Tenzin Chodon
Traditionally the first and last stop, Mayureshwar is associated with Ganesha’s Mayureshwar form. The temple is also considered the central shrine of the Ashtavinayak circuit.
According to legend, Lord Vishnu worshipped Ganesha here before fighting the demons Madhu and Kaitabha. The temple is associated with gaining siddhis, or divine accomplishments.
Named after the devoted child Ballal, this temple tells a story of unwavering faith. It is also the only Ashtavinayak shrine named after a devotee.
Located in Mahad, Varadavinayak is known as the giver of boons. A continuously burning oil lamp, believed to have been lit in 1892, adds to its appeal.
Chintamani means the jewel that dispels worries. The temple’s legend tells how Ganesha recovered a wish-fulfilling jewel from a greedy king for sage Kapila.
Set inside a rock-cut cave at Lenyadri, Girijatmaj is linked to Goddess Parvati’s penance and Ganesha’s birth. Reaching the shrine requires climbing the hill.
At Ozar, Ganesha is worshipped as Vighneshwar, the remover of obstacles. The temple is known for its ornate architecture, golden dome and peaceful setting.
Ranjangaon’s Mahaganapati is associated with a powerful form of Ganesha. Tradition says a hidden idol, known as Mahotkat, has ten trunks and twenty arms.