Tungareshwar Temple

Situated in Sativali, within the Vasai-Virar region of Palghar district, Maharashtra, this ancient pilgrimage centre attracts devotees and nature lovers alike.

The temple is perched atop a scenic hill, enveloped by lush greenery, making it a popular spiritual destination as well as a tranquil retreat. The temple complex also houses shrines for other deities such as Goddess Khodiyar Mataji, Kal Bhairav, Jagmata, and Lord Hanuman.

The presence of the Balyogi Sadanand Maharaj Matth adds to the spiritual significance of the site.

Tungareshwar Temple is open daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the best time to visit being early mornings between 5 and 8 AM, during the winter months from November to February, the monsoon season from June to September, or during festival periods.

Devotees can participate in various poojas and rituals conducted in Sanskrit and Marathi. The daily schedule includes Morning Aarti at 5:00 AM and 9:00 AM, Naivedya at 12:00 PM, and Evening Aarti at 5:00 PM, followed by Evening Aarti and temple closing at 6:00 PM.

Abhishekam can also be self-performed by devotees. Darshan is free for all visitors. Prasadam is distributed daily, and during Mahashivratri and every Monday in Shravana, large-scale free food (Bhandara) is served.

The temple observes several important festivals, including Mahashivratri (February-March), Shravana Month (July-August), Tripuri Pournima & Vaikuntha Chaturdashi (November), and Khodiyar Jayanti (February).

Visitors are advised to follow a modest dress code: men should wear clean, traditional attire and avoid shorts or sleeveless vests, while women are encouraged to wear sarees, salwar kameez, or modest kurtas with leggings. Reaching Tungareshwar Temple involves a journey through nature.

Pilgrims can arrive at Vasai Road Railway Station (11 km away), Naigaon (13 km), or Palghar (42 km), and then proceed by auto-rickshaw or bus to Sativali. From the Tungareshwar Entrance Gate, a forest entry fee is required, followed by a 2.5–3 km uphill trek or shared jeep/auto ride to the temple.

Parking is available near the sanctuary entry, but driving up is discouraged during monsoon or heavy crowds. The path is not wheelchair accessible due to its rocky terrain. Overnight stays are not permitted within the sanctuary.

Visitors can find accommodation in Vasai or nearby areas, with several budget and mid-range hotels near Vasai Road station and resorts near Vajreshwari or Ganeshpuri. Photography is allowed in the outer premises and trails, but strictly prohibited inside the inner sanctum.

Nearby attractions include Tungareshwar Waterfalls (0.2 km), Chinchoti Waterfalls (1.9 km), Shree Vajreshwari Temple & Hot Springs (18 km), Lodha Dham Jain Temple (5.5 km), and Vasai Fort (15 km).

Tungareshwar Temple offers a unique blend of spiritual fulfillment and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for devotees and travelers in Maharashtra.