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When we talk about the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Himachal, Maa Naina Devi Temple might come to the top of the list. Located atop a hill in the Bilaspur district, this temple attracts lakhs of devotees each year, as it is also one of the Shakti Peeths in Himachal. It is one of the most visited temples during festivals like Navratri and the annual Naina Devi fair, a time when the entire region is adorned with lights, bhajans and cultural festivities.
The temple offers not just spiritual solace but also the most amazing views of the Shivalik mountain range and Gobind Sagar Lake, which were created by the Bhakra Dam. The temple is marked as a divine spot and holds deep spiritual significance in Hindu mythology. An old Peepal tree and two Lions at the main gate are key highlights. There are three idols inside the sacred consortium.
Many people get confused with the Mata Naina Devi Temple in Nainital, but both are different. This Devi Temple in Himachal Pradesh is located in the Bilaspur district near the borders of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. This temple is situated at a height of 1177 meters and offers a breathtaking view of the nearby places. The location of this temple is easily accessible from major cities like Chandigarh, Delhi and Shimla, so reaching here is not a problem. Due to its convenient connectivity and religious importance, it is also a key stop in the most famous Nau Devi Darshan Tour.
The Darshan Timings of Shri Naina Devi Ji Temple are different for Normal days and Navratri. On Normal days, the timings are usually 4:00 am to 10:00 pm but the time of Navtras is 2:00 am to 12:00 am. Aarti is performed multiple times a day, but one must attend the morning or evening aarti for the best experience. One thing to note is that timings may vary slightly during special occasions or festivals, so it is best to confirm or check the temple's official site before visiting the temple.
The history of Naina Devi Shaktipeeth is rooted in the ancient myth of the wife of lord Shiva - Goddess Sati. It is said that when Mata Sati sacrificed herself in her father's yajna, Shiv ji carried her burning body across the universe in grief. To save the universe from destruction, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut her body into 51 pieces that fell in different places. These places came to be known as Shakti peeths, and this Temple is believed to be where her eyes (Naina) fell. This is why the deity here is called Maa Naina – the Mother with Divine Eyes. Pilgrims believe that worshipping here can remove all negativity and bring peace, blessings as well as spiritual insight.
Reaching this Temple is quite convenient, whether you are travelling by air, train, or road. Here's a quick guide if you are a first-time traveller:
The nearest railway station to Naina Devi Shaktipeeth is Anandpur Sahib, located about 22 km from the temple. There are Regular trains that connect Anandpur Sahib with major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple from the station.
The nearest airport to the temple is Chandigarh Airport, which is around 100 km. From the airport, you can book a cab or take a bus to reach the destination. Chandigarh to Naina Devi Temple distance is 104 km and it takes around 2 and a half to 3 hours to reach by road.
If you are travelling on a budget, then there is nothing better than Public transport (HRTC). There are several local and private buses available from cities like Chandigarh, Bilaspur and Shimla. If you are travelling in a group, then you can also hire a Bus on Rent in Delhi or Chandigarh for a more comfortable journey. After reaching Shri Naina Devi bus stand temple is just 2 km away.
If you are travelling by car, then you should know that the temple is connected to National Highway 21.
Now this is a unique and fun way to reach the temple. There are around 260 to 300 steps, which is about 1.25 Km, but now there is a simpler way to reach the temple- Ropeway. This ropeway ride offers panoramic views of the hills and Gobind Sagar Lake, making it a memorable part of the trip for both pilgrims and tourists. Here are other things to know:
This temple of Himachal sees the highest footfall during Navratri, which is celebrated twice a year - first in March and April, which is called Chaitra Navratri, and September or October, which is Sharad Navratri. During these times, there are a number of devotees who gather here, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Visiting by this might give you a great experience, but it can also mean long queues and crowded surroundings. If you prefer a more peaceful and personal darshan experience, then the winter months from November to February.
If you plan your trip according to the weather, then the best time to visit this Devi Temple is from March to June, when the temperature is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, and Himachal is at its best. By the time of Winter is also a good time to visit, weather-wise.
Gobind Sagar Lake, Bhakra Dam, Anandpur Sahib, Sheetla Devi Temple, Bilaspur, and Chandigarh are some of the best places to visit during your Naina Devi Trip. If you are on a family vacation, plan a trip to Shimla and Manali from Chandigarh to enhance your holiday experience.
The Delhi to Naina Devi distance is around 353 km, and it usually takes about 6 to 8 hours to reach the temple by car or bus, depending on traffic and road conditions.
The best route that you can take is
Delhi → Ambala → Chandigarh → Rupnagar → Anandpur Sahib → Naina Devi Temple.
This route has multiple food and fuel stops along the way. Other than this, if you are travelling by train, you can find trains from New Delhi Railway Station to Anandpur Sahib. And if by bus, you can find them from Kashmiri Gate that goes via Panipat and then Anandpur Sahib, which will take you around 8 to 9 hours.
There are approx 250-300 staircase which takes 30-40 minutes to climb.
There are 5 Shaktipeeths in Himachal including Naina Devi, Jwala Ji, Kangra Devi, Chamunda Devi,Chintpurni Devi.
Chandigarh Airport is the nearest and it takes 2-3 hours to cover 112 km distance approx. Chandigarh is the best stop to plan a Naina Devi Tour.