Shree Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai (Maharashtra)
Mumbai’s most beloved Ganesh shrine was consecrated in 1801 and houses a compact black-stone idol with the right-curving trunk, flanked by Riddhi and Siddhi , attributes devotees associate with prosperity and success.
Expect dense weekday queues and special festive crowds.
ShreemantDagdushethHalwai Ganpati Temple, Pune (Maharashtra)
This famed Pune temple, born from a late-19th-century vow by sweet-maker DagdushethHalwai, draws massive Ganeshotsav footfall. The richly adorned idol, a hub for celebrity and public darshan alike, sits at the heart of a charitable trust that funds social initiatives year-round.
Trinetra Ganesh Temple, Ranthambore Fort (Rajasthan)
Set inside the UNESCO-listed Ranthambore Fort, this shrine is noted for Ganesha’s three-eyed depiction and a unique custom: wedding cards from across India are sent here first for blessings. The fort’s lofty ramparts deliver sweeping jungle views, plan to climb.
UcchiPillayar Temple, Rockfort, Tiruchirappalli (Tamil Nadu)
A 7th-century hilltop shrine perched atop Trichy’s ancient granite outcrop, UcchiPillayar rewards a stair climb with breezy city panoramas and classic Dravidian temple details. Legends link the site to Vibhishana and Ganesha after the Ramayana.
Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, Ganpatipule (Maharashtra)
Sea-facing and swayambhu (self-manifested), this coastal temple venerates the west-facing ‘Paschim Dwar-Devata.’ Devotees often perform a one-kilometre pradakshina around the adjoining hill, with sunsets over the Konkan adding to the allure.