Here’s a suggested 3‑Day travel itinerary for visiting Solapur (Maharashtra, India), along with a table of popular places in/around Solapur — approximate time to spend, and typical fees (where available or approximate).
Day 1 — Explore Historic & Cultural Heart
- Morning: Visit Siddheshwar Temple — enjoy the peaceful lake‑surrounded temple, explore the main shrine, smaller temples inside the complex, and the temple lake.
- Late Morning → Lunch: Take a stroll around the temple area, soak in local vibes.
- Afternoon: Head to Bhuikot Fort (also called Solapur Fort) — explore the 14th‑century fort structures, old gates, ruins, well, and the surrounding area.
- Evening: Relax near the lake or fort area; enjoy local street‑food or traditional Maharashtrian meal in town.
Why Day 1: Good blend of spiritual, historic, and urban — helps you get familiar with Solapur’s core heritage and vibe.
Day 2 — Nature, Wildlife & Local Life
- Morning: Start with Moti Baug Tank (Kambar Talao) — a nice lake/tank for a serene walk; good for bird‑watching especially in early morning.
- Late Morning: Visit Mahatma Gandhi National Zoo — a simple zoo that can be nice for families or if you enjoy seeing local fauna.
- Afternoon: Head slightly out (or plan a half‑day visit) to Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary / nearby areas if time permits — for a taste of nature and unique local wildlife / bird life.
- Evening: Explore local markets, try local food (jowar roti, pithla, Solapuri specialties), immerse in city life.
Why Day 2: Offers a contrasting experience — nature, wildlife, local life — relaxing after heritage‑heavy Day 1.
Day 3 — Nearby Excursions & Spiritual / Heritage Side‑trips
- Morning: Visit Revanisiddheshwar Mandir — a calm, spiritual place that’s somewhat away from main city hustle.
- Midday: If you have a vehicle and some time, consider a short drive to nearby local attractions or countryside/lakes (depending on interest — many nearby areas offer scenic rides).
- Afternoon: Optional — revisit favourite spots, or explore lesser-known local towns/temples around Solapur district.
- Evening / Night: Wrap up with local cuisine, maybe witness sunset at a lake or enjoy evening atmosphere in city centre.
Why Day 3: Good for local detours, flexibility, spiritual calm or nature depending on your mood — nice wrap‑up before you depart.
Table of Popular Places in Solapur
| Place / Attraction | Popularity / Significance | Avg Time Spent (hrs) | Entry Fee / Typical Fees* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siddheshwar Temple | Iconic temple + lake; religious & cultural hub of city | 1–2 hrs | Usually free (small puja/prasad donation possible) |
| Bhuikot Fort (Solapur Fort) | Historic 14th‑century fort — heritage & architecture fans | 1–2 hrs | Likely minimal / nominal (often ₹0‑₹50) — many forts in region are low‑cost/ free (confirm locally) |
| Moti Baug Tank / Kambar Talao | Lake + birdwatching / nature walk — relaxing & scenic | 0.5–1 hr (or more if leisurely) | Free / no formal fee (local sightseeing) |
| Mahatma Gandhi National Zoo | Family‑friendly, animals, local fauna, good for visitors with kids | 1–2 hrs | Entry fee (small) — typical small zoo rate (₹50‑₹100 approx depending on adult/child; confirm locally) |
| Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary / outskirts | Wildlife / bird‑life / nature lovers — for a more offbeat nature experience | 2–4 hrs (or half‑day) | Might require transport — sanctuary visit may or may not have formal entry fee (check local guidance) |
| Revanisiddheshwar Mandir | Spiritual / religious place outside main city hustle — calm vibe | 1 hr | Usually free (donation optional) |
| Ujjani Dam & Nearby Lakes / Countryside Rides | Good for a relaxing drive / day‑trip if you like water‑bodies & scenic views | 2–3 hrs (or half‑day) | No big formal fee (mostly travel cost) |
* — Fees are approximate / typical for small‑city Indian tourist spots. For many heritage sites and natural spots, entry may be free or nominal. Always check locally for the most current fee info.
Tips & Suggestions
- Best Time to Visit: October to March — pleasant weather, good for sightseeing.
- Travel Style: A mix of heritage, culture, nature and relaxed leisure — perfect if you like a balanced, easy‑paced trip.
- Local Food & Shopping: Don’t miss trying local Maharashtrian dishes (jowar roti, pithla, etc.) and perhaps the famed local textile items.
- Flexibility: Use Day 3 as ‘buffer’ — you can skip or extend visits based on how much you like a place.