Kadepathar Jejuri: A Complete Travel Guide to the 750-Step Spiritual Journey to Lord Khandoba 💛

Kadepathar Jejuri | कडेपठार जेजुरी

When we hear the name Jejuri, the first things that come to mind are Lord Khandoba and clouds of bright yellow Bhandara (turmeric). The whole temple shines in yellow, and even the air smells of turmeric — it feels magical and a little spicy at the same time! 😄 But do you know something interesting? The temple most of us visit is not the original one. Yes, you read that right! The main and original temple is called Kadepathar Jejuri, and it is located on the same hill, just a little farther and higher than the current temple. Many people, especially the younger generation, don’t even know about this hidden spiritual place. When I first came to know about it, I felt like I had discovered a secret level in a game! 🎮✨

To reach Kadepathar Jejuri, you need to climb around 750 steps. It takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your stamina (and how many breaks you take to “admire the view” like I did 😅). But trust me, every step is worth it. As I climbed higher, the crowd noise slowly disappeared, the wind became stronger, and I felt a deep sense of peace. At the top, you will see the main temple of Lord Khandoba (Malhari Martand) along with other temples like Hanuman Mandir, Nageshwar Temple, Ram Mandir, Banu Bai Temple, Panchamukhi Mahadev, and even Ghode Uddan. Standing on that wide, rugged plateau felt powerful — like I was standing at the birthplace of a legend.

So your travel buddy is taking you to this beautiful spiritual journey of this generation — a place full of faith, history, and positive energy. Yelkot Yelkot Jai Malhar! 🙏💛 Let’s begin this journey together!

Why Kadepathar Jejuri is So Important – Let Me Tell You the History

When I first learned about Kadepathar Jejuri, I was honestly surprised. Most of us visit the main Jejuri temple, throw Bhandara, take darshan, and return home. But very few people know that Kadepathar Jejuri is believed to be the original and oldest place where Lord Khandoba appeared.

This rugged hilltop of Kadepathar Jejuri is considered the Mool Sthaan (original seat) of the Lord. Before proper roads and development, devotees used to climb this very hill to worship him. Many locals strongly believe that Kadepathar Jejuri is spiritually connected to the place where Lord Khandoba defeated the demons Mani and Malla. That’s why climbing here feels different — it feels like you are going back to the very beginning of the legend.

Who is Lord Khandoba? And His Connection with Banubai & Mhalsa

Let me explain in simple words — Lord Khandoba is a warrior form of Lord Shiva. When the demons Mani and Malla were troubling saints and common people, Lord Shiva took the form of Malhari Martand to protect his devotees. The name Malhari actually means enemy of Malla.

For many families in Maharashtra and Karnataka, Khandoba is their Kuldaivat (family deity). He is not just worshipped as a god, but respected as a family protector.

He has two wives:
– Mhalsa, believed to be a form of Goddess Parvati.
– Banubai (Banu), believed to belong to the Dhangar (shepherd) community.

What I personally love about the story of Kadepathar Jejuri is how it connects different communities. Kings, warriors, farmers, and shepherds — everyone comes together under the blessings of Lord Khandoba.

Why Do We Use Bhandara (Turmeric) in Kadepathar Jejuri?

If you have ever visited Kadepathar Jejuri, you will notice one thing immediately — everything is yellow! 💛 The reason is Bhandara (turmeric).

From what I understood, turmeric here represents victory, purity, and protection. It celebrates Lord Khandoba’s victory over the demons. In Indian culture, turmeric is considered sacred and auspicious.

When devotees throw Bhandara in the air while shouting “Yelkot Yelkot Jai Malhar!”, it feels like they are celebrating that divine victory again and again. That is why Kadepathar Jejuri and the entire Jejuri temple are often called the Golden Temple of Maharashtra.

The Road to Kadepathar Jejuri Begins 🏍️

The plan was finally set. My friend Charan and I had been talking about this spiritual visit for weeks, and at last, the day had come to visit Kadepathar Jejuri. The alarms screamed at 4:30 AM (and trust me, that sound feels extra loud in the early morning 😴). But excitement is stronger than sleep! Within minutes, we were fresh, ready, and full of road-trip energy. By 5:00 AM sharp, I reached Charan’s place with my bike, and we started our journey, leaving the sleepy streets of Pune behind us.

The air was cool and fresh, the roads were almost empty, and the city lights slowly faded as the sky began to turn light blue. Our route was simple but beautiful — we crossed Khadi Machine Chowk, rode through the silent lanes of Undri, and then came the best part — Dive Ghat. Riding through Dive Ghat in the early morning mist feels magical. The smooth curves of the road, the fresh breeze hitting your face, and the stunning view of Mastani Lake below… it’s the kind of moment that makes you forget everything else. 🌄

After about an hour of peaceful riding, we reached Saswad. The first thing that grabs your attention there is the grand statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj standing tall and proud. We stopped our bike, folded our hands, and took his blessings. It honestly gave us a boost of energy for the big climb to Kadepathar Jejuri ahead.

And of course… how can any “Sandeep trip” be complete without chai? 😅 We found a small roadside stall and ordered two hot cutting chais. That first sip in the cold morning air? Pure happiness! I sometimes feel I don’t travel on petrol… I travel on chai! ☕🔥 It keeps my camera clicking and my legs ready for every adventure toward Kadepathar Jejuri.

The Beginning of the 750-Step Journey 👣

As the sun slowly started rising, painting the sky in soft orange colors, we continued riding for another hour until we reached the main road entrance of Kadepathar Jejuri. From the highway, it’s just a 10-minute drive through a small winding road that takes you to the starting point of the climb. The road is narrow but peaceful, surrounded by open land and fresh morning air. It almost feels like nature is slowly preparing you for something sacred ahead. 🌄

The moment we parked our bike, I felt the atmosphere change. Even though it was still early, many devotees had already gathered at the base of Kadepathar Jejuri. The air was filled with the smell of incense, and the bright yellow color of Bhandara (turmeric) was everywhere. Small shops were lined up selling Prasad kits, coconuts, and packets of turmeric. Groups of people were chanting loudly, “Yelkot Yelkot Jai Malhar!” while applying turmeric on their foreheads. It’s impossible not to feel the spiritual energy here — it hits you the moment your feet touch the ground. 🙏💛

We bought some Bhandara for ourselves and walked towards the starting point. There stood a big entrance gate with “Kadepathar Cha Raja” written proudly on it. On the left side, I saw a large statue of Mahadev, fully covered in turmeric, glowing in yellow. Near it was a small idol of Lord Khandoba sitting on his horse. We folded our hands, took blessings, and shouted together, “Yelkot Yelkot Jai Malhar!” And with full devotion and excitement in our hearts… we began our journey to Kadepathar Jejuri. 💛

Read About: Sinhagad Fort: Gateway to Maratha History and Scenic Beauty

More Than a Climb — A Lesson in Love and Duty ❤️

As we continued climbing, we saw small stalls along the way selling lemon juice, kakadi (cucumber), chocolates, and water bottles — little energy boosters for tired pilgrims. After climbing so many steps, even a small glass of lemon juice feels like a blessing! 😅 We also noticed groups of donkeys carrying heavy sacks of turmeric and snacks up the hill with surprising balance. It was humbling to see how both humans and animals work together every single day to keep Kadepathar Jejuri running smoothly for devotees.

Around 300 steps up, I witnessed something that gave me instant goosebumps. In front of us, a young man was climbing the steep stairs while carrying his elderly mother on his shoulders. Charan and I looked at each other silently. We were young, climbing freely, and still breathing like we had just finished a marathon 😅… and here was this man climbing with extra weight, but with pure determination and devotion.

At that moment, he truly felt like a real-life Shravan Bal of today’s generation. Watching him carefully step up each stone stair with his mother on his shoulders was deeply emotional. It reminded me of a simple truth — when we were small, our parents carried us in their arms. In their old age, it becomes our responsibility to support them. That one scene on the steps of Kadepathar Jejuri taught me more than any motivational speech ever could.

On these sacred hills, I understood something powerful — it’s not just your physical strength that helps you climb… it’s your “bhaav” (true devotion) that carries you forward. ❤️

Step by step, breath by breath, we kept moving closer to the top — and closer to something bigger than ourselves. 💛

Banubai’s Blessings Before the Darshan

As we continued climbing, we soon reached the peaceful Banubai Mandir, dedicated to Banubai, the second wife of Lord Khandoba. The temple felt calm and simple. We folded our hands, took her blessings, and instantly felt a fresh wave of energy. From that point onward, we knew — we were getting closer to Lord Khandoba’s temple.

After finishing the last few steps, we finally reached the big gate where the 750 stairs officially end and only plain ground remains. That moment felt like a small personal victory! 🎉 I quickly clicked a picture of Charan standing proudly near the gate — he was smiling wide because we both knew, “Bas thoda sa aur!” (just a little more!).

Charan rang the big bell hanging at the entrance gate, and its sound echoed beautifully across the wide plateau. 🔔 That ringing felt like an announcement — we had made it.

Soon after, we visited the Shree Veerbhadra Temple, an avatar of Lord Mahadev. We took blessings there as well. Around the temple, local vendors were selling small lockets, bracelets, and other spiritual items. The simple village atmosphere made everything feel authentic and deeply rooted in tradition.

Standing In The Land Of Malhari Martand

As the plateau opened up before us, I realized something important — Kadepathar is not just one temple, it is a complete spiritual complex spread across the rocky hilltop.

Our first stop on the ridge was the peaceful Nageshwar Temple. This small stone structure felt grounded and calm. The energy here was silent and soothing — completely different from the loud chants at the base. It felt like a place where you could just sit quietly and breathe. 🌿

Walking further along the temple path, we saw small hotels and shops on both sides selling Prasad, Bhandara, photo frames of Lord Khandoba, and snacks. Slowly and steadily, we reached the main Khandoba Temple.

Before entering, we stopped at the small Nandi Mandapam and took blessings. Near it, there is a sacred Agni (holy fire) that is believed to be burning day and night. From a nearby viewpoint, we could see the temple from a slightly higher angle — and of course, we couldn’t resist taking some pictures! 📸

After standing in the queue for about 30 minutes, we finally stepped inside the main temple. The sanctum was dark and cool, and the idols of Lord Khandoba and Mhalsa looked radiant and powerful in the soft light. For a few moments, we just stood silently, absorbing the energy around us.

Outside the temple doors, the Vaghyas were singing traditional folk songs using instruments like the Tun-tun and Kanjari. Their songs told stories of Lord Khandoba’s bravery in defeating the demons Mani and Malla. It truly felt like history was alive in that very moment.

Finally, we bowed our heads and took blessings of Lord Khandoba. And honestly, at that moment, every single one of those 750 steps felt completely worth it. 🙏💛

Where the Divine Horse Took Flight – Ghode Uddan 🐎

One of the most fascinating places for me at Kadepathar Jejuri was the famous Ghode Uddan (The Horse’s Leap). There is a spot near the edge of the cliff where locals believe the hoofprints of Lord Khandoba’s divine blue horse are still marked in the rock.

Standing there, looking at the vast open valley below, I tried to imagine that powerful moment — the Lord taking a mighty leap to protect his devotees. Just the thought of it gave me goosebumps. 💛 It’s one of those places where faith and imagination blend together so beautifully that you don’t question it… you just feel it.

Beyond the Main Temple: Exploring the Shrines of Kadepathar Jejuri

As we continued exploring the rocky plateau of Kadepathar Jejuri, we discovered that the spiritual experience doesn’t end at the main temple.

We visited the peaceful Ram Mandir, dedicated to Lord Ram, Sita, and Laxman. The temple was quiet and calming. It reminded me how beautifully Vedic traditions blend with the local folk legends of Lord Khandoba on this hill. Different stories, different eras — yet all connected in one sacred space.

Next, we came across the powerful Panchling Mahadev Temple, where a single pindi contains five distinct Shivlings. The structure felt ancient, simple, and strong — as if the stones themselves were holding centuries of devotion within them. Standing there, I felt a deep sense of respect for the generations of devotees who had visited this sacred hill before us.

And as we moved further, we kept discovering more and more small and big temples of different gods and goddesses scattered across the hilltop. Each shrine had its own story, its own energy, and its own group of devotees offering prayers. Walking through them felt like moving through layers of faith built over generations.

At Kadepathar Jejuri, every corner holds devotion — you just have to keep walking and exploring. 💛

Descending with Blessings in the Heart 💛

Coming down the 750 steps of Kadepathar Jejuri was definitely faster than climbing up… but honestly, our knees were not very happy with us! 😅 Every step reminded us of the effort we had just put in. Yet, there was a special kind of happiness in walking down — the happiness of completing something meaningful.

By the time we reached the base, the sun was shining brightly, and the crowd had almost doubled. The same path that felt calm and peaceful in the early morning was now alive with energy, chants, and smiling faces covered in yellow Bhandara.

We turned back and looked at the tall Kadepathar cliff one last time. For a few seconds, we didn’t say anything. We just stood there, silently grateful.

That’s when I truly understood — this journey was never just about reaching the temple. It was about everything in between. The sleepy start from Pune, the magical ride through Dive Ghat, the hot cutting chai at Saswad, the inspiring sight of a son carrying his mother, the echo of temple bells, and the powerful chant of “Yelkot Yelkot Jai Malhar!” filling the air.

Kadepathar Jejuri is not just a place you visit. It’s a place you feel. And as we rode back home — tired, dusty, but peaceful — I knew one thing for sure: some journeys don’t end when you return… they stay with you forever. 💛

What Kadepathar Jejuri Taught Me 💛

This journey to Kadepathar Jejuri was more than just a climb or a temple visit for me. It was a complete experience — filled with faith, effort, history, emotion, and devotion. From waking up at 4:30 AM, riding through the cool morning air, sipping chai at Saswad, climbing 750 steps, witnessing true devotion on the stairs, to finally standing before Lord Khandoba — every moment had its own meaning.

Kadepathar teaches something simple yet powerful: when your heart is full of bhaav (true devotion), no climb feels impossible. The sweat dries, the tiredness fades, but the blessings and memories remain.

If you ever plan to visit Jejuri, don’t stop at the main temple. Take that extra effort. Climb higher. Explore deeper. Experience the silence of the plateau and the strength of the legends that live there.

Because sometimes, the real magic is not at the crowded center… it’s waiting quietly at the top of Kadepathar Jejuri.

Yelkot Yelkot Jai Malhar! 🙏💛

How to Reach Kadepathar Jejuri 🗺️

You can reach Kadepathar Jejuri by bike, car, bus, or train, depending on your comfort and travel preference. The most convenient and flexible option is by bike or car, especially if you are traveling from Pune, which is around 50–55 km away.

If you are coming by bike or car, head towards Saswad via Undri and Dive Ghat. The ride through Dive Ghat is scenic and peaceful, especially in the early morning. After crossing Saswad, continue towards Jejuri. Before reaching the main Jejuri Gad temple, you will find a diversion road leading to Kadepathar Jejuri. From the highway, it takes about 10 minutes on an internal road to reach the base parking area. The total travel time from Pune is usually 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

If you prefer public transport, you can take an MSRTC bus from Pune to Jejuri or Saswad. From Jejuri bus stand, you may need to hire a local auto or private vehicle to reach the base of Kadepathar Jejuri, as direct buses to the hill entrance are limited.

Another option is traveling by train. Local trains run from Pune to Jejuri railway station. From there, you will need to take an auto or local transport to reach the starting point of the climb.

Once you reach the base, the final part of the journey is the famous 750-step climb, which usually takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on your pace and stamina. Starting early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid heat and crowds, making your visit to Kadepathar Jejuri peaceful and enjoyable. 💛

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Kadepathar Jejuri

1) Where is Kadepathar Jejuri located?
Kadepathar Jejuri is located near Jejuri town in Pune district, Maharashtra. It is situated on the same hill as the main Jejuri temple but slightly farther and higher on the plateau.

2) Who is worshipped at Kadepathar Jejuri?
The main temple at Kadepathar Jejuri is dedicated to Lord Khandoba (Malhari Martand), a warrior form of Lord Shiva. Other temples on the hill include Banubai Mandir, Ram Mandir, Panchling Mahadev, Nagnath Temple, and Shree Veerbhadra Temple.

3) How many steps are there to climb Kadepathar Jejuri?
There are approximately 750 steps to reach the temple at Kadepathar Jejuri.

4) How long does it take to climb Kadepathar Jejuri?
On average, it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete the climb, depending on your pace and stamina.

5) Is Kadepathar Jejuri the original temple of Lord Khandoba?
According to local belief and tradition, Kadepathar Jejuri is considered the original and oldest seat (Mool Sthaan) of Lord Khandoba.

6) What is the best time to visit Kadepathar Jejuri?
The ideal time to visit is early morning or during the winter months (October to February), when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for climbing.

7) Is parking available at Kadepathar Jejuri?
Yes, parking facilities are available at the base of the hill before starting the 750-step climb.

8) Are food and water available during the climb?
Yes, small stalls along the steps sell lemon juice, water bottles, snacks, and prasad items. However, it is still advisable to carry your own water.

9) Is the climb suitable for beginners or elderly visitors?
The steps are steep but well-constructed, with resting spots along the way. Beginners can climb comfortably with breaks. Elderly visitors should climb slowly and take proper precautions.

10) Why is Jejuri covered in turmeric (Bhandara)?
Devotees throw Bhandara (turmeric) as a symbol of victory, purity, and blessings of Lord Khandoba. This tradition gives Jejuri its famous golden appearance.

11) How far is Kadepathar Jejuri from Pune?
Kadepathar Jejuri is approximately 50–55 km from Pune and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach by road.

12) Is Kadepathar Jejuri crowded like the main Jejuri temple?
Kadepathar Jejuri is generally less crowded compared to the main Jejuri Gad temple, offering a more peaceful and raw spiritual experience.