Bhandara Dongar Near Pune Blends Varkari Tradition and 1,800-Year Buddhist Heritage
Reported By Kajal Bhukan
Dehu, 14th June 2025: Nestled in the serene landscape near Dehu, just a few kilometres from Pune, Bhandara Dongar also known as Bhandara Hill is a spiritually significant site that beautifully blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Closely associated with 17th-century saint and poet Sant Tukaram Maharaj, this sacred hill draws pilgrims, history lovers, and trekkers alike.For the followers of the Varkari tradition, it is much more than a hill it is a pilgrimage of belief, contemplation, and worship.
A Place of Spiritual Depth
Legend has it that Sant Tukaram Maharaj meditated on Bhandara Dongar for 15 days and received a divine vision of Lord Vitthal. Many of his abhangas (devotional verses) are believed to have been inspired here, including the iconic line “Vrikshwali Amaha Soyari Vanchari,” which celebrates kinship with nature. These spiritual events have made the hill a revered stop for Varkari pilgrims.
“Climbing this hill fills me with peace. It’s like walking in Tukaram Maharaj’s footsteps,” shared Sunita Kendre, a devotee from Lonavala. “We come here every year with our group and recite his *abhangas* as we walk.”
At the summit stands a modest yet spiritually significant temple dedicated to Sant Tukaram. Near it is a sculpture that commemorates a touching legend involving his wife, Jijabai. According to the tale, she once stepped on a thorn while climbing the hill to bring food to her husband. Carrying a pot of water in one hand and a plate of food on her head, she struggled to remove the thorn until Lord Vitthal appeared in the form of a shepherd and gently removed it.
The Rise of a Grand Temple
Now under construction, a new and grand Sant Tukaram Maharaj temple is being built on Bhandara Dongar. Slated for completion in 2025, the temple is designed to be both architecturally impressive and spiritually welcoming.
Spanning 179 feet in length, 193 feet in width, and 87 feet in height, the temple will house idols of Lord Vitthal-Rukmini and Sant Tukaram Maharaj. The structure will feature three main and 17 minor kalash (pitcher pots), beautifully carved pillars, and a large pradakshina marg (circumambulatory path) for devotees.
A standout feature will be the Shringar Chowk a magnificently adorned courtyard—and the 2,200 stone-carved figures on the outer pillars, reflecting stories and symbols from the Varkari tradition. The architecture incorporates the holy Nandurki tree and an elevated platform close to the tree to accommodate religious activities.
Built using pink sandstone from Bansi Paharpur and delicate white stone, the temple promises to blend traditional craftsmanship with a modern sense of scale.
“Watching this temple rise is like seeing our faith take form,” said Sandeep, a local resident. “This is not just a place of worship, but a symbol of our community’s devotion.”
A Trek Through Nature’s Calm
Beyond its religious significance, Bhandara Dongar is a peaceful escape into nature. The 2 to 2.5 km uphill walk starting from Induri village on the Talegaon Chakan Road is a gentle trek with panoramic views of the Indrayani River and lush greenery, particularly stunning during the monsoon season.
“The combination of spirituality and nature here is unmatched,” said Archana Deshmukh, a Pune-based trekker. “We visit during the rains every year—the greenery, fresh air, and calm atmosphere make it perfect for a peaceful day.”
Facilities at the base include parking, refreshment stalls, and ongoing construction of a lodging facility to better accommodate pilgrims.
A Glimpse Into Forgotten History
Tucked away on Bhandara Dongar are ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves that date back nearly 1,800 years. Created as meditation rooms by Buddhist monks, they serve as an reminder of the layered nature of the site’s history. A history preceding Bhakti times and contributing to archaeological interest.
While not widely known or preserved like other heritage caves in Maharashtra, these structures offer rare insight into the region’s diverse spiritual past and could become a point of interest for history enthusiasts and researchers.
How to Reach?
Bhandara Dongar is around 36 km from Pune and 3 km from Talegaon, located off the Talegaon-Chakan Road near Induri village. It is well road and rail connected:
By Train: Take a local train from Pune to Talegaon station.
By Road: Buses and private vehicles can reach Talegaon. From there, auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available.
By Air: The nearest airport is Pune International Airport.
Timing: Open throughout the day, year-round.
Highlights at a Glance
Main Temple: Dedicated to Sant Tukaram Maharaj Under-Construction Grand Temple: Expected completion in 2025
Legendary Spot: Sculpture depicting Lord Vitthal helping Jijabai
Buddhist Caves: Over 1,800 years old
Monsoon Trek: Green landscapes and views of the Indrayani River
Devotional Art: 2,200 carved figures planned for the new temple
Nearby Sites in Dehu Worth Visiting
Birthplace Temple of Sant Tukaram Maharaj (Tukaram Maharaj Janmasthan Mandir) Sant Tukaram Vaikunthsthan Mandir Sant Tukaram Maharaj Gatha Mandir (features 4,500 abhangas engraved in stone) Lord Vitthal-Rukmini Temple Narayan Maharaj Temple Vishwambhar Baba Temple (ancestor of Tukaram Maharaj)
Bhandara Dongar is not just a place of pilgrimage it is a timeless destination where spirituality, nature, and heritage harmoniously intertwine. Whether you’re a devout Varkari, a quiet seeker, or a traveller in search of history and serenity, this sacred hill offers something meaningful to all.
