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There are several significant pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra and the Mahad Temple happens to be one of the most significant ones in the lot. The temple holds a lot of cultural, spiritual, and historical value and is one of the Ashtavinayak temples. If you are a devotee of Lord Ganesha, adding Varad Vinayak Temple in Mahad is an absolute must. Visiting the temple is a well-rounded experience where you get to immerse yourself in a spiritual experience like no other. On account of your vacation to Maharashtra, planning a getaway to Mahad Temple in the Raigad district is thus a necessity.
Quick Details
Mahad Temple Address: Khopoli Ganpati Mahad Rd, Mahad, Maharashtra 410203
Mahad Temple Timings: 5:30 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fees: No entry fee
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Deity: Lord Ganesha
Nearest Airport: Pune Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Mahad Railway Station
About Mahad Temple
Photo: Ajay Kumar / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Dating back to 1725, Mahad Temple was constructed by Peshwa General Ramji Mahadev Biwalkar and is of extreme historical and spiritual significance. The design is simple, especially being made entirely out of black stone and crowned with a golden dome. Inside the inner sanctum of the temple is where you will find the swayambhu (self-manifested) idol of Lord Ganesha. One of the most unique aspects of the idol in the temple is due to its left-sided trunk. The temple is surrounded by a peaceful environment, with a pond nearby that adds to the serenity. There is a banyan tree inside the temple where the devotees tie a coconut tree around to get their wishes fulfilled.
How To Reach Mahad Temple
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The Ganesha temple is located in the small town of Mahad, which is in Maharashtra’s Raigad district, making it an easily accessible option.
By Air: If you are flying out to Maharashtra to get to the temple, you’d need to book your tickets to Pune Airport, which is the nearest option. Outside the airport, some taxis can take you to the temple.
By Rail: Mahad has its railway station, which is well-connected to nearby towns and cities. However, if you are coming from a major city, the Khed Railway Station or Chiplun Railway Station are the major railheads. You’d then have to hire a taxi or local transport to get to the temple.
By Road: Reaching Mahad is quite simple from nearby cities like Pune, Mumbai, and Alibaug. For a comfortable journey, you can either drive yourself or hire a taxi. Beyond that, buses are available as well.
Things To Do In Mahad Temple
Upon reaching the Mahad Temple, you have to take your time to make the most out of your visit. To achieve that, you must have a solid plan chalked out before your visit.
1. Seek Blessings At Varad Vinayak Temple
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Starting with the staple darshan and seeking blessings from Lord Ganesha inside the temple. The idol is one of the eight sacred Ashtavinayak idols dedicated to Lord Ganesha, so you need to cherish the darshan experience. Devotees come here with prayers for prosperity and wish-fulfillment and it is said that whatever you wish for standing inside the temple, especially with a clear mind is fulfilled in the temple. You can also witness the marvel of the swayambhu (self-manifested) Ganesha idol here, which reportedly holds a lot of special powers, further enhancing the pilgrimage experience.
2. Participate In The ‘Abhishek’ Ritual
Photo: Ankit Rainloure / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Another unique activity that you can partake in inside the temple is during the Abhishekham ritual. This is a special ritual where devotees pour milk, water, and flowers over the deity while chanting prayers. It is a rare privilege, as most temples do not allow direct access to the deity. Performing the Abhishek is believed to bring prosperity and remove obstacles from one’s life. You’d need to get special privileges from the temple authorities and the priests in the temple to be able to perform this particular ritual.
3. Attend The Temple Aarti
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Like any other Hindu pilgrimage site, consistent aartis are being conducted inside the Mahad Temple too. The main aartis are conducted twice a day, once in the morning and then in the evening. Participating in the aarti is a powerful spiritual experience, getting to witness the diyas and the incense sticks being offered in front of the deity. The evening aarti is particularly popular and creates an amazing atmosphere where you get to immerse yourself in devotion.
4. Offer Modaks To Lord Ganesha
Photo: Imutkarshpatil / Wikimedia Commons
Lord Ganesha is known to love sweets, especially modaks, which are offered as prasad. Offering modaks to the deity is considered highly auspicious, as they symbolise happiness and satisfaction. After the offering, the modaks are distributed to devotees as prasad, creating a sense of community and shared blessings. You can purchase fresh modaks from the local vendors outside the temple or make a special order to offer during your prayers.
Places To Visit Around Mahad Temple
After you finish your darshan at the temple, there are a handful of nearby tourist attractions, which you must add to your travel plans.
1. Raigad Fort
Photo: Nilamgandhre / Wikimedia Commons
Since Mahad temple is located in the Raigad district, one of the first sightseeing spots you have to visit is the Raigad Fort. The fort stands as a reminder of the courage and valour of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Maratha Empire. Getting to the fort involves a scenic trek or a ropeway, depending on what’s more convenient for you. Once at the fort, visitors can explore key historical landmarks like the Jagdishwar Temple, the Samadhi of Shivaji Maharaj, and various ancient architectural wonders.
Distance From Mahad Temple: 106 Km
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
2. Ballaleshwar Temple
Photo: Vishal Panchal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Another historical temple that you can’t miss out on exploring when in Mahad is the Ballaleshwar Temple in Pali. It is another one of the eight Ashtavinayak temples, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple is unique due to its architecture and the story behind its establishment, which involves the devout child devotee, Ballal. The idol of Lord Ganesha here faces east, and it is believed that visiting this temple brings peace and prosperity.
Distance From Mahad Temple: 37.5 Km
Timings: 5 AM – 10:30 PM
3. Khopoli Waterfalls
Photo: Roysudipta1996 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Also known as Zenith Waterfalls, this is another one of the natural wonders that you can’t brush to the side. The waterfall offers a refreshing getaway, especially during the monsoon season when the waterfall is at its full capacity. The surrounding dense forests and greenery further add to the beauty and charm of the place as well. It is an ideal spot for a picnic as well, provided that you are carrying all the essentials.
Distance From Mahad Temple: 10 Km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Where To Stay Near Mahad Temple
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There are a handful of hotels and local guest houses available around Mahad temple, specifically for tourists to spend a day or two in. Some of the popular ones include Kuber’s Residency, Raigad Agro Park, and Sahyadri Hotel.
Where To Eat Near Mahad Temple
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To further appease your hunger after a long day of exploration, there are several restaurants around that you can visit. A few of the popular restaurants that you can check out are Wagheshwar Dhaba, Hotel Shelar Dhaba Family Restaurant and Vivansh Restaurant Bar.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ajay Kumar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
As you are planning your visit to the Mahad Temple, keeping the following pointers can further simplify your travel experience:
- Carry a pair of comfortable shoes, as there are a few treks and hikes involved around Mahad.
- Always check the weather before planning.
- Plan a full day for the Raigad Fort visit as it can take 4-5 hours to explore.
- If visiting during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, expect a huge crowd at the Varad Vinayak Temple.
- Bring some snacks and water bottles with you.
Mahad Temple is one of the most significant Ganesha temples in the city, offering visitors a spiritual experience. Beyond the religious experience, the temple also stands out with its historical and cultural significance. So, you can plan your visit to Mahad with TripXL for the ultimate travel experience.
Cover Photo: Kiran Sharma / Shutterstock
