Ganapati Swayambhu Temple

Ganapati Swayambhu Temple

The Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, a centuries old temple, known for its unique Ganapati idol, is built on sand (pule in the local lingo). It is believed to have originated by itself (swayambhu), and hasn’t been created by man. The idol of Ganapati here is made out of copper and depicts the God astride a lion. The God in this Swayambhu Ganpati Temple is considered to be the Paschim Dwardevta or God of the west coast. It is placed in the Sanctum Sanctorum and at sunrise and sunset a shaft of golden light penetrates and illuminates the idol. The people of the Konkan region are devout worshippers of Ganpati and the hordes of people who come to the temple on Angar ki Chaturvehi, an auspicious Tuesday every six months, has to be seen to be believed. Ganesh Chaturthi is another occasion for the faithful to congregate on the Ganpatipule beach in their thousands. The festival also draws foreign tourists to the temple; they come to discover the landscape, art, culture and history of the region. Apart from the temple, Ganapatipule beach with its clear water, clean sand, mangroves & coconut palms all around is an ideal getaway. Do visit for a truly spiritual and elevating experience!