On a beautiful hilltop in the Bilaspur District of Himachal Pradesh sits the revered temple of Shri Naina Devi Ji. It is a notable place of worship in the state as it is home to one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, representing the fallen body part (eyes in this case) of the Goddess Sati. The dedicated followers of Devi (goddess) are seen in large numbers throughout the year, especially during festive times.
The Shri Naina Devi is an important pilgrimage center for Hindus and Sikhs. It attracts visitors from nearby cities of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and others.
History of Naina Devi Temple
Several mythologies and legends are associated with the temple, but the most important one is that of the goddess Sati. It is believed that after the goddess burnt herself alive in the Yagna (pious fire offering), Lord Shiva, in a fury, marched forward, causing huge destruction. To stop Shiva, Lord Vishnu released his Sudarshana Chakra (spinning disc-like weapon) and cut Sati’s body into 51 parts. Shri Naina Devi Temple is the spot where Sati’s eyes fell.
Another legend tells us how the Shri Naina Devi Temple is a Mahishapeeth. It was in this vicinity that the goddess defeated the demon Mahishasur. The demon had received an immortality boon from Lord Brahma. However, he could only be destroyed by an unmarried woman. Undermining the power of a woman, Mahishasur started professing confusion and spreading terror on earth. This is how the Devi was created, with all the gods combining their powers and offering to Devi to defeat the demon. Devi successfully defeated Mahishasur, and in the end, when she took out both his eyes, she got the name Naina Devi.
Similarly, a story of a Gujjar boy named Naina is believed to have started the temple’s name. While grazing his chattel, the boy discovered Devi’s abstract manifestation. He witnessed a white cow showering her milk upon a stone for several days, he finally discussed his experience with the King, Raja Bir Chand. The king then built this temple at this spot after witnessing the act.
Naina Devi Temple Timings: 5 am to 12 pm & 4 pm to 9 pm
Naina Devi Temple Entry Fee: None
Rituals and Fairs
Shri Naina Devi is offered Puja Archana 5 times a day; the offerings vary with each Puja, followed by different aartis. The devotees chant out Jaikaras or praises of the Devi and the names of her manifestations. The devotees ring the bell and it is believed that the sound of the bell keeps away all things that are not auspicious. Fairs commemorating the goddess are held here during Shravan Ashtami, Navratri, Chaitra, and Ashwin Navrati. Devotees in a large number visit the temple – it is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the northern part of the country. The auspicious nine-day celebration is prepared with immense respect and faith.
Structure of Naina Devi Temple Himchal Pradesh
The temple has a peepal tree on the left side of the entrance. On the tree’s opposite side, there are idols of Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman. At the entrance of the main temple, two statues of lions greet devotees and tourists.
Naina Devi Temple’s inner sanctum has three idols – Kali Devi, the Eyes of the Shakti, and Lord Ganesha, from left to right.
The path to the temple is lined with small shops selling souvenirs and prasad. During the festivities, the temple sees a massive influx of devotees, as it is among India’s most revered temples.
How to Reach Naina Devi Temple Himchal
Located on the top of a hill, Naina Devi Temple Nainital can be reached either on foot or in manual carriages (palkis). You can also use a ropeway to reach the hilltop.
Most pilgrims prefer reaching on foot, chanting Jai Mata Di. The distance can be covered within half an hour with facilities like toilets, refreshments, cold water, etc., available on the way.
Shri Nana Devi Ji Temple is also connected to NH21 and is approx. 90 km from Bilaspur, around 104 km from Chandigarh, around 22 km from Anandpur Sahib, and around 30 km from Bhakra. You can get buses from these places to reach Naina Devi Temple.
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