City Highlights [ Tourism ]:

 

The famous Pandharpur; with its Vitthal-Rakhumai temple on the banks of the Chandrabhaga river, that has carved a niche in the hearts of Marathi speaking people, is only 70 Kms. from Solapur. Near by Akkalkot, just 38 Kms. from Solapur is known to be a holy place on account of the shrine of Akkalkot Swami and is visited by his followers. Tuljapur in Usmanabad district, 40 Kms. from Solapur, has the seat of the goddess Tulja-Bhawani, well known as the family deity of Maharashtra State. Across the border in Gulbarga district of Karnataka State, is Gangapur, another place of pilgrimage. Vijapur, a district in Karnataka, 109 Kms. from Solapur is widely known for its 'Gol-Gumbaj', a marvel in architecture and Badami in the same district for its mind boggling temples carved inside the rocks.

 

Brief Write-up about Solapur Science Centre, Solapur

             In order to popularize and develop scientific awareness and scientific temper among the people of Southern Maharashtra region, a new science centre has been developed at Solapur by National Council of Science Museums.  This centre will cater to about 32 lakh population of Solapur district in understanding and promoting scientific awareness through interactive exhibits and exhibitions. 

 

            Solapur Science Centre is a joint project of Government of India and Government of Maharashtra which has been set-up with a capital cost of Rs. 260 lakh (excluding the cost of land).   Government of Maharashtra has provided 5 acres of secured land and shared the 50% of the capital cost of the project and the balance 50% is shared by the Government of India.  The project is planned, executed and commissioned by National Council of Science Museums which is an autonomous organization under Ministry of Culture, Government of India. 

 

            The Solapur Science Centre is located next to Solapur University campus.   The main building has a built-up area of 1300 sq. mt. and a sprawling science park and plantations all around the building 

 

            The main building houses a permanent exhibition on the theme “Textiles” covering a floor area of 280 sq. mt. which portrays the need and essentialities of textiles from the aspect of its development, manufacturing and advancements including technical textiles.  It also focuses on historical as well as sociological aspects of textile production through interactive exhibits and information panels.  Another exhibition on “Fun – Science” is housed in one wing of the building covering a floor area of 160 sq. mt. This exhibition provides opportunities to the visitors to interact and explore various aspects of science in highly entertaining ambiance.

 

            The Centre also houses other facilities like “Taramandal” – an inflatable planetarium which can accommodate 30 students at a time.  Using this facility, exposure is given to the students regarding astronomy.  In addition to this, it also houses a science demonstration corner where experiments will be performed in front of students to excite them about science, a computer room having 6 terminals to provide orientation and exposure to visitors regarding use of computers for various applications like internet, preparation of multimedia presentations etc.

 

            The Centre houses a 100 seating capacity air-conditioned auditorium.  It also houses 3D – film projection system.  Visitors can experience 3D scientific films by wearing special spectacles. 

 

            Besides promoting non-formal learning within the building, the centre also has developed a “Science Park” in an area of 2.5 acres – which is an exposition without walls - to provide an opportunity for the visitors and children to explore scientific gadgets while playing in the park.  A separate picnic area is also provided for visitors to have a day’s outing at the science centre.

 

            An area campus has been developed with large trees, lawn, hedges, flowerbeds, shrubs and other plantations to provide green cover