Dehu – Alandi

The Indian state of Maharashtra that contains Mumbai, the financial capital of India, also abounds in religious places. Some of them are linked to saints and spiritual leaders. Dehu and Alandi, both located in the Pune district, are noted for being the birthplaces of the Saint Tukaram and Saint Dnyaneshwar respectively.

Alandi is located on the banks of the Indrayani River. It is 25 kilometers east of Pune. If you are visiting Pune, you should certainly go to Alandi. It also has the distinction of having an ancient collection of the holy Shivaling. Saint Dnyaneshwar, in one of his religious verses has mentioned it as Sidheshwar. The revered saint has also mentioned that no less than 84 Sidhas congregate or exist here. The saint in his religious book stresses the importance of chanting the name of Hari, another name of Lord Vishnu. Interestingly, in recent years, Alandi has become associated with mass marriages.

But that’s not the only religious destination around this place. 15 kilometers away from Alandi is Dehu, another religious place close to Pune. This is where saint Tukaram was born. The temple of Saint Tukaram which was built in 1723 still stands in Dehu. You should see it on a visit. One of the principal religious festivals that originate from Dehu is the Palakhi, which is observed in the month of Ashadh by thousands of devotees who congregate in Dehu.

Ideally, you should visit both Dehu and Alandi together on a trip from Pune. Both places are very close to the city. You can visit them on any weekend.

How to reach: You should visit both Dehu and Alandi from Pune. It will take you just about 30 minutes, maximum one hour. There are local buses that can take you there. Or else, you can drive your own automobile too.

There are plenty of places to stay in Dehu and Alandi. You can choose from nearby hotels, resorts and home stays. There are many “dharmashalas” too.