Top Places to Explore Jalna

Jalna, a city in Maharashtra, India, is located in the Jalna district of the Aurangabad Division or Marathwada area. Known for its rich history and cultural diversity, Jalna offers numerous tourist attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From historic forts and beautiful gardens to religious temples and picturesque lakes, Jalna has something for everyone. In this guide, we will take you through the top places to explore in Jalna city in maharashtra.

1. Jalna Fort

History

Jalna Fort, also known as Mastgad, was constructed in 1725 under the direction of Asaf Jah, Nizam ul Mulk. Kabil Khan was tasked with building the fort and the Mastgad citadel to the east of the town. The fort features a Persian inscription detailing the date of construction, as well as a large well with a series of tunnels and rooms, although these are now filled with debris.

Exploring Jalna Fort

Visiting Jalna Fort offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and architectural prowess. The fort’s imposing structure and intricate details are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the builders. As you walk through the fort, take the opportunity to observe the details of the Persian inscription and imagine how the tunnels and rooms would have looked in their original state.

2. Moti Lake

History

Moti Lake, also known as Moti Talab, was constructed by Jamshed Khan on the west side of Jalna. Jamshed Khan was also responsible for building the Kali Masjid within the Mecca gate, as well as the hamam (bathhouse) and sarai. A network of underground pipelines carried water from the lake to reservoirs throughout the city, with the largest reservoir located in the quadrangle of the Kali Masjid sarai. However, this system is no longer operational.

Visiting Moti Lake

Today, Moti Lake is a popular destination for visitors looking to take in the natural beauty of Jalna and enjoy a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The serene waters of the lake provide a picturesque backdrop for picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply sitting and taking in the tranquil surroundings. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Moti Bagh, a beautiful garden situated near the lake.

3. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Garden

Overview

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Garden, also known as Moti Bagh, is a well-maintained park in Jalna. Named after the legendary Maratha leader Chhatrapati Sambhaji, the garden offers a variety of recreational activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.

Features and Attractions

The garden boasts a range of play activities, a small railway, and a colorful water dance, making it a popular destination for families with children. Surrounded by lush greenery and well-maintained lawns, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Garden is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the outdoors.

4. Ghanewadi Lake

History

Ghanewadi Lake, or Ghanewadi Talab, was constructed in 1931 by Mr. Bezonji Faridoonji Jalnawalla for the convenience of the people of Jalna. Mr. Bezonji was known for his contributions to various charitable projects in the area. The lake once served as Jalna’s primary source of water, although it is now in a state of disrepair.

Visiting Ghanewadi Lake

Despite its current condition, Ghanewadi Lake remains a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The peaceful surroundings and picturesque views make it an ideal spot for picnics and quiet reflection.

5. Swami Vivekanand Ashram, Kinhola Tq. Badnapur

Overview

Swami Vivekanand Ashram, located in Kinhola Tq. Badnapur, is dedicated to the teachings and works of the renowned Indian philosopher and spiritual leader, Swami Vivekananda.

Activities and Attractions

Visitors to the ashram can explore the various projects and initiatives undertaken by the ashram, including educational institutions, a school for the blind, a library, and a Gaushala. The Gaushala is particularly noteworthy, as it is the largest in the Marathwada area.

6. Shree Ganesh Temple, Rajur

Overview

The Shree Ganesh Temple in Rajur is situated 25 kilometers north of Jalna city. Dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Ganesh, the temple is considered one of the region’s most significant religious sites.

Festivities and Events

Every Chaturthi, a large number of pilgrims gather at the temple to offer their prayers to Lord Ganesh. Additionally, a grand fair is held at the temple on Angarika Chaturthi. Known as one of the complete PITHs of Lord Ganesh, as mentioned in the Ganesh Puran, Rajur shares this distinction with Morgaon and Chinchwad (Pune). Padmalaya is the remaining HALF PITH.

7. Guru Ganesh Tapodham

Overview

Guru Ganesh Tapodham, located in Jalna, is a revered site for Jain pilgrims. Also known as Karnatak Kesari, the establishment of this sacred site is overseen by the Jain trust ‘Shri Vardhaman Sthankwasi Jain Shravak Sangh.’

Facilities and Activities

This trust is also responsible for managing various educational institutions, such as schools, a school for the blind, a library, and a Gaushala. The Gaushala is the largest in the Marathwada area, making it an essential destination for visitors interested in the region’s religious and cultural heritage.

8. Matsyodari Devi Temple, Ambad

Overview

The Matsyodari Devi Temple of Ambad is located 21 kilometers south of Jalna. Named Matsyodari due to the temple being built on a hill resembling the shape of a fish (matsya), the temple is believed to be one of the oldest in the region.

Annual Fair

Every October, a well-attended annual fair is held at the Matsyodari Devi Temple. The event attracts visitors and pilgrims from far and wide, making it a must-see event for those visiting Jalna during this time.

9. Jamb Samartha, Ghansawangi

Overview

Jamb Samartha, located in the Ghansawangi tahsil of the Jalna district, is the birthplace of the revered Sant Ramdas Swami.

History

Sant Ramdas Swami, born as Narayan, the younger son of Suryajipant Thosar Kulkarni and Ranubai, arrived in the world on Chaitra Shukla Navami Shake 1530 (as per the Hindu Calendar) at 12 P.M., coinciding with the birth of Lord Rama. His elder brother, Gangadhar, also known as ‘Shreshtha’ or ‘Rami Ramdas,’ was born on Margashirsha Vadya Trayodashi Shake 1527.

Annual Fair and Ram Temple

Every Ram Navami, a well-attended annual fair is held at the Ram temple, which is located at the residence of Sant Ramdas Swami. The event attracts pilgrims and visitors from across the region.

Samrtha Temple

Inspired by the memory of Sant Ramdas Swami, the Samrtha temple was constructed and is now managed by a trust established by Nanasaheb Dev in 1943. The trust consists of 55 members and 11 trustees and currently owns 240 hectares of land.

10. Mazaar-E-Maulai Noorudin Saheb

Overview

The Mazaar-E-Maulai, or the Mausoleum of Moulai Nuruddin, is located near Dongaon Tq.Ambad. Moulai Nuruddin was a “Wal al-Hind” (representative/caretaker for India) of the Dawoodi Bohra dawat, appointed by the central government in Yemen to oversee the dawat in India.