8 Places To Visit In Solapur For A Superb Vacation In Maharashtra

From temples to ancient ruins, the traditional markets to the central square, Solapur has a stunning variety of tranquil locales for easing into a slower and calming pace. Whether meandering through 18th-century alleyways and watching artisan handlooms or indulging in street-side delicacies, observing everyday life in this ethnic city is the gateway to unlocking the stories that it holds.

We’ve rounded up 8 beautiful places to visit in Solapur with dreamlike views – the juxtaposition of khaki mills on vibrant textiles, beautiful and lofty palm trees, centuries-old architecture, plus an array of fine regional gold-shopping experience.

8 Places To Visit In Solapur

As if its historical allure wasn’t compelling enough, Solapur is filled up to the brim with a rich collection of handmade art and natural gems. Circle around to some of the temple regions and you will find expats from afar curiously nodding their heads as guides explain to them the many histories this city behold.

To help you experience the most of what this place has to offer, here are some popular locations and places to visit in Solapur that one shouldn’t miss.

Temple of Lord Siddharameshwar
Bhuikot Fort
Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary
Saraf Katta
Solapur Science Centre
Dharmaveer Sambhaji Lake
Hipparga Lake
Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple

1. Temple Of Lord Siddharameshwar

Image Credit: Wikimedia

This temple was built by yogi Shri Siddharameshwar to honor Lord Siddheshwar, one of the many forms of Lord Vishnu and Shiva. He was a devoted follower of Sri Mallikajuna of Srisailam and installed 68 shivlings all in the city of Solapur. Visit this temple during sunset and you can catch a glimpse of its reflection in the water that surrounds this dynamic structure.

Must Read: 35 Places To Visit In Mahabaleshwar For A Refreshing Maharashtra Trip

2. Bhuikot Fort

Image Credit: Wikimedia

Built in the 14th century AD under the ruling of Bahamani dynasty, Bhuikot fort is one of the top attractions in Solapur. According to historical records, Aurangzeb used to temporarily reside in this very same fort. Children will enjoy the animal park that is enclosed in the boundary of this fort. There is also an octagonal shaped well that can be fascinating to look at as it is known to be built around the same time as the fort.

3. Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary

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Established in 1979, the Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary is a semi-arid landscape showcasing an ecoregion of Deccan thorn scrub forests. It is a perfect destination for a full-day trip with your friends and family. Maharashtra is one of the six states in India where the Indian bustards (Ardeotis nigriceps) can be spotted. This place is an institution that memorializes this formerly popular bird and can be a great wildlife expedition to undertake while visiting Solapur.

4. Saraf Katta

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If you are thinking that Solapur is only known for its handlooms and textile industry, you cannot be further away from the truth. Forget Dubai, the Saraf Katta gold market is one of the places to visit in Solapur that every shopaholic and jewel-fanatic will appreciate. It is an intricate web of alleyway shops with rare designs at affordable prices that you won’t be able to resist.

Take a detour: From Saraf Katta, take a ride to the industrial textile plots nearby and get yourself the Solapur chaddar, an exquisite piece of homeware that is unique to the city and symbolises its culture.

5. Solapur Science Centre

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The Solapur Science Center is one of the most visited attractions in the city and arguably the most iconic science museum in the state. The establishment of this center was aimed to propagate and promote science among the masses. Through its various exhibitions that can be participated in throughout the year, it propagates scientific principles and ideas through simple visual showcases for kids and adults.

Insider’s tip: If you have a little wiggle room in your itinerary, try and stay back for a night-sky observation through the museum’s telescope.

6. Dharmaveer Sambhaji Lake

Image Credit: Ganesh Partheeban by unsplash

It is one of the largest lakes in Solapur that was recently sheltered by the government for a beautification and conservation mission. Take a long walk along the lake in the evening and spend some leisure hours watching people. It can be a good pit-stop for you and your family to steal a few moments of self-indulgence before turning in for the night.

7. Hipparga Lake

Image Credit: Solapur 013 by nijntjemeetsamitabh

Also known as the Ekrukh Hipparga Talao, this popular lake was established by Colonel Fife during the years of British ruling. Set up a small basket of local snacks and beverages before you head toward Hipparga for a lazy afternoon jaunt and lose yourself in the cold breeze that relaxes your mind. Disconnect and maybe take a book with you, the serenity of this place will not disappoint.

8. Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple

Image Credit: Wikimedia

A 45-drive from central Solapur, the Akkalkot temple is accessible easily via public transport and is perfect for a spiritual escape. Upon walking towards the entrance, observe the giant Banyan tree that is claimed as one of the spots where Swami Samarth would practice meditation. The temple is busy almost every day of the week but if you want to relish in the divinity and harmony of the place, consider staying in the on-site accommodation for a couple of days which is offered at a generous price.

Further Read: 6 Places To Visit In Bhandardara That Prove Its Prominence In Maharashtra

Visiting Maharashtra’s proud textile-capital is like going back in time hundreds of years ago when yarns and threads were the real gold. Several places to visit in Solapur showcase friendly, reliable, and comfortable aura that makes you feel right at home when needed and can delight you with its exotic amenities when exploring. Yes, the city today is changing fast: leaving behind murals and aboriginal façades are manicured parks and shopping centers, and a not so subtle hint of urban revolution that has not – yet – taken away the magic from this charming city. Plan a trip to maharashtra today and do let us know about your vacation in the comments below!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Solapur

What is Solapur famous for?

Solapur is famous for its textile and cotton industry which produces some of the signature styles like the Solapur chaddar, along with the crafts like Bidriware, Mashru and Himroo.

What is Solapur named after?

The name Solapur is believed to be derived from the amalgamation of two words, ‘Sola’ which means 16 and ‘Pur’ which means villages. It was considered that this present day city was once a congregation of 16 small neighborhoods.

What is the best way to get around in Solapur?

There are various different modes of transport available for making your everyday commute within the city ranging from auto-rickshaws, local buses and the facility to rent or hire private cabs.

Is it possible to buy Solapur’s famous bed sheets and other artifacts for a bargain price?

Visit the main textile manufacturing complex and you yourself can pick from hundreds of traders who put up their unique pieces of fabric garments for sale. The prices at the main expo are cheaper than independent shops who sell the same.