Akkalkot is home to one of the most favourite saints from 19th century that are worshipped today Shri Swami Samartha Maharaj who was believed to be an incarnation of God Dattatreya by his devotees.Swami Samartha Maharaj lived here for approximately two decades mostly at the residence of his disciple Cholappa where his samadhi and shrine are currently located.The shrine complex, The Vatavruksh Mandir , which also encompases the banyan tree beneath which Swami Samartha Maharaj would preach his teachings , is the central point of devotions for his followers; free accommodation and meals are provided to pilgrims by Shri Swami Samarth Annachhatra Mandal . The other shrine is of Samadhi of Akkalkoth Swami located اتsome distance from the in shrine but in the city limits.