This was an unplanned trip to an enchanting place near Pune - the Prati Balaji temple. It’s a long drive from Hadapsar via the Pune-Satara highway that took approximately an hour and a half to reach the place.
The temple is located at Narayanpur surrounded by hills that makes an ideal visit during monsoon. It is a mini-replica of the famous Balaji Temple in Tirumala Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh.
Since we started early in the morning on a national holiday, 15th Aug, the crowd was less. On the way, is the Lamxidhaam temple, which was quite crowded even in those early hours because apart from being a national holiday, it was also the festival of brother and sister - Raksha bandhan. people throng to temples, and nature's resorts, not willing to miss such weekend blessings. The low clouds kissing the hills and the drive on zig-zag curved roads was a pleasurable experience on this partly rainy day.
It drizzled gently when we entered the main gate. The walk to the sanctum sanctorium indeed gave a feel of Tirupati with huge plantations and different kinds of trees along the lanes. The structure and ambience was also similar in many aspects.There were stone carvings depicting stories from the Hindu mythology along the path.
Thankfully, we did not have to wait in long queues to worship and seek the blessings of our Lord. The temple had beautifully ornated idol of the lord, granting the wishes of his devotees who came to worship Him. There were other small temples within the temple premises along with Lord Balaji’s consorts.
The prasadam and maha-prasad served here was similar to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam. The prasadam, as usual is always a blessing to the tired and hungry devotees from the Lord. You can also visit the fort hill of Purandar, situated just a few kilometres from the temple.
It's a good get-away weekend destination for all. Have a great trip!
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