Pilgrimage & sacred places
Sant Tukaram Maharaj Temple, Dehu
A Sacred Abode of the Great Saint Tukaram Maharaj near Pune
- District
- Pune
- Region
- Western Maharashtra
- Distance from Pune
- 30 km
Overview
Sant Tukaram Maharaj Temple in Dehu is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra, dedicated to the great Marathi saint and poet, Sant Tukaram Maharaj. Situated on the banks of the Indrayani River, the temple is a key stop for Warkaris during the annual Pandharpur pilgrimage.
Sant Tukaram, known for his Abhangas (devotional poetry) and spiritual teachings, preached equality, devotion, and simplicity. The temple complex celebrates his life and message through regular kirtans and spiritual events.
The temple stands as a spiritual beacon for devotees, symbolizing the Bhakti movement that shaped Marathi culture and spirituality.
Highlights
Sant Tukaram’s Legacy
Dedicated to the saint-poet who composed thousands of Abhangas inspiring devotion and moral living.
Riverbank Serenity
Located on the banks of the Indrayani River, offering peaceful surroundings for meditation and prayer.
Annual Palkhi Festival
The famous Tukaram Palkhi starts from Dehu every year, attracting lakhs of Warkaris walking to Pandharpur.
Location & landscape
Dehu is a town in the Pune district of Maharashtra, located along the Indrayani River and surrounded by gentle hills and fertile plains.
Dehu’s spiritual aura and connection with Sant Tukaram Maharaj make it a sacred destination for devotees across Maharashtra.
- District
- Pune
- Region
- Western Maharashtra
- Distance from Pune
- 30 km
- Best Season
- November to February
- Major Festival
- Ashadhi Wari and Tukaram Palkhi
Best Time to Visit
Dehu experiences a moderate climate with warm summers, pleasant winters, and refreshing monsoons.
- Summer: 24°C – 38°C (March–June)
- Monsoon: 22°C – 30°C (June–September)
- Winter: 12°C – 26°C (November–February)
Things to do
Temple Darshan
Pay respects to the Samadhi of Sant Tukaram Maharaj and attend the soulful Aartis and Abhanga sessions.
- Darshan timings: 5 AM to 9 PM.
- Daily Bhajans and Kirtans held in the main temple courtyard.
Abhanga Kirtan
Experience devotional singing of Tukaram’s Abhangas, filling the air with spiritual energy.
- Regular sessions by Warkari groups.
- Special performances during Ekadashi and Palkhi season.
Palkhi Procession
Join the grand Tukaram Palkhi procession that travels from Dehu to Pandharpur each year.
- Begins 18–20 days before Ashadhi Ekadashi.
- An inspiring spiritual walk of 250 km with thousands of devotees.
Places to explore
Indrayani River Ghat
A serene riverbank where devotees bathe and perform rituals before visiting the temple.
Tukaram Gatha Mandir
A newer temple displaying inscriptions of Tukaram’s famous Abhangas on its walls.
Local ecology
While Dehu is inland, the Indrayani River supports a simple aquatic ecosystem that nourishes the nearby environment.
The Indrayani’s flow symbolizes the river of devotion and purity in Sant Tukaram’s teachings.
The peaceful ghats make Dehu an ideal place for reflection and prayer.
Freshwater Life
The river hosts small freshwater fish and supports local bird species.
Eco Harmony
The riverside greenery and tranquil water create a balanced, calming atmosphere.
Practical Travel Tips
Visit during the Tukaram Palkhi Yatra to witness the devotional energy of Warkaris.
Early morning is ideal for peaceful darshan and riverfront serenity.
Avoid peak pilgrimage dates if you prefer a quieter experience.
Local Transit & Routes
By Train
- Dehu Road Railway Station (8 km) connects to Pune, Lonavala, and Mumbai.
- Autos and buses available to reach the temple.
By Road
- Dehu is 30 km from Pune on the Pune–Nashik Highway.
- Regular MSRTC and private buses operate from Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
By Air
- Pune International Airport is about 35 km away.
- Taxis and buses available from the airport.