Swami Samarth Mandir Akkalkot – Guide
Akkalkot is a town in Solapur and a major pilgrimage centre famous for Swami Samarth Maharaj. He was a saint of the 19th century. The Swami Samarth Maharaj Mandir located here at Akkalkot also known as the Banyan Tree Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple, Akkalkot is a bit different from other temples.
Here you can see the sacred banyan tree, under which Swamiji is said to have spent more than 20 years. Devotees consider him to be a form of Lord Dattatreya. He resided in different parts of India and finally settled at Akkalkot. Their ancestry and origins are obscure to the people.
History of this Temple
According to legend, when a follower asked him about his origin, he replied that he was born from a banyan tree. People considered him as the fourth form of Dattatreya. He was also considered an incarnation of Narasimha Saraswati. Swami Samarth once said that he originally appeared in the Kardali forest of Andhra Pradesh.
They lived in the Himalayas as well as in Nepal, China and Tibet. After spending his life in Mangalvedha, he finally came to Akkalkot. In the year 1856 Chintopant Tol invited Swami Samarth to Akkalkot. Since then Swami ji started living on the city limits for about 22 years. He lived in the house of his follower Cholappa, where his temple is currently located.
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Swami Samarth Mandir Akkalkot Timings
Swami Samarth Mandir Akkalkot is open from 6 am to 12 noon and from 4 pm to 9 pm. Visitors are allowed during this time. The temple authority serves prasad daily at 12 noon and 8 pm.
Saturday | 06:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
Sunday | 06:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
Monday | 06:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
Tuesday | 06:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
Wednesday | 06:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
Thursday | 06:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
Friday | 06:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
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Places to visit near this Temple
Shri Siddheshwar Temple
The Siddheshwar Temple is situated on the banks of the Siddheshwar Lake, and is one of the most popular Shiva temples in the state of Maharashtra. This temple is blessed with a beautiful location in the middle of the lake.
Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary
The Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary is one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India, and a paradise for bird lovers. This bird sanctuary is spread over 8100 sq km of land near Solapur.
Solapur Fort
Solapur Fort Also known as Bhuikot Fort, Solapur Fort was initially built under the Adilshah Empire in the 14th century.
Pandharpur Temple
The Pandharpur Temple was built in 1196 and is one of the most splendid examples of Indian arts and crafts from the ancient era. Dedicated to the Hindu deities Vithal and Rukmani, this temple is often referred to as the ‘Kashi’ of southern India.
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How to reach this Temple
By Air- The nearest airport from Swami Samarth Mandir Akkalkot is sombre airport which is at a distance of 265 km from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.
By Train- The nearest railway station from Swami Samarth Mandir is Akkalkot railway station which is at a distance of 40 km from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.
By Road- Roads to this temple are well connected with the other cities of the country so you can easily reach this temple by using your own vehicle or by any public buses or taxi from any part of the country.
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