Information about Jotiba Temple Kolhapur

One of the oldest temples in Kolhapur district is Jotiba temple and some people have faith so they call it Kedarnath and Wadi Ratnagiri.

Mythology says lord Jotiba helped Mahalaxmi in her fight with the demons. He founded his kingdom on this mountain. The Jotiba temple is 18 km to the north of Kolhapur city in the deep, surrounded by green mountains and black rocks. Lord Jyotiba is considered the union of the souls (jyotis) of 3 deities – Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesha is believed to have helped goddess Mahalaxmi to liberate the region from demons.

The original temple was built by Navji Saya. In 1730, Ranoji Shinde built the present temple in its place. The second temple of Kedareshwar is 49 ft x 22 ft x 89 ft high. This shrine was constructed by Daulatrao Shinde in 1808. The third temple is of Ramling and this temple was constructed in 1780 by Malji Nilam Panhalkar. The idol of Jyotiba is four-handed. There are a few other minor temples and light towers in the premises as well. jotiba temple Kolhapur

Sundays are considered special for visiting Jotiba temple and we can see big rush during this day and also there is an annual fair that takes place on the full moon night of the Hindu months of Chaitra & Vaishakha. During this annual fair lakhs of devotees visit the temple carrying tall ‘sasans’ (called as sticks) and chanting the lord name like “Jyotibachya Navane Changbhala”. People apply ‘gulal’ (pink colored powder) on their foreheads and also throw on temple turning the whole mountain into a beautiful pink as you can see in the images below.jotiba temple Kolhapur

How to reach Jotiba temple kolhapur

From Kolhapur bus stand, you will get buses to Jotiba temple. You can even hire private cars outside bus stand to reach the temple. First, inquire about fare and other details and do good bargain. The temple is just 18 km from Kolhapur.