Naina Devi

Naina Devi is a town housing the famous shrine of Naina Devi in the Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh. The town is famous across India for the Naina Devi Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Durga. Since ages devotees from far and wide come to Naina Devi to offer prayers to the Goddess. There is an interesting legend attached to the temple. The legend goes that once when the father of Goddess Parvati insulted Lord Shiva, her consort, she burnt herself alive in the yagna held by her father. This incidence invited the ire of Lord Shiva and in fury he kept the dead body of the Goddess on his shoulders and started performing Tandava, the dance symbolizing the arrival of disaster on the earth. Fearing the consequences of Lord Shiva's anger, Lord Vishnu cut the Sati's body into fifty one pieces to save the earth from Shiva's wrath. The places where the parts of the Sati fell came to be known as the Shakti Peethas. It is believed that the Sati's eyes fell at the place where the Naina Devi temple stands today.

Naina Devi Temple

Dedicated to Goddess Durga, the Naina Devi Temple is one of the 51 shakti peethas in India. Here the goddess is present in the form of pindi. The temple is believed to be the place where the eyes of the Goddess fell. The temple is also known as Mahishapitha because of its link with the demon Mahishasur. The temple has beautiful surroundings offering a visual treat to the eyes of tourists.  During the festival of Navrataras(in September/October), the temple attracts many a devotee who come here in search of absolute happiness. The temple becomes the venue for a colorful fair held on Shravan Ashtami every year. Naina Devi Temple is one of the most holy places for the Hindus. The main shrine houses the images of three heavenly deities namely Goddess Kali, Goddess Naina Devi and Lord Ganesha.

Located near the Naina Devi Temple is the charming lake where tourist enjoy boat rides to their heart's content. Many scenes from the Bollywood movies have been shot at this lake. The views of sunset at the lake are very delightful. The lake is surrounded by the mesmerizing mountains offering sheer scenic beauty.

The Tibetan market near the temple is a great place for shopping. From toys to woolens, all are available here at reasonable price.

How To Reach Naina Devi

By Air: The nearest airport is at Chandigarh(100 km from Naina Devi Temple), which is connected to the important cities like Delhi by regular flights.

By Rail: Kiratpur Sahib and Anandpur Sahib are the nearest railway stations.

By Road: Naina Devi Temple is easily accessible from the various parts of India by road.

Accommodation In Naina Devi

Hotels falling into different categories are available near the temple. The most famous hotel here is Manu Maharani. From luxury hotel to budget hotel, Naina Devi offers a wide range of choice to tourists.