Perched atop a hill overlooking the shimmering Gobind Sagar Lake, Shri Naina Devi Ji Temple is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in India. This sacred shrine, where the eyes of Goddess Sati are believed to have fallen, draws lakhs of devotees each year, especially during Navratri and the annual fairs.
🌄 Location & Accessibility
- Location: Shri Naina Devi Ji town, Bilaspur district, Himachal Pradesh
- Altitude: ~1,219 meters above sea level
- Nearest Towns: Anandpur Sahib (20 km), Nangal (36 km), Bilaspur (80 km)
- How to Reach:
- By Road: Well-connected via NH-21 from Chandigarh, Shimla, and Bilaspur
- By Rail: Nearest station – Anandpur Sahib (22 km)
- By Air: Chandigarh International Airport (~100 km)
- Ropeway: A scenic cable car ride is available from the base to the temple
🛕 Mythological Significance
According to legend, when Goddess Sati immolated herself at her father Daksha’s yagna, Lord Shiva carried her body in grief. To restore cosmic balance, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to dismember her body, and her eyes (naina) fell at this very spot—giving the temple its name.
Another tale recounts the slaying of demon Mahishasura by the goddess. After defeating him, she plucked out his eyes, and the gods hailed her as “Naina Devi”, the one with divine vision.
🕉️ Deity & Worship
- The goddess is worshipped in the form of three pindis, representing Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Saraswati
- Devotees offer red flags, coconuts, and sweets
- The temple is known for fulfilling wishes, especially for childless couples and those seeking justice
🏛️ Temple Highlights
- A white marble complex with golden domes and silver-plated doors
- Two lion statues guard the entrance, symbolizing strength and protection
- A sacred Peepal tree and Bhagat Jeona Morh’s samadhi at the base
- Ropeway ride offers panoramic views of the Gobind Sagar and Shivalik hills
🎉 Festivals & Celebrations
Navratri (Chaitra & Sharad)
- The temple sees massive footfall during both Navratris
- Devotees walk barefoot up the hill chanting “Jai Mata Di”
- Langars, bhajans, and folk performances fill the air with devotion
Naina Devi Fair (Sawan Month)
- Held in July–August, this fair is one of the largest in Himachal
- Includes cultural programs, wrestling matches, and community feasts
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
- Gobind Sagar Lake: Ideal for boating and photography
- Bhakra Dam: One of India’s largest dams, just 20 km away
- Anandpur Sahib: A major Sikh pilgrimage site
- Sheetla Devi Temple & Vyas Gufa: Other spiritual sites nearby
🙏 Spiritual Experience
Whether you arrive by ropeway, on foot, or by faith alone, Shri Naina Devi Ji Temple offers a powerful spiritual encounter. The chants, the breeze from the lake, and the divine gaze of the goddess create a space where devotion meets serenity.
