Located in the holy city of Haridwar, the Mansa Devi Temple is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site. It is dedicated to Goddess Mansa, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. The temple is situated on the Bilwa Parvat of the Shivalik Hills, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the Ganges river. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history, significance, and attractions of the Mansa Devi Temple.
History of the Mansa Devi Temple
The Mansa Devi Temple has a rich history that dates back to the ancient times. According to the legend, Goddess Mansa is the daughter of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. She is also known as the goddess of wishes and desires. The temple was built by the famous saint, Mansa Devi in the 16th century. It was later renovated by the king of Kashmir, Maharaja Pratap Singh in the 19th century. Since then, the temple has undergone many changes and additions.
Significance of the Mansa Devi Temple
The Mansa Devi Temple holds great religious significance for the Hindus. It is believed that the goddess fulfills the wishes of her devotees who tie a sacred thread around the tree that is located inside the temple complex. The temple is also associated with the famous Kumbh Mela, which is held every 12 years in Haridwar. During this time, millions of devotees from all over the world visit the temple to seek the blessings of Goddess Mansa.
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Attractions of the Mansa Devi Temple
The Mansa Devi Temple has many attractions that draw visitors from far and wide. Some of the main attractions include:
1. The Cable Car Ride
The temple can be reached by a cable car ride that starts from the base of the hill. The cable car ride is a thrilling experience as it offers a bird’s eye view of the city and the surrounding hills.
2. The Main Shrine
The main shrine of the temple houses the idol of Goddess Mansa. The idol is adorned with beautiful clothes and jewelry. The atmosphere inside the shrine is very peaceful and serene.
3. The Tree of Wishes
The tree of wishes is located inside the temple complex. Devotees tie a sacred thread around the tree to fulfill their wishes. It is believed that the goddess grants the wishes of her devotees who perform this ritual with devotion.
4. The Viewpoint
The temple is situated on the Bilwa Parvat, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the Ganges river. The viewpoint is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
How to Reach the Mansa Devi Temple
The Mansa Devi Temple can be reached by various modes of transport. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 35 kilometers from Haridwar. The nearest railway station is the Haridwar Junction, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The temple can also be reached by road via the NH-7.
Conclusion
The Mansa Devi Temple is a divine pilgrimage site that is visited by millions of devotees every year. It is a perfect blend of history, religion, and natural beauty. The temple offers a peaceful and serene environment that helps in rejuvenating the mind, body, and soul. A visit to the Mansa Devi Temple is a must for anyone who is seeking spiritual solace and inner peace.
FAQs
- What is the significance of the Mansa Devi Temple? The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. It holds great religious significance for the Hindus and is associated with the famous Kumbh Mela.
- How can I reach the Mansa Devi Temple? The temple can be reached by various modes of transport. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, the nearest railway station is the Haridwar Junction, and it can also be reached by road via the NH-7.
- What is the best time to visit the Mansa Devi Temple? The temple can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is during the Navratri festival when the temple is decorated with lights and colors.
- Is there any dress code for visiting the Mansa Devi Temple? There is no specific dress code for visiting the temple. However, it is advisable to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the shrine.
- What are the timings of the Mansa Devi Temple? The temple opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 8:00 PM. The timings may vary on special occasions and festivals.