The Pandharpur Vitthal Rukmini Temple, located in Solapur district of Maharashtra (not Madhya Pradesh), is one of the most sacred pilgrimage centers in India. Revered by millions of devotees, especially from Maharashtra and Karnataka, this temple is a spiritual epicenter dedicated to Lord Vitthal (a form of Krishna/Vishnu) and his consort Rukmini Devi. The temple is the heart of the Warkari movement, which celebrates devotion, simplicity, and communal harmony through the annual “Wari” pilgrimage.
About the Temple
Pandharpur is known as “Dakshin Kashi” or the Southern Kashi. The temple is deeply associated with saints like Sant Tukaram, Dnyaneshwar, Eknath, Namdev, and others who spread the Bhakti movement across Maharashtra.
Temple Description
An ancient shrine with a peaceful atmosphere and spiritually uplifting presence, it is built in traditional style and contains sacred places like the Namdev Payari (holy steps) and the main sanctum with the iconic idol of Vitthal standing on a brick.
Temple Specialty
Annual Wari pilgrimage (Ashadhi and Kartiki Ekadashi)
Devotion-focused rituals and Aartis
Massive congregations of Warkaris chanting Abhangs and Bhajans
Temple Address
Shree Vitthal Rukmini Mandir, Pandharpur, Solapur District, Maharashtra – 413304
Coordinates (Lat & Long)
17.6766° N, 75.3302° E
Temple Timings & Sevas
Open: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Major Sevas: Kakad Aarti, Abhishekam, Naivedyam, Shej Aarti, Donation offerings
Traveling Facilities
State and private transport available
Nearby cities are well connected by road and rail
Food Facilities
Free Annadanam during festive times
Ample restaurants and eateries with local cuisine
Stay Facilities
Budget hotels, Bhakta Niwas, MTDC Guest Houses available
Connectivity
Railway Station: Pandharpur (PVR) – 2 km
Airport: Solapur (75 km), Pune (210 km)
Bus Station: Pandharpur Bus Stand – 1 km
Bus Routes: From Mumbai, Pune, Solapur, Latur, Kolhapur
Train Routes: From Pune, Solapur, Mumbai
Airways: Land at Solapur/Pune and proceed by road
Nearby Cities & Attractions
Cities: Solapur, Pune, Kolhapur, Sangli, Latur
Temples/Places: Pundalik Temple, Tulja Bhavani (Tuljapur), Swami Samarth (Akkalkot), Narsobawadi Datta Mandir
Best Season to Visit
June to August (Ashadhi Ekadashi Yatra)
October to December (pleasant climate)
Local Shopping
Idols of Vitthal-Rukmini
Tulsi malas, copper pooja items
Local snacks and sweets
Kolhapuri chappals (available nearby)
Pandharpur Vitthal Rukmini Temple is not just a place of worship it is a spiritual experience that connects the devotee’s heart to divine love and devotion. Whether you're visiting during the grand Wari or on a quiet pilgrimage, the temple radiates peace, cultural richness, and timeless devotion. A trip to Pandharpur is a soulful journey, cherished for a lifetime.
