Itinerary

Kolhapur is a vibrant city in Maharashtra, known for its rich history, culture, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a fun and engaging 4-day itinerary that will help you soak in the best of what Kolhapur has to offer!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

Morning:

• Arrival in Kolhapur: Check into your hotel and freshen up. I recommend staying near the city center for easy access to attractions.
• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery. Try some Misal Pav or Poha with a cup of hot chai.

Mid-Morning:

• Mahalakshmi Temple: Head to the famous Mahalakshmi Temple, one of the Shakti Peethas. The architecture is stunning, and the atmosphere is serene. Don’t forget to take a moment to soak in the spiritual vibes!

Lunch:

• Local Cuisine: Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant. You must try the Kolhapuri Thali which includes spicy curries, bhakri, and the famous Kolhapuri Misal.

Afternoon:

• New Palace: Visit the New Palace, which houses a museum showcasing artifacts from the royal family. The architecture is a blend of Gothic and Indian styles, and the gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Evening:

• Rankala Lake: Head to Rankala Lake for a relaxing evening. You can take a boat ride or just enjoy the sunset views. There are also some local stalls where you can grab snacks like vada pav or bhel puri.

Dinner:

• Local Dining: For dinner, try a local restaurant that serves Kolhapuri Chicken or Paneer Kolhapuri.

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## Day 2: Culture and Heritage

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start with a traditional breakfast of Sabudana Khichdi or Upma.
• Panhala Fort: Take a short drive to Panhala Fort, about 20 km from Kolhapur. Explore the fort’s history, enjoy the panoramic views, and visit the beautiful Ambabai Temple inside the fort.

Lunch:

• Local Dhaba: On your way back, stop at a local dhaba for some delicious dal tadka and roti.

Afternoon:

• Shahu Museum: Visit the Shahu Museum to learn about the life of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj and the history of the region. The museum has a fascinating collection of artifacts.

Evening:

• Shopping at Bindu Chowk: Head to Bindu Chowk for some shopping. Look for Kolhapuri chappals (traditional sandals) and local handicrafts.

Dinner:

• Street Food: Try some street food for dinner. Don’t miss out on Kothimbir Vadi and Puran Poli from local vendors.

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## Day 3: Nature and Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy a light breakfast of idli and sambar.
• Gagangiri Maharaj Ashram: Visit the Gagangiri Maharaj Ashram, a peaceful place surrounded by nature. It’s a great spot for meditation and relaxation.

Lunch:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch and head to the nearby Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy your meal amidst nature.

Afternoon:

• Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the sanctuary, which is home to various species of flora and fauna. If you’re lucky, you might spot some wildlife!

Evening:

• Return to Kolhapur: Head back to the city and relax at your hotel or take a leisurely walk around the area.

Dinner:

• Traditional Kolhapuri Cuisine: Treat yourself to a special dinner at a renowned restaurant. Try the Kolhapuri Thali again if you loved it, or go for Mutton Kolhapuri.

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## Day 4: Spiritual and Relaxation Day

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a simple breakfast of dosa and coconut chutney.
• Jyotiba Temple: Visit the Jyotiba Temple, located on a hill about 20 km from Kolhapur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jyotiba and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Lunch:

• Local Eatery: Enjoy lunch at a local eatery near the temple. Try some Thalipeeth or Bhakri with spicy chutney.

Afternoon:

• Visit to Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary: If you’re up for it, take a trip to Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s a bit of a drive, but the scenic beauty and wildlife are worth it!

Evening:

• Relaxation: Return to Kolhapur and spend your evening relaxing at your hotel or visiting a local café for some coffee and dessert.

Dinner:

• Farewell Dinner: For your last dinner in Kolhapur, indulge in a lavish meal at a nice restaurant. Try the Kolhapuri Fish Curry or Paneer Bhaji.

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Tips:

• Transport: Consider hiring a local taxi for day trips to nearby attractions.
• Local Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples and respect local customs.
• Stay Hydrated: Kolhapur can get warm, so keep yourself hydrated!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Kolhapur! Enjoy the rich culture, delicious food, and warm hospitality! Safe travels! 🌟