Khandoba Temple, Jejuri, Purandar taluka, Pune district, Maharashtra, India

Jejuri, Purandar taluka, Pune district, Maharashtra, India, Maharashtra

Khandoba Temple in Jejuri, Purandar taluka, Pune district, Maharashtra, India is a revered and time-honoured place of worship that continues to inspire deep devotion among countless devotees. Surrounded by a serene atmosphere and enriched with cultural charm, the temple stands as a symbol of faith, tradition, and community bonding. Its sacred premises have witnessed generations of prayers, festivals, and rituals that reflect the spiritual heartbeat of the region. Visitors are often drawn not only by the temple’s divine presence but also by its beautiful surroundings, intricate craftsmanship, and the sense of peace it offers. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveller exploring heritage sites, Khandoba Temple remains an unmissable spiritual landmark that speaks of the region’s enduring cultural and religious legacy. As part of the broader heritage of Famous temples in Maharashtra, it continues to attract devotees and travellers alike.

Khandoba Temple History and Significance

The worship of Khandoba began in the 12th to 13th century. The temple was initially built by the Yadavas in the 12th century. It was later rebuilt during the reign of the Peshwas. In 1737–1739, Chimaji Appa, brother of Peshwa Baji Rao I, gifted Portuguese church bells to the temple. These bells were taken as conquest memorabilia after defeating the Portuguese in the Battle of Vasai.

Khandoba Temple Pooja Timing
Khandoba Temple Interesting Facts
Khandoba Temple Nearby Temples
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Khandoba Temple Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Kakad Aarti	4:00 AM
Shodashopachar Pooja	8:00 AM
Madhyan Aarti	12:00 PM
Shej Aarti	9:00 PM

Khandoba Temple Location Details

How to Reach Khandoba Temple

By Road:

Jejuri is well-connected by road to major towns in Maharashtra. State Transport Buses and private taxis operate regularly from Pune, Satara, and other nearby cities.

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Jejuri Railway Station (local trains) and Pune Junction (major station). From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Jejuri.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Pune International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Jejuri via Pune city.

Khandoba Temple Nearby Temples

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Moreshwar Temple

10.6 Kms Away

Best time to visit (season/months):

October to February. Avoid the monsoon season due to landslides and heavy rainfall. Summers can be hot and uncomfortable for visitors.

Khandoba Temple Interesting Facts

Legends Beliefs

According to legend, two demon brothers, Mani and Malla, pleased Brahma with their austerities. They became powerful and started harassing people. Shiva, in the avatar of Khandoba, came to destroy them. In a fierce battle, Khandoba killed one demon and forgave the other when he promised to serve the people.
Deities and Sub Deities

The central deity, Khandoba, also known as Khanderav, Khanderay, Malhari-Martand, and Malhar, is a popular deity in Maharashtra. Khandoba is regarded as an avatar of Shiva. He is the Kuladevata (ancestral tutelary deity) of many people in Maharashtra, including the Kunbi-Marathas, Dhangar tribe, herdsmen, and nomadic folks.
Offerings

Khandoba is worshipped with turmeric, belfruit leaves, and naivedhya made from onions and other vegetables. Devotees offer flowers and turmeric to the deity. Turmeric is thrown in the air as an offering, giving the temple premises a yellow hue.
Architecture

The temple is on a hill at an elevation of 718 meters. It can be approached by three flights of steps from the east, west, and north. The northern steps lead to the main entrance. The temple is accessed by climbing nearly 200 steps, which have around 18 arches, 350 Deep-stambha (lamp-pillars), and several shrines bordering them.This temple resembles a hill fort and is known as Jejuri gad. The eight-sided, 350-yard long fort boundary encloses a cloister courtyard, with the main temple shrine at the center. In the courtyard is a brass-coated tortoise, 20 feet in diameter.The temple is built in Hemadpanthi architecture style, consisting of an outer square hall and an inner sanctum. The sanctum includes a linga and three pairs of images of Khandoba with his first wife Mhalsa. The temple also has a murti of Khandoba mounted on a horse in warrior form.
Festivals

The temple celebrates Chaitra purnima and Champashti cha utsav. These festivals attract many devotees who come to offer prayers and participate in the celebrations.
Religious Practices

Devotees worship Khandoba with turmeric, belfruit leaves, and naivedhya made from onions and other vegetables. Flowers and turmeric are offered to the deity. Turmeric is thrown in the air as an offering, giving the temple premises a yellow hue.

FAQ's

Where is the Khandoba Temple located?

The Khandoba Temple is located in Jejuri, Purandar taluka, Pune district, Maharashtra, India, Maharashtra, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Pune district.

Which God is Khandoba?

Khandoba is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Khandoba Temple?

October to February. Avoid the monsoon season due to landslides and heavy rainfall. Summers can be hot and uncomfortable for visitors.

How to reach Khandoba Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Jejuri Railway Station (local trains) and Pune Junction (major station). From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Jejuri. Nearest airport: Pune International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Jejuri via Pune city.