Shardiya Navratri 2024: From Naina Devi To Kamakhya, Visit These Temples Dedicated To Goddess Durga

Shardiya Navratri is around the corner and Hindu devotees have begun the preparation. During the 9-day festival, devotees observe fast and conclude it on the 10th day, Dusshera. The festival is dedicated to the nine avatars of Goddess Durga and each form embodies wisdom, motherhood and strength. If you are planning to visit the temples of Goddess Durga during this festival then here is a list of temples across India, that you must visit.

Vaishno Devi, Jammu

It is one of the significant temples of goddess Durga situated at the heights of Jammu, which is around 5200 feet above sea level. To offer prayers, devotees have to do at least a 12 km trek from Katra which is a base camp. One can also reach the top of the temple via helicopter which costs around Rs 2340.

Shailputri Devi Temple, Varanasi

It is the first form of Durga, representing the daughter of mountains. She is the symbol of strength and purity. She is also known as Goddess Parvati, Mata Sati Bhavani and Maa Hemavati.  Her temple is situated near Marhia Ghat, around 2 km from the railway station.

Brahmacharini Devi Temple, Varanasi

She is the second form of Goddess Durga, who embodies wisdom, patience, and the strength to overcome life’s challenges. Her temple is also situated on the banks of Varanasi.

Chandraghanta Devi Temple, Varanasi

She is a warrior goddess known for her courage and fierce power. Her temple is situated at Jaitpura in Varanasi. Offering coconuts, red cloth and red flowers to Goddess Chandraghanta is significant.

Naina Devi Temple, Bilaspur

According to the legend, Goddess Sati had jumped in a yagna and killed herself when her father disrespected her and Lord Shiva. Enraged by her death, Shiva performed Tandav leaving all the deities alarmed. To bring him out of his sorrow phase Lord Vishnu released his chakra and cut Sati's body into 51 pieces and the parts which dropped on Earth are now called Shakti Peethas. Among all is Naina Devi, where Satti's eyes fell. One can visit the temple via road, train or air as it is situated near Chandigarh.

Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati

The temple is situated at Nilachal hills. It is also a Shakti Peethas where Sati's genitals fell. To reach this temple, you can take a bus that are available from Guwahati or Dispur. these buses will take you directly to the temple. The nearest railway station is the Kamakhya Railway junction, one of the biggest railway stations.