Ashtavinayak temples
India, a land of spirituality and mysticism, is home to countless religious pilgrimages that attract devotees from all corners of the world. Among these sacred journeys, the Asthavinayak Yatra holds a special place in the hearts of devotees seeking blessings from Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The Asthavinayak Yatra takes you on a pilgrimage to eight ancient and powerful Ganesha temples located in the state of Maharashtra. Join us as we delve into the mystical world of the Asthavinayak Yatra, a journey filled with faith, devotion, and divine blessings.
- The Legend of the Asthavinayak Yatra:
The story behind the Asthavinayak Yatra traces back to ancient Hindu mythology. It is believed that Lord Ganesha himself decided to reside in eight different forms across Maharashtra to bless his devotees. Each temple enshrines a unique idol of Lord Ganesha, and visiting all eight temples in a single journey is considered highly auspicious and spiritually rewarding.
- The Temples: A Journey to Divine Bliss:
The Asthavinayak Yatra starts with the temple of Moreshwar in Morgaon, followed by Siddhivinayak in Siddhatek, Ballaleshwar in Pali, Varadvinayak in Mahad, Chintamani in Theur, Girijatmaj in Lenyadri, Vighnahar in Ozar, and finally, Mahaganapati in Ranjangaon. Each temple has its own unique history, architectural marvels, and fascinating rituals, making the journey a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual experiences.
- Rituals and Customs:
The Asthavinayak Yatra is not merely a physical journey; it is an opportunity to connect with the divine and seek blessings. Devotees embark on this yatra with utmost devotion and follow specific rituals at each temple. From offering modaks (a sweet delicacy associated with Lord Ganesha) to performing aarti (a ritual of offering prayers with oil lamps), every step of the yatra is a profound spiritual experience.
- The Scenic Beauty and Cultural Heritage:
Apart from its religious significance, the Asthavinayak Yatra offers breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra. As you traverse through picturesque villages, lush green hills, and serene rivers, you will witness the vibrant tapestry of rural life and experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Maharashtra’s countryside as you embark on this divine journey.
- A Spiritual Awakening:
The Asthavinayak Yatra is not just about visiting temples; it is a transformative experience that touches the soul. The serene ambiance, the rhythmic chants, and the deep-rooted faith of fellow devotees create an atmosphere charged with positive energy. The journey instills a sense of devotion, gratitude, and inner peace, empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and embrace the path of spirituality.
The Asthavinayak Yatra is a profound spiritual expedition that takes devotees on a journey of faith, devotion, and self-discovery. It is an opportunity to connect with Lord Ganesha and seek his blessings, while also immersing oneself in the cultural and natural beauty of Maharashtra. The yatra leaves a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of pilgrims, reinforcing their faith and revitalizing their spirits. So, pack your bags, embark on this divine journey, and let the Asthavinayak Yatra be a life-changing experience that brings you closer to the divine and enriches your soul.
Ashtavinayaka refers to the eight holy shrines of Lord Ganesha located in Maharashtra, India. Here’s a list of Ashtavinayaka mandirs and their full stories
Moreshwar Temple :
Moreshwar Temple: Located in Morgaon, this temple is believed to be the starting point of the Ashtavinayaka pilgrimage. The story goes that the demon Sindhu killed the son of King Abhinandan and captured his kingdom. In his grief, the king prayed to Lord Ganesha to help him regain his kingdom. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Ganesha killed the demon Sindhu and restored the kingdom to the king.
The Moreshwar Temple, also known as the Mayureshwar Temple, is located in the town of Morgaon in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. Here are the steps to reach the temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport to the temple is Pune Airport, which is around 65 km away from the temple.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Jejuri Railway Station, which is around 18 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Road: Morgaon is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra by road. You can take a bus from Pune or Mumbai to reach the temple. Private taxis are also available for hire from these cities.
Once you reach Morgaon, the temple is easily accessible by road. You can take a local taxi or a rickshaw to reach the temple. The Moreshwar Temple is one of the Ashtavinayak temples, and it is considered to be the first temple to visit among the eight temples.
Siddhivinayak Temple :
Siddhivinayak Temple: Located in Siddhatek, this temple is believed to be the second of the Ashtavinayaka shrines. According to the legend, the demon Sindhurasura received a boon from Lord Brahma that no man or god could kill him. He became very powerful and started harassing people. Lord Vishnu took the form of Mohini and distracted the demon, while Lord Ganesha killed him.
Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the Ashtavinayak temples located in the village of Siddhatek in Maharashtra, India. Here are the steps to reach the temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Siddhatek is Pune Airport, which is around 150 km away from the temple. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Daund Junction, which is around 18 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Road: Siddhatek is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra by road. You can take a bus or a private taxi from Pune or Mumbai to reach the temple.
Once you reach Siddhatek, the temple is easily accessible by road. You can take a local taxi or a rickshaw to reach the temple. It is recommended to plan your visit during the early morning hours or on weekdays to avoid crowds. The Siddhivinayak Temple is the second temple to visit among the Ashtavinayak temples.
Ballaleshwar Temple :
Ballaleshwar Temple: Located in Pali, this temple is believed to be the third of the Ashtavinayaka shrines. The story goes that a devotee named Ballal worshipped Lord Ganesha with utmost devotion and was blessed by the lord. The temple is named after Ballal in his honor.
Ballaleshwar Temple is one of the Ashtavinayak temples located in the town of Pali, in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. Here are the steps to reach the temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Pali is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, which is about 115 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Roha Railway Station, which is about 18 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Road: Pali is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra by road. You can take a bus or a private taxi from Mumbai or Pune to reach the temple.
Once you reach Pali, the temple is easily accessible by road. You can take a local taxi or a rickshaw to reach the temple. It is recommended to plan your visit during the early morning hours or on weekdays to avoid crowds. The Ballaleshwar Temple is the third temple to visit among the Ashtavinayak temples.
Varadvinayak Temple :
Varadvinayak Temple: Located in Mahad, this temple is believed to be the fourth of the Ashtavinayaka shrines. According to the legend, the demon named Kukur made a pact with Lord Brahma that he would not be killed by any living or non-living entity. Lord Ganesha disguised himself as a Brahmin and tricked the demon into allowing him to kill him.
Varadvinayak Temple is one of the Ashtavinayak temples located in the village of Mahad, in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. Here are the steps to reach the temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Mahad is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, which is about 130 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Roha Railway Station, which is about 25 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Road: Mahad is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra by road. You can take a bus or a private taxi from Mumbai or Pune to reach the temple.
Once you reach Mahad, the temple is easily accessible by road. You can take a local taxi or a rickshaw to reach the temple. It is recommended to plan your visit during the early morning hours or on weekdays to avoid crowds. The Varadvinayak Temple is the fourth temple to visit among the Ashtavinayak temples.
Chintamani Temple :
Chintamani Temple: Located in Theur, this temple is believed to be the fifth of the Ashtavinayaka shrines. According to the legend, Lord Ganesha obtained a precious gem called Chintamani from a demon named Gana. The gem had the power to fulfill wishes. Lord Ganesha gave the gem to a devotee named Gritsamada, who used it to become the king of the Deccan.
Chintamani Temple is one of the Ashtavinayak temples located in the town of Theur, in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. Here are the steps to reach the temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Theur is Pune International Airport, which is about 30 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Pune Railway Station, which is about 25 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Road: Theur is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra by road. You can take a bus or a private taxi from Pune or Mumbai to reach the temple.
Once you reach Theur, the temple is easily accessible by road. You can take a local taxi or a rickshaw to reach the temple. It is recommended to plan your visit during the early morning hours or on weekdays to avoid crowds. The Chintamani Temple is the fifth temple to visit among the Ashtavinayak temples.
Girijatmaj Temple :
Girijatmaj Temple: Located in Lenyadri, this temple is believed to be the sixth of the Ashtavinayaka shrines. According to the legend, the goddess Parvati did penance on the Lenyadri mountain to have a child. Lord Ganesha, pleased with her devotion, was born as her son and is known as Girijatmaj.
Girijatmaj Temple is one of the Ashtavinayak temples located in the Lenyadri hills, near the town of Junnar in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. Here are the steps to reach the temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Lenyadri is Pune International Airport, which is about 90 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Pune Railway Station, which is about 94 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Road: Lenyadri is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra by road. You can take a bus or a private taxi from Pune or Mumbai to reach the temple.
Once you reach Lenyadri, you need to climb up the hill to reach the temple. There are around 307 steps to climb to reach the temple. You can also take the help of porters to carry your luggage or elderly people who cannot climb the stairs. It is recommended to plan your visit during the early morning hours or on weekdays to avoid crowds. The Girijatmaj Temple is the sixth temple to visit among the Ashtavinayak temples.
Vighnahar Temple :
Vighnahar Temple: Located in Ozar, this temple is believed to be the seventh of the Ashtavinayaka shrines. According to the legend, Lord Indra sent the demon Vighnasura to disrupt a yagna being performed by the sage Vachaknavi. Lord Ganesha killed the demon and saved the yagna.
Vighnahar Temple, also known as Ozar Ganpati, is one of the Ashtavinayak temples located in the town of Ozar in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. Here are the steps to reach the temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Ozar is Pune International Airport, which is about 70 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Narayangaon Railway Station, which is about 8 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Road: Ozar is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra by road. You can take a bus or a private taxi from Pune or Mumbai to reach the temple.
Once you reach Ozar, the temple is easily accessible by road. You can take a local taxi or a rickshaw to reach the temple. It is recommended to plan your visit during the early morning hours or on weekdays to avoid crowds. The Vighnahar Temple is the second temple to visit among the Ashtavinayak temples.
Mahaganapati Temple :
Mahaganapati Temple: Located in Ranjangaon, this temple is believed to be the last of the Ashtavinayaka shrines. According to the legend, Lord Shiva worshipped Lord Ganesha before fighting the demon Tripurasura. Lord Ganesha blessed Lord Shiva and helped him in defeating the demon.
Mahaganapati Temple, also known as Ranjangaon Ganpati, is one of the Ashtavinayak temples located in the town of Ranjangaon in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. Here are the steps to reach the temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Ranjangaon is Pune International Airport, which is about 50 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Uruli Railway Station, which is about 12 km away from the temple. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
- By Road: Ranjangaon is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra by road. You can take a bus or a private taxi from Pune or Mumbai to reach the temple.
Once you reach Ranjangaon, the temple is easily accessible by road. You can take a local taxi or a rickshaw to reach the temple. It is recommended to plan your visit during the early morning hours or on weekdays to avoid crowds. The Mahaganapati Temple is the eighth and final temple to visit among the Ashtavinayak temples.
Best & Shortest route to visite these temples
Ashtavinayak temples are located in different parts of Maharashtra, and the distance between each temple is significant. However, if you plan your trip wisely, you can cover all the temples in a single journey. Here’s a short route to travel the Ashtavinayak temples:
- Start from Pune and visit Morgaon Ganpati temple first.
- From there, travel to Siddhatek and visit Siddhivinayak temple.
- After that, proceed to Theur and visit Chintamani Ganpati temple.
- From Theur, head to Ranjangaon and visit Mahaganapati temple.
- Then, travel to Ozar and visit Vighnahar Ganpati temple.
- After visiting Ozar, head to Lenyadri and visit Girijatmaj Ganpati temple.
- Finally, travel to Pali and visit Ballaleshwar Ganpati temple.
This route covers all the Ashtavinayak temples and can be completed in 2-3 days. It is recommended to start early in the morning to avoid crowds and traffic. You can either hire a private taxi or take a bus to travel between the temples.
The shortest route to complete the Ashtavinayak Yatra if you start from Mumbai is as follows:
- Start from Mumbai and head towards the first temple, Moreshwar Temple in Morgaon. The distance between Mumbai and Morgaon is approximately 150 km, and it takes around 3 hours to cover this distance by road.
- After visiting the Moreshwar Temple, head towards the second temple, Siddhivinayak Temple in Siddhatek. The distance between Morgaon and Siddhatek is approximately 70 km, and it takes around 2 hours to cover this distance by road.
- After visiting the Siddhivinayak Temple, head towards the third temple, Ballaleshwar Temple in Pali. The distance between Siddhatek and Pali is approximately 110 km, and it takes around 2.5 hours to cover this distance by road.
- After visiting the Ballaleshwar Temple, head towards the fourth temple, Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad. The distance between Pali and Mahad is approximately 70 km, and it takes around 1.5 hours to cover this distance by road.
- After visiting the Varadvinayak Temple, head towards the fifth temple, Chintamani Temple in Theur. The distance between Mahad and Theur is approximately 120 km, and it takes around 2.5 hours to cover this distance by road.
- After visiting the Chintamani Temple, head towards the sixth temple, Girijatmaj Temple in Lenyadri. The distance between Theur and Lenyadri is approximately 90 km, and it takes around 2 hours to cover this distance by road.
- Finally, after visiting the Girijatmaj Temple, head towards the seventh and last temple, Vighnahar Temple in Ozar. The distance between Lenyadri and Ozar is approximately 70 km, and it takes around 1.5 hours to cover this distance by road.
- From the Vighnahar Temple in Ozar, head back to Mumbai, which is around 85 km away and takes around 2 hours to cover this distance by road.
Note: The total distance covered in this route is approximately 675 km, and the total travel time is around 16 hours. This is just an estimate, and the actual travel time may vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
