GIRIJATMAJ
'The Son of Girija (Parvati). The Cave Dweller.'
The Ancient Penance
Parvati's Prayer
On The Mountain
This is the only Ashtavinayak temple located on a mountain and inside Buddhist caves. Legend says that Goddess Parvati (Girija) performed severe penance here for 12 years to have Vinayak as her son. Pleased by her devotion, Ganesha manifested as an infant carved in the stone. Hence, he is called Girijatmaj (Son of Girija).
Cave No. 7
Buddhist Origin
South Facing
Cave Entrance
Heritage
Rock-Cut
Architecture
'307 Steps to Divinity.'
Reaching Girijatmaj requires ascending 307 stone steps. The temple is situated in the 7th cave of the 18 Buddhist caves on the mountain. The main hall (Sabhamandap) is a massive single-stone structure with no supporting pillars in the centre, showcasing ancient engineering marvels.
Divine Schedule
Daily Rituals
Temple Opens
Natural Light Only
Panchamrut Puja
Main Offering
Maha Naivedya
Mid-day Meal
Temple Closes
Caves Closed
*Note: As this is an ASI protected monument and located inside caves, it closes strictly at sunset.
Journey to
Lenyadri
Located near Junnar in Pune district. Famous for its trekking spots and Shivneri Fort nearby.
Bus
ST Buses to Junnar from Pune/Mumbai.
Road
95km from Pune via Nashik Highway.
Nearby
Just 5km from Shivneri Fort (Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj).