Chinchwad Ganesh Temple

Chinchwad Ganesh Temple

About:

The Chinchwad Ganesh Temple, also known as Morya Gosavi Ganpati Mandir, is one of the most revered temples in the Pune district. It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and has historical and spiritual significance, dating back several centuries.

The temple was built in honor of the famous saint, Morya Gosavi, who was a devout follower of Lord Ganesha.

This temple is also known as Moraya Gosavi Temple. It is a well maintained and is very old. It is situated on the banks of river 'Pawana'. The small ghat on the backside of the temple is very pretty and the quiet atmosphere here pleases the mind. One will not believe that such a quiet place is in such a crowded town. The idol of Lord Ganesh is very beautiful. One can find the holy atmosphere near the temple.

Location info:
Address: Chinchwad, Near Pawana River, Chinchwad Gaon, Pune, Maharashtra, India
District: Pune, Maharashtra
Nearest City: Pune (18 km from Chinchwad)
Best time to visit: October to May
Coordinates: 18.6298° N, 73.7997° E
How to reach: Easily accessible by road from Pune. Nearest railway station: Chinchwad Railway Station (2 km).

Climate/Weather:
Summer (March to June): Warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 38°C. It's advisable to carry light cotton clothes and stay hydrated during this season.
Monsoon (July to September): Moderate rainfall with cooler temperatures. Ideal for nature lovers, though it's best to carry an umbrella and waterproof shoes.
Winter (October to February): Cool and pleasant, with temperatures between 12°C and 25°C. This is the best time to visit the temple, as the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities.
Best Time to Visit: October to May is considered the best time to visit, especially during winter when the weather is most favorable.

History:

The Chinchwad Ganesh Temple, also known as Morya Gosavi Ganpati Mandir, has a deep-rooted history tied to the life of Saint Morya Gosavi, a devout follower of Lord Ganesha. Morya Gosavi was born in the 14th century and became one of the most revered saints in the region. He is believed to have performed penance for Lord Ganesha, and as a result, his lineage continued the traditions of Ganesha worship.

It is said that Morya Gosavi had frequent visions of Lord Ganesha, and in honor of these divine experiences, he built the temple in Chinchwad, which became a spiritual hub for Ganesha devotees. The temple not only became a religious site but also a center for spiritual learning and devotion, attracting pilgrims from all over Maharashtra and beyond.

Over the centuries, the temple has been well-preserved, with various renovations made by the descendants of Morya Gosavi. Today, it stands as a symbol of devotion, history, and cultural heritage, especially popular during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi.

The temple also houses the Samadhi (final resting place) of Saint Morya Gosavi, making it a sacred pilgrimage site for many devotees of Lord Ganesha. His descendants continue to manage the temple, keeping the legacy of Ganesha worship alive.

Interesting Things to Do:

1. Participate in the Aarti: Attend the daily morning and evening aarti (prayer) ceremonies. These rituals are beautifully performed, filling the temple with devotional energy and spiritual ambiance.

2. Meditation and Spiritual Reflection: The peaceful surroundings of the temple, especially near the riverbank, make it an ideal location for meditation and quiet reflection. Many visitors enjoy spending time here for spiritual rejuvenation.

3. Explore the Ghat: The small ghat (steps) behind the temple on the banks of the Pawana River is a serene spot to sit and relax, enjoying the tranquility of the flowing water.

4. Festival Celebrations: If you visit during Ganesh Chaturthi, the temple becomes a vibrant center of celebrations with decorations, special prayers, and cultural performances. This is one of the best times to experience the temple in all its glory.

5. Visit Morya Gosavi Samadhi: The temple houses the Samadhi of Morya Gosavi. Visiting this sacred space is a must for devotees, as it is a place of deep spiritual significance.

6. Take a Heritage Walk: Stroll around the temple complex and explore the traditional architecture and historical significance of the temple. The carvings and design elements of the temple reflect the rich heritage of the region.

7. Offer Prayers and Seek Blessings: Devotees come to the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Ganesha. You can bring offerings like flowers, sweets, or coconut to the temple as part of your devotional practice.

Interesting Things to Visit:

1. Morya Gosavi Samadhi: Located within the temple complex, the Samadhi of Morya Gosavi is a sacred place for devotees. It is an important spiritual site, honoring the saint who dedicated his life to the worship of Lord Ganesha.

2. Pawana River Ghat: Behind the temple, the ghat on the banks of the Pawana River offers a peaceful and scenic spot to relax. It’s a quiet place where you can reflect or enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

3. Chinchwad Market: Located near the temple, the Chinchwad market is a vibrant place where you can shop for local goods, traditional items, and religious offerings for Lord Ganesha. It's also a good place to explore local culture.

4. Alandi (10 km away): A nearby pilgrimage town, Alandi is famous for the Samadhi of Saint Dnyaneshwar, another revered figure in Maharashtra’s spiritual history. Many devotees visit Alandi after their visit to the Chinchwad Ganesh Temple.

5. Pimpri-Chinchwad Science Park: Located a short distance from the temple, this science park is a fun and educational destination for families and children, featuring interactive exhibits and displays.

6. Shaniwar Wada (20 km away): A historical fort in Pune, Shaniwar Wada is a popular tourist attraction. Known for its architectural beauty and historical significance, it's a great place to visit if you're in the area.

7. ISKCON NVCC Temple (25 km away): This beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is located in the outskirts of Pune. It offers a serene and devotional environment for visitors.

Mobile Range Info:

Mobile Network Availability: The Chinchwad area, being a well-developed suburban region, has good mobile network coverage across all major service providers such as Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea, and BSNL.

4G/5G Connectivity: 4G LTE services are widely available, ensuring smooth internet connectivity for browsing and video streaming. As of recent updates, 5G services are gradually being rolled out in the Pune area, so it may be available depending on your service provider.

Wi-Fi Availability: Some parts of the temple complex and nearby hotels or cafes may offer free or paid Wi-Fi services for visitors.

Roaming: Domestic roaming works without issues in this region. International visitors are advised to check roaming services with their respective providers or purchase local SIM cards for better connectivity.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Pune International Airport (PNQ), located around 25 kilometers from Chinchwad Ganesh Temple. The airport has domestic and international flights, and you can hire a taxi or use app-based ride services to reach the temple.

By Train: Chinchwad Railway Station is the nearest railway station, located just 2 kilometers from the temple. It is well connected to Pune and other major cities. Pune Junction, the main railway station, is around 20 kilometers away.

By Road: Chinchwad is easily accessible by road. The temple is located near the Pune-Mumbai Highway (NH 48). You can reach the temple by car, taxi, or auto-rickshaw. Public buses operated by the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) also provide regular services to Chinchwad.

By Bus: The nearest bus stop is Chinchwad Gaon Bus Stop, located a short distance from the temple. PMPML buses from various parts of Pune frequently pass through this stop.

By Metro: The upcoming Pune Metro project will include a stop near Chinchwad, making travel more convenient for visitors in the future.

Nearest Visiting places:
Raja Denkar Kelkar Museum:
The creation of the passionate efforts of a single person, Dr. D.G. Kelkar, the museum has a vast collection of unique and peculiar exhibits. The collection is eclectic and exceptional. In a pleasant change from other well-known museums in India, the Raja Denkar Kelkar Museum exhibits the diversity of India's culture in a subtle and delightful way. The elephant-shaped foot scrubber, a brass scorpion that reveals a secret lock, and eight images of Lord Ganesha carved on a bean make it a must-see in Pune.

Tribal Museum:
This museum houses interesting artifacts excavated from the Sahyadri and Gondhwa regions of Maharashtra. Archaeologists and history enthusiasts will find this museum fascinating due to its wide array of exhibits showcasing ancient tribal culture.

Shaniwar Wada:
This impressive palace was constructed by the Peshwas in the year 1736. The imposing brass-studded gates and lotus pools are the major attractions left in this palace, as it was destroyed by a huge fire in 1827. The palace is one of the major tourist attractions in Pune and is recognized as a symbol of Pune culture. Don’t miss the 'Light & Sound Show' held here every evening.

Aga Khan Palace:
This palace is an important landmark in Pune, flaunting beautiful arches, gracious salons, suites, and spacious lawns. The palace holds historical importance since, during the 1942 Quit India Movement, Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi were placed under house arrest here. This place is a must-visit for history lovers.

Parvati Hill Temples:
A splendid temple complex built by Balaji Baji Rao, the hill temples occupy a significant place for pilgrim tourists. You must climb 108 steep and narrow steps to reach the hilltop temple. Formerly the private shrine of the Peshwas, it houses a museum featuring portraits of Peshwas, ancient manuscripts, and coins. The top offers awe-inspiring views of the city.

Bund Garden:
Also known as Mahatma Gandhi Udhayan, this is one of the most popular tourist spots in Pune. Located on the right bank of the Mula-Mutha Rivers, it was built by Sir Jamshedji Jeejeebhoy to provide the poor with water during the summer. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in boat rides and horse rides here.

Mulshi Dam (40 km):
A scenic spot for nature lovers, Mulshi Dam is surrounded by lush greenery and hills. It is a great place for a peaceful retreat, ideal for picnics and short treks.

Osho Ashram (Koregaon Park):
Known for its tranquil ambiance, Osho Ashram is a spiritual center for meditation and self-reflection. It attracts visitors from all over the world who seek peace and spiritual guidance.

Khadakwasla Dam (20 km):
Another peaceful and scenic spot near Pune, Khadakwasla Dam is perfect for evening strolls and picnics by the water. The nearby Sinhagad Fort adds a historical flavor to the trip.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

1. Indian Oil Petrol Pump (Chinchwad): Located approximately 1.5 km from Chinchwad Ganesh Temple, this petrol pump offers refueling services and is easily accessible via the main road leading to the temple.

2. HP Petrol Pump (Pimpri-Chinchwad): Around 2 km from the temple, this petrol pump provides fuel and basic car maintenance services. It’s conveniently located near the highway connecting Pune and Mumbai.

3. Bharat Petroleum Petrol Pump (Chinchwad Gaon): About 1 km away, this petrol pump is ideal for quick refueling before or after your temple visit. It also has a small convenience store for basic supplies.

4. Shell Petrol Pump (Akurdi): Located approximately 4 km from the temple, this Shell station is known for its high-quality fuel and well-maintained facilities.

5. Essar Petrol Pump (Pimpri): Around 3.5 km from the temple, this petrol pump is another option for refueling and offers good service and facilities.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

1. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pune - Chinchwad:
A luxury 5-star hotel located about 3 km from the Chinchwad Ganesh Temple. It offers spacious rooms, modern amenities, a rooftop pool, and multiple dining options. Ideal for business travelers and families looking for premium accommodations.
Address: C-32, Tata Motors Road, MIDC, Chinchwad, Pune 411019

2. Ginger Hotel Pune - Pimpri:
A budget-friendly 3-star hotel located about 5 km from the temple. It provides comfortable rooms with essential amenities, perfect for travelers seeking affordable accommodation.
Address: Pimpri Chowk, Opp. PCMC Office, Pimpri, Pune 411018

3. Keys Select Hotel Pimpri - Pune:
This 4-star hotel offers stylish accommodations and modern amenities, including a fitness center and restaurant. Located about 4 km from the temple, it is a great mid-range option for both tourists and business travelers.
Address: 31/6, Old Mumbai - Pune Hwy, Pimpri, Pune 411018

4. Hotel Silver Seven:
A budget hotel located around 2 km from the Chinchwad Ganesh Temple. It offers basic but comfortable lodging, with amenities like free Wi-Fi and a restaurant on-site.
Address: 73, Chinchwad Station Rd, Chinchwad, Pune 411019

5. OYO 10040 Hotel Four Seasons Executive:
A budget OYO hotel offering basic amenities at an affordable price. It is located around 3 km from the temple and is a good option for budget-conscious travelers.
Address: Near Durga Devi Temple, Chinchwad, Pune 411019

6. FabHotel Corporate Stay:
A comfortable mid-range hotel located about 4.5 km from the temple. It offers modern rooms and is a convenient choice for business or leisure travelers.
Address: Near Indrayani Nagar Chowk, MIDC, Bhosari, Pune 411026

Things to Carry:

1. Comfortable Footwear:
As you'll be walking around the temple complex and possibly climbing steps (such as at nearby Parvati Hill), it's important to carry comfortable, non-slip footwear.

2. Sunscreen and Sunglasses:
If you're visiting during the summer or daytime, Pune can get quite sunny. Make sure to protect yourself from sun exposure by carrying sunscreen and sunglasses.

3. Water Bottle:
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your visit, especially if you’re exploring multiple sites in the area.

4. Umbrella/Raincoat (Monsoon Season):
If you are visiting during the monsoon months (June-September), carrying an umbrella or a raincoat is advisable as the area receives moderate rainfall.

5. Light Clothing (Summer) or Warm Layers (Winter):
In summer, carry lightweight, breathable clothing. During winter (especially at night), you may need a light jacket or shawl as it can get cool.

6. Camera or Smartphone:
If you enjoy photography, bring a camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful architecture and scenery around the temple and nearby locations.

7. Small Offering Items:
If you plan to offer prayers, carry offerings like flowers, coconuts, or sweets, which are commonly offered at the temple.

8. ID Proof:
It’s always a good idea to carry a valid photo ID with you, especially if you plan to stay at a hotel or need to enter restricted areas.

Tips & Suggestions:

1. Visit Early in the Morning or Late Evening:
To avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, it is best to visit the temple early in the morning or during late evening hours, especially on weekends or festival days.

2. Plan Around Ganesh Chaturthi:
If you want to experience the vibrant festival atmosphere, visit the temple during Ganesh Chaturthi, but be prepared for large crowds. It's an exciting time with special prayers, processions, and cultural activities.

3. Respect Local Customs:
Ensure that you dress modestly when visiting the temple. Removing your shoes before entering the temple is a must, and it's important to maintain a respectful demeanor inside the temple premises.

4. Carry Cash:
While many vendors and shops now accept digital payments, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases, especially for temple offerings or shopping in local markets.

5. Avoid Plastic Waste:
Help maintain the cleanliness of the temple and surrounding areas by avoiding single-use plastic items. Dispose of waste properly in designated bins.

6. Beware of Peak Hours and Festival Rush:
During festival seasons and weekends, the temple can get quite crowded. Plan accordingly and leave enough time for travel and exploration.

7. Stay Hydrated:
Pune can get hot during summer, so keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Carry your own water bottle or buy water from local vendors.

8. Use Public Transportation or Ride Sharing:
To avoid parking issues near the temple, consider using public transport such as buses or auto-rickshaws. Ride-sharing apps are also a convenient option to reach the temple.

Help Line/Phone Number:

Chinchwad Ganesh Temple Office:
Phone: +91-020-27654200 (Fictional placeholder number, replace with actual if available)

Local Police Station (Chinchwad):
Phone: 100 (Emergency) or +91-020-27452800 (Fictional placeholder number)

Nearest Hospital (YCM Hospital):
Phone: +91-020-27356600

Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) Helpline:
Phone: 1800-233-0012

Tourist Information Helpline:
Phone: 1363 (All-India tourist helpline)

Auto/Taxi Helpline:
Phone: +91-020-26456700 (Fictional placeholder number)