Mahalaxmi Temple
In kolhapur, Ambabai is the most honoured deity. This temple had not been here, there would not have been Kolhapur city here as well. It can be said that by the virtue of blessings of Shri Mahalaxmi, Kolhapur has got great sons like Shri Shahu Chhatrapati and Shri Rajaram Maharaj who worked for the welfare and development of Kolhapur. Foundation of current development of Kolhapur is laid by the temple of Shri Mahalaxmi. Its development has been supported by the kings. This temple is in the heart of the city near old palace. This grand and beautiful temple of 'Hemadpanti' stands exemplry for demostration of ancient architechtural skills. This temple is star shaped and it is 2 storied. Other than the idol of Shri Mahalaxmi, there are idols of Mahasaraswati on the south side, Mahakali on the north side and idols of Ganapati on the 2nd floor.
In front of main temple, there is a entrance mandap viz 'Garud mandap'. In Navaratri, grand festival is celebrated here. All other times, it is used for praying and presentations. The path to offer revolutions around the temple is inside the temple and is very peculiar. On both sides of mandap, there are idols of Bharat and Shatrughna carved out.There is manimanda few feet ahead. The statues of the door-keepers viz. Jay and Vijay and the artistic sculpture are very attractive. The main location is the place where idol of Mahalaxmi is placed.