The Ashtavinayak Tour from Pune is one of the most sacred and popular pilgrimages in Maharashtra. The yatra covers eight ancient and self-manifested (swayambhu) Ganesha temples, collectively known as the Ashtavinayak. Each temple has its history, legend, and unique idol form, and together, they form a spiritually complete circuit. Since Pune is centrally located, it serves as the most convenient starting point for devotees planning the Ashtavinayak yatra.
In this guide, we cover the route map, distance, packages, darshan order, and how to plan your trip. Whether you want the cheapest Ashtavinayak tour from Pune, a bus package, or a custom trip by car, here’s everything you need to know.
Significance Of The Ashtavinayak Yatra
The term Ashtavinayak means “eight forms of Lord Ganesha.” These temples are located in Pune, Raigad, and Ahmednagar districts, and the pilgrimage is believed to grant peace, remove obstacles, and fulfill wishes.
- The darshan order is important – traditionally, you begin at Moreshwar (Morgaon) and conclude the yatra by revisiting Moreshwar after completing the other seven temples.
- Each idol is unique in posture, trunk direction, and legend associated with it.
- The yatra connects spiritual devotion with Maharashtra’s cultural heritage, making it one of the most popular pilgrimages near Pune and Mumbai.
Route & Distance Of Ashtavinayak Tour From Pune
Here’s the Ashtavinayak route map with distance from Pune (approximate):
- Moreshwar Temple (Morgaon) – 65 km from Pune
- Siddhatek Temple (Siddhatek) – 110 km from Pune
- Ballaleshwar Temple (Pali) – 120 km from Pune
- Varadvinayak Temple (Mahad) – 85 km from Pune
- Chintamani Temple (Theur) – 25 km from Pune
- Girijatmaj Temple (Lenyadri, Junnar) – 95 km from Pune
- Vighnahar Temple (Ozar) – 90 km from Pune
- Mahaganapati Temple (Ranjangaon) – 50 km from Pune
Total Distance: Around 650–700 km for the full circuit.
Duration: 2–3 days by car or bus, depending on halts and darshan time.
Ashtavinayak Darshan Order
Tradition says you must follow this order:
- Moreshwar – Morgaon
- Siddhatek – Siddhatek
- Ballaleshwar – Pali
- Varadvinayak – Mahad
- Chintamani – Theur
- Girijatmaj – Lenyadri
- Vighnahar – Ozar
- Mahaganapati – Ranjangaon
Return to Moreshwar (Morgaon) to complete the yatra.
This sequence ensures spiritual completeness of the pilgrimage.
Travel Options for Ashtavinayak Yatra from Pune
1. Ashtavinayak Tour from Pune By Bus Package
- Popular travel agencies like Kesari, Neeta Tours, and private operators run organized bus tours.
- Duration: 2 days / 1 night (some do 3 days / 2 nights).
- Cost: INR 2,500 – INR 4,500 per person (includes travel, stay, darshan assistance, and meals).
- Best for: Group travelers, senior citizens, and budget pilgrims.
2. Ashtavinayak Yatra By Car From Pune
- Customizable option where you can hire a taxi or self-drive.
- Sedan or SUV packages: INR 9,000 – INR 15,000 for the full circuit (fuel + driver charges).
- Best for: Families or small groups who want flexibility.
3. Cheapest Ashtavinayak Tour From Pune
- The most economical way is the state transport (MSRTC) buses.
- Many buses connect Pune to Morgaon, Pali, Ranjangaon, and other towns.
- You may need to combine multiple routes, but it reduces the cost drastically.
- Cost: INR 1,000 – INR 1,500 approx. for the full circuit (excluding stay).
How to Plan An Ashtavinayak Yatra From Pune
- Duration: Plan at least 2 days; weekends get crowded.
- Stay: Dharamshalas and budget hotels are available near most temples. Some packages include an overnight stay.
- Best Time: Avoid monsoons for smoother travel; winters (Nov–Feb) are ideal. The Ganesh Chaturthi season is very festive but crowded.
- Booking: You can book online via travel agencies (Kesari, Veena World, RedBus for bus tours, or Savaari for cars). Many temples also provide stay bookings via official websites.
Summing Up
The Ashtavinayak Tour from Pune is a deeply spiritual journey that combines devotion, history, and cultural heritage. With Pune’s central location, pilgrims can choose from affordable bus packages, private car tours, or even self-planned routes to complete the yatra. Covering over 650 km and eight sacred temples, the Ashtavinayak darshan is believed to bless devotees with peace, wisdom, and the removal of obstacles.
Whether you opt for the cheapest Ashtavinayak tour from Pune or a more comfortable car package, planning ensures a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage.
