Looking at out over the picturesque banks of the Shivsagar reservoir in the village of Shembdi in Maharashtra’s Satara district, one will find the Shembdi Math, a place of spiritual worship for Lord Dutta.
The math was founded by the inimitable Vishwachaitanya Sadguru Shri Narayan Maharaj, who is locally known as Anna Maharaj, and it is also called the Narayan Maharaj Math. This place, Shri Narayan Maharaj, in a stroke of poetic genius, named Shri Kshetra Narayanpur Vinayakanagar.
Datta Temple at Shembdi Math One of the most revered pilgrimage sites, you’ll come across a magnificent temple housing the idol of Ganesha, which was installed by Shri Anna Maharaj, when visiting the Shembdi Math.is a revered pilgrimage site, where devotees come to seek blessings from the god. The math also has a magnificent idol of Ganesha installed by Shri Anna Maharaj.
The math has a pindi of Lord Shiva located in its cave, so that when pilgrims visit for darshan they can feel humbled and take their leave. On top of the cave is the imposing right-handed statue of Lord Ganesha combined with the Shivalinga.
Triveni Sangam
Three rivers Koyna, Solshi, and Kandati converge in front of the monastery, and are collectively known as Triveni Sangam. This geographical marvel and the symbolic meeting point of the rivers is said to have spiritual properties and when bathing in this confluence you’re guaranteed a fresh start and heavenly blessings. Nature lovers and thrill-seekers will also find Triveni Sangam an incredible spot to witness the blend of different ecosystems, and it’s not hard to see why it’s revered by pilgrims from all over the country.
Kas Pathar distance from Shembdi Math
When coming from Shembdi, Kas Pathar is 34 km away, and known as the “Valley of Flowers” in Maharashtra, located at the heart of the Western Ghats, is nothing short of breathtaking, being a popular destination for anyone who loves nature.
Kas Pathar, also referred to as the Kaas Plateau, is celebrated for its vibrant monsoon blooms, turning the landscape into a kaleidoscope of colour. There are more than 1500 species of flowering plants on this plateau, out of which many are endemic to the area. The diverse flowering carpet of Kas Pathar comprises delicate orchids and resplendent wildflowers and the scenery is so striking that it will leave you speechless.
Vasota Fort
When looking back in history, the area is steeped in royalty, being close to the Shembdi Math, and is home to the Vasota Fort, a 12th-century hill fort in the Satara district of the Indian state of Maharashtra, and famous for its breathtaking scenery and arduous hikes.
Built between 1178 and 1193 AD by King Bhojraj II of the Shilhara dynasty, Vasota Fort was once the domain of the kingdom, and it was conquered by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1655 AD and given a new name, Vyagragad, or Tiger Fort.
The fort was no stranger to the battles of the Maratha kingdom. It played a pivotal part in the campaigns against both the Mughals and the Adilshahi dynasty. In 1818, heavy damage occurred to the fort was after it was bombed the British.
Location and accessibility of Shembdi Math :
You’re at an elevation of 1171 meters, roughly 43 kilometers from Satara and eight kilometers from Bamnoli village, when you go to the top of the mountain.
Coming up to the summit involves a four to five kilometre hike through thick forests that is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and Shivsagar Lake, and is a hike that calls for moderate to challenging stamina and sturdy footwear.
Attractions in Shembdi Math, Vinayaknagar
Vasota Fort:
You’ll find the historic Vasota Fort close by, when visiting Shembdi Math. The fort offered us a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape and by heading there, you’ll be able to get a sense of the impressive past of this supposedly impregnable fortress and its crumbling remains.
Shivsagar Reservoir:
A boat tour is an excellent way to see the surrounding hills and valleys, and although the water is suitable for fishing and swimming, it is advised to exercise caution, when visiting the area of Shivsagar Reservoir.
Trekking and Camping:
The area of Shembdi Math also presents numerous options for treks and camping in the hills and forests, and can be a good place to admire the landscape, get to know the area’s flora, and fauna.
How to Get to Shembdi Math
Which is 43 kilometers away from the city of Satara, you’ll need to get off at the Bamanoli village ST bus stop, eight kilometers from the Math, when going to Shembdi Math. Coming from Satara, you can also reach Bamanoli village, then visit the Shembdi Math. Walking or a private car are the best ways to get to Shembdi Math from Bamanoli.
There have been a few hotels constructed in the village and surrounding Shembdi Math area, for tourists to stay in.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a holy and panoramic experience, Shembdi Math is an absolute must-visit. Nature lovers and those in search of a true rural experience, will love Shembdi Math. Coming from the people who live here, the genuine warmth and hospitality will be what sets this place apart and create an unforgettable stay.
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The Kaas Lake Boating Guide
what is the purpose of placing the pindi in the cave?
The purpose of placing the pindi in the cave is so that the person coming for darshan can humbly receive darshan and bow out.
Which river meets at Triveni Sangam
The three rivers Koyna, Solshi, and Kandati meet in front of the monastery. Popularly known as Triveni Sangam
What is the distance between Kaas Pathar and Shembdi Math?
The distance between Kaas Pathar and Shembdi Math is 34km
What is Vasota Fort famous for?
Vasota Fort is famous for Trekking and Camping
