About Ekvira Devi Temple
Ekvira Devi Temple is an ancient Hindu Temple. This temple is located near Kalra caves near Lonavala in Maharashtra. This temple is devoted to the goddess Ekvira Devi. (Ekvira is also spelled Ekveera). According to the legends, Ekvira Devi is an incarnation of Goddess Renuka. Ekvira Devi Temple is visited by the Koli people on the daily basis. Koli people worship Ekvira Devi in this temple. You may also learn about the Buddhist culture because it was once the center of Buddhism. This temple was built by Pandavas. Ekvira Devi Temple is located on a hill so to reach the temple an individual has to ascend nearly 500 steps to the temple’s shrine this temple is surrounded by the Karla Caves these caves are now protected by the Archeological department. This temple becomes very lively on the occasion of festivals.
What is Ekvira Devi Temple Famous for?
Ekvira Devi Temple is famous for its rich history and culture. This temple is on a hill which makes Ekvira Devi Temple great for sightseeing and there are many festivals that take place during Chaitra and Navratri during the festival you can see Ekvira Devi Temple is fully transformed and you can get a beautiful experience of the festival on a special occasion.
History and Mythology of Ekvira Devi Temple
Ekvira Devi Temple has a rich history this temple was established by Pandavas during their exile into the forest. According to the legends after some time has passed Pandavas reached there a goddess Ekvira Devi appeared before them so since this event this place is regarded as a holy place. According to the locals, it is believed that after Ekvira Mata appeared before them and instructed them on the task of building a temple here by doing this she wanted to test the work ethic of all of the Pandavas so she also gave them a condition that this temple should be built overnight.
The Pandavas was able to build the temple overnight which surprised the goddess. So to bless them Ekvira Mata granted them a blessing that no one can discover them in these caves and this place can be their secret exile place. Ekvira Mata was an avatar of the goddess Renuka Devi and she was worshipped here by the local tribe.
Best time to visit Ekvira Devi Temple
Ekvira Devi Temple can be visited throughout the year and the weather here is comfortable to visit any time of the year. But during Navaratri and Chaitri Navaratri the Ekvira Devi Temple is decorated for the festival the devotees of Ekvira Devi gather from all over India. But if you don’t want to visit Ekvira Devi Temple during a festival then you can visit the temple from July to September the view is great for sightseeing during this time.
Location of Ekvira Devi Temple
QFMC+73X, Ekvira Devi Rd, Karla, Maharashtra 410405
How to reach Ekvira Devi Temple
- By road – Ekvira Devi Temple is well connected with different roads so you can visit the temple with your personal vehicle or you can hire a
- By air – The nearest airport to Ekvira Devi Temple is Pune airport. This airport is approximately 62 km away from the temple so you can book a cab or hire a taxi from the airport to the temple.
- By Train – The nearest railway station to Ekvira Devi Temple is Lonavala railway station. This railway station is approximately 42km away from the temple you can hire a taxi from the railway station or if you want to save your traveling cost you can take a bus to the temple.
Opening Hours of Ekvira Devi Temple
The opening is in the morning 5 am to 12 pm. And another opening is from 4 pm in the afternoon to 9 pm. And the timing of Maha Aarti is 5 am and 7 pm.
Places to visit near Ekvira Devi Temple
- Karla Caves – These caves are one of the oldest caves in India. These caves are ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves these caves are famous tourist attractions. Karla caves are located near Lonavala.
- Shree Narayani Dham Temple – Shree Narayani Dham Temple was built in 2002. This temple was made out of marble. This temple was devoted to Maa Narayani.
- Lohagarh Fort – Lohagarh Fort is settled at an elevation of 1033 m. This temple is located close to the Ekvira Devi Temple so you can also visit Lohagarh Fort.
- Celebrity Wax Museum – This museum is featuring max statues of many different celebrities, cricketers and politicians. Here you can click pictures with their wax statues.
Places to stay near Ekvira Devi Temple
- Hotel Kalra Hill
- Cozy Heritage Cottage
- Greenwood countryside resorts
Travel Tips
- If you are traveling to Ekvira Devi Temple you should restrain throwing garbage on the temple surface.
- If you prefer homemade food then you have to carry a tiffin with you.
