Naina Devi Temple in Himachal Pradesh is located on a hilltop around 65 km from Bilaspur about 20 km from Anandpur Sahib. The temple of Mata Naina Devi is considered to be one of the 51 Shakti Peeths of Goddess Sati. The shrine mounted on the hills overlooks a beautiful but artificial manmade Gobind Sagar Lake created by the Bhakra-Nangal Dam. The elegant city of Nainital and the name of this shrine are associated with the each other. The legend behind the shrine gives an explanation for this. The word ‘Naina’ in Hindi means ‘eyes’ and this shrine is believed to be constructed where Sati Devi’s (Mother Goddess) eyes fell. Thereafter the name, ‘Naina Devi’ and ‘Nainital’ came into eminence.
Deities
In the inner temple complex an idol of Mata Kali Devi (on the left) and Lord Ganesha (on the right, believed to be established by the Pandavas) are seen. In the centre is a Pindi (a round ball shaped stone) is found with two eyes on it resembling Naina Devi (eyes of the Devi). An idol of Lord Hanuman is sited outside the complex.
Temple Timings
During summer from 5:15 AM – 9:00 PM and during winter from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. March and June is the best time to visit the place otherwise.
Festivals
A massive fair is organized during the celebration of the Shravan Ashtami (Shravani Mela in July - August) and the Navratras in the months of Chaitra and Ashwin. Durgashtami is another major festivity for which people from different parts and sects visit. The other common Hindu celebrations being Makar Sankranti, Vasant Panchami, Maha Sivaratri, Holi, Rama Navami, Raksha Bandhan, Sri Krishna Jayanthi, Ganesh Chathurthi, Dushehra, Karva Chauth Vrat and Diwali.
How to Reach
The nearest Airport is Chandigarh about 100 km away from the shrine. The nearest railhead is Anandpur Sahib, just 30 km away from the shrine. The temple is well connected with National Highway No 21.
Comments
Post a Comment