Naina Devi Mandir is a sacred Shakti Peeth of Goddess Sati situated in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh. As one of 51 Shaktipeeths established to honor the limbs of Sati that fell on Earth, this temple attracts countless devotees year round, but especially during Shravan Ashtami and the Chaitra & Ashwin Navratras.
Raja Bir Chand constructed this temple in the 8th century when he discovered a magnificent image of Goddess Durga atop the hill. Yearly, millions gather from neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh to participate in the grand festivities during Chaitra, Shravan and Ashwin Navratri at Sri Naina Devi Ji Temple. Many opt for trekking up chanting Jai Mata Di while others prefer taking Palkis for an effortless ride. Resting facilities are also available on the way, where tourists can relax for some time and have refreshments.
Bilaspur’s renowned temple is linked to National Highway 21 and the nearest airport from there is Chandigarh, located roughly 100 kilometers away. During Chaitra, Shravan and Ashwin Navrati seasons an exclusive fair occurs that draws in massive crowds of vacationers from Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh along with other parts of India.
According to Hindu mythology, Sati, wife of Lord Shiva was so overwhelmed by her father Daksha Prajapati’s insult towards her husband that she ended up sacrificing herself in the sacrificial fire. This was too much for lord Shiva who took it upon himself to carry around the corpse of his beloved with him as he traversed through all corners of creation.
Lord Vishnu was tasked with placating Shiva’s wrath, and thus dismembered the corpse of Sati. It is said that her remains fell upon fifty-one distinct places in India, which were later honored as Shakti Peeths – one such being Naina Devi Temple. Situated atop a picturesque hill, this holy abode is believed to have borne witness to the descent of Sati’s eyes from Heaven. Experience its sacred aura by booking an exclusive tour package today!
Every significant Hindu festival is celebrated at the temple with great enthusiasm. The most popular ones are Navratras, which take place during October-November and last for 10 days in a form of Mela; and Shri Maha Tara Jayanti – an event that happens annually to honor multiple incarnations of the deity over ten days’ span.
Naina Devi temple is located on the top of a hill, in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh. It is about 100 kms from Chandigarh and 20 kms from Anandpur Sahib and can be reached by road almost till the top. But one has to climb about 100 steps to reach the temple. There is also a cable car facility from base of the hill to the top.
