Kolhapur Things to Do

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Mahalakshmi goddess is mentioned in many Puranas. The idol of the Devi is made of precious stone, weighing about 40 Kgs. This throws lighton its ancientness. The form resembles the out-side of Shiva-Ling. It is standing on a stone square, in which Hirak & Sand are found. A lion stands behind. At the middle, there is a natural "Padma-Ragini" (Lotus). The idol is four handed bearing a cane sword & shield. Down the right hand holds "Mhalung" (A kind of fruit) and the left holds dish of "Pan". There is a crown on head, which is overshadowed by Sheshani (Mythological Cobra with hood, the bed of lord Vishnu). This temple is five thousand years old which is reaserched.

Rankala Lake is surely a must visit place in Kolhapur.
It is believed to be linked directly to a well in Panhala Fort which Shivaji Maharaj is believed to have crossed.It is surrounded by chowpati, other gardens and pathway. The area surrounding the lake has been converted into a garden where people sell Bhel-Puri , Ragda Patis & Various Mouth Watering Snacks like Roasted Corns etc.
In the earthquake which took place sometime in 9th century ,water started accumulating in this quarry due to opening of an underground source. This accumulated water is today’s famous Rankala Lake.
Towards the north side of this lake there is Hotel Shalani Palace which makes the scene of this lake more beautiful.