Swayambhu Ganapati Temple is a beautiful shrine located at Ganapatipule in
Ratnagiri District,
Maharashtra. The temple is renowned for its unique pule (white sand) idol of
Lord Ganesh. This
swayambhu idol is believed to be 400 years old. Ganesh is depicted astride a lion.
Most noteworthy feature of the temple is that at sunrise and sunset, a shaft of golden light penetrates and illuminates the idol. Early in the morning, the rhythmic beat of the nagaras (a percussion instrument) can be heard from the temple. Also, the chaughadas (percussion instruments) are played in the evenings at the time of changing the idol's clothes.
Another noteworthy features is that most pilgrims believe in take a 'pradakshina' around the hill instead of just the temple.
Vinayaka Chaturthi, celebrated here for five days, is a major draw attended by thousands of devotees.
Swayambhu Ganapati Temple is about 20 km from Ratnagiri.
