Saptashrungi Mata Temple, Nashik: The Sacred Shakti Peetha of Seven Peaks

Saptashrungi Mata Temple is located in the majestic Sahyadri Hills in Nashik, Maharashtra. This temple is one of India's most famous abodes of Maa Durga. This temple is situated atop a hill surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views and it is dedicated to Goddess Saptashrungi (Goddess Durga) also known as Mahishasurmardini (destroyer of evil). This temple is one of the 51 Shakti Pethaas, making it a significant spiritual destination near Nashik. In this blog, we will learn how this temple is so famous among the devotees, how to reach the temple, about Saptashrungi Mata, etc. 

Table of contents:

1. Who is Saptashrungi Mata?
2. Saptashrungi Temple Importance
3. Mythological Significance
4. Saptashrungi Temple Architecture
5. Rituals and Tradition at Saptashrungi Temple
6. How to Reach the Saptashrungi Temple
7. Dress Code at Saptashrungi Temple
8. Best TIme to visit Saptashrungi Temple

Who is Saptashrungi Mata?

Goddess Saptashrungi, also known as Mahishasurmardini is an incarnation of Goddess Durga or Shakti (the divine feminine energy). The name Saptashrungi is derived from the Sanskrit words Sapta means ‘seven’ and Shrungi means ‘peaks’ because she resides among the seven peaked hills in Maharashtra. She is portrayed with 18 arms holding weapons and objects which represents her fierce and protective nature. The weapons include a trident, sword, mace, discus, conch, bow, etc. She is known as the destroyer of negative force and a protector of devotees. She represents the divine feminine energy that protects the universe from evil forces. Devotees, especially women seeking strength, courage, and blessing, worship Goddess Saptashrungi. 

Saptashrungi Temple Importance

This vibrant temple attracts lakhs of devotees as it holds a very significant place in the devotees' hearts. This place is not just a place to worship but a symbol representing faith, devotion, and the external power of the Divine Feminine. Saptashrungi Temple is considered the most powerful shrine of Goddess Adi Shakti. This temple represents the divine victory of good over evil. Devotees visit this sacred shrine to seek blessing, especially childless women who come here for the blessing of a child.

Mythological Significance

The story shows the manifestation of Maha Shakti and her role as the protector of the Universe.
According to Hindu Mythology, a demon named Mahishasura has the power of changing his form at will and he terrorizes the gods and humans. He also has a boon that no man could kill him. The gods and humans seek help from Goddess Adi Shakti to kill the demon. Then, the Goddess manifested as Goddess Durga to defeat and kill the Mahishasura. She armed herself with the weapons given by the gods and after several days of battle, she killed the demon, restoring the balance of the Universe. After defeating the Mahishasura, the Goddess Durga resides on the Saptashrungi Hills (a range of Seven peaks) to protect the devotees. 

Connection to Shakti Peethas

This temple is considered on the 51 Shakti Peethas, where the body parts of Goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva carried her body across the world and Lord Vishnu divided her body into 51 parts. According to this, the right arm of Maa Sati fell at the Saptashrungi site making it one of the most sacred places in India. 

Saptashrungi Temple Architecture

The architecture of Saptashrungi Temple is a mix of modern and traditional architecture. The temple is located approximately 1230 meters above the ground and it is surrounded by seven mountain peaks, from which the Saptashrungi name comes and it means ‘Seven peaks’. The temple contains two tiers with a sanctum where the Goddess' idol is placed. The idol is caved into a rock which is about 8 feet tall and colored in bright colors. She is portrayed with 18 arms holding weapons and objects which represents her fierce and protective nature. The temple walls have intricate carvings and artistic motifs showing traditional craftsmanship.

Rituals and Tradition at Saptashrungi Temple

Many rituals and festivals attract many devotees to this temple, here check the famous rituals and festivals at Saptashrungi Temple:
Chaitra Utsav (Chaitra Festival): The most famous festival at Saptashrungi Temple is Chaitra Utsav. This festival is celebrated during the Hindu month of Chaitra, starting on Rama Navami (ninth lunar day) and culminating in Chaitra Purnima (full moon day). This festival attracts more than 5 lakh devotees on its final day. Rituals like the abhishekam of the Goddess with a mixture of honey, sugar, milk, yogurt, and ghee are done. Devotees parade through the entire village as this tradition is observed since the 15th century.
Navaratri: Navaratri is also a major festival celebrated at Saptashrungi Temple. This festival is celebrated for nine days marking each day for each Goddess. During this time, the temple is decorated with flowers and rangolis.
Daily offerings and rituals: Daily offerings include coconuts, sarees, silk clothes, and cholis (blouses) to the Goddess Saptashrungi. Traditional offerings like silver eyes and kumkum circles are also drawn during Navratri.

How to Reach the Saptashrungi Temple

Devotees can visit this sacred shrine of Goddess Saptashrungi by these means of transportation:
Train: Most of the devotees prefer the train to visit the Saptashrungi Temple. The Nashik Railway Station is about 70 km away from the temple. After arriving in Nashik, you can take a taxi to the Saptashrungi Temple.
By Road: Many devotees also prefer roads to visit the Saptashrungi Temple. You can reach Saptashrungi temple by car or bus in about 2 hours. From Mumbai, you can reach the temple in 5-6 hours by car.
By Air: The closest airport to Saptashrungi is Nashik Airport, which is about 70 km from Saptashrungi Temple.

Tips for Travelers:

Devotees should visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the rush.
Devotees should prefer to wear comfortable footwear for climbing the 510 steps of the Saptashrungi temple. The facility of ropeway is available for the devotees who are unable to climb.

Dress Code at Saptashrungi Temple

When devotees visit the Saptashrungi Temple in Saptashrungi, Nashik, it is very important to follow the dress code of the temple. The temple does not enforce any formal dress code, but it is suggested to wear something modest to show respect for the temple’s customs. Here check the dress code for men and women visiting the Saptashrungi Temple:
Men: It is recommended to remove the shirts and vests to enter the temple, which means that their upper body should be bare before entry.
Women: There is no specific dress code for women, but it is recommended to wear modest and traditional attire.
One should not carry any leather items, like leather belts, purses, etc. while visiting the temple.

Best Month to visit Saptashrungi Temple

The best month or time to visit the Saptashrungi Temple is during the festival season which ensures a pleasant and enlightening experience. Here is a guide for the Travelers:
October to March:
The weather during October and March is very cool which is ideal for traveling and visiting spiritual places.
Avoid the months like May to June as these months are very hot and not suitable for traveling.
July to September:
July to September is also a good option to visit as it makes the hills come alive with the greenery and waterfalls resulting in very beautiful views.
However, this month can make the pathways very slippery and dangerous, so you must take caution.