Key Takeaways
- Saptashrungi Devi Temple is one of the three and a half Shakti Peethas in Maharashtra, known for its spiritual significance.
- The temple sits at an elevation of 1,230 meters in the Western Ghats, surrounded by seven hills and dense forests.
- It honors Goddess Saptashrungi, shown with 18 arms, each holding a weapon. Her statue, carved from rock, stands 10 feet tall.
- It’s open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. During big festivals like Navratri and Dussehra, it stays open longer.
- There’s no charge to enter the temple. However, if you want to use the ropeway, it costs Rs. 90 for adults and Rs. 45 for children. The ropeway runs from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
The Saptashrungi Devi Temple in Nashik, Maharashtra, is a well-loved Hindu pilgrimage site. It sits high on one of the Sahyadri range’s seven peaks and offers stunning views. This peaceful setting adds to the temple’s spiritual feel.
The temple honors Goddess Saptashrungi, depicted with 18 arms, each holding a different symbolic weapon, showing her as a powerful form of Goddess Durga. People from all over India come here to seek blessings and feel the divine presence. The combination of its unique location and natural beauty makes this temple an excellent place for anyone looking for peace and spiritual renewal.
History of Saptashrungi Devi Temple
Background and geography
Tucked away in the Western Ghats, the Saptashrungi Devi Temple is a historic and spiritual site near Nanduri, Maharashtra. It sits 1,230 meters up in a range with seven sacred peaks. These peaks and the surrounding thick forests make for a stunning and peaceful setting, perfect for a spiritual visit.
Historically, the temple has been an essential place for pilgrims, who climb its 470 stone steps or take the modern trolley to get blessings. The rugged landscape and lush greenery add to the temple’s mystical charm.
Legends associated with the temple
One essential story tells us that the temple is located where the right arm of Goddess Sati fell, making it a significant Shakti Peetha.
There’s also a tale about the Goddess Durga in her form as Mahishasur Mardini, who defeated the buffalo demon Mahishasura. This story really highlights the temple’s theme of divine strength and victory. People who visit the temple believe it gives them courage and strength, much like the Goddess in her battle. These legends play a big part in the temple’s rituals and how it’s seen spiritually by those who come here.
Features of the temple
The temple has two levels, and the goddess is on the top floor. Her statue is pretty giant, about 10 feet tall, and it’s made right from the rock. She has 18 arms, each holding a different weapon.
There are seven hills around the temple, and they make the place feel more spiritual. Plus, the view from up there is fantastic. People often come here because it feels like a peaceful yet powerful spot where the goddess watches over them. She’s all covered in sindoor, a red powder, and wears shiny crowns and jewelry. It’s quite a sight!
Timings and Entry Fee Information
Opening and closing timings
The Saptashrungi Devi Temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It’s free to enter, so anyone can come and see the beautiful architecture and the seven surrounding peaks that add to the temple’s spiritual importance.
Make sure to fit your visit within these hours to fully enjoy everything without rushing. If you’re planning to visit during a special event, double-check the timings, just in case they change. You can do this by contacting the temple authorities directly.
| Daily Program | Timing |
|---|---|
| Kakad Aarti in the morning | 5:30 a.m. |
| Panchamrit Maha Puja | 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. |
| Mahanaivedya Aarti in the afternoon | 12:00 p.m. |
| Sanj Aarti | 7:00 p.m. |
Festival timings
When discussing the Saptashrungi Devi Temple’s operating hours, we should also mention the special festival timings and whether entry is charged.
This temple is famous for its lively festivals. It stays open longer during significant events. The biggest one is Chaitrotsav, which starts on Rama Navami and ends on Chaitra Poornima. During this festival, the temple opens early in the morning and doesn’t close until late at night. This helps manage the massive crowd of about 250,000 visitors.
Other big festivals, like Dussehra and Navratri, have similar extended hours. This ensures everyone can join in and celebrate the Goddess Saptashrungi. Plus, entering the temple is free during these times, making it welcoming for everyone.
Entry fee for the temple and ropeway
Entry to Saptashrungi Devi Temple is free, but there’s a small charge for the ropeway. This ropeway is a big help if you find the steep walk up to the temple challenging. It’s a quick, comfy ride that lasts about three minutes. Adults pay Rs. 90, and kids pay Rs. 45. The ropeway is open from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM. It’s a great way to see the beautiful scenery as you go up and down. Plus, it makes the temple accessible and ensures a memorable visit.
nashik to saptashrungi devi temple distance
The distance from Nashik to Saptashrungi is approximately 60-70 kilometers (37-43 miles) by road. The exact distance can vary depending on the specific route taken. It typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to drive from Nashik to Saptashrungi.
Conclusion
The Saptashrungi Devi Temple is a vital part of Hindu culture. It’s essential both spiritually and historically. The temple sits in a unique spot that blends mythology with stunning natural scenery, drawing both worshipers and sightseers.
It’s easy to get to, and the entry fee is small, ensuring the temple stays sacred but welcoming to everyone who wants to visit. So, if you’re looking for a place steeped in tradition and natural beauty, this temple is a great choice. Whether you’re there to pray or just to see the sights, Saptashrungi Devi offers a memorable experience.
Deepak Sharma is a passionate writer and avid traveler who specializes in uncovering the beauty and history of India’s attractions and temples. A graduate of Delhi University, Deepak has a deep-rooted love for his country and its rich cultural heritage.