Pilgrimage & sacred places
Jejuri Khandoba Temple
The Golden Hill Shrine of Lord Khandoba — Guardian Deity of Maharashtra
- District
- Pune
- Elevation
- 718 meters
- Nearest Highway
- Pune–Pandharpur Highway (NH 965)
Overview
Jejuri, located near Pune, is one of the most famous pilgrimage centers in Maharashtra dedicated to Lord Khandoba, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple, perched atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the surrounding region and holds immense cultural and spiritual significance.
The site is known for its golden hues — the air filled with turmeric powder, symbolizing prosperity and auspiciousness. Pilgrims climb nearly 200 stone steps to reach the temple, chanting 'Yelkot Yelkot Jai Malhar!' along the way.
Highlights
Khandoba Temple
An ancient hilltop shrine devoted to Lord Khandoba, also known as Malhari Martand, worshipped as the guardian deity of Maharashtra.
Golden Turmeric Festival
During Bhandara Festival, devotees throw turmeric in the air, turning the entire temple and hillside golden.
Location & landscape
Jejuri is situated about 50 km southeast of Pune city, on the banks of the Karha River in Purandar taluka.
Jejuri is best visited during the Bhandara Festival or winter months when the temple’s spiritual ambiance is at its peak.
- District
- Pune
- Elevation
- 718 meters
- Nearest Highway
- Pune–Pandharpur Highway (NH 965)
- Nearest Airport
- Pune Airport (52 km)
- Nearest Railway Station
- Jejuri Railway Station (2 km)
Best Time to Visit
Jejuri has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during winter and major festivals.
- Summer: 30°C to 40°C (March–June)
- Monsoon: Moderate rainfall (July–September)
- Winter: Pleasant weather (October–February)
Things to do
Climb the Hill Steps
Devotees climb nearly 200 steps to reach the temple, enjoying scenic views and chanting prayers.
- Steps lined with small shrines and idols.
- Vendors sell turmeric, coconuts, and offerings along the way.
Bhandara Festival
Celebrate Jejuri’s iconic festival where clouds of turmeric turn the temple golden.
- Held annually in February–March.
- Devotees from across Maharashtra participate.
Khandoba Pooja
Perform ritual offerings and witness traditional 'arti' ceremonies dedicated to Lord Khandoba.
- Offer turmeric, flowers, and jaggery to the deity.
- Aarti timings: Morning 6 AM, Evening 7 PM.
Places to explore
Main Khandoba Temple
A grand temple built with yellow basalt stone, featuring exquisite carvings and a tall Dipmal (lamp tower).
Deepmal (Lamp Tower)
A magnificent stone lamp tower lit during special occasions, illuminating the entire temple hill.
Karha River Ghats
Sacred riverbank where devotees perform ritual baths before visiting the temple.
Local ecology
Though Jejuri is not coastal, its spiritual aura symbolizes Maharashtra’s deep-rooted cultural and divine life force.
Jejuri is a radiant symbol of faith and heritage.
Its golden aura continues to bless devotees across generations.
Faith and Devotion
The temple celebrates devotion, discipline, and the victory of good over evil.
Symbol of Prosperity
The turmeric used in rituals symbolizes purity, wealth, and spiritual energy.
Practical Travel Tips
Plan visits early in the morning to avoid crowds during weekends and festivals.
Carry turmeric packets carefully — avoid opening during travel to prevent staining.
Photography is allowed outside the sanctum but avoid flash inside the temple.
Local Transit & Routes
By Road
- Regular buses and private vehicles connect Jejuri with Pune, Baramati, and Satara.
- The temple hill is a short walk from Jejuri town.
By Rail & Air
- Jejuri has its own railway station with direct trains from Pune and Daund.
- Pune Airport is the nearest air connection, about 52 km away.