Top Religious Sites in Maharashtra

A cosmopolitan city like Mumbai is immensely famous attracting tourists to the state of Maharashtra from the world over. Besides the glamour of modernity and glitz of commercial platform, the state has a rich historical and religious background. The religious sites in Maharashtra have historical and religious prominence. Interestingly, all the main religious communities of the country have their share of top religious sites in Maharashtra. Be it the Sai Baba Temple at Shirdi or the Juma Masjid at Pydhonie or the Chand Tara Masjid in Pune, the top religious sites in Maharashtra attract people of all faiths.

Trimbakeshwar Temple, Trimbak

Situated at the foot of Bramhagiri mountain, Trimbakeshwar Temple was constructed during Peshwa reign in the mid-1700s. Built with black stone, the edifice doesn’t have a massive structure. However, it is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu beliefs, each of the 12 lingas is believed to be different manifestations of Lord Shiva. Proximity of the sacred River Godavari, makes the temple site even more special. The ancient temple is constructed in Nagara architectural style that showcases intrinsic carvings and relief works. A square structure of temple, internal domed sanctum and a spacious courtyard summarize the temple premises. Statue of Nandi at the entrance is a beautiful sight. The temple complex houses the statues of several deities, humans and flowers. A sacred pond, Kusavarta Kunda, situated on the premises is a key attraction here. Three-faced Linga representing Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva is the most unique feature at the temple. The already famous temple becomes all the livelier during festivals like, Maha Shivaratri, Kumbh Mela, Rudra Abhishek and Nag Panchami.

Shiv Mandir, Ambarnath

The ancient temple built in the 1060 AD during the Shilahara dynasty is a supreme example of the Dravidian and Nagara style of construction. The perfect combination of these two attributes has given birth to the Hemadpanthi style Ambarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Typical of the design and region, the edifice is stone work with protruding features. It is assumed that the edifice is built on a single boulder. Corrugated corners and pyramidical towers cast a peculiar external appearance. The sculptural works mostly pertain to Lord Shiva. One of the towers has a motif of dancing Shiva. There are other hundreds of detailed carvings in and around the temple. The temple has three porches from where one can access the central hall. The inner sanctum, pillars and the roof are beautifully decked with carvings. Interestingly the sanctum is situated underground. The UNESCO heritage site is one of the oldest temples in the state. Mahashivratri is the notable festival here.

Bhimashankar Temple, Bhorgiri

Bhimashankar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines and one of the top captivating religious sites in Maharashtra. The temple situated in the Sahyadri hills dates back to the 13^th century. Constructed in the Nagara style, the temple continued to undergo a few modifications in the following centuries. Mastry of Vishwakarma sculptors’ skills are on display here. A lower inner sanctum, a roman style bell, columns and doorframes with prominent carving works, 240 steps to the temple are a few of the distinct features. Mythological scenes and divine beings are carved around the temple. Within the temple, a shrine is seen dedicated to Lord Shaneeshwara.

Mount Mary Basilica, Bandra

On Bandra hills standing tall is the popular Basilica dedicated to Mother Mary. The church has had a long history since its first inception in 1570. A wooden statue of Our Lady brought from Portugal and placed on the main altar is the main highlight of the church. By 1904, the church was rebuilt a couple of times due to various reasons. Despite the renovations, the 16^th century statue of Our Lady continued to be a permanent feature in the basilica. Located 80m above sea level, the campus provides a spectacular view of the town to the visitors. And the edifice itself, the latest structure built during colonial era is a remarkable architecture of semi-gothic and British style. Fibar glass murals on the walls depicting the life Mother Mary is a key attraction. Then, there are images of the Last Supper, attractive doors and windows. Bandra Fair or Mount Mary Fair celebrated in every September is a popular feast at the Basilica.

St Andrew’s Church, Bandra

Another popular church in Bandra is the St Andrew Church. Built by Portuguese in 1595, the edifice has withstood the political uproar in the early years. The Portuguese style façade still stands tall despite looking a little worn out. Once inside the church, your attention is immediately captured by the life-size statue of St Andrew. Apart from that the motifs, columns, high choir staircase, tower of baptistry are a few other notable attractions here. The main altar and pews are made of teak woods add more charm to the carvings. The stained-glass windows throw a charm during summer days. The ancient cemetery and grotto within the campus is worth a visit. Christmas celebration at the church is grand and attracts thousands of visitors.

Shaar Harahamim Synagogue, Mumbai

Jewish community occupies mini pockets in different part of India. Maharashtra is no different. A few of the synagogues in the state are famous among the faithful and tourists. Tiphereth Israel synagogue, Keneseth Eliyahoo synagogue, Beth El synagogue are a few of the prominent synagogues in the state. Among them, built in 1796, Shaar Harahamim Synagogue is one of the oldest synagogues in Mumbai. It is also known as the Gate way of Mercy Synagogue. The two-storey symmetrical structure reflects an Indian and European style of construction. Wardrobe style interior, marble floor, decorated ceiling, a central pavilion and a first-floor balcony for ladies summarize the architecture of the synagogue. What matters beyond the modestly poised style of Synagogue is the faith of the gathering. The synagogue, like the many others in the country stands as a testimony to the strong presence of the Jewish community in India.