Siddhtek Ashtavinayak Temple Guide: History, Legends, Rituals & Travel Tips

October 18, 2025 , , ,

 

Location

  • Village: Siddhtek, Karjat Taluka
  • District: Ahmednagar, Maharashtra
  • Geography: Situated on a hillock on the northern bank of the Bhima River, surrounded by serene landscapes.

Presiding Deity

  • Main Deity: Lord Ganesha as Siddhivinayaka
    • The idol is self-manifested (Swayambhu) and has a right-turned trunk, considered especially potent and rare.
    • The idol is flanked by consorts Riddhi and Siddhi, symbolizing prosperity and spiritual power.

 Subshrines and Features

  • Subshrines within the complex include:
    • Shiva, Vishnu, Hanuman, and Devi shrines, reflecting the temple’s inclusive spiritual aura.
    • A sacred peepal tree and deepmala (lamp tower) enhance the sanctity of the premises.
  • The temple is built in black stone and features a 15-foot-high sanctum constructed by Ahilyabai Holkar in the 18th century.

Temple Significance

  • Ashtavinayaka Circuit: Siddhtek is the second temple in the traditional pilgrimage route of the eight Ganesha temples in Maharashtra.
  • Mythological Importance:
    • It is believed that Lord Vishnu meditated here to gain Ganesha’s blessings before defeating the demons Madhu and Kaitabh.
    • The site is revered as a Jagrut Sthaan—a spiritually awakened place where sincere prayers are believed to be fulfilled.
  • Spiritual Practices:
    • Devotees often perform pradakshina (circumambulation) of the hill, a 7 km ritual trek considered highly meritorious.
    • Major festivals include Ganesh Chaturthi and Ganesh Jayanti, drawing thousands of pilgrims annually.

History

  • The temple is believed to have existed since pre-17th century times, with its current structure completed in the 18th century.
  • The Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, known for her temple restorations across India, commissioned the 15-foot-high stone sanctum.
  • Siddhtek is the only Ashtavinayaka temple in Ahmednagar district, making it a unique spiritual landmark in the region.

Legends

  • According to the Mudgala Purana, Lord Vishnu performed penance here to seek Ganesha’s blessings before battling the demons Madhu and Kaitabha.
  • Pleased with Vishnu’s devotion, Ganesha granted him siddhi (spiritual success)—hence the name Siddhivinayaka.
  • The site is revered as a Jagrut Sthaan, where the deity is believed to be especially responsive to sincere prayers.

Architecture

  • The temple sits atop a hillock on the northern bank of the Bhima River, accessible via a scenic stone-paved path.
  • Constructed in black basalt stone, the temple features:
    • A 15-foot-high sanctum (garbhagriha) with a dome-like structure.
    • A right-trunked Ganesha idol, considered highly auspicious and spiritually potent.
    • Subshrines dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, Hanuman, and Devi, reflecting a syncretic spiritual ethos.
  • The temple complex includes a deepmala (lamp tower) and a sacred peepal tree, enhancing its ritual significance.

Daily Rituals and Offerings

  • Prayers and Poojas:
    • Kakad Aarti (early morning)
    • Naivedya (food offerings)
    • Madhyan Aarti (midday)
    • Shej Aarti (night)
  • Special Offerings:
    • Modaks (sweet dumplings) are the most beloved offering to Siddhivinayak.
    • Devotees also offer durva grass, red flowers, and coconuts.
  • Pradakshina (circumambulation):
    • A unique ritual here involves a 7 km circumambulation of the hill on which the temple stands.
    • It is believed to be highly meritorious and spiritually cleansing.

Major Festivals

  • Ganesh Jayanti (Magha Shukla Chaturthi):
    • Celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha.
    • Marked by grand processions, special poojas, and cultural programs.
  • Ganesh Chaturthi (Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi):
    • A 10-day celebration with elaborate rituals, music, and community feasts.
    • Thousands of devotees visit during this time to seek blessings.
  • Sankashti Chaturthi:
    • Observed monthly on the fourth day after the full moon.
    • Devotees fast and offer prayers to remove obstacles and gain wisdom.

Beliefs and Spiritual Significance

  • Jagrut Sthaan: Siddhtek is considered a spiritually awakened site where Lord Ganesha is especially responsive to sincere prayers.
  • Siddhi-bestowing Deity: The right-trunked idol is believed to grant siddhi (spiritual success) and fulfill heartfelt wishes.
  • Vishnu’s Penance: The legend of Lord Vishnu meditating here before defeating demons Madhu and Kaitabh reinforces the temple’s power to grant divine aid.
  • Pilgrimage Merit: Visiting Siddhtek as part of the Ashtavinayaka Yatra is said to remove karmic obstacles and bring peace and prosperity.

Temple Hours

  • Opening Time: 5:30 AM
  • Closing Time: 9:30 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning for peaceful darshan and cooler temperatures.

Getting There

  • By Road:
    • From Pune: ~98 km via Daund and Bhigwan.
    • From Ahmednagar: ~85 km via Karjat.
    • Well-connected by state transport buses, private cabs, and self-drive options.
  • Nearest Railway Stations:
    • Daund Junction (~18 km away)
    • Bhigwan Station (~28 km away)
  • From Railway Station:
    • Local autos or shared jeeps available to reach Siddhtek village.
  • On Foot:
    • A short uphill walk from the village to the temple, with stone steps and shaded paths.

Tips

  • Pradakshina Alert: The 7 km circumambulation path around the hill is spiritually significant—wear comfortable shoes and carry water.
  • Festivals: Avoid peak days like Ganesh Chaturthi and Ganesh Jayanti if you prefer less crowded darshan.
  • Stay Options: Basic lodges and dharmshalas available in Siddhtek and nearby towns like Karjat or Daund.
  • Food: Limited eateries near the temple—carry snacks or plan meals in Daund or Bhigwan.
  • Accessibility: The temple is on a hillock; elderly pilgrims may need assistance or rest breaks.

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