1 / 11Gudi Padwa, celebrated with the elevation of the Gudi, a decorated bamboo pole symbolizing prosperity, fortune, and triumph, is one of Maharashtra’s most cherished festivals. Here’s a look at ten sacred temples in the state worth visiting this Gudi Padwa. (Image: Canva)
2 / 11Shree Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai: This temple in Mumbai’s Prabhadevi area is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, and stands as one of India’s most frequented temples. Visiting on Gudi Padwa is fortuitous, as beginning the year with a darshan of Ganesh is a revered tradition among Maharashtrians. (Image: Canva)
3 / 11Shri Mahalakshmi Temple, Mumbai: Dedicated to the goddess of wealth and prosperity, the Mahalakshmi Temple overlooks the stunning Arabian Sea at Babulnath. It’s a prime spot for seeking blessings as the new year begins, attracting large crowds on Gudi Padwa when devotees pray for wealth and happiness.
4 / 11Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, Nashik: Located near Nashik, the Trimbakeshwar Temple is one of the twelve significant Jyotirlingas in India, holding immense religious value for Hindus. Situated at the origin of the Godavari River, it radiates a powerful spiritual energy, especially during festive occasions like Gudi Padwa.
5 / 11Shri Bhimashankar Temple, Pune District: The Bhimashankar Temple, another revered Jyotirlinga and the origin of the Bhima River, is nestled in the verdant Sahyadri mountains. Its picturesque location makes it a popular destination for both pilgrims and nature enthusiasts.
6 / 11Shri Tulja Bhavani Temple, Tuljapur: This historic temple in the Osmanabad district is one of the 51 Shakti Pithas dedicated to Goddess Tulja Bhavani, a fierce aspect of Goddess Durga. As the patron deity of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, this temple holds a significant place in Maharashtrian heritage, making it a site of spiritual and cultural importance.
7 / 11Shri Khandoba Temple, Jejuri: Perched on a hill in Jejuri near Pune, this vibrant temple dedicated to Lord Khandoba, the protector of Maharashtra, is renowned for its rituals involving turmeric powder. Devotees celebrate Gudi Padwa with great enthusiasm, making their way up the nearly 200 steps with offerings of bhambar, or turmeric. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
8 / 11Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple, Pandharpur: Located on the banks of the Bhima River, the Vitthal Rukmini Temple in Pandharpur is one of Maharashtra’s holiest destinations and serves as the heart of the Varkari tradition. Millions of devotees partake in the Wari pilgrimage annually to worship Lord Vitthal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. (Image: Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple Pandharpur)
9 / 11Shri Saibaba Temple, Shirdi: Every year during Gudi Padwa, devotees flock to the renowned Saibaba Temple in Shirdi. Followers believe that seeking Baba’s blessings on the inaugural day of the Marathi New Year cultivates a protective and positive ambiance for the upcoming year. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
10 / 11Shri Renuka Devi Temple, Mahurgad: This temple, revered as one of Maharashtra’s key Shakti Pithas, is located in the Mahur hills of the Nanded district. Dedicated to Goddess Renuka, mother of the sage Parashurama, the temple showcases breathtaking views and is a pivotal place of worship. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
11 / 11Shri Chatushringi Devi Temple, Pune: Nestled in Pune’s Senapati Bapat Road area, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chatushringi, a form of Goddess Durga. Widely respected by Pune’s residents, families visit during significant occasions, offering coconuts, flowers, and prayers, particularly during Gudi Padwa, which is acknowledged as a propitious time for such pilgrimages. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
