Mata Mansa Devi Temple

• Temples
• Haryana Mansa Mata Punjab Temple

The Mata Mansa Devi Temple, located in Panchkula, Punjab (now in Haryana), near Chandigarh, is a revered Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, a form of Shakti. This temple is one of the most prominent pilgrimage sites in North India, attracting thousands of devotees, especially during Navratri. The temple complex consists of two main temples, both situated at the foothills of the Shivalik Range, offering a serene and spiritual ambiance.

Religious Significance

• The temple is dedicated to Mata Mansa Devi, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees.
• According to legend, devotees tie sacred threads (moli) to a tree inside the temple premises, seeking blessings for their wishes to be granted.
• The temple is considered a Siddh Peeth, where Goddess Sati’s forehead is believed to have fallen, making it a spiritually significant site.
• Pilgrims offer coconuts, flowers, sweets, and red chunni as offerings to the goddess.

Temple Architecture

• Style: The architecture of Mata Mansa Devi Temple reflects North Indian temple design, featuring intricate carvings, domes, and colorful decorations.
• Main Shrine:
  • The main sanctum (garbhagriha) houses the idol of Goddess Mansa Devi, adorned with jewelry, flowers, and red attire.
  • Devotees offer vermilion, bangles, and prasad to seek blessings.
• Second Temple:
  • Built by Maharaja Gopal Singh of Mani Majra in 1815, the second temple is located nearby and is part of the pilgrimage complex.
• Temple Complex:
  • The premises also include smaller shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Hanuman, and Goddess Saraswati.
• Sacred Tree:
  • Devotees tie sacred threads on the tree near the temple to make their wishes come true.

Mythology & Legends

• According to Hindu mythology, Mata Mansa Devi is considered a form of Goddess Durga, who emerged from Lord Shiva’s mind to destroy demons and restore peace.
• Another legend states that Goddess Sati’s forehead fell at this spot, making it a Shakti Peeth.
• The temple is also linked to the Mahabharata, where it is believed that Arjuna prayed to Goddess Mansa Devi before the battle of Kurukshetra.

How to Reach Mata Mansa Devi Temple

• Location: Panchkula, Haryana (bordering Punjab and Chandigarh)
• Distance from Chandigarh: 8 km
• Nearest Railway Station:
  • Chandigarh Railway Station (approximately 5 km from the temple).
• Nearest Airport:
  • Chandigarh International Airport (approximately 15 km away).
• Road Connectivity:
  • Well-connected by local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.
  • Easily accessible from Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.

Best Time to Visit

• Temple Timings:
  • Morning: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Aarti Timings:
    • Morning Aarti: 6:00 AM
    • Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM
• Best Months:
  • March to April (Spring) and September to October (Navratri season) offer pleasant weather.
• Avoid Summer:
  • May to June: Summers can be hot and humid, making it less comfortable for pilgrims.
• Winter Season:
  • November to February: Cool and comfortable weather for pilgrimage.
• Navratri Celebrations:
  • The temple is beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and special pujas during Navratri.

Rituals and Festivals

1. Daily Rituals:
   • Morning Aarti: The day begins with mangal aarti performed by the priests.
   • Abhishekam: The idol is bathed with milk, honey, and water.
   • Shringar: The idol is adorned with new clothes and ornaments daily.
   • Evening Aarti: The temple resonates with bhajans and prayers.
2. Navratri Festival:
   • The most significant festival celebrated with grandeur.
   • Thousands of devotees visit the temple during Navratri.
   • The temple premises are illuminated, and special pujas, kirtans, and bhajans are performed.
3. Havan and Yagya:
   • Special havan (fire rituals) are performed during Navratri and other holy days.
4. Special Offerings:
   • Devotees offer red chunni, coconut, sweets, and bangles.
   • Prasad is distributed among pilgrims.

Nearby Attractions

1. Chandigarh Rock Garden:
   • Located 7 km from the temple.
   • Known for its unique sculptures and artistic creations.
2. Sukhna Lake:
   • Located 6 km from the temple.
   • A scenic lake ideal for boating and relaxation.
3. Chattbir Zoo:
   • Located 18 km from the temple.
   • Known for its wildlife and safari rides.
4. Nada Sahib Gurudwara:
   • Located 9 km from the temple.
   • A significant Sikh pilgrimage site on the banks of the Ghaggar river.
5. Pinjore Gardens:
   • Located 15 km from the temple.
   • Famous for its Mughal-style gardens and fountains.

🌿 Travel Tips

• Wear modest attire while visiting the temple.
• Head covering is mandatory for entering the sanctum.
  ✔️ Crowd Management:
• Expect large crowds during Navratri.
  ✔️ Food and Water:
• Prasad and langar are offered to devotees.
  ✔️ Accommodation:
• Hotels and guesthouses are available in Chandigarh and Panchkula.
  ✔️ Local Transport:
• Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses are easily available.

The Mata Mansa Devi Temple in Punjab (now Haryana) is a sacred pilgrimage site that offers divine blessings, spiritual peace, and cultural significance. Its mythological importance, grand Navratri celebrations, and serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for devotees and travelers.