Nestled amidst lush greenery and tranquil surroundings, Ramdara Temple is one of the most peaceful and scenic temples near Pune, Maharashtra. Dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva, this hidden gem is not only a place of worship but also a perfect weekend getaway for those seeking spiritual solace and natural beauty. Known for its rustic charm, beautiful architecture, and meditative ambiance, Ramdara Temple offers an experience that is both divine and rejuvenating.
| Temple Name | Ramdara Temple |
| Location | Near Loni Kalbhor, ~25 km from Pune, Maharashtra |
| Primary Deity | Lord Shiva (Shivalinga), with idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana |
| Rebuilt By | Shri Devipuri Maharaj (Dhundi Baba) in the 1970s |
| Notable Feature | Dhundi Baba’s Samadhi (final resting place) |
| Architecture | Traditional black-stone temple with serene lake and lotus pond |
| Natural Surroundings | Lush greenery, lotus-filled lake, migratory birds, and peaceful trails |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March (pleasant weather and greenery) |
| Temple Timings | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM (approximate, varies seasonally) |
| Nearby Attractions | Theur Ganpati Temple, Bhuleshwar Temple, Jejuri Khandoba Temple |
| Ideal For | Meditation, nature walks, spiritual retreats, weekend getaways |
| Accessibility | By car or bike via Pune-Solapur Highway; nearest bus stop at Loni Kalbhor |
History and Significance
Though the original structure of the temple is believed to be ancient, the current Ramdara Temple was rebuilt by a spiritual guru named Shri Devipuri Maharaj (also known as Dhundi Baba) in the 1970s. Since then, the temple has become a spiritual hub attracting devotees from Pune and beyond.
The temple is unique as it houses not only the Shivalinga, but also beautifully carved idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana, which is how the temple got its name – “Ramdara”, meaning “the gateway of Rama.” Additionally, the premises are dotted with several other shrines dedicated to various deities like Lord Ganesha, Hanuman, and Dattatreya.
Ramdara Temple Darshan Timings
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 6:00 AM | 8:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 6:00 AM | 8:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:00 AM | 8:00 PM |
| Thursday | 6:00 AM | 8:00 PM |
| Friday | 6:00 AM | 8:00 PM |
| Saturday | 6:00 AM | 8:00 PM |
| Sunday | 6:00 AM | 8:00 PM |
Note: Timings may slightly vary on special occasions and during festivals. It’s advisable to visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience.
Location and How to Reach
Ramdara Temple is located about 25 km southeast of Pune, near the village of Loni Kalbhor. It is easily accessible by road and is a favorite destination for bikers, cyclists, and nature lovers.
By Car: You can take the Pune-Solapur Highway (NH65) and turn toward Loni Kalbhor. From there, follow the signboards or Google Maps to reach the temple.
By Bike/Cycle: Many local cyclists and bikers prefer to visit Ramdara in the early morning, enjoying the scenic countryside en route.
By Public Transport: Buses are available up to Loni Kalbhor, after which a short auto ride or walk can take you to the temple.
The last stretch of the route goes through a narrow road surrounded by farmlands and hills, making the journey itself a meditative experience.
Temple Architecture and Atmosphere
Built with black stone, the temple has a simple yet elegant design that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. As you approach the temple, you are welcomed by a picturesque lake filled with lotus flowers, adding to the spiritual ambiance. The reflection of the temple in the still water creates a calming visual, making it a popular spot for photography and meditation.
Inside the temple, the main sanctum houses a Shivalinga, while the idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana are enshrined beside it. The peaceful environment is often filled with the sounds of chanting, bells, and the rustling of peepal leaves, creating a deeply spiritual setting.
Dhundi Baba Samadhi
One of the main spiritual attractions of Ramdara Temple is the Samadhi (final resting place) of Dhundi Baba, who is revered as a saint and yogi. Devotees often spend time meditating near the Samadhi, seeking blessings and inner peace.
The teachings and life of Dhundi Baba continue to inspire many spiritual seekers. His followers have preserved the temple with great devotion, ensuring that its spiritual sanctity remains intact.
Flora, Fauna, and Lake
The surroundings of the temple are lush and green, especially during the monsoon and winter seasons. The man-made lake in front of the temple not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also supports a variety of birds and aquatic life.
The area is popular among:
Birdwatchers
Photographers
Yoga practitioners
Nature enthusiasts
You may often find groups sitting near the banks, meditating or enjoying the serene view. The cool breeze, chirping birds, and distant temple bells create a calming natural rhythm.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Ramdara Temple is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and the surroundings are green and vibrant. Early mornings and evenings are especially peaceful, perfect for meditation and quiet reflection.
During Maha Shivaratri, the temple sees a surge of devotees and hosts special poojas and aartis. However, even during regular days, the temple maintains its quiet charm due to the lack of commercial tourism.
Tips for Visitors
Footwear must be removed before entering the temple premises.
Dress modestly and respect the sanctity of the space.
There are no commercial eateries around the temple, so carrying light snacks and water is advisable.
Keep the area clean; avoid littering to preserve the environment.
Nearby Places to Explore
If you’re planning a day trip, you can also explore nearby attractions such as:
Theur Ganpati Temple – One of the Ashtavinayak temples, located 30 minutes from Ramdara.
Bhuleshwar Temple – A hilltop Shiva temple known for its unique Mughal-style carvings.
Jejuri – The famous Khandoba Temple, about an hour’s drive away.
