Vighneshwar, Ozar
A large temple on the Kukadi river near Junnar, with a gold-topped spire. Ganesh here removes all obstacles.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Ozar, Junnar taluka, Pune
- Distance:
- About 85 km from Pune
- Order in yatra:
- Seventh
- Darshan timings:
- Check before visiting
The temple
The Vighneshwar temple at Ozar stands on the bank of the Kukadi river and is surrounded by a high stone wall. Its spire is covered with gold. The temple was improved by Chimaji Appa, the brother of Peshwa Bajirao I.
The story
Legend says Ganesh defeated the demon Vighnasur here. The demon asked that Ganesh be worshipped in this place by his name, so he is called Vighneshwar or Vighnahar, the remover of obstacles.
How to reach
Ozar is reached from Narayangaon on the Pune Nashik road. It is close to Lenyadri and Shivneri, so the three can be seen in one day.
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.
- Girijatmaj, Lenyadri The only Ashtavinayak in a cave, high on a hillside of Buddhist caves near Junnar. Reached by a long flight of steps.
Questions and answers
Why is the Ozar Ganesh called Vighneshwar?
Because he defeated the demon Vighnasur here. Vighneshwar means the lord who removes obstacles.
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.