Nestled in the sacred city of Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Shree Mahalakshmi Temple, also known as Ambabai Mandir, is a divine abode of Goddess Mahalakshmi—the consort of Lord Vishnu and one of the revered Adi Shakti Peethas in India.
Locals lovingly call her Ambabai, and her temple is a central hub of devotion for Hindus across the country. The temple is considered spiritually significant when visited along with the Tirumala Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh and the Padmavathi Temple in Tiruchanur. It is believed that this holy trio ensures salvation for the soul.
Let’s explore the darshan timings, online booking steps, Abhishek seva details, and the 2025 pooja ticket prices.
About Mahalakshmi Temple, Kolhapur
Shree Mahalakshmi Temple is not just a place of worship—it’s a timeless symbol of devotion, culture, and history. Built in the 7th century CE by King Karnadeva of the Chalukya dynasty, the temple is an architectural marvel that still retains its ancient grandeur. It’s one of the three and a half Shakti Peethas revered in Hindu scriptures and has references in multiple Puranas.
The temple is currently managed by the Devasthan Management Committee, Kolhapur, which oversees the daily rituals, festival arrangements, and temple maintenance.
Temple Daily Timings
| Particulars | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 04:00 AM |
| Padyapuja & Mukhmarjan | 05:00 AM |
| Kakad Aarti | 05:30 AM – 06:00 AM |
| Morning Mahapuja | 08:00 AM |
| Naivedya (Holy Food Offering) | 09:30 AM |
| Afternoon Mahapuja | 11:30 AM |
| Alankar Pooja | 01:30 PM |
| Dhuparti | 08:00 PM |
| Shejarti (Final Aarti) | 10:00 PM |
| Temple Closes | 10:30 PM |
Devotees are encouraged to arrive early in the morning to witness the Padyapuja and Kakad Aarti, which offer a soul-stirring start to the day.
How to Book Kolhapur Mahalakshmi Darshan Online?
Here’s the step-by-step guide to book your darshan or puja online:
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Visit the official website: www.mahalaxmikolhapur.com
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Click on ‘E-Darshan Pass’ on the homepage.
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Choose your preferred date and available darshan slot.
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Click ‘Proceed’ and fill in your details, including contact and address.
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Provide your ID proof details.
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Review your form and click ‘Continue’.
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Proceed to the payment page and complete the transaction.
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A confirmation SMS will be sent to your registered mobile number.
Abhishek Booking Process
To book the Abhishek Seva (ritual bath) for Goddess Mahalakshmi:
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Go to the official website.
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Click on ‘Seva Booking’ from the main menu.
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Choose Abhishekam from the list of available sevas.
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Select the date and time slot.
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Fill in the devotee details and upload ID proof.
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Review your information and proceed to payment.
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Once payment is successful, you will receive a confirmation for your seva.
Kolhapur Temple Sevas Ticket Price
| Seva / Pooja | Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Padya Pooja (Feet Worship) | ₹350 |
| Kumkum Archana | ₹550 |
| Panchamrut Abhishek | ₹750 |
| Mahabhishek (Grand Abhishek) | ₹1,100 |
| Puran Poli Naivedya | ₹300 |
| Shashwat Pooja (Annual Ritual) | ₹11,000 |
Note: Regular darshan is free of charge, but special poojas and abhishekams are paid services.
Major Festivals Celebrated at Mahalakshmi Temple
The temple is buzzing with activity during major festivals such as:
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Kirnottsav (Solar Festival)
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Rathotsav (Chariot Festival)
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Lakshmi Puja
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Varalakshmi Vratam
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Lalita Panchami
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Diwali
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Navratri (Chaitra & Ashwin)
These festivals attract lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad.
Temple Address and Contact Information
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Address: 187KH, B Ward, Mangalwar Peth, Kolhapur – 416012, Maharashtra
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Phone: 0231-2541779
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Fax: 0231-2626750
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Email: dmckolhapur@gmail.com
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Website: www.mahalaxmikolhapur.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best time to visit the Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur?
A: Early morning during the Kakad Aarti or during festivals like Navratri and Kirnotsav is ideal.
Q: Is entry to the temple free?
A: Yes, general darshan is free. Only special pujas and sevas require payment.
Q: Can we book abhishekam online?
A: Yes, you can book abhishekam and other sevas online via the temple’s official website.
Q: How early should I arrive for aarti?
A: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled aarti to secure a good place.
Q: Are mobile phones allowed inside the temple?
A: Phones are generally not allowed in the sanctum. It’s best to check at the temple gate.
Final Words
Kolhapur’s Mahalakshmi Temple is more than just a temple—it’s a living heritage of India’s spiritual, cultural, and architectural legacy. Whether you’re a devout follower or a curious traveler, a visit to Ambabai Mandir offers an experience that touches both heart and soul. Plan your darshan wisely, align it with the aarti and festival schedules, and don’t forget to explore the vibrant Kolhapur city while you’re at it!