History:

The Jejuri Khandoba Temple is an important temple in Maharashtra State of India. It is located in Jejuri, a small town in Pune district. It is dedicated to the deity Khandoba, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and his consorts Mhalsa and Banai. Jejuri is popularly known as the “pride of Maharashtra". The Jejuri Khandoba Temple, built around 12th century, is one of the oldest in Maharashtra. The temple has an interesting legend associated with it. According to the legend, the temple was initially built by the Pandavas after they lost the battle of Mahabharata. The main deity of the temple is Lord Khandoba who is believed to be the warrior God. He is also referred to as the ‘lord of Jejuri'. The temple walls are gracefully adorned with various paintings depicting stories from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Apart from worshipping Lord Khandoba in the temple, devotees also make offerings of coconuts, flowers, butter and other items. Every year, a grand fair is held on the occasion of Pausha Pournima, a full moon day. The fair includes cultural and religious performances, along with a huge market for selling various items. Jejuri is a famous pilgrimage site and is visited by devotees from all corners of the country. It is one of the best temple in Maharashtra which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Jejuri Khandoba Temple is located in Jejuri town, which is situated in Pune district of Maharashtra. 2. It is one of the most popular and visited temples in Maharashtra. 3. According to legends, Khandoba was the lord who defeated the enemies of Banai (the boon giver) and made Jejuri his home. 4. The temple has a large courtyard, and the main temple is made out of stone. 5. Every year on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, a fair is organized here, which attracts a large number of devotees. 6. Devotees offer flowers, coconuts and bel patra (holy leaves) to Lord Khandoba at the temple. 7. The temple has a unique feature wherein there is a statue of a dog in front of Lord Khandoba’s idol. It is believed that the dog is Lord Khandoba’s vehicle. 8. Jejuri is considered as a way-station for the whole region and offers some of the most stunning views of the surrounding area. Here are some facts about the Maharashtra temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Maharashtra

Worship Method:

The worship method at the Jejuri Khandoba Temple in Pune follows the traditional form of Puja that is prevalent among the Deshastas, a community of Maharashtrian Hindus. It is believed that the morning prayers at the temple are so intense that even a hardened atheist is moved to tears. The traditional Puja begins with an offering of water to the Shivalinga, followed by the offering of durva or reed grass. Aarti is performed twice a day at the temple using camphor and incense sticks. Special offerings are made to the deity during festivals. Devotees also offer flowers, fruits, and garlands. Other offerings include food items such as ladoos, modaks, and halvas. This most visited temple in Maharashtra

Opening Timing:

The Jejuri Khandoba Temple is generally open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. However, due to Covid-19, the temple is currently closed to the public. top temples in Maharashtra

How to reach:

The Jejuri Khandoba Temple in Pune, Maharashtra is located approximately 95 kilometers from Pune city. The best way to reach the temple is by road, either by private vehicle (car or bike) or by taking a public bus from Pune to Jejuri. There are regular buses available from the Swargate bus stand in Pune to Jejuri leaving every 30 minutes. The journey to the temple takes approximately 2 hours. Alternatively, you can also take a train from the Pune Junction to Jejuri Railway Station. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. From the railway station, you can take a cab or auto rickshaw to reach the temple which is about 6 km away. famous temples in Maharashtra