Krishnabai Temple Mahabaleshwar

Introduction to Krishnabai Temple

The old Mahabaleshwar town is famous for three ancient temples: Mahabaleshwar Temple, Krishnabai Temple, and Panchaganga Temple. Close to the Panchaganga temple is a well-marked trail that leads to the Krishnabai Temple. It is considered to be the origin of the River Krishna. The temple lies on the famous hill station Satara, Maharashtra. This temple is otherwise called Krishna Devi Temple. It is undertaken by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI)

Legend of Krishnabai Temple

The Krishnabai Temple priests explain that the sun rays which fall on the Shiva Lingam energize the entire temple complex. The same energy destroys the light bulbs. So, there is no electricity here.

The Architecture of the Krishnabai Temple

The Krishnabai Temple was built in 1888 during the Ratnagiri rule. The local legends explain that the temple had small renovations in the Pandava era. The local priests clearly state that the Krishnabai Temple is 5,000 years old.

The temple lies on a hilltop. From the temple, the Krishna Valley is visible. In the temple, people can worship the Shiva Lingam and a stunning Krishna statue. A small stream of water flows from a Gaumukh (cow face), which falls into a Kund (water tank). The source of the stream is said to be the Krishna River. The temple has stone-carved columns and ceilings. It features the ancient architectural style. As the temple is old, the beautiful carvings seem to be fading away.

Krishnabai Temple is just a few meters from the Panchaganga temple or the junction of five rivers – Koyna, Krishna, Venna, Savitri, and Gayatri. The temple features the Hemadpanti architecture style. Black stone and limestone were used to build the temple without any technique. The temple has an arcade court.

The architecture and carvings of the Krishnabai Temple are worth capturing. This spot is serene.

Festivals in Krishnabai Temple

The temple celebrates Annual Utsav grandly in Phalguna month (March-April) every year. As the Krishnabai Temple is the source of the Krishna River, the festival marks the birth of the perennial river. The celebration starts on Purnima Tithi.