoti (Veshti) with or without a shirt.
  • Full-length pants with a shirt or kurta.
  • Pyjama with a shirt or kurta.
Women
  • Saree
  • Salwar Kameez / Churidar with dupatta.
  • Pavadai–Davani (Half Saree).
Not Permitted
  • Shorts or Bermudas.
  • Sleeveless or revealing dresses.
  • Tight leggings worn as the only lower garment.
  • Torn or inappropriate clothing.
Devotee Guidelines:
  • Wear clean, decent, and respectful clothing suitable for a place of worship.
  • Traditional Indian attire is encouraged, especially during festivals and special poojas.
  • Remove footwear before entering the temple premises.


Do's:
  • Dress modestly in traditional or decent attire.
  • Remove your footwear before entering the temple premises.
  • Maintain silence and respect the sanctity of the temple.
  • Follow the instructions of temple authorities and security personnel.
  • Stand patiently in the darshan queue.
  • Deposit mobile phones, cameras, and prohibited items in the designated counters if required.
  • Keep the temple premises clean by using dustbins.
  • Stay hydrated, especially if you climb the 693 steps to the hilltop shrine.

Don'ts:

  • Do not wear revealing, torn, or inappropriate clothing.
  • Do not consume alcohol, tobacco, or intoxicating substances before or inside the temple.
  • Do not carry plastic bags or litter the temple premises.
  • Do not take photographs or videos in prohibited areas, especially inside the sanctum (Garbhagriha).
  • Do not jump queues or push other devotees.
  • Do not touch the idols, temple structures, or decorations unless permitted.
  • Do not bring pets into the temple premises.
  • Do not engage in loud conversations or play music inside the temple.
  • Do not accept prasadam or services from unauthorized persons.

By Road

Kolhapur has good road connectivity with Mumbai, Pune, Belagavi, Bengaluru, Goa, and other major cities. State transport and private buses operate regularly. From Kolhapur Central Bus Stand, the temple can be reached by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or city bus.

By Rail

Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Terminus (Kolhapur Railway Station) is the nearest major railway station. It is approximately 3–4 km from the temple. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses are available.

By Air

The nearest airport is Kolhapur Airport (KLH), also known as Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj Airport. From the airport, the temple is approximately 10–12 km away and can be reached by taxi or local transport.

Temple Gallery

Temple Information

Temple Timings

Morning: 4.00 AM -12.00 PM

Afternoon: 4.00 PM-9.00 PM

Contact Number

Visit the Temple

Find Mahalaxmi Temple

Temple Location

Mahalaxmi Temple

Kolhapur, Kolhapur
Maharashtra