Sri Mahalaxmi Temple, Pune - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings
Photo Credit: Flickr
India | Maharashtra | Pune
#23 of 66 Places to Visit in Pune
Distance (From Pune Railway Station): 6 Kms
Trip Duration (Including Travel): 30 Mins - 1 Hr
Place Location: Near Sarasbaug Temple
Transportation Options: Walk/Trek
Travel Tips: None
About Sri Mahalaxmi Temple
At a distance 6 Km from Pune Junction, Sri Mahalaxmi Temple is Hindu temple situated just opposite to Sri Sarasbaug Ganesh Temple in the Sarasbaug area of Pune, Maharashtra. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, Mahakali & Maha Saraswati. It is one of the top Pune tour packages. The temple offers visitors an opportunity to transcend the complexities of life and embrace the pursuit of knowledge and truth.
History of Sri Mahalaxmi Temple
The temple was established in 1972 by Shri Bansilal Ramnath Agarwal, the founder of the Bansilal Ramnath Agarwal Charitable Trust, along with his wife, Sushila Devi. Sushila Devi held a deep commitment to social and religious endeavors, and it was her aspiration to transform their bungalow in Sarasbaug into a temple. The construction of the temple took nearly 12 years to finalize, and it was carried out under the skilled supervision of renowned sculptor Hemraj Sompura from Sumerpurand.
Architecture of Sri Mahalaxmi Temple
The Mahalaxmi Temple showcases the Dravidian architectural style. It features a magnificent entrance adorned with intricate carvings. Constructed entirely from white marble, the temple exudes an added sense of grandeur, enhancing its majestic design. The structure is crowned with three impressive peaks, each skillfully embellished with detailed carvings and sculptures representing various Hindu deities, which are beautifully positioned above the three principal deities housed within the temple. The statues of Goddesses Sri Maha Saraswati, Sri Mahalaxmi, and Sri Mahakali stand six feet tall and are crafted from immaculate marble.
Festivals of Sri Mahalaxmi Temple
The Shri Mahalaxmi Temple in Pune hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year. The most prominent celebration is the 10-day Navaratri festival, which takes place in October or November and includes religious ceremonies, school events, and the worship of Kanya. Other notable festivals observed at this temple include Bramhotsav, Diwali, and the Jhula Festival during the month of Shravan. Additionally, the temple also celebrates Dhanurmas with great enthusiasm. This month-long festival features Shoba Yatra (processions), Bhajan (devotional singing), and Prasad (holy offerings).
Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Sri Mahalaxmi Temple
Sri Mahalaxmi Temple, Pune does not enforce a strict dress code; however, it is advisable to wear modest attire that covers the upper arms and legs as a mark of respect. Men are encouraged to don a dhoti or pajama along with an appropriate upper garment, or to wear formal trousers and shirts. Women may choose to wear a saree, half saree, or chudidhars. It is recommended to avoid modern clothing such as mini-skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops while visiting the temple.
The Mahalakshmi Temple in Pune generally allows non-Hindus to visit and participate in the temple's activities.
Sri Mahalaxmi Temple Timings
Monday: 6 AM - 10 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM - 10 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM - 10 PM
Thursday: 6 AM - 10 PM
Friday: 6 AM - 10 PM
Saturday: 6 AM - 10 PM
Sunday: 6 AM - 10 PM
Sri Mahalaxmi Temple Entry Fee
Entry is Free
Best Time to Visit Sri Mahalaxmi Temple
The optimal time to visit Sri Mahalaxmi Temple is between October and February, when the climate is pleasant and conducive for temple exploration. Those interested in experiencing the festivities should consider visiting during Navaratri, as the temple is beautifully adorned with lights during this period. Numerous religious events are organized for devotees from around the globe during these celebrations. However, it is important to note that this is the peak season, leading to larger crowds. For a more tranquil visit, the months of September and October, after the monsoon, present a stunning and lush environment. It is advisable to avoid trips during the summer months due to the intense heat.
How to Reach Sri Mahalaxmi Temple
Pune boasts excellent connectivity through air, rail, and road transport. The nearest airport, Pune International Airport, is located approximately 10 kilometers from the city and offers flights to numerous international destinations, including Dubai, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the USA, Europe, and Sri Lanka, as well as domestic routes to major cities such as Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Jaipur, Kochi, Trivandrum, Kolkata, and Goa. Pune Junction Railway Station provides robust train services linking the city to all significant towns and cities across India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. Additionally, Pune is well-served by bus routes connecting it to nearly all cities and towns in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana. About 6 Km from Pune Junction, Sri Mahalaxmi Temple can be easily accessed by local bus or by hiring a cab or auto-rickshaw from any area within Pune.