The temples of Maharashtra are a reflection of the state’s deep spiritual heritage and architectural brilliance, attracting devotees and tourists alike. These sacred spaces, spread across the urban and rural landscapes, are devoted to various deities from Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, showcasing the region’s rich religious diversity. From intricately carved ancient temples nestled in the hills to bustling sanctuaries in the heart of cities, each temple carries a unique blend of history, devotion, and artistry. Many temples are renowned for their distinctive architectural styles, ranging from rock-cut cave temples to grand stone structures, each telling stories of past dynasties and their devotion. These temples serve as important pilgrimage sites, hosting vibrant festivals and rituals throughout the year, making them not just places of worship, but also cultural hubs that preserve Maharashtra’s long-standing traditions and values.
SIDDHIVINAYAK TEMPLE, MUMBAI
The Siddhivinayak Temple in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, is a highly revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the God of success in Hinduism. The term ‘Siddhivinayak’ can be translated as ‘Ganesha who fulfills desires.
History and Architecture
Constructed in 1801, the temple features a small mandapam (hall) where the principal idol is enshrined. Notable for its intricate architecture, the sanctum sanctorum is adorned with intricately carved wooden doors depicting the Ashtavinayaka, the eight forms of Lord Ganesha. Uniquely, the temple’s idol is carved from a single black stone with its trunk extending to the right, in contrast to the more common left-side curl. This Chaturbhuj idol, which has four arms, holds a lotus in the upper right hand, a small axe in the upper left, and a bowl of modaks (an Indian sweet) along with holy beads. On either side of the Ganesha idol are statues of Goddesses Riddhi and Siddhi, representing sanctity, success, wealth, and prosperity.
How to Reach
By Road: Mumbai – 11 km
By Train: Nearest railway station – Mumbai (12 km)
By Air: Mumbai Airport – 11 km.
SHIRDI SAI BABA TEMPLE, SHIRDI
A renowned pilgrimage destination in India, Shirdi is where the revered saint Sai Baba resided and spread his teachings focussing on love, compassion, forgiveness, and selfless service for over fifty years. The Samadhi Temple, where he spent much of his life, features a room showcasing items used by Shri Sai Baba, making it a significant site for his followers who continue to honour and practice his teachings.
History and Architecture
The temple stands on the ground where the revered saint and spiritual leader, Shirdi Sai Baba, spent a large part of his life. Sai Baba, worshiped by followers of all religions, resided in Shirdi during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Established after his Mahasamadhi (passing) in 1918, the temple complex includes the main shrine, which houses Sai Baba’s samadhi (tomb), as well as various other buildings such as prayer halls, meditation rooms, administrative offices, and accommodation facilities for devotees.
How to Reach
By Road: Mumbai – 240 km; Pune – 186 km.
By Train: Nearest railway stations – Mumbai (255 km); Pune (187 km); Shirdi Station (3 km).
By Air: Mumbai Airport – 247 km; Pune Airport – 182 km; Nashik Airport – 93 km.
BHIMASHANKAR TEMPLE, PUNE
The Bhimashankar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the sixth among the 12 jyotirlingas (devotional shrines of Lord Shiva) in India. Located in the village of Bhorgiri, it is nestled in the Ghat region of the Sahyadri hills, approximately 50 km northwest of Pune city.
History and Architecture
The Bhimashankar Temple boasts a rich history, believed to date back to the 13th century during the Yadava dynasty. Its architecture features the Nagara (or Indo-Aryan) style, with clear Rajasthani and Gujarati influences evident in the sanctum sanctorum (garbha griha) and the tower (shikhara). Over the centuries, the temple has undergone various renovations and additions, enhancing its architectural grandeur.
How to Reach
By Road: Pune – 123 km.
By Train: Nearest railway station – Pune (124 km);
By Air: Pune Airport – 119 km.
TRIMBAKESHWAR TEMPLE, NASHIK
Situated on the outskirts of Nashik, the historic Trimbakeshwar Temple is a significant Hindu shrine devoted to Lord Shiva. As one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, it symbolizes a key aspect of Lord Shiva and is deeply revered in Hindu mythology and pilgrimage traditions.
History and Architecture
The Trimbakeshwar Temple, constructed by the third Peshwa Balaji Bajirao (1740-1760) on the site of an older temple, is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage center. Nestled at the base of Brahmagiri Hill and surrounded by the Nilagiri and Kalagiri hills, the temple is entirely built of black stone and dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located near Trimbak, the origin of the River Godavari, with Kusavarta, a pond within the temple grounds, symbolizing the river’s source. The temple exemplifies traditional Hindu temple architecture with its intricate carvings, sculptures, and ornate decorations. The complex includes the main shrine with the lingam (a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva) and various smaller shrines dedicated to other deities.
How to Reach
By Road: Mumbai – 171 km; Nashik – 30 km.
By Train: Nearest railway stations – Mumbai (187 km); Nashik (40 km).
By Air: Mumbai Airport – 179 km; Nashik Airport – 57 km.
MAHALAKSHMI TEMPLE, KOLHAPUR
The Mahalakshmi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, is located in the centre of Kolhapur city, on the sacred banks of the Panchganga River.
History and Architecture
The Mahalakshmi Temple boasts a rich history spanning several centuries. It is believed to have been originally constructed in the 7th century by the Chalukya dynasty and later renovated and expanded by various rulers and patrons. Significant reconstruction took place during the reign of the Maratha king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The temple is an excellent example of traditional Hindu architecture, featuring a grand entrance (Mahadwara), towering spires (Shikharas), intricately carved pillars, and ornate decorations. The sanctum sanctorum houses the main idol of Goddess Mahalakshmi, with smaller shrines dedicated to other deities surrounding it.
How to Reach
By Road: Pune – 233 km; Goa – 218 km; Kolhapur – 5 km.
By Train: Nearest railway stations – Pune (234 km); Goa (223 km); Kolhapur (25 km).
By Air: Pune Airport – 244 km; Goa (Mopa) Airport – 165 km; Kolhapur Airport – 12 km.
VITTHAL RUKMINI TEMPLE, PANDHARPUR
The Pandharpur Vitthal Temple, often referred to as the Vitthal Rukmini Temple, is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vitthal, a manifestation of Lord Krishna. It is located on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River in Pandharpur, a town regarded as one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in Maharashtra.
History and Architecture
The Pandharpur Vitthal Temple boasts a rich history that spans several centuries. It is believed to have been initially constructed in the 12th century during the Yadava dynasty, later expanded and renovated by various rulers and patrons. Over the years, the temple has undergone significant reconstruction and restoration.
The temple exemplifies traditional Hindu architecture, featuring a simple yet elegant design, with a spire (Shikhar) rising above the sanctum sanctorum that houses the main idol of Lord Vitthal. The complex includes various other shrines dedicated to different deities, as well as courtyards, halls, and administrative buildings.
How to Reach
By Road: Pune – 209 km
By Train: Nearest railway stations – Pune (207 km); Pandharpur (3km)
By Air: Pune Airport – 209 km.
TULJA BHAVANI TEMPLE, TULJAPUR
The Tulja Bhavani Temple, also known as Tuljabhavani Mandir, is a highly revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Bhavani, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati. It is located in the town of Tuljapur, approximately 45 kilometers from Solapur city in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra.
History and Architecture
The Tulja Bhavani Temple has a rich history dating back several centuries. It is believed to have been originally built in the 12th century during the Yadava dynasty and later renovated and expanded by various rulers and patrons over time. The temple has undergone significant reconstruction and restoration efforts over the years.
The temple showcases traditional Hindu temple architecture, featuring a simple yet elegant design with a spire (Shikhar) towering over the sanctum sanctorum housing the main idol of Goddess Bhavani.
How to Reach
By Road: Pune – 292 km
By Train: Nearest railway station – Pune (290 km); Solapur (47 km) and Osmanabad (30 km).
By Air: Pune Airport – 292 km.
ASHTAVINAYAK YATRA
Maharashtra is renowned for its sacred Ashtavinayaka temples, which hold a special place in Hindu tradition. The term “Ashtavinayaka” is derived from Sanskrit, meaning “Eight Ganeshas.” These eight temples, each located in a different part of the state, are considered ‘Swayambhu,’ or self-originated, and are believed to be ‘jagrut,’ meaning they grant the wishes of their devotees. Each Ganapati deity at these temples has a unique name and an associated legend.
The Ashtavinayak Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage route that leads devotees to eight renowned Ganesh temples located in Maharashtra. This spiritual journey provides not only a profound divine experience but also an opportunity for pilgrims to immerse themselves in the cultural heritage and scenic beauty of Maharashtra.
The eight temples are located across three districts in Maharashtra: Pune, Raigad, and Ahmednagar. The typical sequence for the Ashtavinayaka Yatra (pilgrimage) is as follows:
The traditional starting and ending point of the Ashtavinayak Yatra is the Mayureshwar temple in Morgaon. The suggested sequence for the pilgrimage is as follows:
- Mayureshwar, Morgaon
- Siddhivinayak, Siddhatek
- Ballaleshwar, Pali
- Varadvinayak, Mahad
- Chintamani, Theur
- Girijatmaj, Lenyadri
- Vighneshwar, Ozar
- Mahaganapati, Ranjangaon
By following this route, pilgrims can ensure a smooth and organized journey, visiting all the temples in an efficient and logical order.
Mayureshwar Temple at Morgaon
Morgaon village, located 50 km from Pune, is renowned for its shrine dedicated to Mayureshawar Vinayak, one of the Ashtavinayak (eight Ganeshas) temples. The image of Lord Ganesha here faces east, flanked by brass images of his consorts Siddhi and Riddhi. The Mayureshwar Ganesh Mandir is situated on the banks of the River Karha and is associated with Morya Gosavi, a saint of the Ganpatya sect. This particular Ganesha idol is unique with six arms and is white instead of the usual grey, with a peacock as his mount. According to legend, he was born to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati to defeat the demon Sindhu.
Siddhivinayak Temple at Siddhatek
The Siddhivinayak Temple, the second of the eight Ashtavinayak temples, is located in the village of Siddhatek, around 200 km from Pune in the Karjat district of Ahmednagar. This temple is named Siddhivinayak because it is believed that Lord Vishnu attained siddhi (spiritual power) on the Siddhatek mountain.
Perched on a hillock surrounded by lush babul trees, the temple is constructed from black stone and includes a sabha mandapa (assembly hall) and a small shrine with a demonic head sculpture. The temple celebrates two main festivals: Ganesh Chaturthi (celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha), and Vijayadashami.
Shri Ballaleshwar Ganpati Temple at Pali
The Pali village, situated between Fort Sarasgarh and the River Amba in Raigad district, is home to one of the eight revered Ashtavinayak temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This temple is notable for its unique idol of Ganesha, which sits on a stone throne facing east, with the trunk turned towards the left. The idol features three diamonds, two for the eyes and one on the navel. It is set against a silver backdrop with the consorts Riddhi and Siddhi depicted waving chamaras (a ceremonial fan).
The temple is also known for its giant metal bell, said to have been brought by Chimaji Appa, the military commander of the Maratha empire, after his victory over the Portuguese at Vasai. The temple’s grandeur is further enhanced by a 15-foot-high sanctum. The current structure of the temple was reportedly constructed by Shri Phadnis of Moradabad.
Varadvinayak Temple at Mahad
This village in Khalapur taluka is home to the Varadvinayak Temple, one of the Ashtavinayak (eight Ganeshas) temples. The temple was restored in 1725 AD by Ramji Mahadev Biwalkar, a general of the Peshwa. A picturesque pond lies adjacent to the temple. Notably, the idol of Varada Vinayak is believed to be swayambu (self-originated), having been discovered in a nearby lake. The idol faces east, with its trunk turned to the left, and four elephant idols guard the corners of the temple.
The temple attracts large crowds during festivals like Magh Chaturthi. Another unique feature is an oil lamp that is said to have been burning continuously since 1892!
Chintamani Temple at Theur
Located about 25 km from Pune, the Chintamani Mandir in Theur is one of the eight Ashtavinayak temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple is surrounded by the waters of the River Mula on three sides, with its entrance facing north. The spacious main hall is constructed of wood and features a charming fountain, as well as a large bell suspended from the ceiling. Inside the temple, the idol of Lord Ganesha is depicted seated cross-legged, with its trunk turned to the left. A significant fair takes place during Ganesh Utsav, celebrated in the month of Bhadrapad (August or September) and in the month of Magh (January or February).
Girijatmaj Temple at Lenyadri
This temple is unique as it is the only Ganesha shrine in India carved into a cave. Legend has it that the Pandavas from the Mahabharata created these caves in a single night during their 13th year of exile. Situated in the hills of Junnar near Pune, the Lenyadri caves feature the Girijatmaj Ganesh, whose idol is carved into the cave wall and can only be viewed from behind. The idol is adorned with red vermillion or sindoor and is one of the Ashtavinayaka, the eight Ganeshas of Maharashtra.
To reach Lenyadri, visitors must climb 338 steps leading to a rock-cut cave marked by eight intricately carved pillars, adorned with lions and elephants. At the entrance, there is a large hall, and the south-facing cave contains 18 niches to the right of the sanctum, where the Ganesha carving is located. The caves also feature several water tanks that remain full throughout the year, providing refreshing water for the weary pilgrims who visit.
Vighnahar Temple at Ozar
The Vigneshwara Temple, also known as the Vighnahar Ganapati Temple, is a revered Hindu temple located in Ozar, Maharashtra. The Ganesha idol worshipped here is known as Vigneshwara or Vignahar, meaning “Lord of obstacles” or “Remover of obstacles.” This name is tied to the legend of Ganesha triumphing over the demon Vignasura, who symbolizes obstacles.
Ozar is situated approximately 85 kilometers from Pune, off the Pune-Nashik highway, and about 9 kilometers north of Narayangaon. Although traditionally listed as the seventh temple to visit in the Ashtavinayak circuit, many pilgrims choose to visit Ozar fifth for convenience. (remove apps or regular taxis)
Mahaganapati Temple at Ranjangaon
The Ranjangaon Ganpati, also known as the Shri Mahaganpati Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, one of Hinduism’s most revered deities. It is located in the village of Ranjangaon in the Shirur taluka of Pune district, Maharashtra. This temple is the last of the eight Ashtavinayak temples, holding significant religious importance in Hinduism.
The temple’s Ganesha idol was unveiled and donated by the Khollam family, renowned goldsmiths from Ranjangaon. The construction of the main temple is believed to date back to the 9th and 10th centuries, with significant contributions made during the Peshwa era. The temple features a prominent shikhara above the sanctum and includes the Nagarkhana atop the entrance gate. The temple faces east and is known for its grand and magnificent entrance.
How To Complete The Yatra – Recommended Duration (Three Days)
We suggest renting a cab or car from Pune for a full three days to comfortably complete the yatra. While it is possible to finish the tour in two days, doing so would feel too rushed. Therefore, a three-day itinerary is recommended for a more relaxed and fulfilling experience.
Day 1
- Morning: Begin your journey from Pune and visit the Mayureshwar temple in Morgaon.
- Afternoon: Continue to the Siddhivinayak temple in Siddhatek.
- Evening: Travel to Pali and stay overnight at a hotel near the Ballaleshwar temple.
Day 2
- Morning: Visit the Ballaleshwar temple in Pali.
- Afternoon: Head to the Varadvinayak temple in Mahad, followed by the Chintamani temple in Theur.
- Evening: Return to Pune and stay overnight.
Day 3
- Morning: Visit the Girijatmaj temple in Lenyadri and the Vighneshwar temple in Ozar.
- Afternoon: Conclude the Yatra by visiting the Mahaganapati temple in Ranjangaon.
- Evening: Return to Pune.
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