Chandi Devi Temple

Introduction about the Chandi Devi Temple

The Chandi Devi Temple is a sacred Hindu temple and pilgrimage center located in the ancient city of Haridwar in the northern Indian state of Uttarkhand. It is nestled atop the Neel Parvat on the summit of the Shivalik Hills, in the Himalayan Mountain range. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi Devi and is one of the Panch Tirth-Five Pilgrimage Hindu centers in the holy city of Haridwar. It is also commonly referred to as Neel Parvat Tirth and is a popular place of worship. There are several Chandi Devi temples in India and this temple located in Haridwar is considered one of the Siddha Peethas, along with Manasa Devi Temple and Maya Devi Temple. This highly popular religious and spiritual center is revered by devotees and many undertake the journey to the temple from the far corners of the Globe to worship the Divine Mother.

History of the Chandi Devi Temple

The temple has a chequered history and it was constructed by the King of Kashmir, Raja Suchat Singh in the year 1929. The Image of the deity installed in the temple Sanctum is said to be very ancient. The great Indian Saint and philosopher Adi Shankaracharya is credited with placing the Idol of the Goddess here, sometime in the 8th century.

Significance of the Chandi Devi Temple

Located at a distance of 4 km from the holy ghats of Har Ki Pauri, the Chandi Devi temple is accessible via a three km trekking route from Chandighat or by the recently introduced cable car service. The rope- way is commonly referred to as Chandi Devi Udankhatola and devotees can also access the nearby Mansi Devi Shrine by this service. The scenic view from the cable car is simply breathtaking and visitors are treated to a visual delight. The affairs of the temple are managed by the Mahant, the presiding priest of the shrine.

Located very close to the Chandi Devi temple is the shrine dedicated to Anjana, the mother of Lord Hanuman . The Neeleshwar temple is also conveniently located at the base of Neela Parvat. The Manasa Devi temple is on the Bilwa Parvat hilltop on the opposite side. Devotees who visit the Chandi Devi Mandir also visit these holy shrines and seek the blessings of all the deities.

Architecture of the Chandi Devi Temple

The architecture of the temple is in the North Indian style of temple building and its heritage is steeped in the mists of time. This marvelous example of construction is a tribute to the skills of the builders and speaks volumes of their capabilities.

Festivals Related to Chandi Devi Temple

The temple celebrates several festivals and literally comes alive during these occasions. The entire area throbs with a dynamic vibrant energy, with devotees reveling in the religious and spiritual ambience. Chandi Chaudas and Navratra are the two principal festivals observed here and the Kumbha Mela in Haridwar is a major event when people flock to the temples. This ancient temple attracts thousands of visitors and during the festive season, the numbers go up manifold.

Benefits or Blessings of the primary deity- Chandi Devi Temple

Being one of the Shakti Peethas of India, the Chandi Devi temple is of special religious significance. It is strongly believed that whoever worships here with a clean and pure heart is blessed by the Devi and she fulfills all the wishes of her devotees.

Location – How to reach the Chandi Devi Temple