Kopeshwar Temple is at Khidrapur, Kolhapur district, in Maharashtra. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. It was built in the 12th century by Shilahara king Gandaraditya between 1109 and 1178 CE. The entire temple is divided into four parts Swargamandapa, Sabhamandapa,Antaral kaksha and Garbha gruha. The Swargamandapa has a vestibule with an open top. The sanctum is conical.
Nestled in the tranquil town of Khidrapur in Maharashtra, the Kopeshwar Temple is a hidden gem of ancient architecture and spirituality. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this 12th-century temple is renowned for its exquisite carvings and intricate sculptures that showcase the craftsmanship of the Yadava dynasty. The temple’s most striking feature is its richly decorated mandapa, adorned with detailed depictions of mythological scenes and divine figures. Set against the backdrop of the serene Krishna River, the Kopeshwar Temple not only serves as a place of worship but also as a testament to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the region. Its historical significance and architectural beauty make it a fascinating destination for both devotees and history enthusiasts alike.
The construction of Kopeshwar Temple unfolded over a span of 300-400 years. It is crafted from black basalt, a volcanic igneous rock sourced from the Sahyadri ranges. Black basalt, renowned for its durability, posed a formidable challenge to the templeās artisans, whose skillful hands shaped its form over generations. The transportation of these colossal stones was an arduous feat, facilitated by the flow of the Panchganga River. Rocks, carefully placed on wooden planks, could only be diverted during floods when the riverās current surged. This natural conduit through the Sahyadri range facilitated the transportation of materials. This most likely contributed to the prolonged construction period of 500 years.
Narsobawadi or Nrusinhawadi is famous for the Hindu temple of Shri Nrusinha Saraswati (1378ā1458) located on the banks of the river Krushna about 50 kilometers from Kolhapur. Shri Dattatreya in his Nrusinha Saraswati incarnation is believed to have lived here for as long as 12 years.
Distance from Veerabhadra Temple,Ā Yadur ā 21 kms
Nestled in the serene landscape of Maharashtra, India, Narsobawadi Temple is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to the Shri Dattatreya in his Nrusinha Saraswati incarnation is believed to have lived here for as long as 12 years. This ancient temple, steeped in spiritual significance, attracts devotees seeking solace and divine blessings. The templeās architecture reflects traditional Hindu design, with intricately carved stonework and a tranquil ambiance that invites reflection and devotion.
Narsobawadi or Narsinhwadi is a small village can be found at the confluence of Krishna and Panchganga rivers about 50 kilometers from Kolhapur. Also known for its archaeological significance, every year this place attracts tourists and devotees in large number.
Gokak Falls, nestled in the picturesque Gokak town of Karnataka, India, is a stunning natural marvel that captures the essence of India’s diverse landscape. Often compared to the more famous Niagara Falls due to its dramatic plunge and captivating beauty, Gokak Falls cascades gracefully over a rugged rock face, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Gokak Falls is 6 km away from Gokak town and gets its name from the Goki trees found in abundance in these areas. It resembles the Niagara Falls due to its features like the fall, shape etc. Here, River Ghataprabha takes a leap of 52 metres over the sand-stone cliff amidst a picturesque gorge of the rugged valley, making a beautiful sight. This place has the credit of generating electricity for the first time in the country in about 1887. A prime attraction of the Gokak Falls is the hanging 200-m-long bridge that lies 14 m above the bedrock. Tourists can also visit monuments on both sides of the rocky gorge which include temples of Goddess Durga, Lord Shanmukha and Lord Mahalingeshwara built in the traditional Chalukyan style of architecture.
After a long winding course, the Ghataprabha river falls 52 metres (171 ft) over the sandstone cliff amidst a picturesque gorge of the rugged valley. The waterfall is horse shoe shaped at the crest, with a flood breadth of 177 metres (581 ft). It also has a hanging bridge which is an attraction for people visiting Gokak. The Gokak Falls also holds immense historical significance as it was here that electricity was first generated in India, in 1887.