A Divine Retreat in Haridwar
Introduction
Nestled atop the Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, the Mansa Devi Temple is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, a form of Shakti. It attracts thousands of devotees and tourists each year, making it a must-visit spiritual destination in Haridwar.
Mythology & Significance
The temple is believed to fulfill the wishes of sincere devotees—hence the name Mansa, which means “wish.” According to legends, Goddess Mansa is the daughter of Sage Kashyap and is closely associated with Naga (serpent) deities. Devotees often tie sacred threads to the temple’s sacred trees while making a wish and return to untie them once the wish is granted.
How to Reach
The temple can be accessed in two ways:
- By Trekking: A steep but rewarding climb through a well-laid path.
- By Ropeway (Udan Khatola): A scenic cable car ride offering panoramic views of Haridwar and the Ganga River below.
Temple Timings
- Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: During Navratri or early mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful darshan.
Spiritual Experience
Inside the temple, the idol of Goddess Mansa is adorned with flowers and traditional attire. The divine aura, coupled with the chants and temple bells, creates a deeply spiritual atmosphere. The view from the hilltop also offers a serene escape from the bustling city below.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Mansa Devi, tourists often include nearby places in their itinerary:
- Chandi Devi Temple (another Shakti Peeth nearby)
- Har Ki Pauri (famous for Ganga Aarti)
- Bharat Mata Mandir
- Maya Devi Temple
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