Top Places to Explore in Parbhani
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Parbhani, a city in Maharashtra, India, serves as the administrative center for the Parbhani District. This culturally rich city is home to numerous tourist attractions and hidden gems that showcase its historical, religious, and architectural significance. Located in the Marathwada region, Parbhani is a prominent city alongside Aurangabad and Nanded. This article will guide you through the top places to explore in Parbhani, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the attractions that make this city a must-visit destination in Maharashtra.
Chaarthana
Chaarthana, a village in the Jintur Taluka of Maharashtra’s Parbhani District, offers a fascinating insight into the rural life of the region. Situated within the Aurangabad Division, Chaarthana is approximately 55 kilometers north of the district headquarters in Parbhani. The village is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and is a quiet respite from the bustling city life.
Nearby Villages
Several nearby villages are worth exploring during your visit to Chaarthana, including Kanha (4 km), Mola (4 km), Jambhrun (5 km), Sos (5 km), and Sawangi P.c. (6 km). Each village offers unique experiences and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Surrounding Talukas
Chaarthana is surrounded by Mantha Taluka to the west, Sailu Taluka to the south, Partur Taluka to the west, and Manwat Taluka to the south. Visiting these surrounding talukas provides a broader understanding of the region’s cultural diversity and history.
Shri Saibaba Temple, Pathri
The Shri Saibaba Temple in Pathri is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Sai Baba, a revered spiritual figure. Sai Baba’s birthplace, Pathri, is located approximately 45 kilometers away from Parbhani. The temple was established in 1994 after field investigations in the 1970s confirmed Sai Baba’s birth in the village. Opened to the public in 1999, the temple is a popular destination for devotees seeking spiritual guidance and blessings.
Mudgaleshwar Temple Mudgal
The Mudgaleshwar Temple, situated on the banks of the Godavari River, is one of Parbhani district’s most sacred sites. Regarded as one of Maharashtra’s historical temples, the Mudgaleshwar Temple was initially known as “Devbhumi.” The temple complex consists of three main temples:
Lord Narsimha Temple
Located on the riverbank, this temple is dedicated to Lord Narsimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Mudgaleshwar Temple
Situated in the middle of the Godavari River, the Mudgaleshwar Temple is named after Lord Narsimha and is a major attraction for devotees.
Mudgal Ganesh Temple
Also located in the middle of the river, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
During the Mahashivratri festival, a large number of devotees visit the Mudgaleshwar Temple for darshan and participate in the enthralling arti ceremony that creates a spiritual ambiance around the temple complex.
Mrityunjaya Pardeshwar Temple (Mercury Shivlinga), Parbhani
The Mrityunjaya Pardeshwar Temple, an 80-feet tall marble structure, was built by Sri Swami Sachchidandji Saraswati in honor of Lord Shiva. The temple’s main attraction is the massive Shivlinga made of 250 kg of Parad (Mercury), one of the largest Shivlingas in India. Known as Tejoling, this mercury Shivlinga bears the same religious significance as the Twelve Jyotirlingas.
Shri Narsimha Mandir Pokharni
Located approximately 18 kilometers from Parbhani, the Shri Narsimha Mandir in Pokharni is a prominent pilgrimage site. The temple is easily accessible by car or rail and attracts devotees from Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states.
Temple Structure
The temple complex is relatively large, with a modest sanctum (gabhara) for the ruling Deity, Sri Narasimhadeva, and Laxmi Devi. The entrance to the sanctum is narrow, requiring devotees to squat in order to catch a glimpse of the Lord through a three-foot-high opening.
Temple History
Established between 1000 and 1300 B.C., the Shri Narsimha Mandir in Pokharni was built in the Hemadpanthi architectural style by a king whose blind daughter was miraculously cured. The temple is considered a testament to the power of faith and devotion.
Hazrat Turabul Haq Dargah Parbhani
The Hazrat Turabul Haq Dargah is a symbol of unity among all religions in Parbhani and is best known for its annual fair. With a history spanning over 108 years, the fair takes place from February 2 to February 15 and attracts thousands of followers from various sects and beliefs. Often referred to as the “Ajmer Sharif of Maharashtra,” the dargah is a popular destination for those seeking spiritual solace and healing.
Shri Neminath Digambar Jain Mandir Navagadh
The Shri Neminath Digambar Jain Mandir in Navagadh is a historical and magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Neminath. Originally situated near the village of Ukhalad, approximately 2 kilometers from the banks of the Purna River, the temple was relocated to Navagadh in 1931. The temple boasts a high summit and an intricately decorated interior adorned with mirrors.
Shri Digambar Jain Atishaya Kshetra Nemgiri Sansthan, Jintur
Located 3 kilometers from Jintur, the Shri Digambar Jain Atishaya Kshetra Nemgiri Sansthan is nestled among the sub-slopes of the Sahyadri Mountains. The site features two hills, Nemgiri and Chandragiri, which are famous for their ancient Jain Cave Temples and Chaityalayas. Established during the reign of Emperor Amogh Varsha of the Rashtrakut family, the site was once known as Jainpur before being renamed Jintur.
Temples and Attractions
During its prime, the site was home to 300 Jain households and 14 Jain temples. Today, only two temples remain:
- The main temple, dedicated to Lord Devgiri, features a beautiful 3.5-foot-high black idol of Padmasana and is known for its miraculous powers.
- A smaller temple, dedicated to Lord Neminath, contains an idol made of Panchdhatu (five metals).
