The Ashtavinayak Temples in Maharashtra are a set of eight ancient temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, each with its own unique legend and significance. These temples are spread across different locations in Pune and its surrounding districts and are considered highly auspicious for devotees.
List of the 8 Ashtavinayak Temples & Their Locations:
- Moreshwar Temple (Morgaon) – Pune district
- Siddhivinayak Temple (Siddhatek) – Ahmednagar district
- Ballaleshwar Temple (Pali) – Raigad district
- Varadvinayak Temple (Mahad) – Raigad district
- Chintamani Temple (Theur) – Pune district
- Girijatmaj Temple (Lenyadri) – Pune district (Cave temple)
- Vighnahar Temple (Ozar) – Pune district
- Mahaganapati Temple (Ranjangaon) – Pune district
Specialty of Ashtavinayak Yatra:
- It is a pilgrimage circuit where devotees visit all eight temples in a specific sequence and complete the journey by revisiting Moreshwar Temple at Morgaon.
- Each temple has a self-manifested (Swayambhu) idol of Ganesha, which is distinct in its form and representation.
- The temples are linked to different legends from the Puranas and hold deep historical and spiritual significance.
- It is believed that completing the Ashtavinayak Yatra brings immense blessings and removes obstacles in life.