Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple, Solapur - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple

At a distance of 41 Km from Solapur, Akkalkot Temple, or Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple is a sacred Hindu temple situated in Akkalkot. Swami Samarth Temple is the final abode of Sri Swami Samarth Maharaj, a 19th-century saint who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Dattatreya by his devotees. He is also believed to be a reincarnation of Narasimha Saraswati, another earlier spiritual master of the Dattatreya sect. Swami Samarth is also known by different names, such as 'Akkalkot Swami, Akalkot Maharaj, Maharaj of Akalkot, and Akalkot Niwasi Maharaj. It is one of the important pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra, and among the top places to visit as part of the Solapur tour.

History & Mythology of Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple

Swami Samarth himself stated that he first manifested in the Kardali forests near Srisailam, a sacred town in Andhra Pradesh. Subsequently, he traveled to various locations. It is believed that Sri Swami Samarth arrived in Akkalkot in 1856 after receiving an invitation from Chintopant Tol, where he resided for approximately 22 years. Although Sri Swami Samarth Maharaj passed away in 1878, his influence continues to inspire and guide individuals globally. The revered Samadhi of Swamiji is situated in the home of his disciple Cholappa, in a location that had been designated for it prior to his physical departure. The Akkalkot Swami Samarth Mandir is located on the very grounds where Swami Samarth spent the majority of his life.

Architecture of Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple

The temple architecture is simple yet exudes a spiritual allure that draws in both visitors and devotees. The complex includes the main temple, a sabha mandap, and facilities for accommodation. At the heart of the temple complex lies the Samadhi (tomb) of Swami Samarth, serving as a significant site for worship and meditation. Next to the Samadhi Shrine, there is a life-sized idol of Swami Samarth. This temple is also referred to as Vatavruksha Swami Mandir, named after the large banyan tree (Vatavruksha) beneath which Swami Samarth engaged in meditation and teachings.

Festivals of Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple

The Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year. Notable among these are Swami Samarth Prakat Din in April, which commemorates the divine arrival, and Swami Samarth Punyatithi, honoring the death anniversary. Additionally, Guru Purnima and Datta Jayanti are celebrated in July. These events feature intricate rituals, devotional music, and communal feasts, drawing significant crowds of devotees.

Akkalkot Temple Dress Code & Other Restrictions

Although the Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple does not enforce a strict dress code, 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 upper garment, or alternatively, 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.

Non-Hindus are generally allowed in the Akkalkot Swami Samarth Temple. The temple is open to visitors of all backgrounds seeking spiritual guidance and reflection.

Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple Timings

Monday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Thursday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Friday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Saturday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Sunday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM

Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple Entry Fee

General Entry is Free
Special Darshan available for Rs. 100
VIP Darshan available for Rs. 500

Best Time to Visit Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple

The ideal period to visit the Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple is between October and March, as the weather during this time is pleasant and conducive for temple visits. Notable festivals and events, especially the Punyatithi (death anniversary) of Swami Samarth Maharaj, draw numerous devotees. For a more tranquil experience, it is advisable to visit on weekdays. The monsoon season also offers a refreshing atmosphere, as the rains alleviate the heat. Conversely, summer tends to be extremely humid, with high temperatures, making it less favorable for temple visits.

How to Reach Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple

The closest airport to Akkalkot Temple is Pune Airport, located 292 kilometers away. Akkalkot Railway Station, situated approximately 13 kilometers from the temple, has good train connectivity to cities including Hyderabad, Solapur, Kalaburgi, Bagalkot, Vijayapura, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolhapur. Additionally, there are frequent bus services to Akkalkot from several major cities, including Pune, Mumbai, Belgaum, Solapur, Kalaburgi, and Bangalore.