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Rankala

Rankala Lake is a picturesque lake in the Kolhapur District of the state of Maharashtra in western India. It is believed to be linked directly to a well in Panhala Fort which Shivaji Maharaj is believed to have crossed.Now a days it is a famous spot for residents of Kolhapur to spend the weekends.

Fact File

Location: Kolhapur

Nearby Villages : Kolhapur

Distance from major cities:
Mumbai - 398 km
Pune - 238 km

Latitude: 16°68'95"N
Longitude: 74°21'20"E

Best time to visit: Throughout the year.

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History

Prior to 8th century this historical place was just a stone quarry. In the earthquake which took place sometime in 9th century some natural structural change took place in the quarry. Water started accumulating in this quarry due to opening of an underground source. This accumulated water is today’s famous Rankala Lake. This historic lake has a Temple with very big “ Nandi ” As per Hindu mythology Lord Shiva uses “ Nandi ” for traveling. It is believed that this idol of Nandi moves about a distance of a single Wheat grain towards the lake and back about a distance of Single Rice grain Daily. It is also said that when this Idol reaches the lake the whole world will be destroyed.

topAttractions

Padpath Udyan -
In recent past, Kolhapur Municipal corporation has bult "Padpath Udyan" for a lakeside walk.
Chowpaty -
Thinking for Rankala & Chowaptis remind us of Delicious Bhel-Puri , Ragda Patis & Various Mouth Watering Snacks like Roasted Corns etc. Rankala is also famous for Horse-Ride & Boating.
Shalini Palace-
Shalini palace standing on the West Bank of the picturesque Rankala Lake was built in 1932-34. It is named after Princess Shrimant Shalini Raje of Kolhapur. Towering Palm trees, lush greenery and lovely gardens surround it. The Palace is built of intricately carved black stone and Italian marble. Rich decorative wooden doorways fitted with etched Belgium glasses bearing the crest of the Maharaja of Kolhapur add to the regal grandeur. The majestic black stone arches forming the verandah and the porch are breathtakingly beautiful. Later on in 1987 it was converted into a hotel, the only Palace hotel in Maharashtra.

topReaching there

By Air -
Kolhapur is the nearest airport 20 km away.
By Rail -
Kolhapur is the nearest rail head 12 km away.
By Road -
Regular ST buses are available from Pune, Mumbai and across Maharshtra to Kolhpur

topAccommodation

Shalini Place is the best place to stay. It commands excellent view of the lake.

Last Updated ( Friday, 27 July 2007 )

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