Girijatmaj Ganesh Temple, Lenyadri
Lenyadri, Maharashtra
The Girijatmaj Temple at Lenyadri is one of the eight Ashtavinayak temples, and the only one in a cave. It is set in a rock-cut cave in the Lenyadri hills near Junnar, part of a group of old Buddhist caves, where a cave was later made into a Ganesha shrine. Girijatmaj means the son of Girija (Parvati), and by tradition Parvati did penance on this hill to have Ganesha as her son. A long flight of steps, about 300, leads up to the cave.
What to see and do
- Have darshan of Girijatmaj, in a cave temple of the Ashtavinayak
- Climb the long stone stairway to the cave, with views over the hills
- See the old Buddhist caves around it, including a prayer hall with a stupa
- See the carved cave front, with its pillars
Ideal for
- Pilgrims doing the Ashtavinayak yatra
- Visitors who like caves, hills and history
- Fit visitors, as it needs a long climb
Good to know
- Timings are not confirmed, so check locally
- The climb is about 300 steps, so it is hard for elders or for anyone with knee problems; ask your guide in advance
- Carry water and wear comfortable shoes, as there is little shade
- The cave is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, and the rules may apply
- The exact position on the map is an estimate and should be confirmed
Spiritual significance
Lenyadri is the only cave temple among the eight, set in a hill with old Buddhist caves. The climb is part of the experience, for the hill is also the place of Parvati's penance in tradition.
Why it matters
- A cave temple: the only one among the eight
- Ancient caves: the hill has old Buddhist rock-cut caves
- The climb: about 300 steps to the shrine