The city of Kolhapur in Maharashtra is better known as Dakshin Kashi among the tourists. It is known as one of the most joyous and prosperous city of Maharastra and the entire country. The city is dedicated and influenced by goddess Mahalaxmi. It carries a wide range of cultural and archaeological tradition. It also has several lakes, incredible temples, magnificent forts and gardens. Among its several architectural monuments, Mahalaxmi temple, Khasbhag Maidan and New Palace – Shahu Museum are important attractions. But your Kolhapur tour will remain incomplete without visiting the Town Hall Meuseum.
Description:
The Town Hall museum is spread over a huge location of Kolhapur in Maharashtra. The museum space includes a number of government structures such as telephone offices, courts, offices, etc. And, the museum is counted as the top-most attraction of the city.
Inside the museum, you can spot some ancient tokens of Brahmapuri civilization such as coins, beads and fragments of pottery. Some eccentric pieces of sculptures are also displayed there which have been rescued back in the history from the Malaxmi Temple.
You will get to spot a number of eminent collection of sculptures exhibited there but among them that of a female attendant who is bearing a fly-whisk of Panhala, is a memorable one. The bronze bell is another major attraction of Town Hall, Kolhapur, which was brought from Vasai during 1979. There is a gallery at one end of the museum which is displayed with arms.
The museum campus also has Chhatrapati Pamela Raje hospital. The entrance of the hospital displays Corinthian columns and monkeys guard those. The museum premise is decorated with beautiful fountains, good looking trees and Mahadevi Mandir, which all together gives a complete look to the entire location.
Things to Do:
The entire area of Town Hall, Kolhapur is huge and it has a number of government buildings in its premises. You can visit the Town Hall garden and museum, both attracts tourists’ attentions. You can roam around as the area is very well decorated with beautiful flowering trees and lovely fountains. You will also love to spend some time visiting Mahadevi Mandir there.
Town Hall remains closed on Sundays. Otherwise you can can visit any other day of the week between 9 AM and 5 PM.
History:
The architecture of Town Hall is one of the most popular attractions of Kolhapur. Charles Mant has founded this building during 1872 – 1876. The significance of this construction is it is the only one to reflect Neo-gothic architecture.
The museum of Town Hall has elements from the ages of Satavahana period and among them the statues of Greek God, Hellenistic figures’ medley, Poseidon and elephant riders holds significant importance in history.
Best Time to Visit:
It is advised for the tourists that they should visit Town Hall during June to February as through this time weather remains almost pleasant here.
How to Reach:
You can easily reach Kolhapur by rail, air or roadways.
By rail – the nearest railway station is Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Terminus. To reach Town Hall, you can hire private cabs or ride on local buses.
By air – Ujalaiwadi airport is the nearest airport to Kolhapur. It is only 10 km away from the city. To reach Town Hall, you can hire private cabs or ride on local buses.
By bus – state bus services are available between Kolhapur and Mumbai. It is an 8 hours’ journey. Kolhapur is more close to Pune. It is a 3 hours’ drive. You can ride on buses or come by car.
FAQ:
Popular tourist attractions in Kolhapur
• Bahubali Atishayakshetra & Jahaj Temple
• Rankala Lake
• Panhala Fort
• Mahalaxmi Temple
• Jyotiba Temple
• Chandra Kant Mandare Art Gallery
• Bhavani Mandap
• New Palace
• Shalini Palace, etc.
Where to stay in Kolhapur
• Citrus Hotel
• Dark Forest Retreat
• Green Valley Resort
• Shiv Malhar Hotel
So, plan a trip to Kolhapur now as you will find many attractions there to spend some enjoyable time together. Enjoy!