Pemai Devi Temple and...

Pemgiri is renowned for the ancient Pemai Devi Temple, set at the base of Pemgiri Fort (Bhimgad/Shahagad), a site once linked with Maratha legends like Shahaji Raje Bhosale, Jijabai, and young Shivaji Maharaj. The temple’s idol stands beside the Tandala—a faceless stone revered by locals. A smaller, older shrine remains atop the hill, while four rectangular step wells, dating back to the Satavahana period, provide perpetual water and showcase advanced ancient craftsmanship.

Culturally, Pemai Devi’s annual yatra draws locals and visitors for prayer, offerings, and communal celebrations. The fort itself, built in 200 BC during the Yadava dynasty, later played an important role in Maharashtra’s fight for Swarajya, sheltering key Maratha figures and hosting historical events. Pemgiri’s fort and temples are popular for easy treks and heritage exploration

At the village center, the Hanuman Temple is a marvel—a two-storey building made entirely of teakwood and stone, with no iron or cement. Built in 1942 under Gangaram Dubepatil, this palace-like temple features a sprawling landscaped courtyard, fortified walls, and a majestic Hanuman idol coated in vermilion, standing atop an ornate pedestal. The tallest Hanuman mace (gada) in India, standing 21 feet, adds grandeur to the site. Upstairs, exhibits showcase Pemgiri heritage, rare artifacts, and the story of the massive banyan tree

Just 3 km away lies Maharashtra’s largest banyan tree, covering over 3.5 acres with a trunk circumference of 50–60 feet and more than 100 aerial roots. Under this ancient tree, believed to be 250+ years old, shrines dedicated to Jakhai and Jakmat Baba commemorate local legends. The shepherd Jakmat Baba and his sister Jakhai are venerated for their sacrifice in saving the village from a tiger attack. Locals believe harming the banyan brings divine penalty; its untouched, vast canopy remains a symbol of community reverence and ecological pride.

The area is ideal for spiritual seekers, botanists, history lovers, and trekkers drawn by the fort’s historical allure, the temples’ architectural beauty, and the living legacy of the sacred banyan