Ashtavinayak Darshan: Complete Guide to 8 Ganpati Temples in Maharashtra

Ashtavinayak Darshan – A Simple Guide to 8 Ganpati Temples in Maharashtra

Ashtavinayak Darshan means visiting the eight special Ganpati temples in Maharashtra. These temples are very old and have great importance in Hindu faith. All eight temples are located in different places but can be visited in one round trip.

Each of these temples is connected to different stories of Lord Ganesha. People believe that completing this yatra brings peace, removes obstacles, and brings blessings.

In this guide, you’ll learn about all the eight Ashtavinayak temples, where they are, what makes them special, and how to plan the yatra.

What is Ashtavinayak Darshan?

Ashtavinayak Darshan means visiting the eight forms of Lord Ganesha, placed in eight different temples across Maharashtra. The journey starts and ends at Moreshwar Temple in Morgaon. All the temples are in or around Pune district.

Why Do People Go for Ashtavinayak Darshan?

• To seek blessings of Lord Ganesha
• To remove problems from life
• To complete a religious vow or sankalp
• For mental peace and happiness

Ashtavinayak Temples – Complete List

Here are the eight temples covered in Ashtavinayak Darshan:

1. Moreshwar Temple, Morgaon
2. Siddhivinayak Temple, Siddhtek
3. Ballaleshwar Temple, Pali
4. Varad Vinayak Temple, Mahad
5. Chintamani Temple, Theur
6. Girijatmaj Temple, Lenyadri
7. Vighneshwar Temple, Ozar
8. Mahaganpati Temple, Ranjangaon

Let’s understand each one in detail.

Moreshwar Temple, Morgaon

This is the first and last temple of the Ashtavinayak Darshan. Moreshwar is also known as Mayureshwar. It is located in Morgaon, about 65 km from Pune.

Special Things:

• The idol is made of black stone
• Lord Ganesha rides a peacock here
• The temple has beautiful carvings
• Surrounded by four gates and stone elephants

People believe Ganesha killed a demon named Sindhu here.

Siddhivinayak Temple, Siddhtek

This temple is on the banks of the Bhima River in Siddhtek, about 110 km from Pune. It is the only temple among the eight that is located on a hill.

Special Things:

• Lord Vishnu worshipped Ganesha here
• The idol faces north, which is rare
• The temple is peaceful and quiet
• You need to climb steps to reach the temple

The name Siddhivinayak means the Ganesha who gives success.

Ballaleshwar Temple, Pali

Located in Pali village near Khopoli, this is the only Ganesha temple where the deity is named after a devotee. That devotee’s name was Ballal.

Special Things:

• Named after a child devotee Ballal
• The temple is shaped like the letter “Shri”
• The idol has diamonds in the eyes
• The temple gets sunlight directly on the idol

This place shows how strong devotion can make Ganesha happy.

Varad Vinayak Temple, Mahad

This temple is in Mahad, near Khopoli. It is easy to reach from Mumbai and Pune.

Special Things:

• The idol is self-created (Swayambhu)
• You can enter the inner sanctum
• People believe wishes come true here
• A holy pond is nearby

Many people start their Ashtavinayak Darshan from here too.

Chintamani Temple, Theur

This temple is near Pune, just 25 km from the city. Theur is a quiet village with calm surroundings.

Special Things:

• Ganesha here removes worries (chinta)
• The idol has a gem (mani) on its head
• Built in Peshwa style
• Temple has a large hall and old design

It is believed that Lord Ganesha got the Chintamani gem back from a greedy king for a sage.

Girijatmaj Temple, Lenyadri

This is the only Ashtavinayak temple located in a cave. It is near Junnar and is around 100 km from Pune.

Special Things:

• Located in the 8th cave out of 18 Buddhist caves
• You have to climb 300 steps to reach the temple
• The temple has no electric lights
• Ganesha was born here to Goddess Parvati

This is a unique and spiritual place surrounded by hills.

Vighneshwar Temple, Ozar

Located in Ozar village near Junnar, this temple is known for removing obstacles.

Special Things:

• Ganesha defeated a demon named Vighnasur here
• The temple has a beautiful entrance gate
• The idol wears a gold crown and jewelry
• Peaceful environment and clean temple

People visit this temple to overcome problems in life.

Mahaganpati Temple, Ranjangaon

This is the last temple in the Ashtavinayak Darshan journey. It is located in Ranjangaon, about 50 km from Pune.

Special Things:

• Ganesha defeated a demon named Tripurasur here
• The idol is large and kept in a hidden chamber
• Built during Peshwa times
• The temple looks grand and spacious

You must return to Moreshwar Temple in Morgaon after this to complete the yatra.

Travel Tips for Ashtavinayak Darshan

Best Time to Visit:

• November to February – Pleasant weather
• Avoid heavy rains, especially near Lenyadri

How Many Days Needed?

• 2 to 3 days are enough to cover all 8 temples

Mode of Travel:

• Private car or cab is best
• Buses are available too, but may take more time

Basic Packing:

• Comfortable clothes and footwear
• Water bottles and snacks
• A map or offline route guide

Best Route for Ashtavinayak Darshan

Here’s the suggested route for easy travel:

1. Moreshwar (Morgaon)
2. Siddhivinayak (Siddhtek)
3. Ballaleshwar (Pali)
4. Varad Vinayak (Mahad)
5. Chintamani (Theur)
6. Girijatmaj (Lenyadri)
7. Vighneshwar (Ozar)
8. Mahaganpati (Ranjangaon)
9. Back to Moreshwar (Morgaon)

This route helps you cover all temples without going back and forth.

Tips for a Peaceful Darshan

• Start early in the morning
• Carry cash for offerings and parking
• Respect temple rules and silence
• Avoid rush hours if possible
• Stay hydrated and take breaks

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Is there any dress code for Ashtavinayak temples?

There is no strict dress code, but it’s good to wear decent and traditional clothes.

Q. Can I visit all temples in one day?

It’s possible, but very tiring. It’s better to take 2-3 days for a peaceful visit.

Q. Which temple should I start with?

Always start and end at Moreshwar Temple in Morgaon.

Q. Are all temples open daily?

Yes, most temples open early morning and close by 9 PM. But timings may change on special days.

Q. Is it safe for senior citizens?

Yes, but temples like Lenyadri involve climbing steps. You can skip or plan slowly.

Ashtavinayak Darshan is a special journey for Lord Ganesha’s blessings. The eight temples are not just religious places but also beautiful spots filled with history, nature, and peace.

Whether you’re going for devotion, family trip, or just for peace, this yatra is worth it. With proper planning and a calm mind, your Ashtavinayak Darshan can be a great and fulfilling experience.

Take the route that suits you, enjoy the journey, and return with positive energy and blessings.

To check other Articles, Click Here.