Girijatmaj, Lenyadri
The only Ashtavinayak in a cave, high on a hillside of Buddhist caves near Junnar. Reached by a long flight of steps.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Lenyadri, near Junnar, Pune
- Distance:
- About 95 km from Pune
- Order in yatra:
- Sixth
- Darshan timings:
- Check before visiting
The temple
The temple is in one of a group of old Buddhist caves cut into the hillside. Lenyadri means the mountain of caves. It is the only one of the eight temples inside a cave, and the only one reached by a long climb. The idol is carved on the cave wall.
The story
Girijatmaj means the son of Girija, another name for Goddess Parvati. Legend says Parvati prayed here for a son, and Ganesh was born to her at this place.
How to reach
Lenyadri is about 5 km from Junnar. From the parking at the base, a long flight of steps leads up to the cave. Allow about an hour for the climb and darshan.
Tips for visitors
- The caves are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. Entry rules and a ticket may apply.
- Monkeys are common. Keep food and bags closed.
More in Ashtavinayak
- Mayureshwar, Morgaon The first and most important of the eight temples, where the yatra begins and ends. Ganesh here rides a peacock.
- Siddhivinayak, Siddhatek A temple on a small hill by the Bhima river. The only Ashtavinayak idol whose trunk turns to the right.
- Ballaleshwar, Pali The only Ashtavinayak named after a devotee, the boy Ballal. A stone temple in Raigad district, below Sarasgad fort.
- Varadvinayak, Mahad A simple temple near Khopoli, where devotees may offer worship to the idol themselves. An oil lamp here is said to have burned for many years.
- Chintamani, Theur The Ashtavinayak closest to Pune, much loved by the Peshwas. Madhavrao Peshwa spent his last days here.
- Vighneshwar, Ozar A large temple on the Kukadi river near Junnar, with a gold-topped spire. Ganesh here removes all obstacles.
Questions and answers
Which Ashtavinayak is in a cave?
Girijatmaj at Lenyadri, near Junnar.
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.