Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa, believed to be an incarnation of Shakti and the daughter of Rishi Kashyap.
“Mansa” means wish in Sanskrit, and devotees believe that worshipping here fulfills their desires and grants blessings.
It is considered one of the Siddh Peethas, where pilgrims tie sacred threads (moli) on the branches of the temple tree, symbolizing their wishes.
After the wish is fulfilled, devotees return to the temple to untie the thread as a mark of gratitude.

Style: Traditional North Indian temple architecture with simple yet elegant design.
Main Deity: The sanctum sanctorum houses two idols of Goddess Mansa, one with eight arms and the other with three arms, both holding divine weapons.
Temple Complex:
- The temple courtyard features bells, flags, and sacred trees.
- The surroundings have small shrines dedicated to other deities.

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Mansa is considered a form of Shakti and the daughter of sage Kashyap, making her a wish-fulfilling goddess.
Legends suggest that she emerged from Lord Shiva’s mind to fulfill the desires of devotees.
It is believed that Pandavas visited this site during their exile and prayed to Goddess Mansa for victory and blessings.
Devotees offer coconuts, flowers, and vermilion to the deity as a mark of devotion.

Location: Bilwa Parvat, Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Distance from Haridwar: 2 km
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar Junction (approximately 2 km away)
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approximately 36 km away)
Road Connectivity: Well-connected by road from Delhi, Dehradun, and Rishikesh.
Ropeway Ride:
- Known as Mansa Devi Udankhatola.
- Distance: 540 meters aerial ropeway ride.
- Duration: 5-10 minutes.
- Provides panoramic views of Haridwar and the Ganges.
Trek Route:
- Distance: 1.5 km trek from Har Ki Pauri.
- Duration: 30-45 minutes (one way).
- The trail passes through forests and scenic viewpoints.

Temple Timings:
- Morning: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (summer)
- Morning: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (winter)
- Aarti Timings: Morning and evening prayers with grand rituals.
Best Months:
- March to June: Pleasant weather, ideal for travel.
- September to November: Clear skies and moderate temperatures.
Avoid Monsoon:
- July to August: Heavy rainfall may make the trekking path slippery.
Winter Season:
- December to February: Cold weather but the temple remains open.

Daily Rituals:
- Morning Aarti: Devotees offer prayers with flowers and coconuts.
- Prasad Offering: Coconut, sweets, and red chunni are offered to the deity.
- Evening Aarti: The temple performs a grand aarti with lamps and chants.
Navratri Festival:
- Celebrated with grandeur during March-April and September-October.
- The temple is decorated with flowers and lights.
Kumbh Mela:
- During the Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, the temple witnesses a massive influx of devotees.
Kanwar Yatra:
- Pilgrims, known as Kanwariyas, carry holy water from the Ganges and offer it to Lord Shiva.
Special Wishes:
- Devotees tie sacred threads on the temple tree for wish fulfillment.

Chandi Devi Temple:
- Located across the Ganges River on Neel Parvat hill.
- Dedicated to Goddess Chandi, a form of Shakti.
- Accessible by ropeway or trek.
Har Ki Pauri:
- A famous ghat on the Ganges River.
- Known for its Ganga Aarti and spiritual ambiance.
Maya Devi Temple:
- One of the Shakti Peethas.
- Believed to be the place where Goddess Sati’s heart and navel fell.

Clothing: Wear comfortable cotton clothes during summer and carry light woolens in winter.
Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for trekking.
Ropeway: If you prefer an easier route, use the Mansa Devi Udankhatola ropeway for a scenic and quick journey.

The temple is at a height, so people with breathing issues should take precautions.
✔️ Accommodation:
Stay options are available in Haridwar, including hotels, lodges, and guesthouses.
✔️ Food:
Small eateries and stalls are available near the temple.
It is advisable to carry water and light snacks.