Gagangiri Ashram — Attraction in Maharashtra

Gaganngiri Maharaj Math, Khopoli (Near Mumbai-Pune Highway) Gaganngiri Maharaj Math in Khopoli offers a serene and spiritual retreat conveniently located near the bustling Mumbai-Pune Highway. For travelers seeking a peaceful respite or devotees looking to connect with their faith, this ashram provides a unique and fulfilling experience. Location & Accessibility: The Math is remarkably easy to access, situated in Khopoli, a mere 1 km from the Khopoli Railway Station and well-connected by road, being just 80 km from Mumbai and 75 km from Pune. This makes it an ideal spot for a day trip or a short weekend getaway for those traveling on the Mumbai-Pune corridor. Ample parking is available, making it convenient for private vehicles. Atmosphere & Ambiance: Upon entering, one is immediately struck by the tranquil and spiritual atmosphere. While the exterior might seem simple, the interior of the Math is well-maintained, spacious, and exudes a palpable sense of peace. Surrounded by the foothills of the Sahyadri Mountains and with the Patalganga River flowing nearby, especially during monsoons, the natural beauty adds to the serene environment. The soothing sounds of the river, coupled with devotional hymns, create a truly calming experience, perfect for meditation and introspection. Facilities & Offerings: The Math offers a range of facilities for visitors. Mahaprasad (Food): A highlight for many is the Mahaprasad, served in the dining hall. It's a simple yet wholesome meal, and the practice of washing your own plate fosters a sense of humility and environmental consciousness. Food coupons are typically available for a limited time (e.g., 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM), so plan your visit accordingly. Accommodation: For those wishing to stay overnight, 4-bed AC rooms with attached western bathrooms are available, making it suitable for families. Caves & Temples: The ashram complex includes caves, believed to be where Gagangiri Maharaj meditated, and various temples. Exploring these areas adds to the spiritual journey. Be prepared for a short walk and some steps to reach the caves. Other Amenities: The Math provides hot water, clean drinking water, well-maintained washrooms, CCTV cameras for security, and an open ground. There are also stalls selling prasad, books, and religious literature. Things to Keep in Mind: Dress Code: Proper dressing is expected; revealing clothes are not permitted. Footwear: Footwear must be removed at the entrance. Photography: Photography is generally prohibited inside the main temple areas. Crowds: Weekends, especially Sundays, and peak seasons (like monsoons) can be crowded. Arriving early is advisable to avoid queues. Senior Citizens: Some visitors have noted a lack of separate facilities or lines for senior citizens, which could be improved. Volunteer Behavior: A few reviews mention instances of rude behavior from volunteers, particularly towards children, which is an area for improvement. Overall Experience: Gaganngiri Maharaj Math is more than just a temple; it's a spiritual hub that offers a unique blend of devotion, peace, and natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a moment of tranquility, a spiritual experience, or simply a refreshing break from the city, this Math provides a welcoming and enriching environment. Its close proximity to the Mumbai-Pune Highway makes it an accessible and worthwhile stop for anyone traveling...

To reach here u can use A direct bus to Khopoli leaves early in the morning from Mumbai Central. Alternatively Volvo Bus service to Pune stop in Khopoli, from where one can take an Auto to the Ashram By Air : Nearest airport is Pune. By Rail : Nearest railhead is Khopoli By Road : Mumbai-Khopoli 89 kms. Pune-Khopoli 74 kms. Lonavala-Khopoli 12 kms. Karjat - Khopli 10 km. Sri. Gagangiri Maharaj, who was revered and worshipped as Emperor Chalukya Pulakeshi, hails from Patankar family. His original personal name is Sripad and he belongs to village Manadure in Patan district of South Maharashtra. At the age of 7 he left his home and He went to Battees-Shirala. This place has a Math (ashram) of Nathsampradaya. This cult (sampradaya) has a wide following all over India and has about 1600 establishments.Sri Gagangiri Maharaj as a youthful sanyasi, also moved about with Mahants (Senior Sages) right up to the Himalayas. During pilgrimages he learnt yoga and several occult and religious practices. He travelled far and wide to places such as Nepal, Bhutan, Manas Sarovar, Gaurishankar, (Gorak assembly), Gorakshdarbar, Gorakhpur, Pashupatinath and returned to Almora. Finally, he travelled through the valley of Ganga, Himachal Pradesh and reached. Near Badrika Ashram there ice-clad mountains, where Gagangiri Maharaj was extremely tired as a result of his peregrinations and he decided to settle in a cave. When he was relaxing, a sage wearing saffron robes came there from the mountains. He sprinkled water from his Kamandalu, on the face of Gagangiri Maharaj. He also gave him some kind of green grass to eat which resembled coriander leaves. For his penance, he had prepared mattresses of grass. He found his mattresses growing like living vegetation. This was considered as an experience, where Tantrik technique is perfected. He did a number of Kaya Kalpas (Rejuvenation). In this process he invented several new concepts in Tantrik techniques and proved them true.He said "You will now attain the state of salvation, and you shall be responsible for the welfare of humanity and you shall go to the South". Accordingly, Maharaj moved from the valley. He experienced a lot of difficulties and arrived at Rhishikesh. Swamiji then decided to move all over India alone on foot and accordingly his journey started.He did penance at a number of places like Mauli Kund, Mauli Kada, Zanzu water, Mausame Kada, Kasarbari, Ginger water, Sat-barkund, Holi Kada, Margaj water, Jungledeo patti, Shirale etc. During monsoon, he stayed in the cave at Garbhagiri, Gagangiri. He did penance in a pond near the river at Sangashi, Vazar, Vesraf, Palsambe, Ramling etc. Later he went to Vijaydurg, in the Konkan area from where he reached Bombay by steamer. During 1945 to 1948, he did Kayakalpa at Angale, near...

Shri gagan giri maharaj ashram.

Near khopoli , 1 hr drive from navi mumbai, 1.5 hr drive from mumbai and thane region. 10 to 15 min from khalapur toll plaza.

It's a spiritual and auspicious place to visit.

Dress code is followed, no entry for shorts or similar dresses for male and female.

Shoes racks are provided inside math premises, just beside that is the washroom area.

Parking space is available for cars and 2 wheelers, 50 rs. For cars. 100 rs. Bus , 20 rs. Bikes.

Some general snacks shops are just in front of the main gate.

Bhojanalay is also inside the math. 11 to 3 pm 8 to 10 pm

A much real life statue of late shri gagan giri maharaj is really mesmerising , murtikar has put all his efforts into this statue.

You feel relaxed and calm from inside. Math area is very huge and yet we'll maintained by the trust.

Security guards are allocated at major points.

It's very nice to visit in monsoon , all the vicinity turns in various shades of green.

Carpets are placed on the floor. Helps to avoid slippery cases in monsoon times.

There is a huge water canal passing through the main mandir building, in heavy rainfall days its really amazing to hear the roaring sounds of water and calm mandir vibes. All your senses gets fulfilled by the same.

Behind main mandir there is another mandir with many gods and goddesses. Another dhyan mndir has nav grahas mandir.

After about 150 steps walks through the road you arrive at Helipad area.

Here you can calm down and view the entire mountain range in one glance. In monsoon you can easily get to see tens of waterfalls on this wall of mountain.

If you visit early morning you can get the chance to do some hiking walk through a proper road and reach the gumpha / caves area.

This math has stay facility also available, in monsoon and weekends do try to make pre bookings with them. You may find booking mobile number on their website.

This math stay facility is also well maintained and neat and clean. They charge @ 500 rs. per person for families only, with meal. For single person hall facility is also there.

It's a very very good spiritual and nature loving experience you can...