Girijatmaj Temple, located in Lenyadri near Junnar in Pune district of Maharashtra, is one of the revered Ashtavinayak temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Unique among its peers, this temple is carved within ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves, blending spirituality with heritage. It is considered a divine spot where Goddess Parvati meditated to be blessed with Lord Ganesha as her son. Set atop a hill and accessible by over 300 steps, the temple offers a serene and sacred experience to pilgrims and travelers alike.
Temple About
Girijatmaj Temple is the sixth temple in the Ashtavinayak circuit. The name "Girijatmaj" means "son of Girija" (another name for Parvati). It is believed that Lord Ganesha spent his childhood at this place.
Temple Description
The temple is nestled in the 7th cave of the Lenyadri Buddhist cave complex, cut from a single rock. Unlike typical temples, the idol of Lord Ganesha here is not placed separately but carved into the cave wall, facing north. The sanctum has no artificial lighting and relies on natural light through stone-carved windows. Pilgrims must climb about 300 steps to reach the cave.
Temple Specialty
The only Ashtavinayak temple on a mountain and inside a cave
Idol is part of the cave wall – not a free-standing idol
No electric light in the sanctum
Natural ventilation and illumination
Place where Parvati did penance for a child (Ganesha)
Temple Address
Girijatmaj Ganpati Mandir, Lenyadri Caves, Near Junnar, Pune District, Maharashtra - 410502, India
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
Latitude: 19.2054° N, Longitude: 73.8621° E
Temple Timings
Daily: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Temple Sevas
Daily Pooja
Abhishekam
Sankashti Chaturthi rituals
Special Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations
Traveling Facilities
Road access up to the hill base
Steps to climb (approx. 300)
MSRTC buses and private vehicles available
Food Facilities
Local eateries and food stalls at the base
Basic refreshments available
Advisable to carry snacks during off-season
Stay Facilities
Budget hotels and guesthouses in Junnar (6 km)
Accommodations in Narayangaon (20 km)
Basic lodging and dharmashalas for pilgrims
Nearby Railway Station
Pune Junction Railway Station – Approx. 95 km
Nearby Airport
Pune International Airport – Approx. 95 km
Nearby Bus Station
Junnar Bus Depot – 6 km from temple base
Regular MSRTC buses from Pune, Narayangaon
Bus Routes to Temple
Pune → Narayangaon → Junnar → Lenyadri
Mumbai → Kalyan → Murbad → Junnar → Lenyadri
Train Routes to Temple
Train to Pune Junction
From Pune, travel by road via Junnar to Lenyadri
Airways to Temple
Fly to Pune Airport
Travel by road (cab/bus) via Junnar to Lenyadri
Nearby Cities to Temple
Pune – 95 km
Mumbai – 182 km
Nashik – 150 km
Ahmednagar – 140 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Tourist Spots
Shivneri Fort (birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj) – 5 km
Vigneshwara Temple, Ozar – 16 km
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – 70 km
Lenyadri Buddhist Caves
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – Ideal for pleasant climate
Ganesh Chaturthi and Sankashti – Peak festive periods
Shopping Famous For
Handcrafted Ganesha idols
Local fruits like pomegranate, grapes
Rural handicrafts and souvenirs
Girijatmaj Temple at Lenyadri is not just a place of worship, but a harmonious blend of history, architecture, and faith. With its sacred ambiance, cave temple setting, and historical importance, it is a must-visit for both spiritual seekers and heritage enthusiasts. Whether you're on an Ashtavinayak pilgrimage or a cultural trip through Maharashtra, this unique hilltop temple offers an unforgettable experience that connects devotion with nature and legacy.
