Welcome to Kolhapur
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We are delighted to welcome you to the historic and vibrant city of Kolhapur for the upcoming conference hosted at Shivaji University. To ensure a smooth and pleasant journey, we have compiled essential information on how to reach the city and the university campus.
Travel & Venue Information: To ensure a smooth and pleasant journey, we have compiled essential information on how to reach the city and the university campus.
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Kolhapur is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible from all major cities in India.
By Air: Kolhapur's domestic airport, Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj Airport (KLH), has direct flights from Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Tirupati and Ahmedabad. Upon arrival, the university campus is 4.8 km away, accessible via pre-paid taxis and auto services.
By Train: Kolhapur's main railway station is Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Terminus (KOP), with direct trains from Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Bangalore, Belgavi, Nagpur, Ahmedabad, Solapur, Hyderabad and other major hubs. From the station, Shivaji University is 4.9 km away. Auto-rickshaws are readily available.
By Bus: Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and private operators offer frequent bus services to Kolhapur from cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad etc. The Central Bus Stand (CBS) is located centrally, 4.8 km from the university.
By Private Vehicle: Kolhapur is seamlessly connected via National Highways. Visitors driving from Pune or Mumbai can take the Mumbai-Bengaluru Highway (NH-48) and follow the well-marked exits for Kolhapur.
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The conference will be held at Shivaji University, Kolhapur. The main university campus is located in Vidyanagar, a well-known area on the outskirts of the city. From any point in Kolhapur, you can easily reach the campus by auto-rickshaw or city bus. Simply mention 'Shivaji University' to your driver.
We look forward to hosting you and are confident that your stay in Kolhapur will be both productive and memorable. For any further logistical assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the organizing committee.
Have a safe journey!
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We are very happy to welcome you to Kolhapur for the upcoming conference at Shivaji University. Known as the 'City of Temples' and famed for its rich history, vibrant culture, and exquisite handicrafts, Kolhapur offers a perfect blend of academic pursuit and cultural exploration. To enhance your visit, we have curated a list of must-see attractions within the city and at nearby locations, perfect for your pre- or post-conference itinerary.
Exploring Kolhapur & Beyond
Attractions within Kolhapur City (0-10 km from Shivaji University)
Shri Mahalaxmi Temple: The spiritual heart of the city, this revered temple is one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas. (5.1 km)
Binkhambi Ganesh Mandir: A unique and architecturally stunning temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, notable for its pillar-less design. (5.3 km from the University)
Town Hall Museum: Housed in a beautiful colonial-era building, this museum showcases a rich collection of sculptures, weapons, and artifacts that narrate the region's artistic and historical legacy (10 km).
New Palace & Shahupuri Lake: A magnificent Indo-Saracenic palace, the residence of the erstwhile Maharajas, featuring a museum and beautiful gardens. The adjacent Shahupuri Lake is a serene spot for an evening stroll. (7.1 km)
Rankala Lake: A historic and picturesque lake surrounded by a promenade, perfect for boating and enjoying local street food. (7.3 km)
Shalini Palace: A stunning royal residence built in Italianate architecture from local black stone, it now operates as a heritage hotel located on the serene banks of the Rankala Lake. (8.4 km)
Kaneri Math Devgiri: In Kaneri, Kolhapur, the Siddhagiri Gramjivan Museum (also known as Kaneri Math) offers a unique experience through its sculptural depictions of rural life. This 'Village Life' museum is situated on the grounds of the Shri Kshetra Siddhagiri Math, a spiritual campus centred on the historic Moola-Kaadsiddheswar Shiva temple. (9.4 km)
Shopping for Kolhapuri Chappals & Jewellery: Visit the bustling Mahadwar Road area for authentic Kolhapuri footwear and the famous Lakshmi Road for traditional 'Kholwad' and 'Pohe' jewellery.
Notable Nearby Destinations (for a Day Trip)
Jotiba Temple: A significant pilgrimage site nestled in the hills, dedicated to Lord Jyotiba. (24.8 km)
Panhala Fort: A majestic hill fort and the only one where the great warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj spent more than 500 days. The views and history are breathtaking. (26.5 km)
Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary: Also called Dajipur, on a guided safari to discover its rich ecosystem. Nestled in the Western Ghats, this sanctuary is home to thriving populations of Indian bison, leopards, and many bird species, offering a chance to see them in their natural, unspoiled habitat. (53.6 km)
Gaganbawda: Gaganbawda is a picturesque hill station in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra, renowned for its lush green landscapes, mist-clad hills, and pleasant climate. It offers stunning viewpoints like the Gagangiri Maharaj Point, serene lakes, and beautiful waterfalls, making it a perfect, serene getaway for nature lovers and trekkers. The area is also known for its dense forests and plantations of fruits like strawberries and pomegranates. (60.8 km)
Vishalgad Fort: A formidable fort celebrated for its heroic history, most famous as the destination of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's daring escape from Panhala, known as the 'Battle of Pavan Khind'. (83.3 km)
Khidrapur: Renowned for the ancient Prabhu Khidrapur Temple, a magnificent example of Yadava-era architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva and a site of great archaeological importance (65 km).
Narsobawadi: A peaceful pilgrimage town situated on the banks of the Krishna River, known for its sacred atmosphere. (55.9 km)
Amboli: A picturesque hill station in the Sahyadri range, known as the "Queen of Maharashtra," offering misty valleys, stunning waterfalls, and lush green forests (118 km).
If you would like more details, you can also refer to the Kolhapur Tourism website.
We encourage you to immerse yourself in the unique flavours of Kolhapur, especially the world-famous Kolhapuri Misal Pav and Tambda Pandhra Rassa. For any assistance with local travel, our hospitality desk will be happy to help.
We wish you a productive conference and a memorable stay in our magnificent city!