Khandoba Temples Jejuri Pune

Established by the princely king of Maharashtra on a small hill in a fort, Khandoba Temples are sacred to Hindu god, Khandoba. Set against the backdrop of lush green hills, Khandoba Temples are a must visit on a pilgrimage tour to Maharashtra. There are two temples in Jejuri that are sacred to Lord Khandoba - one is Kadepathaara, and Gad-kot temple.

Kadepathaara Temple

Kadepathaara, the older one amongst the two, looks ancient from its structure. The temple is situated at an elevation of 133 meters and is spread over an area of 11 acres. To reach the temple, devotees will have to climb steep stairs and go through several arches. The old village site, now deserted, was to the east of the hill on which the new temple stands.

Gad-kot Temple

Gad-kot temple, the newly constructed temple, is comparatively easy to reach as compared to its counterpart, Kadepathaara Temple. This temple has about 450 steps, 18 Kamani (arches) and 350 Dipmalas (lamp-pillars). Although the temple appears small in size, but it has two divisions - Mandap and Gabhara. Inside the main sanctum of the temple, there is a huge statue of Lord Khandoba with a big 'Khanda' (literal meaning swords). In garbhagriha, there are two swayambhu lingams. If the sky is clear then from the temple, tourists can see the beautiful view of city and Dive Ghat.

Best Time to Visit

Jatra, an annual fair that takes place in the month of November is a good time to visit the temple. On an average, approximately 40, 000 people visit the temple to attend the festival. Another important festival that is celebrated with pomp and show is Somvati Amavasya; during which a palanquin procession is organized from the Gad-kot temple to the Karha river.

Temples Timing

06:00 AM to 08:00 PM

Address

Jejuri, Maharashtra 412303,India