Khandoba Mandir – Guide
Khandoba Mandir is a Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Khandoba. This temple is located on a hill in Jejuri city of Pune district in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is one of the most famous religious places in Maharashtra which attracts thousands of devotees and tourists.
Lord Shiva is worshiped mainly in the form of Khandoba in Karnataka and parts of Maharashtra. He is a giver deity of the farming caste, Brahmins, hunters as well as the Dhangar community living in the hills and forests of that area.
History of this Temple
History says that two demons – Malla and Mani were troubling the earth and troubling the sages. The sages asked Shiva for help when Indra and Vishnu admitted their inability. Shiva assumed the form of Khandoba, mounted Nandi and went to battle with the demons with his army.
His avatar is described as having a third eye with a semi-circular moon on the forehead and a body covered with turmeric. Khandoba Mandir was built in 1608 AD. Ragho Mambaji, a Maratha leader, completed the central pavilion and other parts in 1637 AD. The Holkar rulers built the outer rooms and other parts.
Also Read: Kankali Mata Mandir Katni, Timings, History, Travel Guide and How to reach
Khandoba Mandir Timings
Daily darshan timings of Khandoba Mandir are from 6.30 am to 12 noon. Puja and Aarti are performed from 12 noon to 12.30 noon. Maha Prasad Bhog is offered from 12.30 pm to 2.00 pm.
| Timings | Pooja/ Darshan |
| 5:00 am | Temple opening hours |
| 5:00 am – 6:30 am | Bhupali and Aarti |
| 6:30 am – 12:00 pm | Darshan |
| 12:00 pm -12:30 pm | Afternoon Pooja and Aarti |
| 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm | Naivedya |
| 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm | Maha Prasad |
| 1:00 pm – 8:45 pm | Darshan |
| 9:00 pm | Shej Aarti |
| 9:00 pm | Temple closing Hours |
Also Read: Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Akshar Deri Gondal, Timings, Travel Guide and How to reach
Place to visit near this Temple
Angameshwar Temple
It is an ideal place for those who want to plan a pilgrimage with their loved ones. The world class, exceptional architecture, innovative layout, and well thought out execution make this place a highly coveted place of tourist interest. This temple of Saswad is very popular among the devotees.
Vitthal Rakhumai Temple
This is the fundamental centre of worship for Vitthal, believed to be a form of Lord Krishna or Vishnu and his consort Rakhumai. It is the most visited sanctuary in Maharashtra. To reach on Ashadhi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi, the Varkaris start walking from their homes towards the sanctuary at Pandharpur in gatherings called Dindis. All devotees are allowed to touch the feet of Vithoba’s idol.
Yamai Devi Temple
It is located in a hill complex in Pune, Maharashtra. The top of the hill can be reached either by using stairs starting at the bottom of the hill or by car using a somewhat unsafe road. The idol of goddess Mahishasura Mardini Yamai, made of black stone, is about 2 meters high and is sitting cross-legged. The sanctuary is a place of family worship for countless families. The highest point of the sanctuary houses images and icons of various Hindu deities.
Also Read: Ekvira Devi Temple, Pune: History, Travel Guide and how to reach
How to reach Khandoba Mandir
By Air- The Nearest airport from Khandoba Mandir is Pune airport which is at a distance of about 60kms from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.
By Train- The nearest railway station is Jejuri Railway Station. This station is connected with almost all the routes of the country. From here you can easily reach Khandoba Mandir by using local transport services or taxi.
By Road- Roads to this temple are well connected with the other cities of the country so you can easily reach this temple by using your own vehicle or by any public buses or taxi from any part of the country.
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