Anjarle Ganapati Temple, Chiplun - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Anjarle Ganapati Temple

At a distance of 3 Km from Anjarle Beach, 24 Km from Dapoli, 43 Km from Harihareshwar, and 82 Km from Chiplun, Anjarle Ganapati Temple, also known as Kadyavarcha Ganapati Temple, is a Hindu temple located atop a hill in the small village of Anjarle in the Dapoli Taluka of Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra. Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, it is one of the popular temples in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, and among the most popular places to visit as part of the Chiplun tour packages.

History of Anjarle Ganapati Temple

The Kadyavarcha Ganapati Temple is thought to have been constructed in 1150 AD using wooden pillars. According to local legends, this temple was originally located by the seashore alongside two other temples, Ajayrayleshwar and Siddhivinayak. Remnants of these two temples can still be observed during low tide when the water recedes. Due to the erosion caused by high tides, the Ganpati temple was relocated to its current site in the 18th century, which is how it acquired the name Kadyavarcha Ganpati. This relocation likely occurred between 1768 and 1780. Since 1630, the temple has been under the management of the Nisture family.

Architecture of Anjarle Ganapati Temple

The architectural design of the temple is significantly shaped by both medieval and contemporary styles. It features a main hall, an assembly hall, and an open courtyard. Within the sanctum lies a black stone idol of Lord Ganesha, accompanied by his consorts, Siddhi and Riddhi. Notably, the idol in this temple is distinct from those found in other temples, as Lord Ganesha's trunk is oriented to the right, rather than the customary left. This unique representation is referred to as Ujvya Sondecha Ganapati. The idol is also believed to be a responsive deity, addressing the requests of its devotees.

To the right of the temple, a stone staircase leads to the top, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding coconut and betel nut trees, the nearby Suvarnadurga Fort, the Arabian Sea, and the adjacent hills. In front of the temple, there is a pond where visitors can feed large fish and turtles. Additionally, a small temple dedicated to Shiva is situated next to the Ganesha temple.

Festivals of Anjarle Ganapati Temple

The most important festival observed at the Kadyavarcha Ganpati Temple in Anjarle is Ganesh Chaturthi. This vibrant 10-day celebration, occurring in August or September, is characterized by immense enthusiasm and devotion. The temple serves as the focal point of the festivities, attracting thousands of worshippers who come to offer their prayers and receive blessings. Another notable event in Anjarle is the Anjarle Turtle Festival, organized by Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra and Kasav Mitra Mandal. Typically held between February and March, this festival coincides with the arrival of Olive Ridley turtles, which come ashore to lay their eggs. Attendees have the opportunity to observe the remarkable sight of turtles nesting and hatching, creating a truly unique and memorable experience.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Anjarle Ganapati Temple

While Anjarle Ganapati Temple doesn't have a strict dress code, it is recommended to adhere to modest clothing that covers your upper arms and legs as a sign of respect. Men are encouraged to wear a dhoti or pajama paired with an upper garment, as well as formal trousers and shirts. Women may opt for a saree, half saree, or chudidhars. It is advisable to refrain from wearing contemporary attire such as mini-skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops while on the temple grounds.

Non-Hindus are welcome to explore the temple complex and appreciate its architectural beauty; however, access to the sanctum sanctorum may be restricted.

Anjarle Ganapati Temple Timings

Monday: 6 AM - 7 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM - 7 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM - 7 PM
Thursday: 6 AM - 7 PM
Friday: 6 AM - 7 PM
Saturday: 6 AM - 7 PM
Sunday: 6 AM - 7 PM

Anjarle Ganapati Temple Entry Fee

Entry is Free

Best Time to Visit Anjarle Ganapati Temple

The best time to explore the Anjarle Ganapati Temple is during the winter season, specifically from November to February, when the climate is enjoyable and ideal for sightseeing. The temple draws large numbers of visitors during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which typically takes place in August or September. The summer months in Anjarle can be quite hot, followed by a humid monsoon season.

How to Reach Anjarle Ganapati Temple

Mumbai Airport is the nearest airport, which is about 223 Km from Anjarle. About 53 Km, Khed Railway Station is the nearest station that has well train connectivity with Mumbai, Madgoan, Pune, Goa, Patna, Trivandrum, Delhi, Mangalore, Tirunelveli, Bikaner, Bhavnagar, Amritsar, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Kochuveli, Ratnagiri, Porbandar, Ajmer, Coimbatore, and Gandhidham. Anjarle is well connected by bus with Dapoli, Chiplun, Mumbai, Pune, Satara, Raigad, and Mahabaleshwar.