Naina Devi Temple

Naina Devi Temple in Nainital is one of the Shakti Peeths and a revered shrine in the region. Dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, the temple is situated adjacent to the renowned Naini Lake. Every year, thousands of devotees visit to seek the blessings of Maa Naina Devi. According to the legend, it is the very site where the Goddess Sati's eyes fell when Lord Shiva was carrying her charred body. The temple is located just 2 km from the city bus stand and is accessible by local transportation.

Shakti Peeth

Uttarakhand is home to many shrines and Shakti Peeths, and Maa Naina Devi Mandir in Nainital is the most significant one. Located around 331 km from the national capital, Delhi, the temple is easily accessible by bus and cab. Being situated beside the Naini Lake, the temple premises offer a mesmerising view of the surroundings. Being a popular hill station, Nainital is often surrounded by many tourists. During their visit, tourists explore the popular nearby places, and Maa Naina Devi Mandir is among them.

Inside the Shrine

As you step into the shrine, you will be greeted by a huge Peepal tree depicting the symbol of faith and love. After moving ahead, a huge idol of Lord Hanuman appears towards your right, where many devotees are seen offering prayers, while others chant the Hanuman Chalisa. Alongside this, the temple also houses a sacred Shivling where devotees pour water. Inside the main shrine, the presiding deity is represented in the form of two eyes, which are placed at the centre. Painted in red and white, the temple produces a stunning view when seen from a distance. Typically, coconut, shringar daan, chunri, and other items are offered to the Goddess, which you can buy from the shops located outside the temple.

Opening and Closing Time

Maa Naina Devi Temple in Nainital opens daily for the devotees around 6:00 am and after evening prayers closes at 10:00 PM.

Mythology

According to the legend, Sati, the beloved daughter of King Daksha, was married to Lord Shiva. However, King Daksha was against his marriage as he didn't like Lord Shiva. Once the King Daksha organises a grand sacrificial yajna, where he invites all his relatives except Lord Shiva and his daughter Sati. Upon hearing about the Yajna, Sati requested Lord Shiva to join her. However, Shiva refused, saying that without an invitation, he could not attend the ceremony. Despite his refusal, Sati requested and sought permission to go alone, which Shiva eventually granted.
 

As soon as Sati arrived at the site, King Daksha lost his cool and started insulting Lord Shiva in front of the entire assembly. Hurt by this humiliation, Sati leapt into the sacrificial fire. After hearing the news, Lord Shiva rushed to the site and carried the charred body of Sati. Filled with pain and anger, he started doing Tandav- the dance of destruction and wandered across the place. To save the world from Lord Shiva's wrath, Lord Vishnu arrived and cut Sati's body into 51 pieces with his Sudarshan Chakra. These pieces fell across the places, which later known as the Shakti Peeths. It is believed that Sati both eyes fell at the spot where the current Naina Devi Temple stands, hence, the place is known as Naina Devi.

History

It is said that the temple mentioned was found in the Kushan period, and it was constructed in the 15th century AD. However, the idol was enshrined by Late Moti Ram Shah in 1842. During the devastating landslides of 1880, the temple was destroyed. Later, the locals reconstructed the temple, and its structure has continued to evolve.

Festivals

Being a Shakti Peeth, the Naina Devi Temple celebrates all major festivals, especially Navratri. However, the Nanda Ashtmi festival is the one celebrated here with great zeal and enthusiasm. During this festival, a grand fair is organised by the temple committee, which lasts for eight days. A large number of devotees attend this fair to seek the blessings of Goddess Nanda and Sunanda. The last day of the event holds special significance, when the palanquin of both sisters, Maa Nanda and Sunanda, is immersed in the water. The Nanda Ashtmi Mahotsav was started by Late Motiram Shah in 1926, and since then, the festival has been celebrated every year.

Accommodation

For overnight stays, Nainital offers a variety of accommodations which they can be booked online or offline. Stays located close to the temple are: -

• Suman Regency
• Hotel Madhuban
• Hotel City Inn
• FLB Resorts Royce Villa
• Seasons Hotels by Xperience
• Hotel Channi Raja
• The Grand Hotel

Important Tips for Travellers

• Book accommodation in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.
• Visiting during peak season or festivals may feel overcrowded.
• A free shoe stand is available within the temple premises.
• Prasad shops are available outside the temple.
• Photography and videography inside the sanctum are not allowed.
• Heritage Aviation offers direct heli services, whose fare is Rs 2,500/- per person.

Nearby Attraction

After seeking Maa Naina Devi's blessings, you can also explore other popular places in the town. Some recommended options are given as: -

• Naini Lake.
• Nainital Zoo.
• Tiffin Top.
• Kainchi Dham.
• St Francis Catholic Church.
• Garud Tal
• Bhimtal Lake
• Sariyatal
• Khurpatal
• Naina Peak
• Kilbury
• Raj Bhawan Nainital