The Moreshwar Ashtavinayak Temple, located in Morgaon, Pune District, Maharashtra, is the foremost temple among the eight revered Ashtavinayak Temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Known for its unique idol of Lord Ganesha with a serpent around its neck, the temple is deeply significant and attracts devotees throughout the year, especially during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.

Aerial view of Morgaon town

Story of the Temple:

The story behind the Moreshwar Temple is linked to a demon named Sindhu. Sindhu, who had acquired immense powers through a boon, became a menace to the universe. The gods prayed to Lord Ganesha for help, and he incarnated as Mayureshwar, riding a peacock (Mor in Marathi). Ganesha, in his divine form, fought and defeated Sindhu, restoring peace to the universe. After his victory, Ganesha stayed at Morgaon, where the Moreshwar Temple stands today.

  • Main Deity: Lord Ganesha (Moreshwar or Mayureshwar)
  • Other Deities: Sub-deities include Nandi, Nagna Bhairava, and Goddess Siddhi and Riddhi

Moreshwar Ganpati

Architectural Significance:

The Moreshwar Temple’s architecture reflects traditional Hindu temple design and carries distinct elements of historical and spiritual significance:

Youtube Embed link – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9N82D_bnyM

Contact Details:

Address: Moreshwar Temple, Morgaon, Pune District, Maharashtra, India.

 Entry Fees:

Free for all visitors.

Opening Timings:

Daily: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Aarti Timings:

  • Kakad Aarti: 5:00 AM
  • Madhyana Aarti: 12:00 PM
  • Sandhya Aarti: 8:00 PM
  • Shej Aarti: 10:00 PM

Special Facilities:

  • Prasad Distribution:Free prasad is available for all devotees.
  • Wheelchair Accessibility: The temple provides wheelchair access for elderly and disabled devotees.
  • Parking: Ample parking space is available near the temple premises.

Donation Facilities:

The temple provides a designated donation counter within the premises where devotees can contribute. Donations are accepted in cash and sometimes in kind, with the funds going towards the maintenance of the temple, daily rituals, and charitable activities. Devotees can also offer specific poojas, Abhisheks, and aartis.

Morgaon temple complex

Prasad facilities:

Prasad, especially the traditional modak or ladoo, is distributed after darshan. These sweets are considered a symbol of blessings from Lord Ganesha and are available at the prasad counter.

Accommodation Facilities:

  • Temple Guesthouses: Basic accommodation is available near the temple at nominal charges.
  • Nearby Hotels: There are a few budget and mid-range hotels in Morgaon for a comfortable stay.

Location and How to Reach:

  • Address: Morgaon, Pune District, Maharashtra, India.
  • By Road: Morgaon is about 65 km from Pune. It is well-connected by state-run buses and private taxis.
  • By Train: The nearest railway station is Pune Junction, located approximately 65 km away.
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Pune International Airport, about 70 km from Morgaon.

Nearby Attractions:

Jejuri Temple:

A popular Khandoba temple located about 30 km from Morgaon.

Theur Chintamani Temple:
Another Ashtavinayak temple situated about 50 km from Morgaon.
Siddhatek Siddhivinayak Temple:
Located around 70 km from Morgaon, it is another important Ashtavinayak temple.

Monthly Events:

  • Monthly Poojas: Regular poojas and aartis, including special offerings on specific days of the month.
  • Monthly Mahapuja: A special ritual held once a month, often involving community participation.
  • Ganesh Chaturthi: Celebrated with grand decorations, processions, and elaborate poojas.
  • Maghi Ganesh Chaturthi: Held in January-February, marking the end of the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
  • Ganesha Jayanti: Celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, with special events

    Morgaon temple Gopuram

    and rituals.

Annual Events:

  • Ganesh Chaturthi: Celebrated with grand decorations, processions, and elaborate poojas.
  • Maghi Ganesh Chaturthi: Held in January-February, marking the end of the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
  • Ganesha Jayanti: Celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, with special events and rituals.

Common FAQs:

1. Is there a dress code to visit the temple?
– While there is no strict dress code, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly out of respect for the religious sanctity of the temple.

2. Can we perform special poojas?
– Yes, special poojas can be performed. It is advisable to book in advance at the temple office.

3. Are cameras allowed inside the temple?
– Photography is generally restricted inside the temple premises.

4. Is the temple open on public holidays?
– Yes, the temple remains open throughout the year, including public holidays.