With around 15 lakh devotees expected for the Ashadhi Wari, Pandharpur has arranged over 1,250 maths, 100 devotee residences, and several free government shelter sheds to house pilgrims arriving from July 4 onward.
Pandharpur, Maharashtra | June 26, 2025: As the sacred Ashadhi Wari festival approaches, the spiritual town of Pandharpur is preparing to host an estimated 15 lakh Warkaris and devotees arriving to seek darshan of Lord Vitthal on Ashadhi Ekadashi, which falls on July 6 this year. To accommodate the sea of pilgrims, the city has activated a well-coordinated hospitality network—built over generations of tradition and experience.
For many Warkaris, Pandharpur itself becomes their second home. A massive system of 1,250 Warkari maths (communal spiritual lodges), 100 devotee residences, and numerous government shelter sheds will welcome pilgrims during this sacred journey. The palanquins (palkhis) of revered saints traditionally arrive on Navami and Dashami, i.e., July 4 and 5, drawing peak footfall during these two days.
Many Warkaris prefer staying in Maths—communal halls where bhajans, kirtans, and Haripath create a deeply spiritual environment. These places also offer daily prasad and simple meals, making them a natural choice for those who prefer devotion over luxury. A nominal donation receipt is usually issued for stay and food, making it affordable.
An age-old tradition still thrives in the lanes of Pandharpur—residents open their homes to pilgrims. In the temple vicinity, rooms can be rented for Rs 100 to Rs 500, or for just Rs 50 to store belongings for the day. These locations offer easy access to the Chandrabhaga River, Vitthal Temple, and Nagar Pradakshina.
Devotee accommodations and lodges range from Rs 700 to Rs 2,000 per room. However, demand is so high that many are booked months in advance. Meanwhile, premium hotels offer 3-day stay packages during Dashami, Ekadashi, and Dwadashi for Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000, inclusive of food and basic amenities.
This year, special free shelter sheds have been prepared by the government on the city’s outskirts and entry points. These shelters include clean water, toilets, bathrooms, and mobile charging stations. Though about 4–5 km away from the temple, these pavilions offer free, safe lodging options for Warkaris and devotees arriving without prior bookings.
With its unique blend of spiritual warmth and logistical precision, Pandharpur once again stands ready to welcome lakhs of Vitthal devotees with open arms. From humble homes to organized shelter sheds, the city’s seamless blend of tradition and planning makes the Ashadhi Wari not just a pilgrimage—but a soulful experience.
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