The short answer
The Steps and Lamp Pillars: what visitors should know first
Worth doing slowly, and optional beyond the lower landings. The steps are the setting for Jejuri's turmeric imagery and the best way to feel the town. Go early, rest at the landings and decide as you climb whether to go all the way up.
History and context
The story behind The Steps and Lamp Pillars
Wikipedia describes three flights of steps, from the east, west and north, with the northern flight leading to the main entrance. Along the way are arches, lamp pillars and small shrines. Some sources say the deepmalas were built by various patrons, and accounts differ, so treat attributions cautiously.
Useful facts
The Steps and Lamp Pillars facts at a glance
- Location
- Northern approach, Jejuri Gad
- Experience type
- Climb on stone steps
- Known for
- Arches and lamp pillars
- Steps
- Nearly 200, per published sources
- Time or schedule
- Open daytime; lamps lit on festival evenings
Why it matters
Why The Steps and Lamp Pillars is worth your time
The steps are not just access. Devotees climb them as part of the act of worship, and the lamp pillars are lit during festivals, which is why Jejuri at night is so photographed. Sources describe roughly 350 lamp pillars and about 18 arches along the climb, alongside several small shrines.
The steps also show how the temple is organised: three flights approach from the east, west and north, and the northern flight leads to the main entrance. Understanding this helps you choose a route up and a different one down, which avoids the worst of the crowd on busy days.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Arches and landings
About 18 arches mark the climb and give rest points.
- 02
Deepmalas
The lamp pillars glow when lit during festivals.
- 03
The view back
Turn round at the top for the view across Jejuri.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Start at the base and treat the climb as a series of short stages. Each arch gives a pause, and the lamp pillars on either side are the town's visual signature. Look at the pillars close up, because many are stacked ledges for lamps lit by devotees. Keep to one side so that faster climbers can pass.
About a third of the way up, the path divides and rejoins a little higher. One branch leads to a minister's shrine and the other to a shrine of Khandoba's wife, Banai. Take the branch you prefer, and use the split as a rest.
When you reach the top, turn round before going into the courtyard. The view over Jejuri is the reward, and a good moment to take photographs without blocking the queue. On the way down, hold the rail where there is one, and watch for slippery patches.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Climb before 9 am in warm months
- Wear shoes you can slip off easily
- Use the rail on the way down
- Avoid festival evenings if you dislike crowds
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Northern approach to Jejuri Gad
- Time needed
- 45 to 90 minutes up and down
- Best time
- Early morning; in the evening for lit lamps
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- There are nearly 200 steps, with arches and landings that give natural rest stops. Handrails and shade are limited, and wet or turmeric-covered stone can be slippery. Older travellers can climb partway and look from the landings.
- Tickets and access
- Walking the steps is free. Shoes are normally removed higher up. Festival days are heavily crowded, so check the calendar before you go.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near The Steps and Lamp Pillars
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
There are nearly 200 steps, with arches and landings that give natural rest stops. Handrails and shade are limited, and wet or turmeric-covered stone can be slippery. Older travellers can climb partway and look from the landings.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is there a lift or ramp?
Not that I could verify. Ask locally and at the temple trust about assistance.
How long does the climb take?
Most people take 20 to 40 minutes at an easy pace, longer on busy days.
Is it slippery?
It can be in rain or when turmeric has been thrown.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
