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Religious Places, Pune


The urban city of Pune has a devout religious side. This city, with some of the greatest academic institutions in the country and high-rise offices, has a cosmopolitan population with people belonging to different religions - Hinduism, Jainism, Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, etc. The dominant religious section, although, is that of the Hindus, who constitute almost 72% of all the religious believers in the city. This may be a result of the many years of rule of the Maratha Kingdom. After all, Pune was their capital. Today, Pune is still considered the cultural capital of Maharashtra, with its imposing ancient and modern buildings. The city is also dotted with numerous temples and other religious places of worship that have been in existence for centuries. This page gives you an overview of the top religious places in Pune.

Omkareshwar Temple

Omkareshwar Temple Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the Omkareshwar Temple is a famous Jyotirlinga in the Shaniwar Peth locality of Pune. It was built in the 17th century during the reign of Sadashivrao Bhau. The temple's location, on the banks of the Mutha River, makes it a tranquil place of worship. It is also used as a place for performing the last rites for Hindus. The Nagara style architecture of the Omkareshwar Temple is characterised by a beautifully carved dome in white soap stone and a tower or shikhara, with five layers depicting different deities. more.....


Chaturshringi Temple

Chaturshringi Temple The Chaturshringi Temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pune. Built during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji, the great Maratha ruler, the temple holds much prominence during the Navratri festival, when it is beautifully decorated and lit. It stands 90 feet high on a hill slope at the Senapati Bapat Road. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chaturshringi or Ambareshwari and represents strength and devotion. The goddess' shrine is located at an elevation that devotees cover by climbing 100 steps. In addition to the shrine, the complex has a temple for Lord Ganesha, which has eight idols of Him, and Goddess Durga. more.....


Pataleshwar Cave Temple

Pataleshwar Cave Temple Reminding one of the elaborate Ellora Caves in the western coast of India, the Pataleshwar Cave Temple is a similar rock-cut temple on the Jungraj Maharaj Road in Pune. Carved out of a single huge block of rock, the temple is an eighth century architectural marvel. Its various structures and seating arrangements depict ancient architects' extensive geometric knowledge. It is no wonder that today the cave temple is a government-declared protected monument. The Pataleshwar Cave Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and has sculptures depicting ancient gods and goddess. An interesting feature of this temple is its museum, which has some astounding Guinness World Record-winning arts displayed for the visitors. more.....


Ganapati Temple

Ganapati Temple Lord Ganapati or Ganesha is a very popular diety in Maharashtra. It is no wonder, then, that the Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple in Pune is a renowned religious site. The festival commemorating Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with much pomp and show here, with the involvement of the state's leaders and celebrities. Built in the 17th century, this temple on the banks of the Krishna River is considered an architectural wonder. It boasts of a large statue of Lord Ganesha in black stone and an ornate door made of natural wood, which interestingly is multi-coloured. The temple is also associated with various myths and legends. more.....


Parvati Hill and Temple

Parvati Hill and Temple Located at an elevation of 2,100 feet on Parvati Hill, the Parvati Temple is considered to be a picturesque religious attraction in Pune. Apart from its panoramic views of the city and surroundings, the Hill and Temple is renowned for its religious and historical significance. It is believed to have been built during the rule of the Peshwas in the 18th century. The temple is dedicated to a number of Hindu deities - Lords Devadeshwar, Vishnu, Karthikeya, Shri Vitthal, and Ramana. Other attractions on the Parvati Hill include a museum with artifacts belonging to the Peshwas. To reach the shrine, visitors will need to climb over 100 steps. more.....


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Last Updated on : April 28, 2014