To read the previous blog on Day 08: Maheshwar, click here.
Day 09: Malegaon to Pune via Kokamthan
After a relaxing stay at Pavilion Park Hotel in Malegaon, we were ready to hit the road again and continue our journey towards Pune.
We started the morning with a hearty breakfast at Pavilion Park Hotel, which was the perfect way to fuel up before a long day of travel. The hotel’s breakfast spread offered a variety of local and continental options, and we enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring the quiet morning atmosphere. The hotel staff was incredibly welcoming, and we felt completely at ease as we prepared for the next leg of our journey. By 9:30 AM, we were ready to check out and begin our drive to Pune.
The road from Malegaon to Pune was a comfortable drive, with the weather being quite pleasant for most of the journey. We passed through small towns, lush fields, and winding roads that were typical of the rural landscapes in Maharashtra. It felt like the perfect road trip vibe—peaceful, scenic, and full of beautiful views.
About three and a half hours into our journey, we decided to take a break and explore a cultural gem—Kokamthan Shiva Temple. This temple, dating back to the 13th century, offered a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Built in the traditional Hemadpanthi architectural style, which is well-known across India, the temple showcases remarkable craftsmanship. Although some of the carvings on the walls and pillars have suffered minor damage over time, they remain intricate and captivating.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple features numerous statues and sculptures of him, each depicting different stories from Hindu mythology. These artistic representations were not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful.
As we explored the temple, we were struck by how the ancient artisans conveyed spiritual teachings through their design. The experience deepened our appreciation for Indian heritage and spirituality.
After our visit to the temple, we were ready for some lunch. We stopped at Hotel Shetty’s Swastik – Veg Treat, a well-known local restaurant that served fresh, flavorful vegetarian food. The restaurant’s menu offered a range of dishes, but we opted for some traditional Maharashtrian fare—Misal pav. It was just the kind of hearty meal we needed to refuel for the next stretch of our journey. The food was delicious and satisfying, and the friendly service made it even more enjoyable.
With our hunger satisfied, we resumed our drive toward Pune. As the miles passed, we began to notice the changing landscape, with more greenery and hills appearing as we neared Pune. After a full day on the road, we finally reached Pune around 7:00 PM.
As we settled into Pune for the night, we couldn’t help but reflect on the amazing places we had visited and the connections we had made with the land, its people, and its stories. We were content to rest and recharge for the next chapter of our adventure.
