Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most loved festivals in India. Devotees worship Lord Ganesha with prayers, offerings, and cultural celebrations. Visiting famous temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha during this festival is considered very special. These temples not only carry spiritual importance but also showcase India’s rich history and traditions. Here are the top 10 must-visit Ganesha temples in India on Ganesh Chaturthi:
1. Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai
Built in 1801 by Laxman Vithu and Deubai Patil, Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the most visited shrines of Lord Ganesha in India. The idol is carved from a single black stone with a trunk on the right side, making it unique. The temple attracts lakhs of devotees every year, especially during Ganesh Chaturthi.
2. Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, Pune
Established in 1893 by Dagdusheth Halwai, a famous sweet maker, this temple is a symbol of devotion and community spirit. Lokmanya Tilak also promoted Ganesh Utsav here to unite people during the freedom struggle. During the festival, devotees beautifully decorate the idol with gold and ornaments.
Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi Date, Muhurat, Rituals, and Things To Do
3. Shree Vinayaka Devaru Temple, Idagunji (Karnataka)
Located in Idagunji village, this temple dates back to the 4th century. The idol has two hands, holding a lotus and a modak. It is one of the six important Ganesha temples in Karnataka and draws millions of devotees annually.
4. Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple, Andhra Pradesh
This temple was built in the 11th century by Chola King Kulothunga Chola I. The idol of Lord Ganesha is self-manifested (swayambhu) and is believed to be growing in size. The temple pond is considered sacred according to local legends.
5. Rockfort Ucchi Pillayar Temple, Tiruchirapalli (Tamil Nadu)
Situated on top of a rock hill, this temple is linked to the Ramayana. It is said that Lord Ganesha ran to this spot after keeping Ravana’s Atmalinga on the ground. The temple gives a panoramic view of Trichy city.
6. Ganpatipule Temple, Ratnagiri (Maharashtra)
The 400-year-old temple is unique because the idol of Lord Ganesha is swayambhu (naturally formed). Unlike other temples, the deity faces west to guard the Konkan coast. It is a popular pilgrimage and beach destination together.
7. Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry
The temple, which is over 500 years old, dedicates its worship to Lord Ganesha in different forms. The name “Manakula” refers to the pond near the temple, filled with sand and water. Devotees believe prayers here remove obstacles in life.
8. Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati (Belgaum, Karnataka)
Similar to Pune’s temple, this shrine in Belgaum also draws thousands of devotees during Ganesh Chaturthi. Builders constructed it in the early 20th century. The idol here is grand and decorated with flowers and ornaments during the festival.
9. Karpaka Vinayakar Temple, Pillayarpatti (Tamil Nadu)
More than 1,600 years old, this temple has a rock-cut idol of Lord Ganesha, carved in a cave. The idol has two arms and a trunk curled towards the right. It is one of the oldest Ganesha temples in Tamil Nadu.
10. Madhur Maha Ganapathi Temple, Kasaragod (Kerala)
During the 10th century, people believed that builders constructed this ancient temple.. The legend says a child drew Lord Ganesh on the temple wall, which later turned into a real idol. People know the temple for its unique three-tiered copper roof.
Must-visit these Ganesha temples on Ganesh Chaturthi offers a divine experience along with a glimpse into India’s cultural heritage. Each temple has a special story and spiritual charm. Devotees believe that Lord Ganesha blesses them with wisdom, peace, and prosperity when worshipped with devotion.
