Famous Ganesh Temples in India To Visit During Ganeshotsav 2024: From Siddhivinayak Temple to Karpaka Vinayakar Temple, Visit These Religious Places on Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganeshotsav, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, is a grand and vibrant Hindu celebration dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity symbolising wisdom and prosperity. Observed over a period of ten days, typically in August or September, the festival marks the birth of Lord Ganesha. Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 will start from Saturday, September 7 to Tuesday, September 17. The festival begins with Ganesh Chaturthi and culminates with the Ganpati Visarjan, known as Ananta Chaturdashi, a grand procession where the Ganesha idols are immersed in water bodies. This immersion symbolises the deity's return to his celestial abode and marks the end of the festival. The Ganesh temples across India host grand affairs to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi.

Ganpati Visarjan is not only a ritual but also an expression of community spirit and the belief in the cyclical nature of life. The processions are accompanied by lively music, dance, and chants, reflecting the joyous spirit of the occasion. The Ganpati festival, thus, becomes a time of both celebration and reflection, emphasising the significance of faith, unity, and cultural heritage. As you observe Ganeshotsav 2024, we bring you the famous temples in India that are a must-visit during the festival.

Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai

Located in the heart of Mumbai, Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the most famous Ganpati temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this temple attracts millions of devotees annually, especially during Ganesh Chaturthi. The temple is renowned for its gold-plated dome, intricately carved wooden doors, and the idol of Ganesha, which is adorned with precious jewels. The temple’s significance is bolstered by its association with numerous miraculous stories and the blessings it is believed to bestow.

Ashtavinayak Temples, Maharashtra

The Ashtavinayak temples are a group of eight ancient Ganpati temples located in Maharashtra. These temples are spread across different towns in the state and each temple features a unique form of Lord Ganesha. The pilgrimage to visit all eight temples is considered highly auspicious and is an important journey for devotees. The temples include Siddha Tek, Lenyadri, Pali, Mahad, Theur, Ranjangaon, Ozar, and Baleshwar.

Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, Pune

Situated in Pune, the Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple is renowned for its grand Ganesh idol and its historical significance. The temple was established in the late 19th century by Dagdusheth Halwai, a wealthy sweet-maker, and has since become a major pilgrimage site. The temple’s Ganesh idol is adorned with precious stones, and the celebrations during Ganesh Chaturthi are particularly elaborate and widely attended.

Ganapatipule Temple, Ganapatipule

Located in the coastal town of Ganapatipule in Maharashtra, this temple is famous for its naturally occurring Ganesh idol, which is believed to be self-manifested. The temple’s location along the picturesque Arabian Sea adds to its appeal as a serene and spiritual destination. The Ganesh idol here is worshipped for its supposed powers to remove obstacles and bring prosperity.

Karpaka Vinayakar Temple, Pillaiyarpatti

Situated in Pillaiyarpatti, Tamil Nadu, the Karpaka Vinayakar Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple is known for its rock-cut Ganesh idol, which is carved out of a single rock and is unique for its naturalistic appearance. The temple is considered one of the oldest and most revered Ganesh temples in South India, attracting pilgrims and tourists for its historical and spiritual significance.

These temples offer spiritual solace and provide a glimpse into India's rich cultural and architectural heritage. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2024!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 06, 2024 05:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).