About Girijatmaj Temple

Girijatmaj at Lenyadri is the sixth shrine of the Ashta Vinayak and the most unique: it is housed entirely inside a Buddhist-era cave carved into the hillside, approached by approximately 300 steep rock-cut steps. The name 'Girijatmaj' means 'son of Girija (Parvati)', and this form of Ganesha is said to have been born here from Parvati in this cave after intense penance. The cave complex consists of several ancient rock-cut chambers, some with faded paintings. The setting atop a ridge with views of the Kukdi valley below is among the most spectacular in the Ashta Vinayak circuit.

The cave itself belongs to the Hinayana Buddhist period (approximately 1st–2nd century CE), making this a site of both Buddhist and Hindu heritage. The Ganesha idol was installed here in a later period; the site is mentioned in the Mudgala Purana. Archaeologically, the site is documented by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Darshan & Aarti

🚌 How to reach

Last mile: MSRTC buses from Junnar (8 km). ~300 rock-cut steps up the hill to the cave shrine.

Where to stay

Estimated expense (per person)

Estimated for a short 2-day pilgrimage.

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