Apeksha Agarwal
Nestled among the lush green mountains, 50 km away from Pune city, lies the serene Hadshi Temple. This hidden gem, popular for the Shri Satya Sai Baba temple, is a perfect weekend getaway or a family outing destination. Managed by the Sathya Sai Trust, the Hadshi Temple provides a unique blend of spirituality, nature, adventure, and relaxation.
Getting There – A Journey Through Nature’s Beauty
Reaching Hadshi Temple might be a bit tricky, as Google Maps doesn’t directly identify it. For those traveling from Pune, the route is straightforward:
- Start from Pune and head towards Chandni Chowk.
- Continue on to Pirangut and then Paud.
- Proceed on the Tamhini/Mulshi route.
- After reaching Paud, take a right turn just after the Bus Stand.
- Follow the road towards Pavana Dam/Tikona.
- Look for signposts, and after around 15 kilometers, you’ll arrive at Hadshi Temple.
A narrow road will lead to the temple’s parking, where charges are Rs 10 for two-wheelers and Rs 20 for cars.
Temple Overview – A Spiritual Oasis
Built in 2009 by Shri Satya Sai Baba, Hadshi Temple spans an area of 300 acres, with a sprawling lawn covering 4 acres. The temple, a two-storied structure, is surrounded by lush green mountains, offering a picturesque setting. The lower level is dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba and Satya Sai Baba, while the upper level houses idols of Lord Vitthal, Rukmini, and Shri Ganesh.
Facilities for Visitors – Catering to All Ages
The temple ensures accessibility for senior citizens with a levitator to assist them in reaching the upper shrine. A convenient parking area and a dedicated play area for children add to the visitor-friendly features. The temple also provides a delightful canteen offering local delicacies like poha, bhel, Sabudana khichdi, and pakodas.
Beyond the Temple – Exploring Hadshi’s Bounty
Hadshi offers more than just the temple experience:
- Hadshi Lake: Just 3.6 km from the temple, the lake offers boating opportunities and breathtaking views of the historical Tikona fort.
- Camping Experience: Private groups offer camping options at Hadshi and Pawna Lake, providing a peaceful retreat amidst nature’s beauty.
- Adventure Awaits: The temple premises host various adventure activities, offering an exciting experience for both adults and children.
Sant Darshan Museum – A Spiritual Odyssey
A fascinating addition to the Hadshi experience is the Sant Darshan Museum, shaped like ॐ. This unique museum showcases lifelike sculptures of deities and saints, including Sai Baba, Krishna, Shiv Parvati, Sant Namdev, Sant Tukaram, and Nandi. The museum’s entry fee is Rs 200 for individuals over 10 years old and Rs 100 for children between 3 to 10 years.
Hadshi Temple is a holistic destination that caters to the spiritual, adventurous, and recreational needs of its visitors. Whether you seek tranquility, adventure, or a blend of both, Hadshi promises a memorable and fulfilling experience. Plan your visit, connect with the divine, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this enchanting spot near Pune.