Siddhivinayak, Siddhatek
A temple on a small hill by the Bhima river. The only Ashtavinayak idol whose trunk turns to the right.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Siddhatek, Karjat taluka, Ahilyanagar
- Distance:
- About 100 km from Pune
- Order in yatra:
- Second
- Darshan timings:
- Check before visiting
The temple
The temple stands on a small hill on the bank of the Bhima river. It faces north. Devotees often walk around the whole hill as a pradakshina. The temple is believed to have been rebuilt by Ahilyabai Holkar.
The idol
The idol's trunk turns to the right. A right-trunked Ganesh is considered very powerful and strict in worship, and this is the only such idol among the eight.
The story
Legend says that Lord Vishnu prayed to Ganesh here before fighting the demons Madhu and Kaitabh, and gained success (siddhi), which gives the place its name.
How to reach
Siddhatek is reached from the Pune Solapur highway, via Daund. Check the route before you go, as some roads to the temple cross the Bhima river.
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.
- 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.
- 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 has a right-sided trunk?
Siddhivinayak at Siddhatek is the only one of the eight whose trunk turns to the right.
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.