Perched high on the Karla hill right next to the Buddhist caves, the Ekvira Devi Temple is a deeply sacred pilgrimage site in Maharashtra. It is the primary temple of the Koli and Agri communities and attracts lakhs of devotees every year.
Spiritual Significance
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Ekvira, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Renuka. According to local folklore, the temple was built by the Pandavas during their forest exile. Impressed by their devotion, the Goddess granted them a boon, and the temple was constructed overnight.
Visiting Guide & Tips
- Distance from ADMAC: 4 km to the base, followed by a climb of 350 steps.
- Timings: The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Visiting during the morning Aarti (around 6:00 AM) is a deeply moving experience.
- Festivals: The temple comes alive during Navratri and Chaitra Navratri (March/April), with grand processions, traditional folk music, and vibrant decorations. If you visit during these times, plan for large crowds.
For guests staying at the Alkesh Dinesh Mody Adhyaatm Campus, a visit to Ekvira Devi Temple offers a beautiful spiritual excursion that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Lonavala hills.
Note for Seekers: The steps are lined with stalls selling flowers, coconuts, and traditional sweets (Prasad). Remember to keep hydrated and pace yourself during the climb.
Staying at the Alkesh Dinesh Mody Adhyaatm Campus? Our team is happy to help guide you, organize local transport, or suggest custom itineraries for any of these sites around Karla and Lonavala.
Keep Reading