Situated on the banks of the Kukadi River in the Junnar region, the Vighneshwar (or Vighnahar) Temple at Ozar is the seventh stop on the yatra. Famous for its deep-rooted history and its stunning golden dome, this temple celebrates Lord Ganesha in his form as the ultimate “Remover of Obstacles.”
The Legend of the Demon Vighnasur
According to the Mudgala Purana, a powerful demon named Vighnasur was created to disrupt the prayers and rituals of the sages. The sages pleaded with Lord Ganesha, who engaged the demon in a fierce battle. Recognizing his imminent defeat, Vighnasur surrendered and pleaded for mercy, asking only that his name be attached to Ganesha’s. Thus, Ganesha took the name Vighneshwar (The Lord of Vighnasur).
The Golden Dome & Temple Architecture
The Ozar temple is visually striking. The main temple tower (Shikhara) is covered in pure gold, a generous offering made by the famous Maratha military leader Chimaji Appa after he successfully defeated the Portuguese at the Vasai Fort. The temple complex is expansive, featuring beautiful murals, two massive stone Deepmalas (lamp towers), and a massive fortified wall enclosing the courtyard.
Exact Darshan Timings
- Temple Opening: 5:00 AM to 10:30 PM
- Kakad Aarti: 5:00 AM
- Panchopachar Pooja: 8:00 AM
- Dhoop Aarti: 8:00 PM
How to Reach Ozar
- Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport (approx. 85 km).
- Nearest Railway Station: Pune Railway Station.
- By Road: Ozar is very close to Lenyadri (about 15 km away). Most pilgrims visit Lenyadri in the morning and drive to Ozar in the afternoon via the Junnar-Ozar road.
- Planning your stay? Check current hotel availability and rates near Ozar on MakeMyTrip here.
Continue your sacred journey: Vighneshwar is the seventh stop on the Ashtavinayaka Pilgrimage Route.
Yes! Because they are only 15 kilometers apart in the Junnar region, almost all pilgrims group these two temples together on their itinerary.
Yes, the Ozar temple trust operates a highly organized Bhakta Niwas (pilgrim guest house) right on the riverbank, making it a very popular overnight stop for those completing the circuit.