Ashtavinayak is a
unique and spiritually enriching journey, especially for devotees of Lord
Ganesha. It refers to the eight sacred temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha,
located in the state of Maharashtra, India. The name "Ashtavinayak"
comes from the words "Ashta" meaning eight and "Vinayak"
which is another name for Ganesha.
The temples are spread across
a scenic route and offer an unforgettable spiritual experience. Here's a brief
description of each temple along with some details of the journey.
Moreshwar (Morgaon): Located in the town of Morgaon, this temple is the first stop of the Ashtavinayak yatra. It is considered the main temple and is believed to be the place where Lord Ganesha’s idol was first installed.
Siddhivinayak
(Siddhatek): Situated in
Siddhatek, this temple is known for its historical significance. It is believed
to grant the devotees' wishes and is associated with many miracles.
Ballaleshwar (Pali): This temple, located in the town of Pali, is famous for being the only Ashtavinayak temple where Ganesha is worshipped by the name "Ballaleshwar." The deity here is said to bless devotees with happiness and success.
Varadvinayak (Mulund): Located near the town of Mulund, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha in his form as Varadvinayak, who grants boons and blessings. The temple's peaceful surroundings make it an ideal place for reflection and prayer.
Chintamani (Theur): In Theur, the Chintamani Ganesh temple is famous for granting the devotees the boon of removing obstacles from their lives. The deity here is said to have granted Lord Shiva his most cherished wish, the Chintamani gem.
Girijatmaj (Lenyadri): Situated atop a hill in Lenyadri, this temple requires a small climb to reach. The temple is unique for being carved into the mountainside and is surrounded by natural beauty. It is associated with the legend of Lord Ganesha’s birth.
Vigneshwar (Ozar): Located in Ozar, the Vigneshwar temple is known for being a site where Lord Ganesha removes obstacles. The idol of Ganesha here is believed to be self-manifested and very powerful.
Mahad
(Mahad): The last temple in the Ashtavinayak journey, the Mahad
temple is situated in the town of Mahad. This temple is famous for its
beautiful surroundings and rich history. The deity here is said to bestow peace
and tranquility to devotees.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit: The
ideal time for the Ashtavinayak yatra is during the cooler months, from October
to March.
Travel Route: The
temples are located in different towns of Maharashtra, usually a circular route
starting from Pune. You can hire a private vehicle or book a guided tour for a
comfortable experience.
Duration: The yatra
typically takes 2-3 days to complete, but it can vary depending on your pace
and the time you spend at each temple.
Other Highlights: In
addition to the spiritual experience, you'll get a chance to enjoy the scenic
beauty of Maharashtra’s countryside, with lush greenery, hills, and serene
landscapes.
Early morning start your journey Aurangabad to Girijatmaj temple, Girija's (Parvati's) Atmaj (son) is Girijatmaj. This temple stands amidst a cave complex of 18 caves of Buddhist origin. Later proceed to Vighneshwar temple, Ozar It is enclosed on all sides by high stone walls, and its pinnacle is made of gold. The temple is situated on the banks of river Kukadi after that visit Mahaganapati Ranjangaon this temple dates back to the period of Peshwa Madhav Rao later proceed towards Pune. Overnight stay at Pune.
Early morning proceed to Ganpatipule Enroute visit Varadavinayak temple, It is located in Mhad village situated in Khalapur temple was built by Peshwa General Ramji Mahadev Biwalkar later visit Ballaleshwar temple The murti of Vinayaka sits on a stone throne, facing east with its trunk turned left and sitting against a background of silver which displays Riddhi and Siddhi after that proceed towards Pune for overnight stay.
Early Morning after breakfast, today visit Chintamani temple this is nearest ashtavinayak temple from Pune, later visit Mayureshwar temple This Temple, built from black-stone during the Bahamani reign, has four gate after that proceed to visit Siddhivinayak temple, this temple is situated off the Pune-Solapur highway the temple is situated next to Bhima river. Later proceed towards Aurangabad.
§ Transportation
by A/c or Non A/c bus / Pvt. Vehicle on SIC Basis depending up on the group
size for all sightseeing as per tour plan.
§ Pick
up & Drop from Airport or Railway station by Pvt. Vehicle on SIC Basis.
§ Hotel
stay at 3 Star hotel or equivalent on Twin Sharing basis.
§ Daily
breakfast & dinner
§ Caring
Tour Manager services from 1st to last day of the tour.
§ Group
games and bon fire activates.
§ Daily
1ltr mineral water bottle & snacks packets
§ All
toll taxes, driver Bhatta etc. included.
§ Any
room up-gradation Any extra meals Anything which is not mentioned in tour cost
inclusions.
§ Air
/ Rail Tickets. Extra sightseeing changes with transfer other than mentioned in
tour itinerary.
§ All
personal expenses such as telephone, tips, laundry, Iron, room service charges
etc.
§ Any
Extra cost incurred due to change in route due to any unforeseen circumstances,
natural calamities, strikes, political disturbance or govt. ban etc.
§ Any
increase in Govt. taxes or fuel surcharge levied by Govt. or statutory bodies.
§ Any
thing which is not mentioned in Tour cost inclusion.
§ Premium
seat charges.
§ Any
medicines if required
§ GST
Extra as Applicable
Payment Terms:
§
50% of package cost Per Pax at time of booking.
§
50% of the amount of package cost within 21 days
of booking date.
Cancellation Policy:
§
60 Days before of travel date then 25 % Amount will
be deducted on tour cost.
§
30 to 59 Days before of travel date then 50 %
Amount will be deducted on tour cost.
§
07 to 29 Days before of travel date then 75 %
Amount will be deducted on tour cost.
§
06 Days before of travel date is nonrefundable.