‘Jai Malhar’, ‘Khandobacha Yelkot’  - do not be taken by surprise if you keep hearing these words again and again at Jejuri, the famous temple dedicated to Khandoba.

Located some thirty miles away from Pune to the southeast, this famous place of worship is dedicated to Gods Mhalsakant, Malhari Martand and Khandoba who are the presiding deities for the Dhangar tribe, which is one of the oldest in Maharashtra.

The temple of Khandoba is located on a hill, which is accessible with the help of about 200 steps to the top. The climb itself is not tiring and one enjoys a marvelous view of the Jejuri town as one climbs up. Saswad and Dive Ghat can be viewed from here if the weather is fine.

While climbing, you may view the number of ‘Deep Mala’ or Light Stands made of stones. The old Deep Mala here is another added attraction to the crystal stands in Jejuri.

The simple but beautiful temple on the hill is divided into the Mandap and Gabhara areas. The beautiful idols of Khandoba, Mhalsa and Manimalla along with various weapons of historical importance such as the Sword, Damaru (small hand drum) and Paral enthrall the worshippers and visitors alike.

There is even a competition held here during Dassera Festival, which involves handling the Sword kept in the temple. Any one who lifts the sword and holds it high for the maximum time is declared winner.

Many ancient sculptures can be seen in the Khandoba and other temples in Jejuri.

Historically, Jejuri is remembered as the meeting place of Shivaji and his father Shahaji where they discussed their strategies against the Mughals at the hill-fort here.

You may alight at Jejuri station which is on the Pune-Bangalore track of Southern Railway and hire a bullock cart to go to the temple or walk the entire stretch of the route which is tree-lined and a short one at that.

Dharamshalas serve as rest houses and temple priests also provide information and act as guides to tourists and visitors.

Usually a one-day trip from Pune, the scarcity of water here may make a longer stay a difficult one.

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