Shri. Murudeshwar Temple Rithad

Getting there

• By air

  To reach Washim, tourists can fly to Nanded Airport or Amravati airport.

• By train

  Trains serve the district through Washim Railway Station, which has the code WHM.

• By road

  Government ST buses run to Washim from Risod, Malegaon, Mangrulpir, Manora, Hingoli and Pusad. State highways connect Washim to the important cities of Maharashtra.

Why devotees come here

This temple stands in Rithad village, Risod taluka, Washim district, in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region. Its idol is said to be the only east-facing idol in the temple's history. The name comes from a legend about the idol turning during an abhishek.

Local legend ties the temple's name, Murudeshwar, to a moment in the Ram story. During an abhishek, the idol is said to have turned around, and the name came from that turn. This is told as a legend, not as a recorded event.

The idol is also said to be the only east-facing idol in the temple's history. The village was once called Riddhapur, and over time it came to be known as Rithad. After the Hemadpanthi temple was built, the village community renovated this temple. They did this without moving the original idol.

The Ayodhya Ram-route map marks Rithad in Washim district as place 71. Washim district lies in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region, and is known for its historical, religious, cultural and natural significance. The Penganga river, the main river of the district, flows through Risod tehsil, the taluka where Rithad village is.

Tips for your visit

• Buses run from Washim to Risod about every 15 to 30 minutes.
• Use the full name, Shri Murudeshwar Temple Rithad, when you ask for directions.

Questions people ask