Map of Pandharpur
A prominent religious spot for Hindus, Pandharpur, is a small city located in the district of Solapur. The city is in the central part of the state. The river Bhima flows by the city of Pandharpur. The best time to visit the city is from November to February, however, the religious festivities of the city attract numerous visitors during the months of June-July.
The town of Solapur lies at a distance of 75 km from Pandharpur. The rail station at Solapur is connected to all major cities of India. Travelers can avail bus services or rent a car to Pandharpur from Solapur. The city is also connected to Kurduwadi, Miraj, Mumbai and Pune. Regular bus service also connects the city of Pandharpur with Mumbai, Solapur and Pune.
Pandharpur is known for its temple dedicated to Vithoba or Vitthal. The deity is also referred to as Pandharinath or Pandurang and is worshipped along with his consort Rukmini or Rakhumai. These deities are believed to be the alternate forms of Lord Krishna, and his wife Rukmini.
The importance of the Vithoba temple in Pandharpur can be traced back to the Puranas. Covering a huge area, the temple has a gate named after the famous saint Namdev.
The temple draws thousands of pilgrims from different parts of the country as well as the world during the ‘Yatra’ organized in June-July and again during the month of ‘Kartik’, another time for religious festivities.