The Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple, Pandharpur is one of the most respected and deeply loved pilgrimage places in Maharashtra. This holy temple is dedicated to Lord Vitthal (Vithoba), worshipped as a form of Lord Krishna, along with Goddess Rukmini. Every year, lakhs of devotees visit Pandharpur to seek blessings and experience the peaceful spiritual atmosphere of this sacred town.
The spiritual energy of Pandharpur Vitthal Temple becomes even stronger during important Ekadashi festivals. Ashadhi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi are the most significant occasions, when thousands of devotees, known as Warkaris, walk long distances from different parts of India to reach the temple. During these festivals, the entire town is filled with devotion, bhajans, and chanting, creating a powerful spiritual experience for every visitor.
Because of the huge number of devotees visiting throughout the year, managing crowds at the Vitthal Rukmini Temple can be challenging, especially on Ekadashi days, weekends, and holidays. To make the darshan process smoother, the temple committee has introduced a darshan pass booking system. Devotees can now book Pandharpur darshan passes through both online and offline methods, which helps reduce waiting time and ensures a more comfortable darshan experience.
This complete guide to Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple darshan pass booking explains the entire process in clear and easy language. Whether you are visiting Pandharpur for the first time or planning another trip as a regular devotee, this guide will help you plan your visit better and enjoy a peaceful and hassle-free Vitthal Temple darshan.
Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir Overview
The Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir, Pandharpur is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Maharashtra. The temple is managed by the Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir Samiti and is believed to have been established in the 13th century. Over the centuries, it has remained a central place of devotion for millions of followers of Lord Vitthal.
Situated on the peaceful banks of the Chandrabhaga River, the temple holds deep spiritual importance and is strongly linked with the Bhakti movement. Great saints such as Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar played a key role in spreading devotion to Lord Vitthal (Vithoba), making Pandharpur a major spiritual center in India. Even today, devotees feel a strong sense of faith and calm while visiting this holy place.
Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir Information at a Glance
Below is a quick and helpful overview of important details related to the Pandharpur Vitthal Temple, useful for devotees planning their visit:
| Temple Name | Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir |
|---|---|
| Location | Pandharpur, Solapur District, Maharashtra |
| Main Deities | Lord Vitthal (Vithoba) and Goddess Rukmini |
| Established | 13th Century |
| Major Festivals | Ashadhi Ekadashi, Kartiki Ekadashi, and all monthly Ekadashi days |
| Darshan Booking Modes | Online and Offline |
| Darshan Pass Price Range | ₹100 to ₹2,500 |
| Official Website | vitthalrukminimandir.org |
Pandharpur Darshan Pass 2026 Online Booking Process
Online darshan pass booking is the most convenient option for devotees planning their visit in advance. The temple usually releases darshan passes up to 8 days before the darshan date.
Steps to book online:
- Visit the official website of Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir.
- Click on the darshan pass booking option.
- Select the preferred darshan date and time slot.
- Enter personal details such as name, mobile number, and ID proof information.
- Complete the payment using available online methods.
- After successful booking, an e-pass will be sent to the registered email address.
Devotees must carry a printed or mobile version of the e-pass along with a valid photo ID at the temple. Online booking is recommended during Ekadashi festivals, weekends, and peak pilgrimage seasons.
Offline Darshan Pass Booking at Pandharpur Temple
For devotees unable to book online, the temple provides offline darshan passes at designated counters near the temple.
- Offline passes are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and depend on daily availability.
- This option works best on normal weekdays.
- During festivals, weekends, or special occasions, offline passes may be limited, and waiting time can increase.
Therefore, for a hassle-free visit, online booking is highly recommended during peak periods.
Why Darshan Pass Booking Is Important
The Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple in Pandharpur receives a large number of devotees every day. The crowd becomes much heavier on weekends, Ekadashi days, and during major festivals like Ashadhi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi. Without a darshan pass, devotees often have to stand in long queues that can last for several hours.
Booking a darshan pass helps manage the crowd and reduces waiting time. It allows devotees to have a smoother and more peaceful darshan experience. This system is especially helpful for senior citizens, women with children, and families who may find it difficult to stand for long hours.
Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple Darshan and Aarti Timings
The Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple in Pandharpur welcomes devotees throughout the year, and its darshan timings are mostly consistent. During festivals or special rituals, minor adjustments may occur. Visiting the temple at the right time can make your experience peaceful and more spiritual.
Here is a detailed overview of the temple timings:
| Activity | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 4:30 AM |
| Kakad Aarti | 4:30 AM to 5:00 AM |
| Special Darshan | 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Afternoon Break | 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM |
| Evening Aarti | 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM |
| Temple Closes | 11:30 PM |
Tips for devotees:
- Early morning hours are considered the best for a peaceful darshan with shorter queues.
- If visiting during festivals like Ashadhi Ekadashi or Kartiki Ekadashi, plan your visit early to avoid heavy crowds.
- Evening Aarti is ideal for those who wish to experience the spiritual rituals and chants of the temple.
By following the temple timings and planning your visit, devotees can enjoy a smooth and fulfilling Pandharpur Vitthal Temple darshan experience.
VIP Darshan and Special Darshan Pass Charges at Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple
The Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple, Pandharpur offers multiple darshan options to meet the needs of different devotees. Charges for darshan passes may vary slightly during festivals and special events, especially on Ashadhi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi.
Here is a quick overview of the darshan pass charges:
| Darshan Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| VIP Darshan | ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 |
| Special Darshan | ₹100 to ₹300 |
| General Darshan | Free |
| Ashadhi Ekadashi Special Darshan | ₹500 to ₹3,000 (varies by event) |
Tips for devotees:
- VIP Darshan is ideal for those who prefer a faster and more comfortable darshan experience.
- Special Darshan is suitable for devotees who want organized entry without long queues.
- General Darshan remains free but may require waiting during peak hours.
- For festival days, especially Ashadhi Ekadashi, special darshan passes may have variable pricing depending on crowd and event arrangements.
For the most accurate and up-to-date prices, always check the official Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir website before planning your visit.
Ashadhi Ekadashi 2026 at Pandharpur Vitthal Rukmini Temple
Ashadhi Ekadashi is the biggest and most spiritually powerful festival at the Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir in Pandharpur. Each year, millions of devotees walk long distances in a holy pilgrimage called the Wari, culminating in darshan of Lord Vitthal. For many, this day is not just a festival — it is a life‑changing spiritual journey.
Ashadhi Ekadashi 2026 Date
Ashadhi Ekadashi 2026, also called Devshayani Ekadashi or Sayani Ekadashi, falls on Saturday, July 25, 2026. This marks the start of the holy Chaturmas period, when Lord Vishnu is believed to enter Yoga Nidra (divine deep sleep). Devotees observe fasts, chant prayers, and perform special rituals. The fast is broken (Parana) the next day, Sunday, July 26, 2026, in the morning.
Significance of Ashadhi Ekadashi
Ashadhi Ekadashi is considered one of the holiest Ekadashis in the Hindu calendar, especially for devotees of Lord Vitthal. The word Ashadhi refers to the Hindu month of Ashadha, and Ekadashi is the eleventh lunar day of the fortnight.
Devotees believe that:
- Darshan on Ashadhi Ekadashi grants spiritual freedom
- Blessings are multiplied compared to ordinary days
- Past sins are washed away by sincere devotion
- Lord Vitthal hears the prayers of pilgrims with special grace
Because of this divine importance, devotees from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Gujarat walk for days in the Wari tradition.
Pandharpur Wari & Pilgrimage Tradition
The Wari is an annual walking pilgrimage where devotees known as Varkaris travel from their home towns to Pandharpur. They sing abhangas (devotional songs), chant Lord Vitthal’s name, and stop at various holy spots known as Dindi stops.
During Ashadhi Ekadashi weekend:
- Pilgrims arrive in stages from Pune, Alandi, Nashik, and many villages
- Thousands of Dindis (pilgrim groups) converge in Pandharpur
- The devotional atmosphere is vibrant, with drums, cymbals, and chants
This cultural and spiritual procession is one of India’s most iconic religious traditions.
Darshan Pass Booking for Ashadhi Ekadashi 2026
Because of the massive surge in visitors, special darshan pass booking is available for Ashadhi Ekadashi. These passes help reduce waiting time and make crowd management safer and more organized.
How Early to Book
✔ Online booking usually opens about 7–10 days before Ashadhi Ekadashi
✔ Passes tend to sell out fast due to high demand
✔ Early morning timing slots fill quicker than afternoon slots
Tip: Book your passes as soon as they are released to secure the best time window.
Ashadhi Ekadashi Special Darshan Pass Charges 2026
During Ashadhi Ekadashi, special passes are introduced with priority access. These are separate from regular and VIP darshan types.
Expected Pass Categories & Fees:
Pass Type
Approx. Price
Special Ashadhi Ekadashi Darshan
₹500 – ₹3,000
VIP Ashadhi Darshan
₹1,500 – ₹3,500
General Darshan
Free or limited access
Note: Final prices are set by the temple committee and may vary closer to the festival. Always confirm on vitthalrukminimandir.org.
Travel & Accommodation During Ashadhi Ekadashi 2026
Pandharpur becomes extremely busy during Ashadhi Ekadashi. All nearby towns — Solapur, Barshi, and Tuljapur — fill up quickly. Booking rooms in advance is highly recommended.
Key Travel Tips:
✔ Use local buses and trains to Pandharpur early in the morning
✔ Private taxi services are often in demand during festival season
✔ Check temple notices for shuttle services
Best Time to Visit Pandharpur Temple
Pandharpur remains a spiritually vibrant destination throughout the year, but crowd levels can vary depending on the season, day, and festival periods. Planning your visit at the right time can make your Vitthal Temple darshan more peaceful and enjoyable.
Best Time for Less Crowd
- Weekdays
- Early morning hours
- Non-festival months
Visiting during these times ensures a smoother darshan experience with shorter queues and a calm spiritual atmosphere.
Peak Crowd Periods
- Ashadhi Ekadashi
- Kartiki Ekadashi
- Wari pilgrimage season
- Weekends and public holidays
Devotees planning to visit during festivals are strongly advised to book darshan passes in advance to avoid long waiting times and crowd congestion.
Important Guidelines for Devotees
Following temple rules ensures a smooth and respectful Pandharpur Vitthal Temple darshan experience for everyone.
Key points to remember:
- Carry a valid government ID along with your darshan pass
- Mobile phones may not be allowed inside the temple
- Dress modestly and traditionally
- Follow queue instructions given by temple staff
- Photography inside the sanctum is restricted
Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple Contact Details
For darshan-related queries, booking assistance, or festival updates, devotees can contact the temple authorities.
Temple Address
Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir Samiti, Saint Tukaram Bhavan, Near Shri Vitthal Mandir, Pandharpur – 413304, Solapur District, Maharashtra
Phone Numbers
02186-224466
02186-223550
Fax
02186-220261
Email
eotemple@vitthalrukminimandir.org
eotemple@gmail.com
Facilities Available for Pilgrims
The Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir administration provides essential facilities to ensure devotees’ comfort during their visit.
Facilities include:
- Drinking water points
- Clean restrooms
- Footwear stands
- Prasad counters
- Nearby accommodation options
During major festivals, additional facilities such as medical help desks and crowd control arrangements are also provided to ensure the safety and convenience of devotees.
Pandharpur Vitthal Rukmini Temple Darshan FAQs
Q1: How do I book a darshan pass for Pandharpur Vitthal Rukmini Temple?
You can book online through the official website vitthalrukminimandir.org or get offline passes at the temple counters based on availability.
Q2: What is the price of VIP darshan at Pandharpur Temple?
VIP darshan tickets usually cost between ₹1,000 and ₹2,500, depending on the festival or event.
Q3: Is general darshan free at the temple?
Yes, general darshan is free, but queues can be long during Ekadashi and festival days.
Q4: Can I book a special darshan for Ashadhi Ekadashi in advance?
Yes, special passes for Ashadhi Ekadashi can be booked online up to 8 days in advance.
Q5: What are the temple darshan timings?
Daily darshan is available from 4:30 AM to 11:30 PM, with Kakad Aarti at 4:30–5:00 AM and evening Aarti at 7:00–7:30 PM.
Q6: Do I need an ID to enter the temple for darshan?
Yes, a valid government ID must be carried along with your darshan pass for verification.
Q7: Are offline darshan passes available at Pandharpur Temple?
Yes, but online booking is recommended to avoid long queues and secure your preferred time slot.
Q8: What are the best times to visit Pandharpur Temple for less crowd?
Weekdays, early mornings, and non-festival months are ideal for a peaceful darshan.
Q9: Where can I find official temple updates or contact for queries?
Visit vitthalrukminimandir.org or contact the temple at 02186-224466 / 223550 or email eotemple@vitthalrukminimandir.org.
Q10: What types of darshan passes are available at Pandharpur Temple?
General Darshan (free), Special Darshan (₹100–₹300), VIP Darshan (₹1,000–₹2,500), and Ashadhi Ekadashi Special Darshan (₹500–₹3,000).
