Asthamba is a small village in the Sangli district of Maharashtra, India. The town is known for its ancient temple of Asthamba Devi, which is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. The temple is believed to be over 600 years old and is considered one of Maharashtra's most sacred pilgrimage sites.
The Asthamba Devi temple is situated on a hilltop and requires climbing up around 400 steps to reach the temple. The large temple complex comprises several other shrines dedicated to various gods and goddesses. The temple's architecture is typical of the Hemadpanthi style of construction, which is a blend of the South Indian and North Indian styles of architecture.
The village of Asthamba is also known for its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush green hills and dense forests, which makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. The village is also home to several waterfalls, a popular tourist attraction.
Asthamba Devi temple is the Navratri festival, dedicated to the nine forms of Durga. During this festival, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and devotees from all over the state visit the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings from the goddess.
Sangli is a bustling city around 22 kilometres from Asthamba. The city is known for its numerous temples, including the famous Sangli Ganpati Temple, one of the largest in the state. The city is also known for its shopping markets and food joints.
Dandoba Hill Station:
Dandoba is a scenic hill station around 33 kilometres from Asthamba. The hill station is known for its lush green forests, waterfalls, and trekking trails, and it is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Irwin Bridge is a historic bridge located around 25 kilometres from Asthamba. The bridge was built during the British era and is known for its architecture and engineering. The bridge spans the Krishna River and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills.
Kundal Sangam:
Kundal Sangam is a holy confluence of Krishna and Panchganga. The place is located around 40 kilometres from Asthamba and is considered sacred by the Hindus. Dipping in the intersection is believed to wash away sins and bring good fortune.
Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area around 52 kilometres from Asthamba. The sanctuary is known for its rich flora and fauna, including various species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The refuge also has several trekking trails offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.