Pilgrimage & sacred places
Vitthal-Rukmini Temple, Alandi
Sacred Town of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj on the Banks of Indrayani River
- District
- Pune
- Region
- Western Maharashtra
- Distance from Pune
- 25 km
Overview
Alandi, situated on the banks of the holy Indrayani River near Pune, is one of Maharashtra’s most revered pilgrimage sites. It is closely associated with Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, the great saint and philosopher who authored the Dnyaneshwari — a Marathi commentary on the Bhagavad Gita.
The Vitthal-Rukmini Temple here attracts lakhs of devotees, particularly Warkaris, who gather annually for the Palkhi procession that travels from Alandi to Pandharpur.
Alandi’s spiritual aura, river ghats, and historic temples create a divine atmosphere of devotion and peace.
Highlights
Sant Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir
The sacred resting place of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, visited by devotees throughout the year.
Indrayani River Ghats
Holy riverbank where pilgrims bathe and perform rituals before temple visits.
Annual Dnyaneshwar Palkhi
The grand procession begins from Alandi and culminates in Pandharpur, uniting lakhs of devotees in devotion.
Location & landscape
Alandi is located in Pune district, around 25 km northeast of Pune city, along the Indrayani River in western Maharashtra.
The divine presence of Sant Dnyaneshwar and the peaceful Indrayani River make Alandi a symbol of spiritual devotion and unity in Maharashtra.
- District
- Pune
- Region
- Western Maharashtra
- Distance from Pune
- 25 km
- Best Season
- October to February
- Major Festival
- Ashadhi Wari (Dnyaneshwar Palkhi)
Best Time to Visit
Alandi enjoys a moderate climate similar to Pune, with warm summers, cool winters, and heavy monsoon rains.
- Summer: 25°C – 38°C (March–June)
- Monsoon: 22°C – 30°C (June–September)
- Winter: 12°C – 25°C (November–February)
Things to do
Darshan at Vitthal-Rukmini Temple
Seek blessings of Lord Vitthal and Rukmini in this serene and sacred temple environment.
- Temple open daily from 5 AM to 9 PM.
- Special rituals on Ekadashi and Palkhi days.
Visit Sant Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir
Pay homage at the holy Samadhi where Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj attained eternal rest.
- Located adjacent to the main temple complex.
- Peaceful environment ideal for meditation.
Participate in the Dnyaneshwar Palkhi
Join thousands of devotees on their journey to Pandharpur in devotion to Lord Vitthal.
- Begins 18–20 days before Ashadhi Ekadashi.
- Traditional Warkari chants and Abhangas fill the air.
Places to explore
Sant Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir
A historic and spiritual site where Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj took Samadhi over 700 years ago.
Indrayani River Ghat
Peaceful riverbank where pilgrims perform rituals and enjoy the serene beauty of the flowing river.
Local ecology
The Indrayani River supports local aquatic biodiversity and sustains the surrounding ecosystem.
The Indrayani symbolizes purity and devotion in the Warkari tradition.
Alandi’s ecosystem remains deeply connected with its spiritual heritage.
Freshwater Aquatic Life
The Indrayani River sustains small fish species and provides a habitat for local birds and flora.
Eco Harmony
Alandi’s natural surroundings blend spiritual tranquility with environmental balance.
Practical Travel Tips
Visit during the Dnyaneshwar Palkhi Yatra for an immersive spiritual experience.
Early mornings are ideal for peaceful darshan and rituals by the Indrayani River.
Book local dharmashalas or lodges in advance during pilgrimage season.
Local Transit & Routes
By Train
- Alandi can be accessed via Pune Railway Station (25 km).
- Local buses and taxis available to reach the temple.
By Road
- Regular MSRTC and private buses operate from Pune, Nashik, and Ahmednagar.
- Alandi is well-connected by the Pune-Nashik Highway.
By Air
- Nearest airport: Pune International Airport (28 km).
- Frequent cabs and buses to Alandi.