Mansa Devi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to goddess Mansa Devi, a form of Shakti, located in the holy city of Haridwar in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is one of the most visited temples in Northern India and is a significant pilgrimage spot, especially during the Navratri and the Kumbh Mela festivals.
The temple is located atop the Bilwa Parvat on the Shivalik Hills, the southernmost mountain chain of the Himalayas. It is situated within the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand state in India.
Visitors can reach Mansa Devi Temple by taking a cable car, which is also known as Mansa Devi Udankhatola, or by trekking up the hill. The main temple is approximately 2.5 km from Haridwar Railway Station and can be reached by local transport, such as auto-rickshaws and buses.
Mansa Devi Temple holds great spiritual significance for devotees as it is believed that Goddess Mansa fulfills the wishes of her devotees. Pilgrims tie threads to the branches of a sacred tree located in the temple, hoping their wishes to be granted, and they return to untie the thread once the wishes are fulfilled.
The best time to visit the temple is during the cooler months from October to April when the weather is pleasant. However, visiting during the Navratri festival in spring and autumn can be particularly auspicious and vibrant, though it tends to be more crowded.
Yes, the temple celebrates several Hindu festivals with great fervor, particularly Navratri, which occurs twice a year in the months of Chaitra (March-April) and Ashwin (September-October). The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years in Haridwar, also sees a surge of pilgrims visiting the temple.
The temple typically opens to pilgrims early in the morning at around 5:00 AM and closes in the evening at around 9:00 PM. However, the timings might vary during festivals and special occasions.
There is no entry fee for the temple. However, visitors opting for the cable car service to reach the temple will have to buy tickets for the ride. The prices for the cable car may vary, so it is recommended to check the latest rates and schedules before planning your visit.
Facilities at Mansa Devi Temple include drinking water, washrooms, and shops selling religious items and prasad. The cable car service provides ease of access for those who prefer not to trek. Additionally, there are several small eateries and sitting areas near the temple.
Yes, there are multiple accommodations ranging from budget to luxurious ones near Mansa Devi Temple. Pilgrims can choose to stay in dharamshalas, guest houses, or hotels in Haridwar, which is renowned for its hospitality to pilgrims and tourists alike.
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