Navratri 2023: Vaishno Devi to Kamakhya, temples to visit during nine-day festival

Navratri, the vibrant Hindu festival honouring the triumph of good over evil, is here. Devotees across India are gearing up for nine days of intense worship, prayer and festivities dedicated to Goddess Durga. As the air fills with the fragrance of incense and the resonance of devotional hymns, pilgrims embark on a spiritual journey to some of the most revered temples, adding a touch of divinity to their Navratri celebrations.

2 things you need to know

• Navratri, a Hindu festival, spans nine days of celebration.
• Durga, the goddess of strength, and her avatars are worshipped during Navratri.

Vaishno Devi Temple in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir

Nestled amidst the picturesque hills, this temple dedicated to Vaishno Devi, a manifestation of Durga, stands as one of India's most sought-after pilgrimage sites. As the beating heart of Navratri festivities, the temple in Katra witnesses an influx of devotees seeking blessings and divine intervention.

(Vaishno Devi Temple is located at Jammu Kashmir | Image: Pinterest)

Mahalaxmi Devi Temple in Kolhapur, Maharashtra

Maharashtra beckons the faithful to the Mahalaxmi Devi Temple, where the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Mahalaxmi, is venerated. The temple stands at the location where it is believed that the left hand of Sati fell. Pilgrims from far and wide gather to seek prosperity and invoke the goddess' benevolence during Navratri.

(Mahalaxmi Devi Temple is goddess of wealth and prosperity | Image: Pinterest)

Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur, Tripura

With its intricate architecture and serene surroundings, the Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur is a beacon of tranquility. Devotees immerse themselves in prayer, connecting with the divine energy of Tripura Sundari, another form of Durga.

(Tripura Sundari Temple is situated in Udaipur | Image: Pinterest)

Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam

Enveloped in the verdant landscapes of Assam, the Kamakhya Temple stands tall in its dedication to the goddess Kamakhya. The temple is said to be constructed on the exact site where the yoni of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen. A pivotal hub for Shakti worshippers, this temple's annual Ambubachi festival during the monsoon season is a highlight for pilgrims.

(Kamakhya Temple stands tall in its dedication to the goddess Kamakhya | Image: Pinterest)

Kalighat Temple in Kolkata, West Bengal

The bustling city of Kolkata comes alive during Navratri as devotees flock to the Kalighat Temple, venerating the fearsome goddess Kali. The Kalighat Temple is believed to have been constructed at the location where the right foot toe of Goddess Sati is said to have descended. A symbol of empowerment, Kali is worshipped with fervour, and the temple resonates with the spirit of Navratri.

(Kalighat temple is located at the bustling city of Kolkata | Image: Pinterest)

Mangala Gauri Temple in Gaya, Bihar

Bihar's spiritual aura is amplified during Navratri at the Mangala Gauri Temple. Pilgrims seek the blessings of Mangala Gauri, another manifestation of Durga, in the hope of prosperity and well-being.

(Mangala Gauri Temple is situated at Bihar | Image: Pinterest)

Maha Kali Devi Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

In the heart of Ujjain, the Maha Kali Devi Temple draws worshippers seeking the fierce protection of Maha Kali. The temple, steeped in history, provides a sacred space for reflection and devotion during Navratri. According to legend, the temple stands on the spot where Goddess Sati's upper lip is said to have fallen.

Jwala Devi Temple in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

Nestled in the hills of Himachal Pradesh, the Jwala Devi Temple pays homage to the goddess Jwala Devi. Devotees throng to witness the divine flame, symbolising the eternal energy of Durga, during the vibrant days of Navratri.

These temples, each with its unique history and spiritual significance, offer a profound experience for those seeking a deeper connection with the divine during Navratri. As the festival unfolds, pilgrims find solace, inspiration, and a sense of unity in their shared devotion to the goddess Durga.