History:

: Shri Ek Mukhi Datta Temple, situated in Gangapur, Maharashtra is one of the ancient temples of India. This temple is the abode of Lord Dattatreya, who is one of the prominent Hindu deities. This temple was constructed many hundreds of years ago by the great sage Smartha Gundappa Dattatreya, who lived in the Gangapur region way back in the 12th century. Later, it was renovated by one of the rulers of the Ahilya dynasty. It was mainly the Ahilya dynasty rulers who made this temple one of the most popular temples in India. The temple is believed to have great religious significance as it holds a rare idol of Lord Dattatreya with one face instead of three as it usually featured in most of the images of Lord Dattatreya. The temple is thronged by devotees from all over India who come to seek the blessings of Lord Dattatreya. The temple is beautifully decorated and maintained regularly. The priests and devotees are very dedicated when it comes to performing religious rituals. Apart from this, a fair is also organized every year by the temple authorities. It is one of the best temple in Maharashtra which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Ek Mukhi Datta temple is located in Gangapur, Maharashtra, India. 2. It is the only temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya in India. 3. It is believed that it was built by the Maratha ruler Raja Pratap Singh. 4. The main deity of this temple is the one-faced Shri Ek Mukhi Datta. 5. The temple is said to be around 200 years old. 6. During special occasions such as Janmashtami and Maha Shivratri, pilgrims flock to the temple to receive blessings from Lord Dattatreya. 7. A fair is conducted annually at the temple in the month of December. 8. It is believed that Lord Dattatreya is the incarnation of the three great deities Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, and Lord Shiva, and he controls the entire universe. 9. Devotees offer prayers to seek guidance in times of difficulties and peace of mind. 10. The nearby lake is considered sacred and is said to have healing powers. 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 of Shri Ek Mukhi Datta Temple - Gangapur in Maharashtra is typical of temples dedicated to Dattatreya, the Hindu God of Wisdom. According to The Puneet Samhita and the Agama Texts, devotees are required to make offerings of flowers and fruits to the main Shrine of the deity in the sanctum sanctorum by chanting the mantras "Om Sri Dattatreya Namah". They should then offer a sacred thread (janeu) and light a lamp (diyas). After the offering of flowers and fruits, devotees should circumambulate the temple seven times while chanting mantras. They may also offer turmeric and kumkum to the Lord and present coconut symbolizing dedication to the Divine power. At the end of the ritual, devotees should prostrate in front of the image of the deity and seek blessings. This most visited temple in Maharashtra

Opening Timing:

The temple is open for visitors 7 days a week. On weekdays, the temple opens at 6:00 am and closes at 10:00 pm. On weekends and public holidays, the temple opens from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm. top temples in Maharashtra

How to reach:

Shri Ek Mukhi Datta Temple - Gangapur is located in Maharashtra's Nashik district. The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai which is approximately 150 km away. The nearby railway station is Sanchore railway station which is approximately 120 km away from the temple. To reach by road, from Mumbai, take NH 160 via Igatpuri and take SH 48 towards Gangapur. The temple is located at a distance of 20 km from the Gangapur town. famous temples in Maharashtra