Ancient Ramdara Temple, Loni Kalbhor, Pune

The Ramdara Temple near Loni Kalbhor in Pune is a serene and naturally beautiful pilgrimage site. This temple was established through the efforts of Shri Devpuri Maharaj, also known as Dhundibaba, who originally hailed from Ayodhya. It is said that while in Ayodhya, Dhundibaba had a divine vision of Lord Rama. In this vision, Lord Rama told him that He had resided in this region near Loni Kalbhor during His exile and that He would remain there eternally. Following this, Dhundibaba searched for the location in Loni Kalbhor and built his ashram there.

After discovering a Shiva Linga at this site, he consecrated it and resolved to build a grand temple here. Around the year 1954, there was only a stream here. Dhundibaba decided to build a lake near the stream and construct the temple within it. He sought the help of the locals for this purpose. Through these efforts, the exceptionally beautiful Shri Ramdara Temple was built. The forest-like yet well-maintained trees, the constant chirping of birds, the stone platforms and seating arrangements created around the trees through beautification, and the water visible on three sides of the temple due to its construction within the lake, truly mesmerize the devotees. It is said that before Dhundibaba arrived, this was a dense forest, and local residents were afraid to even enter the area. However, this place is now gaining fame as a tourist destination.

It is also said that in ancient times, Shri Kshetra Ramdara was a place dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was renovated during the Peshwa era, but over time, it was neglected. Later, Dhundibaba restored the dilapidated temple, leading to the construction of the beautiful temple seen today. It is said that a Koti Gayatri Mahayajna was held here in the year 1982.

It is the belief of devotees that during His exile, Lord Ramachandra, along with Sita and Lakshmana, resided here for some time. This is why this place is known as ‘Ramdara’. The temple is surrounded by the waters of the lake, and one must cross a bridge to reach the temple on the other side. The lake is adorned with lotus flowers and various creepers, and ducks can be seen moving about confidently in and out of the water.

The temple is constructed of carved stone. At the entrance, there is a Nandi on one platform, while Lord Hanuman is consecrated on another. The main hall (Sabhamandap) of the temple has 24 pillars. The walls are adorned with sculptures of deities, among which the sculpture of Lord Shiva performing the Tandava dance is particularly eye-catching. There is a marble statue of Dhundibaba in the main hall. A sacrificial altar (Yajna Kund) has also been built on one side. In the sanctum sanctorum, along with the Shiva Linga, idols of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Dattatreya have been consecrated. Currently, the temple trust owns 35 acres of land, and the maintenance of the temple is funded by the income from farming.

Located 26 kilometers from Pune, the temple can be reached by traveling six kilometers from the Loni Kalbhor Phata on the Solapur highway. Devotees can visit the temple for darshan between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

Sacred History & Spiritual Significance

This sacred temple stands as a testament to deep spiritual devotion, ancient architectural grandeur, and rich local cultural traditions.

Temple Sanctum & Architecture

The sanctum sanctorum houses the divine idol consecrated according to ancient Vedic traditions, surrounded by serene courtyards and traditional temple architecture.

Sacred Darshan Gallery