Mansa Devi: Discovering the Spiritual Heaven of the Himalayas
Situated on the majestic Bilwa Parvat of the Shivalik Mountains in Uttarakhand, India, lies the Mansa Devi Mandir – a revered pilgrimage centre of Hinduism in the sacred place of Haridwar. Among the Panch Tirth (also called Five Pilgrimage) locations of Haridwar, this shrine is devoted to Mata Mansa Devi – who is considered the shape of Goddess Shakti. According to mythology, Shakti haad originated from Lord Shiva’s conscious mind. Legends speak of the ancient Sage Kashyap using his intellect to conjure her, while others believe her to be the sibling of Naga Serp Vasuki.
As you enter the Sanctum Sanctorum, two goddesses take the dignity of the place, one goddess with eight hands and then another goddess with three skulls and five hands – both symbols of Devi’s immense power. Mata Mansa Devi Haridwar temple holds a special place among the 3 Siddha Peethas in the city of Haridwar, the other two being the Chandi Devi shrine and the goddess Maya Devi shrine.
It is said that the Devil’s power is so strong that devotees from every part of the world travel to this temple to seek her blessings. It is no surprise then, that it is considered a sacred place of worship for Hindus across the country and beyond.
History of Mansa Devi Haridwar
The Mansa Devi temple is a marvel of ancient architecture that continues to awe visitors to this day. With its origins dating back to times lost in the mists of history, the temple remains shrouded in mystery, and the tales and legends surrounding its construction are as fascinating as they are varied.
Situated in the sacred city of Haridwar, which is also known as the Gateway to God, the Manasa Devi Temple is an integral part of the cultural and spiritual heritage of India. Haridwar is one of the holiest places in India, and its significance in Hindu mythology and religion cannot be overstated. According to legend, Haridwar is among the four spots where drops of Amrita were spilled by the angelic bird Garuda during transportation.
The Mansa Devi Haridwar temple is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of North Indian traditional architecture, and its striking Shivalik design has been preserved in all its glory. Visitors to the temple can embark on an ancient trekking route or take the cable car, which was brought to provide greater convenience for pilgrims visiting the Chandi Devi Temple which is nearby. The journey to the temple is an adventure in itself, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys that leave a lasting impression on the mind.
Upon reaching the Mata Mansa Devi temple, visitors are treated to a breathtaking sight. The temple’s intricate carvings, delicate designs, and stunning architecture are a feast for the eyes, and the climb up the 786 stairs is a small price to pay for the panoramic view from the top. From the temple’s vantage point, one can take in the beauty of the city of Haridwar and its surrounding natural wonders, a view that will remain etched in the memory for years to come.
The Mansa Devi Temple is a fascinating and awe-inspiring place that embodies the rich cultural heritage and spiritual legacy of India. A visit to this temple is a memorable experience that hauls devotees to the bygone periods of ancient traditions and breathtaking natural beauty.
Why is Mansa Devi temple so famous?
Goddess Manasa Devi is an embodiment of Shakti, the divine feminine energy that represents the creative power of the universe. Her ability to fulfill the heartfelt wishes of her devotees has earned her a special place in the hearts of many Hindus, who revere her as a powerful and compassionate goddess.
The Mansa Devi Temple, located in the holy city of Haridwar, is one of the most popular shrines dedicated to this beloved deity. It is a place of pilgrimage for thousands of devotees who flock to the temple to seek the blessings of the goddess and offer their prayers.
One of the most unique and cherished customs of the temple is the tying of threads on a sacred tree. Devotees believe that by tying a thread on the tree with a pure heart and sincere devotion, their wishes will be fulfilled. The custom is a symbol of the unbreakable bond between the goddess and her devotees, and it is believed that the threads hold the power to make their wishes come true. Once the wishes are fulfilled, devotees return to the Mata Mansa Devi Haridwar temple to open the threads as a sign of gratitude to the goddess.
Apart from this custom, the Mansa Devi is also famous for its vibrant festivals, which are celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm. During Navratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of the divine feminine, the temple and the surrounding area comes alive with music, dance, and colourful decorations. Similarly, the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, attracts millions of devotees to Haridwar every 12 years.
In short, the Mansa Devi Haridwar is a place of great significance and spiritual importance for those who seek the blessings of Goddess Manasa Devi. Its customs and festivals offer a unique opportunity to connect with the divine and experience the power of faith and devotion. For Hindus and spiritual seekers alike, one visit to this temple is a must for a deeper understanding of the rich cultural and religious heritage of India.
Timings of Mansa Devi temple
The Mansa Devi Temple is a revered place of worship that opens its doors to devotees in the early hours of 5 AM. This early Mansa Devi Haridwar timings provides ample opportunity for those who wish to offer their prayers and seek blessings from the deity, with morning darshan concluding at noon. During this time, devotees can immerse themselves in the serene and peaceful atmosphere of the temple, taking the time to connect with their inner spirituality and offer their heartfelt devotions.
After the morning darshan, the Mansa Devi Haridwar temple observes a brief break between noon and 2 PM, allowing the temple staff to conduct their daily rituals and maintain the cleanliness of the premises. However, this break also provides visitors with the perfect opportunity to explore the surrounding areas, sample the delicious local cuisine, or simply relax and recharge for the evening darshan.
The evening darshan begins promptly at 2 PM, with the temple opening its doors once again to welcome devotees. The evening Mansa Devi Haridwar timings darshan carries on until 9 PM when the temple closes its doors for the day. During this time, visitors can witness the breathtaking sight of the temple illuminated by a beautiful array of lights, enhancing the spiritual ambience and creating a sense of awe-inspiring beauty.
How to reach Mansa Devi hardware?
To reach Mansa Devi mandir, visitors can choose between two modes of transportation. The first option is a challenging but rewarding 3-kilometer uphill trek from the city of Haridwar, a journey that will test the endurance of even the most seasoned trekkers. The second, more leisurely option is to take the Mansa Devi ropeway or Udan Khatola. This cable car system not only provides a comfortable and effortless ride but also affords passengers a stunning aerial view of the surrounding hills and the Ganges River.
For those travelling from afar, the railway station of Haridwar, located a mere 3 km away from the Mansa Devi Haridwar, is the closest railhead. This makes it an easily accessible destination for pilgrims coming from different parts of the country. On the other hand, the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 37 km away, is the nearest airport, and it offers domestic flights to several major cities across the country.