Maharashtra, a divine land of ancient Hindu culture and legacy, is home to many holy Hindu temples built during the times of great kings and saints. These holy shrines, with fine stone carvings and serene environment, show the deep faith and master craftmanship. The Ashta Vinayak Temples, eight holy shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, are among the most famous. Scattered across Maharashtra’s hills, villages, and rivers, these temples draw devotees especially for the Astha Vinayak Yatra. Below are the list of eight Ashta Vinayak Temples described briefly.
1. Moreshwar Temple, Morgaon
In Morgaon, Pune district, the Moreshwar Temple, built in the 14th century, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha as Mayureshwar. Old tales say Ganesha rode a peacock to defeat a demon here. The temple’s black stone idol, with a diamond in its eye, shines with devotion. Its four gates and tall lamp tower glow during Ganesh Chaturthi with chants. Set by the Karha River, its calm air draws many. The strong walls, from Peshwa times, show old skill.
2. Siddhivinayak Temple, Siddhatek
By the Bhima River in Ahmednagar district, the Siddhivinayak Temple, from the 18th century, honors Ganesha as Siddhivinayak. Stories describe Lord Vishnu prayed here for the success of defeating a demon. The idol, with its trunk turned right, is rare and holy. Built on a hill, it has a dome and carved pillars. Ganesh Jayanti brings prayers and songs. The river’s peace and old steps make it sacred. Devotees walk around it for blessings.
3. Ballaleshwar Temple, Pali
In Pali, Raigad district, the Ballaleshwar Temple, built in 1760 by Peshwas, is for Ganesha as Ballaleshwar. Named after a devotee, Ballal, saved by Ganesha, it has a stone idol with silver eyes. The temple’s two sanctums and bell-shaped roof shine during Ganesh Chaturthi. Set in a green valley, it feels holy. Maha Shivaratri also draws crowds. The nearby hills and old lamps add charm.
4. Varadvinayak Temple, Mahad
In Mahad, Raigad district, the Varadvinayak Temple, from the 1720s, honors Ganesha as Varadvinayak, the wish-giver. Tales say a devotee found the idol in a lake after a divine dream. The wooden temple, rebuilt by Peshwas, has a golden dome. Its idol, with a lamp that burns always, is special. Ganesh Chaturthi fills it with flowers and chants. A holy pond nearby adds peace. The simple design feels sacred.
5. Chintamani Temple, Theur
In Theur, Pune district, the Chintamani Temple, built in the 1700s by Peshwas, is for Ganesha as Chintamani, the worry-remover. Stories say Ganesha helped a devotee defeat a demon here. The wooden hall and stone idol glow during Ganesh Jayanti with lamps. Set by the Mula-Mutha River, its carved arches and garden bring calm. The temple’s old well and nearby fort make it a holy spot. Devotees come for peace.
6. Girijatmaj Temple, Lenyadri
In Lenyadri, Pune district, the Girijatmaj Temple, from the 1st century, is for Ganesha as Girijatmaj, born to Goddess Parvati. Carved into a cave on a hill, it needs 307 steps to reach. The plain rock idol, carved on the cave wall, feels ancient. Ganesh Chaturthi brings chants and prayers. The hill’s view and cool caves draw many. Old Buddhist caves nearby add history. The climb feels like a holy journey.
7. Vighneshwar Temple, Ozar
In Ozar, Pune district, the Vighneshwar Temple, rebuilt in 1788 by Peshwas, honors Ganesha as Vighneshwar, the obstacle-remover. Tales say Ganesha defeated a demon here. The idol, with emerald eyes, sits in a gold-roofed sanctum. The temple’s tall wall and deepastambha, or lamp pillar, shine during Ganesh Jayanti. By the Kukdi River, its green fields bring peace. The stone carvings and old steps make it holy.
8. Mahaganapati Temple, Ranjangaon
In Ranjangaon, Pune district, the Mahaganapati Temple, from the 10th century, is for Ganesha as Mahaganapati. Stories say Lord Shiva prayed here before a battle. The large idol, with ten arms, is grand. Built by Peshwas, its tall shikhara and carved gates glow during Ganesh Chaturthi with songs. Set in a village, its wide courtyard feels sacred. The temple’s old tank and strong walls add charm. Devotees seek strength here.
The Pilgrimage Tradition
The Ashta Vinayak pilgrimage is a holy journey to visit all eight temples in a set order: Morgaon, Siddhatek, Pali, Mahad, Theur, Lenyadri, Ozar, and Ranjangaon, ending back at Morgaon. Old tales say this path brings Ganesha’s full blessings. Devotees often start at Morgaon, praying for success. The journey, about 800 km, takes 2–3 days by car. Many visit during Ganesh Chaturthi or Ganesh Jayanti, when temples are bright with lamps and chants. Each temple offers prasad like modak, Ganesha’s favorite sweet.
Tips for Visitors
Maharashtra can be hot, reaching 100°F from March to May. October to February, at 70°F, is best for visits. Monsoon from June to September makes hills wet, so wear strong shoes. Dress simply, covering shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering. Photos are not allowed inside most temples. Visit early morning to avoid heat and crowds. Ganesh Chaturthi in August or September is very busy, so book buses or rooms early for far places like Lenyadri or Ranjangaon. Carry water and modak for offerings. Local stalls sell laddoos and tea near temples.
How to Plan the Pilgrimage
Start at Morgaon, 80 km from Pune, easy by bus or car. Siddhatek is 100 km away, a 3-hour drive. Pali and Mahad, in Raigad, are close to each other, about 150 km from Siddhatek. Theur is near Pune, a 2-hour drive from Mahad. Lenyadri and Ozar, also in Pune district, are 90 km apart. Ranjangaon, 50 km from Pune, ends the loop. Pune is the best base, with hotels like Hotel Shreyas (2000-4000 rupees). Buses from Pune’s Swargate stand or hired cars work well. Plan rest stops, as roads can be rough. Local priests guide rituals and worship at each temple.
