<P> Ashtavinayak (Marathi: अष्टविनायक) literally means "eight Ganeshas" in Sanskrit . Ganesh is the Hinduism / Hindu deity of unity, prosperity & learning and removes obstacles . The term refers to eight Ganeshas . Ashtavinayaka yatra trip refers to a pilgrimage to the eight Hindu temples in Maharashtra state of India that house eight distinct idols of Ganesh, in a pre-ascertained sequence . The Ashtavinayak yatra or pilgrimage covers the eight ancient holy temples of Ganesh which are situated around Pune . Each of these temples has its own individual legend and history, as distinct from each other as the murtis in each temple . The form of each murti of Ganesh and His trunk are distinct from one another . However, there are other temples of eight Ganesh in various other parts of Maharashtra; the ones around Pune are more well known than the former . </P> <P> It is believed to be for completion of Ashtavinayak Yatra visit the first Ganpati after visiting all the eight Ganpatis again, to complete the yatra . </P>

The ashtavinayak yatra in maharashtra covers eighth holy temples of which god