Varadvinayak Temple - Madhya Pradesh

The Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad, located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, is one of the revered eight Ashtavinayak temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This temple holds immense spiritual significance and is a popular pilgrimage destination, especially for devotees seeking blessings for wish fulfillment. Rich in history, culture, and devotional vibrance, the temple attracts thousands of visitors throughout the year.

Temple About

Varadvinayak Temple in Mahad is one of the eight Ashtavinayak temples of Lord Ganesha in Maharashtra. It is dedicated to Lord Varad Vinayak, the giver of boons.

Temple Description

The temple was built in 1725 AD by Peshwa General Ramji Mahadev Biwalkar. The idol of Lord Ganesha is self-manifested (swayambhu) and is located in a sanctum with a simple yet spiritual ambiance. A lamp in the sanctum is believed to have been burning continuously since the temple’s inception.

Temple Specialty

It is one of the Ashtavinayak temples.

Devotees are allowed to personally enter the sanctum and perform rituals.

The idol faces east and has a trunk turned left.

Belief: Devotees' wishes are fulfilled at this temple.

Temple Address

Varadvinayak Temple, Mahad Village, Khalapur Taluka, Raigad District, Maharashtra – 410203, India

Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)

18.7908° N, 73.3285° E

Temple Timings

Daily: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Aarti:

Morning Aarti: 7:00 AM

Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM

Temple Sevas

Pradakshina by devotees

Ganesh Homam

Archana & Abhishekam

Offering Modaks (Lord Ganesha's favorite sweet)

Traveling Facilities

Buses, autos, and taxis available from nearby towns

Good road connectivity to Mumbai and Pune

Food Facilities

Local vegetarian food stalls and restaurants available nearby

Prasad (Modak) is available at the temple premises

Stay Facilities

Lodges and hotels available in Khalapur, Khopoli, and Lonavala

MTDC resorts and private guesthouses also nearby

Nearby Railway Station

Khopoli Railway Station – approx. 7 km

Nearby Airport

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai – approx. 75 km

Nearby Bus Station

Khopoli Bus Station – approx. 7 km

ST buses from Mumbai, Pune, and Panvel available

Bus Routes to Temple

MSRTC/ST buses from Mumbai, Panvel, Pune to Khopoli

Local autos or buses from Khopoli to Mahad

Train Routes to Temple

Mumbai to Khopoli local train route (Central Line)

Pune to Karjat via Lonavala – then change for Khopoli

Airways to Temple

Fly to Mumbai (BOM)

Take road/train journey to Khopoli/Mahad (approx. 2–2.5 hours)

Nearby Cities to Temple

Khopoli – 7 km

Lonavala – 20 km

Panvel – 45 km

Pune – 75 km

Mumbai – 75 km

Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places

Ekvira Devi Temple – Lonavala

Imagica Theme Park – Khopoli

Bhushi Dam – Lonavala

Karnala Fort – Panvel

Ashtavinayak Temples Circuit (for pilgrimage)

Preferable Visiting Season

August to February (Pleasant weather)

Ganesh Chaturthi is a grand occasion to visit

Shopping Famous For

Modaks (Sweet delicacy)

Ganesh idols and spiritual items

Local Maharashtrian crafts and snacks

The Varadvinayak Temple at Mahad is not just a religious site but a spiritual destination where history, devotion, and culture blend harmoniously. Its proximity to popular cities, accessible travel options, and devotional importance make it an ideal spot for both pilgrims and tourists. Whether you're on a spiritual journey or exploring Maharashtra’s heritage, this temple promises peace, fulfillment, and blessings from Lord Ganesha.