Located just 25 kilometers from Pune, at the confluence of the Bhima, Mula, and Mutha rivers, the Chintamani Temple at Theur is the fifth stop on the yatra. This shrine is deeply associated with mental peace, as Lord Ganesha here is believed to remove all anxieties and worries (Chinta) from the minds of his devotees.
The Legend of the Chintamani Jewel
According to legend, the greedy prince Gana stole the wish-fulfilling Chintamani jewel from the sage Kapila. The sage prayed to Lord Ganesha, who fought Gana, retrieved the jewel, and returned it. However, Kapila chose to place the jewel on Ganesha’s neck instead, asking him to stay at Theur to eternally clear the worries of his devotees.
The Peshwa Connection
The Theur temple holds massive historical significance in Maharashtra. It was the family deity of Madhavrao I, the fourth Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. Madhavrao spent his final days at the temple premises and passed away here. The massive wooden mandap (pavilion) and the temple’s fortress-like walls were largely funded and built by the Peshwas.
Exact Darshan Timings
- Temple Opening: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Prakshal Pooja: 5:00 AM
- Panchopachar Pooja: 8:00 AM
- Dhoop Aarti: 8:00 PM
How to Reach Theur
- Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport (approx. 25 km).
- Nearest Railway Station: Pune Railway Station is roughly 25 km away.
- By Road: Theur is an easy 45-minute drive from central Pune. City buses (PMPML) run frequently from Swargate and Pune Station directly to Theur.
- Planning your stay in Pune? Check current hotel availability and rates in Pune on MakeMyTrip here.
Continue your sacred journey: Chintamani is the fifth stop on the Ashtavinayaka Pilgrimage Route.
The main wooden hall built by the Peshwas is uniquely designed without windows, yet it remains naturally well-ventilated—a testament to brilliant 18th-century Maratha architecture.
Yes, it is one of the most easily accessible Ashtavinayaka temples. Due to its proximity to Pune, you can easily visit Theur and return to the city in a single morning.