Mahaganapati Temple at Ranjangaon, near Pune in Maharashtra, is one of the revered Ashtavinayak Temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It holds immense religious importance and is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva sought blessings from Ganesha before slaying the demon Tripurasura. With rich historical significance, architectural beauty, and spiritual ambience, this temple is a major pilgrimage site for devotees and travelers alike.
Temple About
Mahaganapati Temple is one of the Ashtavinayak Temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Located in Ranjangaon, near Pune, it is revered as the place where Lord Shiva worshipped Ganesha before defeating the demon Tripurasura.
Temple Description
The temple features a beautifully sculpted idol of Mahaganapati seated on a lotus with eight arms. The inner sanctum is designed in such a way that the sun’s rays fall directly on the deity during specific times of the year. The temple is built by Madhavrao Peshwa in the 9th or 10th century and later renovated by the Peshwas. A hidden idol of a much larger Mahaganapati is kept in the basement and is only brought out during special occasions.
Temple Specialty
One of the Ashtavinayak Temples (8 sacred Ganesha shrines in Maharashtra)
Mahaganapati is believed to be the most powerful form of Lord Ganesha
Associated with the legend of Tripurasura Samharam
The temple idol is Swayambhu (self-manifested)
Temple Address
Mahaganapati Temple, Ranjangaon, Shirur Taluka, Pune District, Maharashtra – 412209
Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)
18.7508° N, 74.2109° E
Temple Timings
Daily: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Special Days/Festivals: Extended hours during Ganesh Chaturthi and Ashtavinayak Yatra
Temple Sevas
Abhishekam
Archana
Naivedyam
Special Ganapati Homam
Pradakshina and Darshan Sevas
Ganapati Atharvasheersha Parayan
Traveling Facilities
Easily accessible by road from Pune and nearby towns
State transport and private buses available
Cabs and autos from Pune city
Food Facilities
Free Prasadam is provided at the temple
Several local eateries and Maharashtrian food joints nearby
Hygienic restaurants available on highway routes
Stay Facilities
Guesthouses and lodges available in Ranjangaon
Budget and luxury hotels available in Pune city (~50 km away)
Nearby Railway Station
Uruli Railway Station – 21 km
Pune Railway Station – 50 km
Nearby Airport
Pune International Airport (Lohegaon) – 42 km
Nearby Bus Station
Ranjangaon ST Bus Stand
Regular MSRTC buses from Pune, Shirur, Ahmednagar
Bus Routes to Temple
From Pune: Pune → Wagholi → Shikrapur → Ranjangaon
From Ahmednagar: Ahmednagar → Shirur → Ranjangaon
MSRTC and private buses available on both routes
Train Routes to Temple
Nearest major station: Pune Junction
Local trains or road transport from Pune to Ranjangaon
Uruli station can also be used but needs local transport onward
Airways to Temple
Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport
Taxis, cabs, and buses available from the airport to Ranjangaon
Nearby Cities to Temple
Pune – 50 km
Ahmednagar – 80 km
Nashik – 210 km
Mumbai – 180 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places
Other Ashtavinayak Temples: Theur, Siddhatek, Morgaon
Shani Shingnapur – 90 km
Shirdi – 150 km
Bhuleshwar Temple – 35 km
Malhargad Fort – 45 km
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March (Pleasant weather)
Ganesh Chaturthi Festival is highly recommended for a spiritual experience
Shopping Famous For
Ganesha idols and souvenirs
Local Maharashtrian snacks like chivda, chakli
Handicrafts and Pune specialty sweets
Mahaganapati Temple at Ranjangaon is a sacred pilgrimage that offers peace, spirituality, and a deep connection to Lord Ganesha’s divine energy. With historical richness, well-developed amenities, and cultural vibrancy, the temple is an ideal destination for both devout pilgrims and cultural travelers. Whether you seek blessings, wish to explore spiritual heritage, or simply enjoy a serene getaway Ranjangaon Mahaganapati Temple is a must-visit.
