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Maharashtra is filled with numerous Hindu pilgrimage sites, the Jejuri Temple being one of them. Also known as the Shri Khandoba Temple, it is considered to be one of the most sacred sites in the state and is dedicated to a form of Lord Shiva. Located on top of a hill in Jejuri town, a visit to this otherwise popular Hindu temple truly brings you solace and a sense of peace. You also get to witness the panoramic views of the surrounding region, adding to the charm of the visit.
Quick Details
Jejuri Temple Address: Malhargad Rd, Jejuri, Maharashtra 412303
Jejuri Temple Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Altitude: 718 metres above sea level
Deity: Khandoba
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Festivals: Somavati Amavasya, Champa Shashti, and other Khandoba celebrations
About Jejuri Temple Maharashtra
Photo: Kiranbhote / Wikimedia Commons
The temple holds a lot of cultural and historical significance for the people of Maharashtra, especially among the Dhangar and Maratha communities. Khandoba is considered the guardian of warriors and shepherds, and he is worshipped as an avatar of Lord Shiva. Inside the temple, you are greeted with two distinct parts – Kadepathar and Gadkot. Among these, Kadepathar is the primary shrine, which requires the pilgrims to climb nearly 400 steps, leading to the hilltop temple. The actual temple’s architecture is quite reminiscent of ancient Hemadpanthi architecture and Maratha influences, further adding to the cultural significance of the temple.
How To Reach Jejuri Temple
Photo: Ashishbagate13 / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Pune International Airport is your nearest airport, located around 50 km from the temple. For a comfortable journey, you can hire a taxi from the airport.
By Rail: Jejuri Railway Station is the nearest railhead from the temple and is located around 2 km from the temple. So, once you reach the station, you can opt for any local transportation to get to the temple.
By Road: Jejuri is well-connected to Pune and other major cities in Maharashtra via roadways. The Pune-Jejuri State Highway (SH-61) is a scenic route offering smooth road travel. You can either hire a taxi or go ahead and take your car on the road.
Things To Do At Jejuri Temple
For an immersive cultural and spiritual experience inside the Jejuri Temple, these are some of the things you can indulge in.
1. Participate In The Turmeric Offering Ritual
Photo: Anant Rohankar / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as the Bhandara Ceremony, this is one of the main attractions of this temple. During this ritual, devotees throw vibrant yellow turmeric powder into the air and over the deity as an offering to Khandoba. This tradition symbolises the showering of blessings and prosperity, as turmeric is considered a sacred and purifying element in Hinduism. The event is usually held on a small scale every day. However, visiting during festivals such as Champa Shashti and Somvati Amavasya lets you experience these rituals better.
2. Climb The Sacred 400 Steps To The Hilltop Temple
Photo: Viraat Kothare / Wikimedia Commons
Since the temple is located on top of a hillock, reaching the inner sanctum requires you to make an ascent of 400 steps, which is fairly challenging. It is said that embarking on this journey brings enlightenment. The steps are interspersed with smaller shrines, statues of Nandi, and stone-carved pillars that keep you engaged as you make your way up. From the top, the panoramic views of the Jejuri town are truly mesmerising.
3. Attend The Annual Champa Shashti Festival
Photo: Apoorv515/ Wikimedia Commons
One of the most unique temples that you can experience at the temple is the Champa Shashti festival. Held annually in November or December, this six-day festival marks the victory of Khandoba over the demons Malla and Mani. The air is filled with the sounds of dhol-tasha and the entire area of the temple is bathed in turmeric and looks breathtaking. Apart from the turmeric offering, special pujas and bhajans are conducted throughout the festival too, adding to the spiritual experience.
Places To Visit Near Jejuri Temple
After finishing your prayers at the Jejuri Temple, you can then make your way to the nearby sightseeing destinations.
1. Malhargad Fort
Photo: Pranav Lawate / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Sonori Fort, Malhargad Fort is a popular hill fort built by the Marathas in the late 18th century. It is a hidden gem and involves a short trek for you to reach there. The fort provides a glimpse into the military architecture of the Marathas, complete with bastions, ramparts, and water tanks. Once you reach the top of the fort, the surrounding views of the Sahyadri range and distant villages make the journey worth the time.
Distance From Jejuri Temple: 33.8 Km
Timings: 24 hours
2. Baneshwar Temple
Photo: Mayur239 / Wikimedia Commons
To continue your religious tour around the Jejuri temple, you can plan your trip down to Baneshwar Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by dense forests and lush greenery, making the whole experience worth the visit. The temple complex includes a well-maintained garden and a small waterfall, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day trip. Also, there are numerous smaller shrines spread across the temple, dedicated to other Hindu deities, which you can worship while there.
Distance From Jejuri Temple: 48.4 Km
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
3. Saswad Town
Photo: Sumit Vikhe / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Although quite less talked about, Saswad Town is another one of the must-visit destinations the next time you visit the Jejuri Temple. It is home to several ancient temples, including the Sopandev Samadhi, and provides a fascinating glimpse into the rural life of Maharashtra. It is a religious town where you will find numerous temples that are dedicated to different Hindu deities. You can also explore the local markets and pick up unique souvenirs to take back home.
Distance From Jejuri Temple: 21.2 Km
Timings: 24 hours
Where To Stay
Photo: Siddanth Sawant / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Given how offbeat yet beautiful Jejuri is, you can spend a few days exploring the temples and the local attractions in the town. For that to happen, you need to find a good accommodation. Some of the good options include Trimurti Lodge, Hotel Maharudra Lodging, Malhar Grand, Hotel Himalaya Inn, and Windchimes Farms.
Where To Eat
There are numerous vegetarian restaurants near Jejuri Temple, which you can check out to appease your hunger after you finish seeking blessings from the deity. Some of the restaurants worth checking out are Restaurant Shivanand, Gokul Pure Veg and Shree Vitthal Dhaba.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Rishikesh deshmukh / Wikimedia Commons
Tip For Travellers
- Check the temple’s timings and avoid visiting during peak hours to avoid crowds.
- Dress respectfully when visiting the temple. Avoid wearing revealing clothing.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and enough water.
- While most places accept cards, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash.
- Be cautious while throwing turmeric, as it can get slippery.
Jejuri Temple in Maharashtra is a great religious destination dedicated to Lord Shiva that deserves to be explored. Being a popular pilgrimage destination, the temple is frequented by thousands of devotees every year. Visiting the temple not only enables you to immerse yourself in spirituality but also appeases your adventurous side. So, you can plan your visit to Jejuri with TripXL for the ultimate travel experience.
Cover Photo: PKharote / Wikimedia Commons
