Navkund Zari Mandir

Navkund Zari is a village in the Chakur tahsil. There is temple of Siddheshwar Nagnath in this village which is famous not only in Chakur but also in India. This place is also known  Kashi of South India. Village is also located towers north west of Chakur. Total area of this village is 1474 hectares. This village is famous as religious place. village is about 34 km away from Latur.
        There are twelve Jotirlings in our country. There are three temples of Siddheshwar in Maharashtra,such as Latur, solapur,and aland. And there is a temple of Nagnath in aundha Nagnath. But joint temples of Siddheshwar and Nagnath are found only in North Kashi and Navkund Zari.
       The experts say that this temple was built in the Treta Yuga. When lord Ram was in exile, he created nine kundas here by calling the navgrahas (planets). Most of these kundas are now ruined. But now only four kundas are in good condition. There are idols of Narsimha, Sheshasai Vishnu, and Mahadev in these kundas. These kundas are always full of water. The water of two kundas is used for drinking, and the other one is used for bathing. One of them is known as 'Chambhar Kund'. Because of these nine kundas, this village is known as 'Nav Kunda Zari

Sidheshwar Nagnath Mandir at Zari is Hemadpanthi. It is based on stone pillars. Cement is not used in the construction of the temple. This temple is built by placing stones one on one. The temple has thirty stone pillars. Each pillar has a beautiful engraving. The temple is in 'Swastik symbol' in shape. At the entrance, we see the 'Nandi' with a curved neck. In front of that, there is the temple of Sidheshwar Nagnath in the East-West direction. Besides the Sidheshwar temple, there are nine 'grahas'. There is a Kunda in the Nagnath temple. The depth of water in these Kundas is nearly five feet. There is the pind of Lord Shiva in this water. It is believed that there is a deep valley under this 'pind'. The water in all the Kundas is always at the same level. The campus of the temple is very big, where there are three temples. Sidheshwar temple is the main temple here, which is north-facing and has two Gabharas. There is a 'Shiv pind' in the left Gabhara. There is a Mukhmandap in front of the temple. The sixteen images are engraved on the four pillars of 'Sabhamandap'. Among those pictures are Vishnu, Krishnalila, Nrisinha, birds, elephants, and there is an image of a man who is playing flute before the snake. The 'Zumbar' (centre of the roof) is engraved with beautiful design, Kirtimukhas, and dancing images. There are also the pictures of Shiv Parvati with Nandi, Saptmatrika patti, and Nagshila. Both the Gabhara have the summits. Nagnath temple has the image of the dancing Lord Shiva instead of 'Ganeshpatti'. There is another Hemadpanthi temple on the campus, but in a ruined condition. There is an idol of Nrisinha in this temple. The idol has the 'Sinhasan' of stone

There is a wroe inscription in the campus of the temple. It is 8 inch in length and 3 feet in height. The third hemadpanthi temple in the campus has the 'Shiv pind'.

Zari is an important religious place in Chakur tahsil. It is in the north-west direction of Chakur. The area of this village is 1474 hectares. This is a centralised type of village. The atmosphere here is beautiful in the rainy season. It is 30 km away from Latur. One has to go via Chakur, Hati (Khurd), and Wagholi to reach this village. The buses, private vehicles, and jeeps are available from Chakur. But the road on this route is in bad condition

The educational facilities are good in this village. The village has primary, secondary and higher secondary schools. The health facilities and made available through maternity and Child Care Center, Child Welfare Centre, Primary Health Care Sub. Station, Nursing Home etc. There are also private dispensaries in the village.

The village has open sewage system. But the dirt and filth is increasing due to the lack of proper management of the drainages. The administration should concentrate at this. The roads in the village are unplanned. The houses and shops are unevenly settled. The electricity is supplied in nearly all the houses of the village.

The drinking water is supplied through taps. Besides, the wells and hand pumps are also used for drinking water. There is a post office in the village, and recently, the telephone facility has been made available. A weekly bazaar is held on Thursday in this village. The people from the nearby village come to this bazaar. The village has no bus stand, and the area where a bus stops is full of filth and dirt. The travellers don't have any shelter in this village, so they have to wait for buses here for a long time, in the open space. The roads are in bad condition; they should be well-maintained. The sewage system needs improvement. The village lacks an accommodation facility. During the fair, people either stay in the temple or prefer to return to Chakur or sleep in the open. The Gram Panchayat should build the inn or the 'math' for the people. There are five - six hotels in the village. The meal available is of medium quality. A good hotel should be made available that will provide good quality meals to the people. The village lacks the facility of a lodge.

The village also lacks recreational facilities like sports, a garden etc. The garden or sports ground should be made available so that people will take rest during the fair.

Nilkanteshwar Mandir

    Nilkantheshwar mandir is one of the famous ancient temple in Latur District. This temple is in Hemadpanthi Style and it  is carved beautifully. This temple is situated in Nilanga town. Nilanga town is taluka place of nilanga  tahsil.
               Nilanga town is 50 km away from Latur. The area of Nilanga town is 1676 sq km. The total population of this town is 31660. Out of which 16472 are male and 15188 are female. The density of this town is 995 persons per square kilometer. The literacy rate of this town is 65.87.
               The climate of this town is hot and dry. The average rainfall of the town was just 711.70 mm in 2001. The average temperature of this town is 28 *C. There is no land under forest in Nilanga tahsil. Nilanga town is in the west of the tahsil. Nilanga is a historical and ancient town in latur district. Where, the historical Nilkantheshwar Temple is situated.
               In ancient times, Nilanga Town was known as Nirlingpur. Nirlingpur derives its name from the Temple of Lord Nilkhantshwara. Onward Nirlingpur has changed his name to Nilang. This temple is in Hemadpanthi style and was built during the time of 12th or 13th century. This temple is a rare specimen of the perfection of ancient art and architecture. Outside walls give the appearance of a pillar-like formation, having small niches fixed with excellently carved human, animal, and divine figurines. Every part of the temple, except the terrace, has unique patterns or designs. The main entrance and some pillars of the temple were ruined. So to maintain the antiquity of this temple, ruined parts have been repaired with white cement. And because of that, original carvings have been totally erased. Some carvings have been mutilated. In front of the temple, there is a 12.19 * 18.29 meters open courtyard paved with stony slabs. While entering through the main gate, there are two platforms. One is the sabhamandap hall, which is 2.787 square meters in area and supported by the side rows of pillars. Two rows are embedded in the side walls. The remaining two rows have seven pillars each. And the middle rows have six each. Pillars are the unique gift of carving and art. Each pillar is ornamented with rich and unique carvings. Such as beautiful images of the Gods and goddesses. Some pillars are not carved. The sabhamandap has two extensions, one each on either side forming two 0.557 sq mt chambers, The one to the left containing images of Lord Shankar and Parvati carved in single block of stone and the other to the right containing the idols of Lord Balaji and Vyonkoba with an artistically designed provably round it, carved in a single block of stone. In the first of these chambers, just bellow the pedestal, the principal deity is installed. There are so many images of Lord Kartik Swami, Nandi Ganpati, Hanuman, and Saraswati around the deity. There is an image of Mongoos and Lord Balaji.  The image of Lord Balaji is four feet in height, it is armed with a discus and a shell. There are images of devotees depicted in the act of praying. The jambs of the entrances are exquisitely decorated with various types of Ganpati images. The breadth of the entrance is covered with small temple replicas bearing some divine images delicately engraved on the stone blocks similarly, the base of the entrance bears ingeniously carved divine figures admirably proportionate in measurement. The absolute symmetry of designs on both entrances depicts par excellence the architectural skill of the time when the temples were constructed. The Main Gabhara and Mandap walls have four niches in all, housing idols of Lord Laxmi, Ganpati, etc. Identical design and patterns of those on the chambers' entrances also decorate the main Gabhara entrance, with the only exception that here the designs are large in dimensions. it contains the Svayambhau Linga, held deeply in reverence by the people. There is a spacious terrace above,
 Nilanga town is in the south of Latur City. The buses are available from Latur per 15 min. from the central bus stand of Latur city. These buses are called Janta Express. The private luxuries and Jeeps, taxis also convey the travelers from any part of the district to Nilanga. This town is well connected to all the towns in the Latur district. There is a lack of Railway facilities in this town. The buses charge Rs. 21 per person ot Nilanga from Latur. Nilanga town is located between the regions of Terna and the Manjra River. The rainfall is recorded here as 711.70 mm in 2001, which is 696.10 mm. The climate in this town is hot and dry in summer, and it is cool and dry in winter. But the climate in this town is very salubrious in the winter season. In the rainy season, the atmosphere in this town is cool and green, but because the town is not kept clean, the atmosphere here is very unhygienic in the rainy season.

Though the town has most of the tar roads but the conditions of most of the tar roads is not so good. They should have to be enlarged and maintained well, which will help to improve in transportation facilities in this town. Though the town is not well recognized in the field of education like Latur and Udgir towns, i.e., some schools and colleges in the town are providing good educational facilities to the people. Lal Bhadur Shastri Vidyalaya, Maharashtra Mahavidyalya, and Shivaji Mahavidyalya are the famous educational institutions that provide the facilities of secondary and higher education. There are 15 to 20 important, well-known computer centers in Nilanga town, which provide modern knowledge of computers in their training period.

The facilities of health are good in Nilanga town. There are three big hospitals near about 86 dispensaries and family planing centers in the town. Where the patients are receiving better treatment. The private hospitals are providing better facilities than the government hospital But the fees and charges by the private hospital are not appropriate for poor people. Therefore they likes to prefer government hospital rather than private hospitals.

The drinking water is supplied through taps. The municipal council has provided the borrowers of the important plates in the town. The water is also supplied by river infiltration gallery, but these means are not sufficient for fulfill the need of the town. The water is supplied by tankers in most of the parts of the town in summer. Water supply provided in temple is quite good and sufficient.

The sewage system is managed through open surface drains in Nilanga town but most of the parts of the town are full with filth & dirtiness. The campus around the temple should be kept clean, which will retain the beauty of temple. The open surface drains around this temple should be covered so that the filth & dirt will hot be spread around the temple.

The electricity supply is supplied through thermal power station to Nilanga town. Most of the electricity is used for domestic purpose and then for industry purpose. The roads and the important places in the town have tubes and marquries. Electricity supply is good in the temple. The temple is beautified by lighting on special occasions. At that time the temple bathes in the lighting. The electricity facilities are good in town.

The lodges are available for accommodation in the town. There are 7 big lodges and 28-32 small loges in town. For example, Amith Lodge, Shishkati Lodge, Vicaram Lodge, etc. The facilities in the lodges are better than those of Mathas and Dharmshala. The beds for sleeping, hot water, TV, and telephone facilities are provided in the lodges. The big lodges charge Rs. 250-350 per day per person. Whereas the smaller lodges charge Rs. 25-30 per day per person, the poor & economically backward class people prefer to live in Mathas, rather than the lodges. Some temples provide accommodation without any charge.

There are 120-130 hotels in Nilanga town. The meals of high quality are available in high-quality hotels, but the rates are also high. Medium-quality hotels are providing good meals at medium prices. There are some stalls where breakfast & tea are available.

The bus stand is not so big in Nilanga town. The campus of bus stand is full with filth and durth. The facility of parking is not available.

The atmosphere around the temple should be kept clean. The coconuts should be broken outside the temple. The electricity, the accommodation facilities, head the of improvement. The roads near the temple and in the town should be in large. There are two three reading rooms in the town. The number of books should be increased in it. The municipal council should develop new park for citizens & the travelers, which well help this place to develop as a tourist center.

Surat Shahawali Dargah

             Shri Surat Shahawali Dargah is situated in patel chowk, old Ram Galli. This Dargah is attached with shri Chintamani Parshwanath digambar Jain Mandir. This Darga is famous not only in Marathwada region but also in Maharashtra. It was build in A.D. 1939. It is said that Saint Saifulla Shaha Sardari took Samadhi here. He was a resident of Katak, Gujrat. It is mentioned that they are masquerading as tiger while sleeping. It is said that Surat Sahawali had appeared for blessing to grand father Nanhesab Hasanoddin Mujawar son of Yusuf Namijoddin Mujawar before 110 years ago.
  Fair is held here for five days in the month of jun/july every year, according to muslim months fair start from Jamadeel Awal. During the fair Shri Siddheshwar Mandir Comity honoured coconuts and chaddar of flowers , in the procession the Green flag is given to this Dargah. At the same time of Siddheshwar fair Surat Sahawali Dargah also honoured same to Shri Siddheshwar Mandir, and in the procession the Saffron Bhagwa flag is given to Shri Siddheshwar Mandir. This old tradition bitween these two set a good example of unity bitween Hindu and Muslim Community.

Ramlingeshwar Mandir

              Ramlingeshwar Mandir is situated towards the west of Siddheshwar Mandir in latur town. It is believed that! Ramlingeshwar Mandir to have built during the reign of the legendary king Tamradhwaja. In the center of courtyard there is a cloister surrounded by masonry compound wall against its inner course. The temple has a 44.20 * 10.67 meter Mandap hall. Mandap Hall was added later date. Its middle portion is paved with colored marble tiles. Herein is the statue of Nandi and on the other side two small ling on vestibule entrance. Two more ling are housed in the vestibule! one is on pedestal and other bigger one is on the floor. On the top of the larger linga there is a creative fissure. And it is supposed to represent the wound the king received from the sword in the battle. King was devout of Raamlingeshwar. He was a worshiper of him. A shikhar crowns the temple. 

Datta Mandir Latur

       Shri Datta Mandir is situated in latur town. It is another famous datta mandir in Latur town. It is situated on latur ausa road. In 1964-65, head of Sadanand Peeth, shri Balgovindanand Saraswati considered that Latur is the place Where the Guru is living invisibly. Shri Balgovind Saraswati Maharaj is the resident of Basav Kalyan a small town in Karnataka. Shramati V G Kulkarni from Kolhapur was the deciple of Balgovind Saraswati. She had come in latur in 1966. She purchased the land from poor farmer. she established Swayanbhue Paduka here. And from that day, the function of Datta Jayanti is being celebrated here, for the erection of this mandir. She has given good contribution in it. first it was a small temple, by the by it is recreated as a big mandir. In  front of main Gabhara there is a Big Sabhamandap. In this Sabhamandap, there is a platform which is about 40 fit long and broad. This platform is divided into four parts. In the first part, there is a idol of Slivling and Vitthal Rukumai. In the second part, there is a idol of Shivpind, Ganpati and Maruti. And in the third and fourth part, two types of idols of Lord Datta is established. There is a cell under the platform.Many agnikundas are found inside the cell. There are five Holly trees inside the Mandir.

Shwetambar Jain Mandir

Another attraction of Latur town is Shri Shwetambar Jain Mandir. Located on Chapsi road. It is a place of worship of Jain community. This Mandir was constructed in 1950. At that time it was very small in size. In1970, it was reconstructed again and the idol of shri Shantinath Bhagwan is established. It is double storied edifice of stone, moderately decorated with some excellent carvings. On the first floor there is a big hall (sabhamandap). It is near about 1800 sq ft. It is used for dining also. There are 6 rooms are available here also. The main idol of Shantinath Bhagwan is instoled here also. Vishvasen was the fathar of shantinath bahgwan and Achira was his mother. They were the residents of hastinapur. Shantinath bhagwan was known as Thirthkar also. His race was Eshwaku. It is mentioned that the duration of his life is one Lakisha years, There are the images of yaksha and yakshani inside this temple. The Shikhar of this Mandir is recently constructed. It is very beautiful place.

Bada Balaji Mandir

   Bada Balaji Mandir is the first Balaji Mandir in Latur town. It is also known as Shri Ram Panchayatan. 

Keshavraj Mandir

             Keshavraj Mandir is situated at the south west of Shri Siddheshwar mandir. The ancient sanctum sanctorum (Gabhara) of this mandir is built in stone masonry. Sanctum sanctorum of this temple is having a few monolithic pillars for its cornerstone. This shrine is in more or less Hemadpanthi style. In this sanctum sanctorum a 1.129 mtrs tall idol if lord Keshavraj is in standing position. The mandir is facing towards the east. There is a short connecting passage linking the inner and outer shrine. This Mandir has two entrances gates one is on east and other one is on north side. Towards the right of the temple few cloisters have been provided. It appears that it had a protective wall. Internal Sabhamandap of this mandir is very big around 65*60 ft approximately. There are some dilapidated remains scattered here and there.

  

 The idol of lord keshavraj was found in deep forest in 12th Century to some Shepherds and they established and worshipped the idol. The idol is different than rest of Keshavraj idols found in the country. This idol has all 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu carved on it. The idol also has carvings of Lakshmi (wife of Lord Vishnu) on left bottom and Brihaspati (Teacher of all Gods) and Narada (a divine Sage). Even though exact timeframe of this idol is not known, historians say it is atleast 1000 years old.

         

         

Papvinashi Mandir

    Papnashi mandir situated at the northern part of the city. As indicated by an inscription found in the temple, This Mandir seems to have been built during the period of Someshwar III of the Chalukya dynasty. This inscription is dated in the saka year 1049 (1128 AD), which comes in the empire of Someshwar III. The inner shrine of the temple containing the Linga formation. Which is known as Bhuteshwar. The inner shrine is 10*10 with a 3 feet wide circumambulate passage. A 20*20 tin roofed sabhamandap hall has recently been added to it. It is very important temple in Latur. Tourists visiting this temple after siddheshwar temple.
     Papvinashi teerth is situated towards the north of this temple. It is also known as Pushkar Teerth. It is one of the most important teerth in Latur town. It has a great historical background. Teerth is surrounded by a beautiful sight.
   Once upon a time, a cow was accidentaly got killed by the Bhatadwaj rushi. so he wanted to be free from his sin. So, he asked his father that is there any way? to got free from his sin. His father told him that he should go to Siddhakhetra and get bath in Papvinashi Teertha. So, as per his fathers Suggestion  he went to Siddhakshetra and bathed in Papvinashi Teertha.  He was free from his sin. He himself got satisfaction. That is the resion why this Teeerth named as Papvinashi Teertha. People living here also believed that one who bathe here become free from all his sins.
     Towards the south of this Teertha there are the temples of Lord Bhuteshwara And Lord Hanuman. There is a Sati Samadhi found right behind the Bhuteshwar Mandir. It is believed that a women get Sati here.

Bhimashankar Mandir

  Shri Bhimashankar Mandir is located in Mali Galli, out of the town and surrounded by a green fields. It is said that This temple was built by only stones in hemadpanthi style. But old temple is not available here. Now some monuments are existing here. The masonry roof covering the gabhara might have been built before 200to250 years ago. There is a shivling shining like a granite. Its arc is about 1.5 feet. There is a samadhi of garibnath baba. Garibnath baba was always starving and keeping mum. He has been died in 1948 during the time of police action. Behind the shivpind there is a idol of Lord Vishnu. It is near about 3.5 feet high and having four arms. The arms hold various weapons like club, shell, chakra and lotus. Now a days new sabhamandap has been recently constructed in cement concrete. In front of this beautiful mandir there is a rectangular shaped small Teeth having some steeps. There are tow virgals having some idols on it. New statue of Nandiis established inside the sabhamandap.

Vaidyanath Mandir

Hanuman Mandir Hanuman Chowk

Central Hanuman Mandir

Gouri Shankar Mandir

                       Gouri shankar mandir is located in market yard latur latur. This mandir was built under the guidance of pre MLA shri Shivajirao Patil Kavekar. It is not a regular cement concret structure, it is built in sangamrawar tiles. There is a garden on the both sides of the temple. All the marchants in market yard have given good co-ordination to it. Its base is five to ten feet high from the floor. The sabhamandap is occupied the area of 20*30 feet. In the inner part of the gabhara, there is a shivling and to the back of it, there are the idol of Shankar, Parwati and Lord Ganesh, both the idols are carved in sangamravar stone. The atmosphere arround the temple is very natural. The Shikhar of this temple is in south indian type.

Ashtavinayak Mandir Latur Town

           Shri Ashtavinayak mandir is located in shivaji nagar latur. It is new and very famous mandir. This mandir has been erected in 1989. It has become due to his beauty. There is a garden on the both  sides of the temple. garden is kept fresh and clean every time. There are some artificial fountains in front of this temple. Facing towards the front there is a 8 to 9 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva. The statue is in standing position. Every one is feeling pleasant while entering this temple. While inside the main gabhara there are eight idols of Lord Ganesha usually known as Ashtavinayak setup inside the wall. The main Sabhamandap of this Mandir is in rectangle.In side the gabhara there is a idol of lord Ganesha which is about 4 fit high. The idol is carved in sangamravari stone. The shikhar of this mandir is in south indian style. Every thing in this temple is fresh and clean.

Virat Hanuman Mandir Latur Town

Shri virat hanuman mandir is located in parivar housing society near ausa road latur. The construction of this temple is quit diffrent from other temples. this temple is also sorrounded by beautiful garden. the base of this temple is near about 12 fir high. The bae is covered by sangamravari floors. Beautiful and coloured steps are arrenged to dimp on. on the first platform the second rectangular platform has been built and on this platform the idol of shree Hanuman is estblished. This idol is neary 25 fit high. It is very big in size and is coloured in scarlet (shenderi) colour. The idol is in standing position and looking very calm, The idol holds gadha in his one hand and another hand is on its loin. There are two big artificial lamps built in concret. The atmosphere arround this temple is very delightful. 

Sai Baba Mandir Latur Town

Shilalekh-Siddheshwar Mandir

Shilalekh-Sati Hatt Shilalekh Papvinashi Mandir

Kharosa Caves

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Caves of Kharosa - (Kharosa):

In the beginning, man was a wanderer. While wandering, he felt the need for shelter, so he started using the cave as his shelter (home). He started carving images and drawing pictures on the walls of the caves. The alphabet originated from their pictures. Varieties of these caves are visited by tourists, e.g., Ajanta caves, Elephanta caves, etc.

      

    These caves are found near Kharosa village in Ausa tahsil of Latur district. They are evidence of the district's cultural glory. These caves are identified as the caves of Kharosa. Compared to other caves in India, Maharashtra, or Marathwada, these caves are neglected by tourists and the administration. But they can be developed as tourist centers in the future.

It is the myth that Khar and Dushan, the multi-made uncles of Ravana, used to live in these caves. With the help of these two, Ravana ruled this region. So this little village is named Kharosa. Shurparnakha Sister of Ravana, also used to live in his region. Rama, the king of Ayyodhaya, when he was in exile he came to this region. He killed Khar and Dushan and established the idol of the Goddess Jagdamba here, which is letter known as Goddess Renuka.

There is a hill a short distance from the village. The soil on this hill is Yellowish in colour. There is a temple of Renukadevi on this hill. The caves a Kharosa are in this mountainous region. These caves are simply less engraved and eroded. The Mahadev caves are the best of all these caves.

Kharosa, a little village, is in Ausa tashil. This village lies 2 to 3 km away. north to Latur - Nilanga state high way No. 165. The area of this village is 1708 hectares. There is no forest area in this village. The climate of this village is hot and dry. It gets rain from the south-west monsoon. Kharosa is a small village with 1000 houses. Geographically, this village is situated in a hilly & rocky area.

In the case of education, only primary and high schools are provided. About medical facilities, there is only one Primary Health Care Centre, which cannot fulfill the needs of people. The people take treatment in this centre. The atmosphere and the facilities provided here are of medium quality.

The water supply is good in this village. Water is supplied through taps. The wells and hand pumps are also used to fulfill the need for water. There is a big water tank in the village, which supplies water to the village. But in the summer season the village has to face the problem of water scarcity. In summer, water is supplied by the water tankers. There is no water supply on the hill. It is necessary to provide good water supply on the hill. There must be a provision of a water tank for the tourists.

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There is a post office in the village. The STD and PCO, telephone facilities are also available in the village. By which tourists can communicate with others. One has to use the narrow and rough road to reach the Kharosa caves, from the village.

The electricity supply is frequently broken, but it is well supplied in every house. But there is no electricity supply near the caves. There is no bus stop in this village. Though this place has historic significance, it is neglected by the government. Some tourists visit this place. This center should be developed in case of tourism. These caves are used today for gambling, drinking, and other bad things. The atmosphere around these caves is very dirty and unhygienic. The government should concentrate on the cleaning of the campus. There should be a tar road. The road should be enlarged and maintained well. The idols and ancient pictures should be preserved and retained There Therefore, the glorious heritage will not be destroyed. If the government steps to develop this place, it can be established as an important tourist center. The parking facilities, Hotels, accommodation facilities, and other infrastructure and recreational facilities can be provided in the future. Electro decoration can add to the beauty of the caves. Kharosa caves are known to all the people in Latur, but still they need the propaganda, because of which the people will like to visit this place and enjoy the beauty of the caves. By providing all these facilities, the past glory of the caves can be regained.

Fort Of Udgir

Fort of Udigr:

There are two important forts in the district, which tell the historical glory of the Latur district of the two forts in District one in Ausa town and another one is in Udgir town. Udgir is an important town in Udgir Tashil. This town is the taulka place in Udgir tahsil. It is the second most important town in the Latur district. This town is situated in the east of the Latur district. In the case of education, Latur town has created the Latur pattern in Maharashtra, in the same manner, Udgir town has created its Udgir pattern. And because of this Udgir town is next to Latur.

As per the 2001 census the population of Udgir town is 91908 out of which 48109 are males and 43799 are female The density of the population of Udgir town is 3437 persons per sq km. The literacy rate in this town is 70 56 percent Udgir town is next to Latur in the case of literacy

The area of Udgir town is 20.5 sq km. The Climate of this town is hot in summer. Geographically this town is situated in the eastern plane region of the district. The average rainfall recorded here in 2001 is 902.8mm. Udgir is the second big town in the Latur district. The Municipal Council of Udgir was established in 1953. Their region around Udgir town is hilly and mountainous. Udgir is an educational and historical town. The area under the forest is not found in this town. Udgir is an important tread center because it is located near the Karnataka boundary. There is a big fort in Udgir town. The range of temperature in Udgir town is comparatively high. It gets rain from the southwest monsoon. The fort in this town is named the Fort of Udgir.

Udgir town was once a walled town to some extent, but today hardly anything remains of the wall. Udgir town mainly is known for its historic fort which today is in good condition, though the buildings (is in a good condition) inside have crumbled down. During the ward between Moghas and the Bijapurs, Udgir which was then one of the strongest forts in the Bijapur kingdom was frequently besieged. In 1636 Khan Dauran, The Moghal general after devastating the territory round about laid siege to the fort at the orders of Sah Jahan who capitulated on September 28, 1636. In the battle of Fatekherda in 1724 the Nizam became Victorious against Mubariz Khan and virtually became an independent ruler in the Decan. After almost a century of direct Moghal domination, the district along with the place passed under Nizam's sovereignty. Udgir is also remarkable as being the place where in 1760. A great battle was fought between the Nizam and the Marathas. The Marathas emerged triumphant and according to the terms of the treaty concluded on February 4, 1760. The Nizam had to cede territories with sixty lakhs of rupees. Udgir Fort contains the Samadhi of Udgir Buva, a deeply revered Saint on account of whose blessings the construction of this fort is said to have been completed. The chamber containing the 464 m. Samadhi is only 1,114 m entered through a lovely constructed door. It is studded with colored marble tiles. On the top, the Samadhi have placed a linga, a conch shell, and a Nandi image. In its front part, a marble tile bearing embossed figures of Rama and Sita has been fixed. In the same way, there is a similar 83 figure of Narayan to the right of the visitor and that of Suryanarayan to the left. In the month of Asadh yatra attended by over 2,00,000 persons is held in honor of this saint. Outside, there is a pavilion to the right and a well to the left, with an outlet without the fort, supplying water to the adjoining vegetable orchards. Inscriptions mentioning the names of Sah Jahan and Aurangzeb have been found in the fort.

There is a big inscription found in this region. It is mentioned in the inscription of 1180 shaka i.e. (1258) that Goapl Dev. Mandalik of King Kanhar Dev performed on lakh 'yadnayas' to complete the formalities of this Yadnayas' He donated Latur, Tururi, Sakol, Khandar, Ujambal, Kakhnal, and Udgir towns. In this inscription, Udgir is mentioned as "Udyagiri". Sometimes it is also mentioned as a 'Uddalaq'. 'Uddalaq' this name is derived from the name of Uddalaq Rushi Uddalaq rushi used to live in a cave near Udgir performing his 'Tapa'. Gazzetter, mentions this place as the 'monument (samadhi) of Udgir buwa.

Lendi River originated in Udgir taluka. The region near the river is beautified in the rainy season by the green fields. The atmosphere here is hot and dry in summer but in winter and rainy season is it cool and healthy.

There are so many buses to Udgir from Latur. S.T. Buses are left to Udgir from Latur for 15 minutes. Most of these buses provide V.D.O and music facilities. In spite of this, buses from Karnataka state are also available. Jeeps, autos, and luxury buses are also available in Udgir town. Also, a broad gauge railway line facility is available in Udgir town. Udgir town is the important station on the Parali - Hydrabad broad gauge railway line. Tourists can use this railway route. But there are so many limitations to using this railway route.

The electricity supply is good in Udgir town. Every house and other important offices, and commercial centers are also electrified. Communication facilities like post, telegram, telephone, STD, and ISD are provided by the post office, telegram & telephone office. Internet facilities are also available in the town by which tourists can communicate with others anywhere in the world.

Water is provided by the taps in this town. Hand pumps are also used for drinking water. But in summer the town has to face the problem of water supply. There is an open drainage system in Udgir town. But the sewage system in the town is not managed well. Like the fort of Ausa here also the campus near the fort is full of dirt and filth.

The road to the fort is rough and narrow for the sake of the travelers the road needs betterment. They should be maintained well. Transport and communication facilities are good here.

There is a medium size bus stand in Udgir town. But the atmosphere around the bus stand is unhygienic. Though the station area can not be enlarged, the cleanness of this bus stand is necessary. Local government should try to clean the area around it. Though the frequency of buses is good travelers prefer to travel by private wheels, and luxuries because of the above-mentioned reasons. Most of the roads in Udgir need repairing which will help the tourists and their entourage.

Accommodation facilities are good in the town. There are 18 to 20 lodges in the town. The lodges are available to the rich and middle-class people. Some of the lodging charge Rs. 25 to 30 per cot per day. There are some "Mathas" but the facilities like water, toilet, lavatory, and food, etc are not satisfactory. There are 15-20 good hotels in the town, which provide medium-quality of meals. There is no lack of entertainment facilities in Udgir town. There are four cinema theaters and one video center in Udgir town. But the facilities provided here are not good. There are eight public libraries, twelve reading rooms, and six drama halls or community halls, which are used by travelers.

Local Government should try to provide good & advanced infrastructural facilities in town. It is very advantageous for tourism development. It should be concentrated to keep the atmosphere healthy. The sewage system should be maintained well. The part of the fort which is in ruined condition should be rebuilt. The area of the bus stand should be well cleaned. The quality of the lodges should be enhanced. Recreational facilities should be provided to the tourist. There should be varieties of eatable things in the hotels. Famous sweets and dishes like Chines, North Indian, South Indian, etc. should be made available here. There should be water fountains and a big garden built here. There beautification of the road - dividers and the fort also need beautification.

Fort Of Ausa

Fort of Ausa :

The old name of Ausa town was the same as 'Ausa'. But Malik Amber approximately in 1014 ( Hijri) changed the name to Ambarpur. After some years it has come to know as Amrapur. But it again became 'Ausa'. It is mentioned in the 'Shilalkeh' of 13 th century that the Yadav family ruled Ausa and there were so many Jain temples. There is an old fort south to Ausa city. It is situated in a sheet area. There are so many khandakas around this fort. Most part of the fort is now ruined

Ausa city is the taluka place and major town in Ausa taluka. The area of Ausa city is 39 sq.km. The population of Ausa town in 30863 out of which 15869 are male and 14994 are female. The density of the population of Ausa town is 5961 per sq. kilometers. The literacy rate in this town is 64 03 percent

The climate of this town is hot and dry The annual average temperature is 31°c Geographically this town is located in the Balaghat plateau region. The region around it is comparatively high There is no forest area in this town. It is mentioned that this place is a product of volcanic eruptions.

The center of attraction is a huge historical fort covering a little over five hectares (13 acres) in the area and lying 3 21 km (2 miles) due south of the inhabited locality. The fort featured prominently in the conflicts between the Deccan sultanates in the post-Buhamani period. In later days it was captured by Malik Ambar in 1014. Hijri and was renamed by him as Ambarapur which was later changed to Ambarapur The fort is situated in a depression surrounded by high ground on all sides So that from its highest point one can have a view of the approaching armies even at a great distance while the main parts of the fort remain hidden from the latter Almost square in shape. The fort has a moat or khandak (ditch) around nearly 36 58 m( 120 ft) in width. Now nearly dry some parts of it being used for washing and bathing and some for growing crops There are some abraded Nagari inscriptions fitted into the stone masonry of the guard rooms. One of them records the name of Murtaza Nizam Sah and the date 1529. Besides the other buildings, there is the usual Pani Mahal in a ruined condition quite a few large walls now unused a mosque, and a dargah. It is also believed that there is an underground passage, big enough to allow an elephant to pass leading from the fort to a commanding hillock named Sultan tekadi. only 321 km (2 miles) off 

   The City is well connected by the bus service and other services to Latur town. The transport services are also provided by other private means like jeeps, luxury, and buses. The facility of a city bus is also available in this city. There is a highway tar road between Latur and Ausa. One has to use a small tar road to reach the fort from the bus stand. The buses to Ausa are available per five or ten minutes. There is no railway facility to Ausa town.

Tap water supply is provided here Hand pumps are also playing important role in providing drinking water supply Water supply in Ausa town is not sufficient for Ausa city. This water supply lacks in fulfilling the needs of the people and tourists The Government hear not well managed a suitable sewage system where is filth and loath dirt found around the fort. People throw the west material and loathe some dirt near their houses. The beauty of the fort is spoiled because of this loathsome material. The atmosphere near the fort has become very unhygienic. In the rainy season, this place becomes dirt. The electricity has been supplied in the near part of the fort The electricity supply is very good in this town. But in the fort, there is no use of electricity supply to attract the tourist. During the day and night, the electricity supply is distributed many times. The Government should think about these problems It should stop cleaning the fort campus and create a suitable drainage system

One can use a bicycle or an auto rikshaw to reach the Ausa fort from the bus stand. The road used to reach the fort is in very bad condition. It is very narrow. Both sides of the road are full of filth and dust. There is no parking facility any were near the fort

In case of accommodation, the tourist can live in Lodges and the Mathas. But the facilities like phone, lavatory, food, etc are found better in Lodges than the Mathas. There are 10-12 medium hotels and tea cantinas in the town. Where a meal of medium quality is available. There are 10 to 15 lodges in Ausa town but they provided medium facilities compared to Latur town.

The mean of entertainment and recreational facilities are limited in Ausa. There are no Cinema theatres or gardens. There is only one video center but the facilities provided here is not good. The municipal council of Ausa should concentrate on creating new entertainment facilities like cinema theaters, gardens, parks, hotels, etc. Also, it should try to clean the campus near for to provide parking facilities. Municipal Council should try to enlarge the road which goes to the fort electricity should be used to decorate the fort.

By providing all these facilities we certainly are not able to re-establish the past glory of the Fort of Ausa but we can definitely maintain the beauty of the fort and make known it as an important tourist center in the Latur district.