With sumptuous street food, historic temples and an atmospheric Old Quarter, Kolhapur offers a taste of authentic India. It sits on the banks of the Panchganga River and showcases India's "jungle safari" era and the art of Kushti wrestling.
Things to do in Kolhāpur
Kolhapur is anchored by a characterful Old Quarter accessed by a monumental gate. Inside you can peer into Mahalaxmi Temple, an ancient place of worship dedicated to Shakti, the Indian goddess of empowerment. It attracts a constant stream of Hindu pilgrims and is a fantastic place to hear hypnotic Indian chanting.
The Shree Chhatrapati Shahu Museum is one of India's quirkiest cultural attractions. The enormous palace was commissioned by 19th-century Kolhapur kings and is filled with royal relics from the "jungle safari" era, including hunting weapons, leopard skin rugs, tiger skulls and maharaja portraits.
Kolhapur produces some of India's finest Kushti wrestlers. Find out more about the country's beloved sport at Motibag Talim, a training ground where you can watch young athletes flex their muscles in the pit. If you want to watch a professional match, head to Kasbagh Maidan, the city's arena.
Kolhapur's fiery cuisine is famous across India. Specialty dishes include spicy chicken curry, fried mutton and "missal pav" bean soup. For the best thalis in town, head to Dehaati, which serves up colourful platters overflowing with rich curries, creamy dhals, zesty chutneys and flaky chapatis.
Getting around Kolhāpur
Kolhapur's Old Quarter is best explored on foot, while the city is serviced by taxis, auto-rickshaws and local buses. Trains depart from the Chatrapati Shahu Maharaj Terminus, with regular services to Mumbai and Bengaluru.