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TemplesHQ Editorial
May 10, 2026 · 5 min read
The Ashtavinayak — "eight Ganeshas" — are eight ancient temples in Maharashtra, each housing a swayambhu (self-manifested) murti of Ganesha. Completing the circuit is considered highly auspicious and is traditionally done in a single continuous journey, beginning and ending at Morgaon.
The Eight Temples
- Moreshwar (Morgaon) — the first and last stop, near Pune. The presiding deity is seated and faces south.
- Siddhatek (Siddhavinayak) — the only Ganesha here faces east with his trunk turned right — said to be especially powerful.
- Pali (Ballaleshwar) — unique in being the only Ashtavinayaka named after a devotee, Ballal.
- Mahad (Varadavinayak) — the "wish-fulfilling" Ganesha; an eternal lamp has burned here for centuries.
- Theur (Chintamani) — where Ganesha retrieved the wish-fulfilling gem from Gana, a sage's son.
- Lenyadri (Girijatmaj) — the only cave temple in the circuit, carved from a single hill.
- Ozar (Vighnahar) — the remover of obstacles, whose murti faces east.
- Ranjangaon (Mahaganapati) — the most powerful form, with ten trunks and twenty arms.
How Long Does It Take?
Most pilgrims complete the circuit in 3–5 days by private car or organised tour. The total driving distance is roughly 350 km from Pune. The circuit can be done in any season but Ganesh Chaturthi (August–September) brings vast crowds.