Khidrapur is to the east of Kolhapur, Maharashtra. This place is well known for the ancient Kopeshwar temple, dedicated to lord Shiva. Kopeshwar represents angry Shiva. It is an incredible specimen of ancient architecture. The Kopeshwar temple is a must-see on the tourist itinerary for its antique and artistic sculpture. The first structure is the Swarga Mandap (Heavenly Hall), the unique architecture of the Swarga mandap is round in shape and supported by 48 well-carved rounded stone pillars placed in three circles. This temple is unique as visitors first get a glimpse of Lord Vishnu as Dhopeshwar in ling form instead of the Shivaling, which is usually the case in temples consecrated to Lord Shiva. The Sabha Mandap is another set of pillars surrounding another large circular stone. The Garbhagriha, or the sanctum, has two Lingas. The meditation cave is the perfect place to sit and meditate in complete darkness. About 200 meters away there is a smaller Jain temple, built in the same fashion as this temple.
