Top 5 Places to Visit in Hingoli, Maharashtra, India

thecitytravel July 22, 2026

Top 5 Places to Visit in Hingoli, Maharashtra: A Complete Travel Guide

Nestled gracefully in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra, Hingoli is a district steeped in ancient devotion, rich historical legacy, and serene rural landscapes. While it often remains off the radar of mainstream commercial tourism, Hingoli holds an undeniable allure for spiritual seekers, history buffs, and travelers yearning for authentic off-the-beaten-path experiences. Bordered by Nanded, Parbhani, Washim, and Yavatmal, this charming district offers a peaceful sanctuary far away from the chaotic rhythm of bustling metropolises.

From housing one of the revered twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva to boasting pristine Jain pilgrimage sites, historic temples of saint-poets, and picturesque water bodies, the tourist places in Hingoli carry a unique cultural tapestry. The district's landscape transitions smoothly from golden agricultural fields to quiet river basins, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and submerge themselves in Marathwada's warm hospitality. Whether you are planning a weekend trip, a religious pilgrimage, or an exploration of Maharashtra’s hidden heritage, Hingoli promises unforgettable memories.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the top 5 places to visit in Hingoli, providing detailed insights on attractions, ideal visiting times, logistics, mouth-watering local cuisine, and practical tips to help you design a seamless itinerary for your upcoming journey.

1. Aundha Nagnath Temple

Aundha Nagnath Temple

Overview

Aundha Nagnath is undoubtedly the crowning jewel among the top tourist places in Hingoli. Believed to be the eighth of the twelve sacred Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva across India, this temple holds immense spiritual significance for Hindu devotees worldwide. Built in the classic Hemadpanthi architectural style using dark basalt stone, the temple complex exudes a powerful spiritual aura combined with remarkable ancient craftsmanship.

Major Attractions & Things to Do

The core attraction here is the subterranean sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha), where the Shiva Linga resides below ground level. Devotees must descend a small set of narrow stone stairs to reach the deity and perform direct rituals. Take time to admire the intricate outer carvings depicting epic tales, deities, celestial nymphs, and geometric patterns. Exploring the sprawling courtyard, observing the vibrant morning and evening Aarti, and participating in Mahashivratri festivities are deeply fulfilling experiences.

Timings & Entry Fee

Timings: 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Special rituals and VIP Darshan queues operate during peak rush hours.
Entry Fee: Free general admission. Nominal charges apply for special Puja or expedited Darshan passes.

Best Time to Visit Place

The cooler winter months from October to March offer a comfortable atmosphere for standing in line and exploring the stone complex. Mahashivratri (February/March) and the holy month of Shravan (July/August) witness grand celebrations, though accompanied by large pilgrim crowds.

How to Reach Place

Aundha Nagnath is located approximately 25 kilometers from Hingoli town center. Regular state transport (MSRTC) buses, private taxis, and auto-rickshaws connect Hingoli bus station to Aundha Nagnath continuously throughout the day.

Unique / Interesting Fact

Legend states that the temple was originally established by Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, during their exile. Furthermore, history records that Sant Namdev was once denied entry to the temple front, causing him to chant prayers behind the shrine—whereupon the entire temple structure magically rotated to face the saint!

2. Mallinath Digambar Jain Temple, Shirad Shahapur

Mallinath Digambar Jain Temple, Shirad Shahapur

Overview

Situated in the serene village of Shirad Shahapur near Aundha Nagnath, the Mallinath Digambar Jain Temple is one of the most prominent Jain pilgrimage destinations in the Marathwada region. Dedicated to Lord Mallinath, the 19th Tirthankara of Jainism, this ancient temple is famous for its serene environment, pristine architectural details, and historic idol carved out of precious stone.

Major Attractions & Things to Do

Visitors are captivated by the exquisite idol of Bhagwan Mallinath, which radiates deep meditative peace. The temple premises feature beautiful white marble structures, quiet prayer halls, and well-maintained guest facilities (Dharmashala). Pilgrims visit to offer silent prayers, meditate in the calm ambiance, and admire the age-old Jain art and inscriptions preserved within the complex.

Timings & Entry Fee

Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM every day.
Entry Fee: Free entry for all visitors.

Best Time to Visit Place

Winter (October to March) is ideal due to pleasant weather conditions. Visiting during Jain festivals like Paryushan or Mahavir Jayanti allows travelers to witness beautiful spiritual discourses and religious gatherings.

How to Reach Place

Shirad Shahapur lies about 20 km from Hingoli city and roughly 15 km from Aundha Nagnath. Local private transport, hire-cabs, or state buses operating along the Hingoli-Parbhani highway provide convenient access.

Unique / Interesting Fact

This shrine is considered extremely rare because temples dedicated exclusively to Lord Mallinath as the primary deity are few in number across Western India, making Shirad Shahapur a highly venerated site among Digambar Jain followers.

3. Sant Namdev Santhan, Narsi

Sant Namdev Santhan, Narsi

Overview

For literature enthusiasts and spiritual pilgrims alike, Narsi (also known as Narsi Namdev) is a deeply revered landmark in Hingoli district. Narsi is celebrated as the birthplace of Sant Namdev, the eminent 13th-14th century saint-poet who played a pivotal role in the Varkari movement of Maharashtra and whose verses (Abhangas) are also enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib of Sikhism.

Major Attractions & Things to Do

The main memorial complex, Sant Namdev Santhan, includes a gracefully designed temple dedicated to the saint and Lord Vithoba. Visitors can explore the preserved memorial room, attend soul-stirring Kirtans (devotional singing), and spend time contemplating near the holy riverbank. Every year, a major fair (Yatra) takes place here, attracting thousands of Varkari pilgrims from all corners of Maharashtra and neighboring states.

Timings & Entry Fee

Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
Entry Fee: Entry is free for everyone.

Best Time to Visit Place

While open year-round, visiting during November/December during the annual Narsi Yatra provides an unforgettable glimpse into Maharashtra’s vibrant folk traditions, spiritual music, and community spirit.

How to Reach Place

Narsi is situated about 18 kilometers south of Hingoli city town center. It is well-connected via regular state transport buses and local auto-rickshaws running from Hingoli Central Bus Stand.

Unique / Interesting Fact

Sant Namdev was unique among Bhakti movement saints because his spiritual teachings bridged northern and western India. Over 60 of his devotional hymns are included in Sikhism's holy book, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

4. Siddheshwar Dam

Siddheshwar Dam

Overview

If you are looking for natural beauty and a relaxing day outdoors, Siddheshwar Dam is one of the best places to visit in Hingoli. Constructed across the Purna River, a major tributary of the Godavari, this massive earth-fill dam serves as an important irrigation source for the surrounding agricultural belts while offering breathtaking scenery to leisure visitors.

Major Attractions & Things to Do

The vast expanse of shimmering water against rolling green hillocks creates a lovely backdrop for nature photography and peaceful picnics. Sunset viewing from the elevated embankments is a major highlight. Nearby lies the ancient Siddheshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which allows visitors to combine outdoor sightseeing with a quick spiritual stopover.

Timings & Entry Fee

Timings: Open 24 hours, though daytime visits between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM are recommended for safety.
Entry Fee: No admission charge.

Best Time to Visit Place

Monsoon season (July to September) and early post-monsoon months (October to November) are prime times. During this period, the dam is brimming with water, surrounding foliage turns lush green, and the cool breezes enhance the landscape's charm.

How to Reach Place

Siddheshwar Dam is located in Hingoli district near the border of Parbhani, approximately 35 kilometers from Hingoli city. Hiring a private cab or taking a vehicle via the Hingoli-Aundha route is the most convenient option.

Unique / Interesting Fact

Siddheshwar Dam forms part of the larger Purna Irrigation Project, which transformed Hingoli and Parbhani into fertile agricultural zones famed for sugarcane, cotton, and turmeric cultivation.

5. Chintamani Ganpati Temple, Hingoli

Chintamani Ganpati Temple, Hingoli

Overview

Located near the heart of Hingoli city, the Chintamani Ganpati Temple is one of the most prominent urban religious landmarks in the district. Highly revered by local residents and visiting pilgrims alike, this historic Lord Ganesha temple is believed to bestow peace of mind and grant the earnest wishes of its devotees.

Major Attractions & Things to Do

The primary attraction is the beautifully adorned idol of Lord Chintamani (an incarnation of Lord Ganesha who removes worries). The interior features traditional Maharashtrian temple design with silver ornamentation. Attending the morning or evening Mahadevapooja and Maha Aarti is a deeply uplifting experience. During the ten-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival, the entire shrine complex is illuminated with grand decorations and colorful lights.

Timings & Entry Fee

Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
Entry Fee: Free entry.

Best Time to Visit Place

Ganesh Chaturthi (August/September) is the grandest time to visit, when cultural programs, floral decorations, and festive energy animate the surroundings. Otherwise, winter mornings provide a serene atmosphere for quiet prayer.

How to Reach Place

Situated centrally within Hingoli town, the temple is easily reachable via auto-rickshaw, cycle rickshaw, or a short walk from the local markets and Hingoli Railway Station.

Unique / Interesting Fact

The term 'Chintamani' translates to 'the gem that removes all anxieties'. Local belief holds that praying at this shrine brings mental clarity and helps devotees overcome personal hardships.

Best Time to Visit Hingoli

Planning your journey according to the season ensures a comfortable, enjoyable experience when exploring the top tourist places in Hingoli. The district experiences a tropical climate typical of Marathwada, characterized by hot summers, refreshing monsoons, and mild winters.

  • Winter (October to March) – Best Season: Winter is undoubtedly the ideal period to visit Hingoli. Temperatures range between 12°C and 28°C, creating perfect conditions for temple hopping, sightseeing at Siddheshwar Dam, and outdoor exploration without tiring heat.
  • Monsoon (July to September) – Good for Nature Lovers: The rainy season brings respite from heat, turning countryside fields vibrant green and filling reservoirs like Siddheshwar Dam. Temperatures stay around 22°C to 30°C. Heavy downpours are usually intermittent, making monsoon travel pleasant if you carry rain gear.
  • Summer (April to June) – Off-peak Season: Summers in Hingoli are dry and hot, with daytime temperatures frequently topping 40°C to 42°C. Sightseeing during afternoon hours can be draining. If traveling in summer, schedule outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings.

How to Reach Hingoli

Hingoli enjoys reliable transport connectivity with major cities across Maharashtra and neighboring states through road and rail networks.

By Air

Hingoli does not have an operational commercial airport. The nearest functional airport is Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Airport in Nanded (approx. 80 km), which offers direct flights to Hyderabad and major cities. Alternatively, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) Airport (approx. 230 km) provides broader domestic connectivity to Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. You can hire private taxis from either airport to reach Hingoli.

By Train

Hingoli Deccan (HNL) is the primary railway station serving the town. It falls on the South Central Railway zone and connects directly to prominent cities including Nanded, Akola, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Nagpur, and Jaipur. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available outside the station.

By Road

Hingoli is well-connected by National Highway 161 (NH 161) and state highways. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates frequent bus services connecting Hingoli to Nanded, Parbhani, Akola, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Pune, and Nagpur. Private sleeper buses also run daily on major routes.

Local Food & Culinary Delights

The food culture in Hingoli reflects traditional Marathwadi cuisine—spicy, flavorful, rustic, and deeply rooted in wholesome rural ingredients. Sesame, peanuts, garlic, and red chilies play an essential role in daily cooking.

  • Pithla Bhakri: A classic Maharashtrian staple made from besan (gram flour) cooked into a rich savory curry, served piping hot alongside crispy Jowar (sorghum) or Bajra (millet) flatbreads, accompanied by raw onions and garlic chutney.
  • Shenga Chutney (Peanut Chutney): A dry, fiery condiment prepared using roasted peanuts, dry red chilies, garlic, and salt, eaten with almost every meal.
  • Hurda (Seasonal Snack): If you visit between December and February, do not miss Hurda—tender green roasted sorghum grains served fresh with spicy chutneys and jaggery in rural farms.
  • Marathwadi Kadhi: A tangy, spiced yogurt-based curry infused with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and garlic, perfectly paired with steamed rice.
  • Puran Poli: A sweet flatbread stuffed with a sweet lentil filling made of chana dal and jaggery, traditional for festive occasions.
  • Saoji & Varhadi Non-Veg Dishes: Meat lovers can sample regional mutton and chicken curries seasoned with rich local spice blends (Kala Masala).

10 Practical Travel Tips for Visitors

  1. Dress Modestly at Religious Sites: Temples like Aundha Nagnath and Mallinath Jain Temple follow conservative dress codes. Shoulders and knees should remain covered; remove footwear before entering sanctums.
  2. Carry Cash: While digital payment apps (UPI) are widely accepted in Hingoli town, smaller roadside eateries, rural transport options, and flower vendors near temples often prefer cash.
  3. Plan Ahead for Mahashivratri: If visiting Aundha Nagnath during Mahashivratri, expect long queues and book accommodations weeks in advance.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Marathwada weather can be warm and dry even in winter afternoons. Carry reusable water bottles with you while sightseeing.
  5. Hire Local Autos for City Trips: Auto-rickshaws are the easiest way to navigate inside Hingoli town. Agree on the fare beforehand if meters aren't used.
  6. Learn Basic Marathi Phrases: Marathi is the predominant local language. Simple greetings like "Namaskar" (Hello) and "Dhananyawaad" (Thank you) are warmly appreciated by locals.
  7. Respect Temple Photography Rules: Photography is prohibited inside the inner sanctum (Garbhagriha) of most ancient temples. Always check signage before taking photos.
  8. Try Farm Fresh Produce: Hingoli is famous for turmeric and sugarcane fields. Take the opportunity to buy fresh jaggery or sample fresh sugarcane juice from roadside stalls.
  9. Pack Appropriate Clothing: Carry light cotton clothes for daytime travel, a light sweater for cool winter nights, and modest traditional attire for temple visits.
  10. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Note down emergency helpline numbers and keep your hotel address written down for quick navigation.

Suggested 2-Day Hingoli Itinerary

This balanced 2-day plan helps you experience the best spiritual, historical, and scenic attractions in Hingoli without feeling rushed.

Day 1: Spiritual & Heritage Circuit

  • Morning (8:00 AM – 11:30 AM): Arrive in Hingoli, check into your hotel, and proceed to the iconic Aundha Nagnath Temple (25 km from town). Offer prayers at the subterranean Jyotirlinga and marvel at the Hemadpanthi carvings.
  • Afternoon (12:00 PM – 2:30 PM): Visit the peaceful Mallinath Digambar Jain Temple at Shirad Shahapur nearby. Enjoy a quiet vegetarian lunch or Prasadam in the vicinity.
  • Evening (4:30 PM – 7:30 PM): Return to Hingoli town and visit the Chintamani Ganpati Temple. Spend time exploring the bustling local bazaar, sampling street food and purchasing regional spices.

Day 2: Saints, Nature & Sunset

  • Morning (8:30 AM – 11:30 AM): Drive to Narsi to visit Sant Namdev Santhan. Pay respects at the birthplace shrine of the great saint-poet and enjoy devotional Kirtans along the riverbank.
  • Lunch (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM): Enjoy an authentic Marathwadi meal of Pithla Bhakri and garlic chutney at a traditional local eatery.
  • Late Afternoon (3:30 PM – 6:30 PM): Head towards Siddheshwar Dam. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the reservoir, take photographs, and watch a gorgeous Marathwada sunset over the water body.
  • Night: Return to Hingoli for dinner and depart for your onward journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is Hingoli famous for?
Hingoli is widely famous for housing the historic Aundha Nagnath Temple (one of the 12 sacred Shiva Jyotirlingas), the birthplace of saint-poet Sant Namdev at Narsi, rich Marathwadi heritage, and vibrant turmeric cultivation.

Q2: Is Aundha Nagnath located in Hingoli district?
Yes, Aundha Nagnath is situated in Hingoli district, approximately 25 kilometers from Hingoli town headquarters.

Q3: How far is Hingoli from Nanded?
Hingoli is located roughly 80 kilometers north of Nanded. The road journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours via NH 161.

Q4: How many days are sufficient to explore Hingoli?
A 2-day trip is perfect to cover all major tourist places in Hingoli, including Aundha Nagnath, Shirad Shahapur, Narsi, Chintamani Ganpati Temple, and Siddheshwar Dam.

Q5: What is the best time to visit Aundha Nagnath temple?
The best time is during the cooler winter season between October and March. Morning hours (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM) generally see shorter wait times compared to weekends and major festival days.

Q6: Are good hotel accommodations available in Hingoli?
Yes, Hingoli offers budget hotels, lodge accommodations, and guest houses near the railway station and town center. Clean Pilgrim Dharmashalas are also available at Aundha Nagnath and Shirad Shahapur.

Q7: What food items should I buy from Hingoli?
Hingoli is renowned for high-quality turmeric powder, homemade peanut chutney powder (Shenga Chutney), and traditional jaggery products.

Q8: What is the nearest airport to Hingoli?
The nearest airport is Nanded Airport (approx. 80 km away), while Aurangabad Airport (approx. 230 km away) provides major domestic connectivity.

Conclusion

Hingoli is a destination that gracefully escapes the clamor of modern commercial tourism, offering instead an authentic blend of spiritual tranquility, historical depth, and unpretentious natural charm. From standing in awe inside the subterranean stone sanctum of Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga to soaking in literary heritage at Sant Namdev’s birthplace in Narsi, every corner of this Marathwada district reveals stories of faith, art, and endurance.

Whether you are a devout pilgrim seeking divine blessings, a history enthusiast eager to decode Hemadpanthi architecture, or a traveler looking to savor rustic Marathwadi flavors like Pithla Bhakri beside the quiet waters of Siddheshwar Dam, Hingoli welcomes you with open arms. Plan your visit during the pleasant winter months, immerse yourself in local traditions, and uncover the soul of hidden Maharashtra on your next offbeat journey!

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