The spirit of Ganeshotsav shines the brightest in Mumbai and Pune, where some of the most iconic pandals attract millions of devotees every year. From historic legacies to larger-than-life themes, here are five Ganesh pandals you must visit this festive season, along with directions, to help you get there easily.
1. Lalbaugcha Raja (Mumbai)
The much-awaited Lalbaugcha Raja darshan will begin on August 27, on the day Ganesh Chaturthi, and conclude with the grand Visarjan on September 6. Known as the “wish-fulfilling Bappa,” the idol welcomes nearly 1.5 million devotees daily during the 10-day festival. Considered Mumbai’s most famous Ganesh pandal, Lalbaugcha Raja draws people from across the globe who come to seek blessings.
How to reach Lalbaugcha Raja:
By train:
Chinchpokli Station (Central Line): 10-minute walk
Currey Road Station (Central Line): 15-minute walk
Lower Parel Station (Western Line): 20–25-minute walk or quick taxi ride
From CSMT: Take a Central Line train to Chinchpokli.
By bus: BEST routes 124, 134, 66, 132, 172 (Expect delays during peak hours).
By taxi: Convenient, but traffic near the pandal is heavy.
By private vehicle: Parking is scarce; advisable to park far away.
By Mumbai Metro: Nearest metro is Lower Parel station; short ride or walk from there.Lalbaugcha Raja 2015. PIC/ TEAM MID-DAY
2. Mumbaicha Raja (Mumbai)
Famous for its grand, theme-based decorations, Mumbaicha Raja has been captivating devotees for decades. Since its 75th year in 2002, the mandal has recreated iconic monuments and temples, including Meenakshi Mandir, Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal, Ujjain’s Mahakal Mandir, Jejuri, and Raigad Fort. Each year offers a fresh cultural experience, making it one of the city’s most artistic pandals.
How to reach Mumbaicha Raja:
By train:
Lower Parel Station (Western Line): A 20–25-minute walk or a quick taxi ride
From CSMT: Board a Central Line train and alight at Chinchpokli.
Mumbaicha Raja. PIC/mumbaicharaja.co
3. Andhericha Raja, Veera Desai Road, Andheri West (Mumbai)
Established in 1966 by Golden Tobacco Company workers, Andhericha Raja is beloved for its grandeur and unique immersion tradition. Unlike most idols immersed on Anant Chaturdashi, the Andhericha Raja is immersed five days later, on Sankashti Chaturthi — a custom that began in 1975 to extend celebrations during times of hardship. Known for its majestic, temple-inspired themes, the Andhericha Raja Ganpati continues to be a symbol of resilience and faith.
How to reach Andhericha Raja:
By train/metro: Andheri Station (Western Line) or Azad Nagar Metro Station (Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar line).
Hop off the train and take an auto to Veera Desai Road.
Andhericha Raja. PIC/ @andhericharajatm
4. Kasba Ganpati (Pune)
Kasba Ganpati, the gram daivat (presiding deity) of Pune, is steeped in Maratha history. Installed in 1630 AD by Jijabai Bhosale, mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, it holds the title of Pune’s first Ganpati. The pandal continues to carry immense cultural and spiritual significance for Punekars and visitors alike.
How to reach Kasba Ganpati:
Nearby stops: Jijamata Baug, Appa Balwant Chowk, Kasba Peth Police Station, Phadke Haud, Shanivarwada, City Post Office, Mandai, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Garden.
By bus: Routes 11, 143, 174, 21, 38, 81, 94, 3, 8, 108, 9, 57.
By metro: Aqua Line or Purple Line (nearest stations connect easily to the old city area).
Kasba Ganpati. PIC/ kasbaganpati.org
5. Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati (Pune)
Adorned with gold, jewels, and magnificent decorations, Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati is one of India’s most beloved idols. A symbol of pride and devotion, the temple attracts lakhs of devotees from India and abroad each year. Its grandeur makes it an unmissable stop during Ganeshotsav.
How to reach Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati:
From Pune Junction Station:
Cheapest: Line 144 bus via Collector Kacheri (Rs 4 – Rs 10)
Fastest: Taxi (Rs120 – Rs150)
Whether you’re a Mumbaikar or Punekar, or simply planning a festive trip, these pandals offer a blend of faith, history, and cultural spectacle you can’t miss.
Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati. PIC/ dagdushethganpati.com
