Welcome to Rajaji Jungle Safari today we will discuss Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar. The Mansa Devi Temple Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi. Perched atop the Bilwa Parvat on the Sivalik Hills, this temple holds immense significance as one of the Panch Tirth (Five Pilgrimages) of Haridwar. Devotees believe that Mansa Devi is a form of Shakti and the sister of Nāga Vasuki. They visit the temple to tie threads on the branches of a tree, symbolizing their wishes, and return to untie them once their wishes are fulfilled.
This Siddh Peeth temple is one of only three Peeths in Haridwar, alongside the Chandi Devi Temple and Maya Devi Temple. It houses two deities; one with eight arms and the other with three heads and five arms.
History and Significance of Mansa Devi Temple
The Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar holds immense historical and religious importance. Built between 1811 and 1815 AD by Maharaja Gopal Singh of Mani Majra, this temple is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The temple is believed to be the place where drops of elixir mistakenly fell from Lord Vishnu’s chariot, Garuda, during its transportation.
Legend has it that the temple is dedicated to goddess Mansa Devi, who is considered the sister of the Nāga Vasuki and a form of Shakti. Devotees flock to this sacred pilgrimage site to seek the blessings of goddess Mansa and believe that their wishes will be fulfilled.
Aside from its religious significance, the Mansa Devi Temple is also an integral part of the Kumbh Mela, a grand festival celebrated in Haridwar every twelve years. This festival attracts millions of devotees who come to participate in the holy rituals and seek spiritual purification.
| Historical Period | Events |
|---|---|
| 1811-1815 AD | Mansa Devi Temple construction |
| N/A | Drops of elixir mistakenly fell from Lord Vishnu’s chariot at the temple |
| N/A | Inclusion in the Kumbh Mela festival celebrations |
No one should miss the opportunity to visit the Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar and experience the divine aura that surrounds this sacred place.
Festivals Celebrated at Mansa Devi Temple
Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar is known for its vibrant celebrations during various festivals throughout the year. The temple becomes a hub of spiritual fervor and devotion as devotees gather to honor goddess Mansa Devi. Let’s take a look at two of the most significant festivals celebrated at Mansa Devi Temple.
Navratri – Celebrating the Triumph of Good over Evil
One of the major festivals observed at Mansa Devi Temple is Navratri, also known as Durga Puja. This auspicious festival spans nine nights and is dedicated to the worship of goddess Durga, who symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Devotees flock to the temple during Navratri to seek the blessings of goddess Mansa Devi and offer their prayers. The temple is adorned with colorful decorations, creating a vibrant atmosphere that resonates with spirituality. Rituals and ceremonies are performed throughout the festival, enriching the spiritual experience for devotees.
Kumbh Mela – A Gathering of Millions
Another momentous festival celebrated at Mansa Devi Temple is the Kumbh Mela. Held once every twelve years in Haridwar, the Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Millions of devotees from across the globe converge at the sacred banks of the Ganges to take part in this remarkable event. The Mansa Devi Temple serves as an important pilgrimage site during the Kumbh Mela, attracting devotees who seek the divine blessings of goddess Mansa Devi. The atmosphere buzzes with spirituality and devotion as people immerse themselves in the rituals and ceremonies.
These festivals at Mansa Devi Temple offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of India, providing devotees with an opportunity to deepen their connection with the divine. Whether it’s the fervent celebrations of Navratri or the grandeur of the Kumbh Mela, these festivals leave a lasting impression on the hearts and souls of those who participate.
| Festival | Date | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Navratri | Varies (September/October) | Celebrates the triumph of good over evil |
| Kumbh Mela | Once every twelve years | One of the largest religious gatherings in the world |
How to Reach Mansa Devi Temple
If you’re planning a visit to Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar, here are some convenient ways to reach this sacred pilgrimage site:
By Air:
The closest airport to Mansa Devi Temple is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 37 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Haridwar.
By Train:
The nearest train station to Mansa Devi Temple is in Haridwar, located about 3 kilometers from the temple. Haridwar is well-connected to major cities in India, making it easily accessible by train.
By Road:
Visitors can also reach Mansa Devi Temple by bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate in New Delhi. Regular bus services are available from Delhi to Haridwar, and the journey takes approximately 5-6 hours depending on the traffic conditions.
Trek or Rope-way:
Once you reach Mansa Devi Temple, you have the option to either trek up to the shrine or take a rope-way service called “Mansa Devi Udankhatola.” The trek to the temple is a moderate-level hike and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The rope-way service is a convenient and scenic way to reach the temple, providing a breathtaking view of Haridwar along the way.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, a visit to Mansa Devi Temple is a soul-stirring experience that allows you to connect with your spiritual side and seek the blessings of goddess Mansa Devi.
Mansa Devi Temple Timings and Darshan
The Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar welcomes devotees for darshan from 5 am to 12 pm and from 2 pm to 9 pm. During the months of April to October, the first cable car to the temple begins operating at 7 am, while for the rest of the year, it starts at 8 am. Please note that the temple remains closed between 12 pm and 2 pm for a brief period.
If you are planning a visit to the temple, you can purchase tickets for darshan from the ticket counters located at the temple premises. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues, as the temple experiences high footfall, especially during festivals like Navratri and the Kumbh Mela.
| Mansa Devi Temple Timings | Darshan Timings |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | 5 am – 12 pm and 2 pm – 9 pm |
| Cable Car Operation | 7 am (April to October) and 8 am (rest of the year) |
| Closed | 12 pm – 2 pm |
As darshan timings may be subject to change, it is recommended to check the official website or contact the temple authorities for the most up-to-date information regarding Mansa Devi Temple timings and darshan schedule.
Mansa Devi Temple Location and Ropeway Service
The sacred Mansa Devi Temple is located atop Bilwa Parvat on the Sivalik Hills in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, offering devotees a breathtaking panoramic view of the holy Ganges and the plains of Haridwar.
To reach the temple, devotees have two options:
- Trekking: Devotees can embark on a spiritual journey by trekking up the hill to reach the shrine. The uphill trek offers a serene and peaceful experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in spiritual contemplation and the scenic beauty of the surrounding nature.
- Ropeway Service: Alternatively, devotees can opt for the Mansa Devi Udankhatola, a convenient ropeway service that directly transports pilgrims to the temple. This service not only saves time and energy but also provides a thrilling aerial view of the picturesque landscape below. The ropeway covers a distance of 540 meters and ascends to a height of 178 meters, adding an element of adventure to the spiritual journey.
The Mansa Devi Udankhatola is not only used to transport pilgrims to the Mansa Devi Temple but also serves as a mode of transportation for those wishing to visit the nearby Chandi Devi Temple.
“The journey to the Mansa Devi Temple is not only a physical pilgrimage but also a spiritual and emotional one. Whether you choose to trek up the hill or take the ropeway, the experience is bound to leave an indelible mark on your soul.”
| Option | Distance | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Trekking | N/A | N/A |
| Ropeway Service | 540 meters | 178 meters |
Mansa Devi Temple Prayers and Rituals
Devotees visiting Mansa Devi Temple engage in a variety of prayers and rituals to seek the blessings of goddess Mansa Devi. These practices are deeply rooted in faith and devotion.
Tying Wishes on the Tree
One of the prominent rituals at Mansa Devi Temple involves tying threads on the branches of a tree located within the temple premises. Devotees tie these threads as a symbol of their wishes and desires. It is believed that once their wishes are fulfilled, they return to the temple to untie the threads, expressing gratitude for the blessings received.
Offerings to the Goddess
During prayers, devotees offer various items as offerings to goddess Mansa Devi. Coconuts, fruits, garlands, and incense sticks are commonly presented as gestures of devotion and reverence. These offerings symbolize purity, abundance, and the devotee’s deep gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon them.
“The act of offering prayers and making rituals at Mansa Devi Temple is an expression of profound faith, a way to connect with the divine power of goddess Mansa Devi and seek her divine intervention in fulfilling wishes and overcoming obstacles.”
Siddh Peetha: The Fulfillment of Desires
Mansa Devi Temple is considered a Siddh Peetha, a sacred place where desires and wishes are believed to be fulfilled. Devotees hold strong faith in the power of goddess Mansa Devi to grant their prayers and bring positive changes in their lives. This belief has been passed down through generations, making the temple a significant pilgrimage site for devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.
| Prayers and Rituals at Mansa Devi Temple | Significance |
|---|---|
| Tying threads on the tree branches | Symbolic representation of wishes and desires |
| Offering coconuts, fruits, garlands, and incense sticks | Expressing devotion and gratitude |
| Siddh Peetha beliefs | Fulfillment of desires and wishes |
Other Mansa Devi Temples in India
In addition to the famous Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar, there are several other temples dedicated to goddess Mansa Devi spread across different parts of India. These temples serve as important pilgrimage sites and attract devotees from far and wide who seek the blessings of goddess Mansa Devi.
Some notable Mansa Devi temples in India are:
- Maa Mansa Devi Mandir in Bandha Bazar, Rajnandgaon
- Mata Mansa Devi Mandir in Panchkula, Haryana
- Mansa Devi Temple in Alwar, Rajasthan
- Mansa Devi Temple in Sitamarhi, Bihar
Each of these temples offers a unique spiritual experience and a chance for devotees to connect with the divine energy of goddess Mansa Devi. They are revered as sacred places where wishes are believed to come true and prayers are answered.
Whether it’s the Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar or any of these other temples, visiting these holy sites provides a deep sense of devotion and spiritual fulfillment to the devotees.
Key Takeaways:
- The Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar is a sacred pilgrimage site.
- Devotees tie threads on the temple tree to fulfill their wishes.
- The temple is a Siddh Peeth and part of the Panch Tirth of Haridwar.
- It houses two deities with multiple arms and heads.
- Mansa Devi Temple is one of the three Peeths in Haridwar.
FAQ Related to Mansa Devi Temple Haridwar
What is Mansa Devi Temple, and where is it located?
Mansa Devi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to goddess Mansa Devi. It is located atop Bilwa Parvat on the Sivalik Hills in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India.
What is the historical significance of Mansa Devi Temple?
Mansa Devi Temple holds religious and historical importance as it is believed to be the place where drops of elixir fell from Lord Vishnu’s chariot, Garuda, during transportation.
What festivals are celebrated at Mansa Devi Temple?
The temple celebrates Navratri, also known as Durga Puja, which marks the triumph of good over evil. The Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, is also celebrated at the temple every twelve years.
How can I reach Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar?
The closest airport to Mansa Devi Temple is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest train station is in Haridwar. Visitors can also reach the temple by bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate in New Delhi.
What are the temple timings for darshan?
Mansa Devi Temple is open for darshan from 5 am to 12 pm and from 2 pm to 9 pm. The first cable car to the temple starts operating at 7 am from April to October and at 8 am for the rest of the year. The temple remains closed between 12 pm and 2 pm.
Where is Mansa Devi Temple located, and how can I reach it?
Mansa Devi Temple is located atop Bilwa Parvat on the Sivalik Hills in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Visitors can reach the temple by either trekking up the hill or taking the Mansa Devi Udankhatola, a ropeway service that directly transports pilgrims to the shrine.
What prayers and rituals can be performed at Mansa Devi Temple?
Devotees can offer prayers at Mansa Devi Temple and perform rituals to seek the blessings of goddess Mansa Devi. They can tie threads on the branches of a tree to symbolize their wishes, and once their wishes are fulfilled, they untie the threads. Coconuts, fruits, garlands, and incense sticks are also offered during prayers.
Are there other Mansa Devi Temples in India?
Yes, aside from the Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar, there are several other temples dedicated to goddess Mansa Devi in different parts of India, such as Rajnandgaon, Panchkula, Alwar, and Sitamarhi.
What are some nearby attractions and outdoor activities?
Haridwar offers numerous other parks and gardens, ideal for activities such as Rajaji Tiger Reserve, nature walks, bird watching, and photography. Visitors can also indulge in adventure activities like river rafting and trekking in the nearby region of Rishikesh.