Keep water, essential medicines and identity card with you during the journey.
The festival of Navratri is considered very special in Hindu religion. During these nine days, nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. According to religious beliefs, by worshiping Mata Rani with a true heart and fasting, the devotees are blessed with happiness, peace and prosperity. During Navratri, huge crowds of devotees are seen in temples across the country.
India has many famous temples dedicated to Maa Durga, Kali, Lakshmi, Saraswati and other forms of Shakti. These temples have religious and historical importance. Some temples are famous for their ancient beliefs, while some are known for their unique worship methods and grand architecture. Let us know about 8 such famous goddess temples of the country, where many devotees wish to visit once in their life.
1. Kamakhya Temple, Assam
Kamakhya Temple, situated on Neelachal Hill in Guwahati, the capital of Assam, is counted among the famous Shaktipeeths of the country. This temple holds special significance for the religious beliefs related to Goddess Shakti. Here the goddess is worshiped in a natural rock form instead of a traditional idol.
The most important event of the temple is the Ambubachi fair. During this time, a large number of devotees and saints arrive from different parts of the country. If you are planning to visit Assam during Navratri or any other time, then Kamakhya Temple can be a part of your religious itinerary.
2. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu and Kashmir
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, located on Trikuta Mountain near Katra in Jammu region, is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in the country. Here, devotees travel through the hilly route to have the darshan of the Mother Goddess. It is a popular belief among the devotees that one gets the opportunity to reach the court of Mother Goddess only when she calls her.
Special enthusiasm is seen in the temple during Navratri. Before going on a trip, one must get information about registration, weather, travel route and available facilities.
3. Jwala Ji Temple, Himachal Pradesh
Jwala Ji Temple, located in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, is famous for its naturally glowing lights. According to religious belief, these lights are considered to be the form of Goddess Jwala. Here lights are worshiped instead of any traditional idol.
Devotees come to the temple for darshan throughout the year. Special religious events are organized here on the occasion of Navratri. This temple holds a special place among the devotees to see the unique confluence of nature and faith.
4. Kalighat Kali Temple, West Bengal
Kalighat Kali Temple located in Kolkata is one of the famous temples of Maa Kali. It is traditionally considered one of the major Shaktipeeths. Maa Kali is considered a symbol of strength, courage and victory over evil.
This temple is an important part of the religious and cultural identity of Kolkata. A large number of devotees reach here during Navratri and other major religious occasions. Devotees from different parts of the country come here to have darshan of Maa Kali.
5. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Tamil Nadu
Meenakshi Amman Temple, located in Madurai city of Tamil Nadu, is counted among the most grand and famous temples of South India. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.
The temple's tall, colorful gopuram structures, intricate carvings and vast complex make it special. It is an important place for people interested in religious faith as well as South Indian temple architecture. Visiting here and seeing the grandeur of the temple complex can be a memorable experience during your trip to Madurai.
6. Ambaji Temple, Gujarat
Ambaji Temple located in Banaskantha district of Gujarat is a famous pilgrimage site dedicated to Mother Amba. This temple is located near the Aravalli region and is counted among the major religious centers of Gujarat.
The special thing about this temple is that the sacred Shree Yantra is worshiped in the sanctum sanctorum instead of the traditional goddess idol like in normal temples. Crowds of devotees throng here on major religious occasions including Navratri. Devotees come from far and wide to have darshan of Maa Amba.
7. Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapur, Maharashtra
Mahalakshmi Temple located in Kolhapur, Maharashtra is also known as Ambabai Temple. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi and is included among the important goddess temples of the country.
According to religious beliefs, Mother Mahalakshmi bestows wealth, glory and prosperity. The ancient traditions and architecture of the temple make it special. Devotees come here for darshan throughout the year, while during major festivals the temple remains especially vibrant.
8. Maa Sharda Devi Temple, Maihar, Madhya Pradesh
Maa Sharda Devi Temple situated on Trikoot Hill in Maihar, Madhya Pradesh is a famous religious place. Goddess Sharda is worshiped here, who is also remembered with reverence as the goddess associated with learning and knowledge.
Devotees can use stairs or alternative facilities available to reach the temple. A large number of devotees come here for darshan during Navratri. Located on the hill, this temple along with religious faith also presents the surrounding natural views.
Keep these things in mind before visiting Goddess temples during Navratri.