Mansa Devi Temple, Uttarakhand where devotees fulfil their wishes by tying a thread

The Mansa Devi Temple, located on Bilwa Mountain in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, is an important Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, a form of Shakti. Revered for her power to fulfil wishes, the temple is one of the three Siddha Peethas in Haridwar, attracting thousands of devotees every year. Its origin is linked to legends associated with the sage Kashyapa and the cosmic energy of the universe. Visitors can reach the temple via a steep climb or a cable car, enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding landscape along the way.

Table of Contents

1. Who is Mansa Devi?
2. Rituals performed by devotees at Mansa Devi Temple
3. Architecture of Mansa Devi Temple
4. Festivals celebrated at Mansa Devi Temple
5. When should one visit Mansa Devi Temple?

Who is Manasa Devi?

Mansa Devi is a revered Hindu goddess, considered a form of Shakti, the divine feminine energy. She is believed to grant the wishes of her devotees and is associated with protection from troubles and dangers. Mansa Devi is often depicted as a powerful goddess who emerged from the conscious mind of Lord Shiva, and is associated with the ancient sage Kashyapa. The Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar, one of the three Siddha Peethas, is an important pilgrimage site where devotees seek her blessings for spiritual and material fulfilment. Visitors can reach the temple via a set of 786 stairs or a cable car, which enhances access while offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. There is a sacred tree where devotees tie threads to symbolise their wishes, which enhances the spiritual ambiance of the temple.

Rituals performed by devotees at Manasa Devi Temple

Tying sacred threads: Devotees tie threads on the branches of a sacred tree at the temple, symbolising their prayers. Once their wish is fulfilled, they return to untie the threads as an act of gratitude.
Prayers and offering of offerings: Devotees offer offerings such as coconut, fruits, garlands, and incense sticks to please the goddess and seek her blessings.
Participation in festivals: During festivals such as Navratri, the temple is decorated, and special rituals are held, which draw large crowds of devotees to seek blessings.

Architecture of Manasa Devi Temple

Traditional North Indian Style: The temple is built in a traditional style, which blends in harmony with the Shivalik backdrop, with vibrant red walls.
Sankrabhagruha: Two main deities are worshipped in the sanctum sanctorum: one with eight arms and the other with three heads and five arms, which reflect intricate craftsmanship.
Eight-armed deity: This deity is believed to be a manifestation of Mansa Devi, the presiding deity of the temple. The eight arms symbolise the goddess' power, protection, and ability to fulfil the desires of her devotees.
Three-headed and five-armed deity: This deity is believed to represent Goddess Chandi, another form of divine feminine energy. The three heads signify her ability to see the past, present, and future, while the five arms signify her control over the five elements of nature.

Festivals Celebrated at Manasa Devi Temple

The Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar celebrates Navratri festival in particular, a nine-night festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, which draws a large number of devotees to seek blessings. The temple is also busy during the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu pilgrimage. During these events, the temple is decorated, and various cultural events and religious discourses are held, creating a vibrant atmosphere of devotion and festivity.

When should one visit Manasa Devi Temple?

The best time to visit Mansa Devi Temple is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for pilgrims. This period includes the post-monsoon and winter seasons, which receive cool temperatures and minimal rainfall. It is also popular to visit during Navratri and Kumbh Mela, as the temple is crowded with devotees during these festivals, enhancing the spiritual experience, although it can be crowded and more expensive during these times.