India is home to numerous temples that embody centuries of faith and devotion. Among them, several are dedicated to Goddess Durga and attract millions of devotees every year. With Navratri just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to visit these Goddess Durga temples in India. Each temple has its own traditions and charm that ensures an unforgettable spiritual experience to the devotees. Read on to know some of these Goddess Durga temples.
8 Temples In India That Worship Different Forms Of Goddess Durga
For all the devotees, here we have prepared a list of eight famous temples in India where Maa Durga is worshipped in different forms, and you can visit them at any time of the year.
1. Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu & Kashmir
Situated in the Trikuta Mountains, the Vaishno Devi Temple attracts millions of devotees every year. To worship Goddess Durga, devotees undertake a 12-kilometre trek from Katra to reach the holy cave. Throughout the journey, chants of ‘Jai Mata Di’ fill the air. This temple not only offers a spiritually enriching experience but also mesmerises devotees with scenic surroundings and energy that leaves a lasting impression.
2. Chamundeshwari Temple, Karnataka
Perched on top of Chamundi Hills in Mysuru, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the form of Durga who defeated the demon Mahishasura. The temple is over 1,000 years old and is a major landmark of the city. Many devotees climb 1,000 steps to reach the shrine, while others prefer to drive up. The tall entrance tower, detailed carvings, and the huge statue of Nandi on the way make the visit even more special. During Mysuru’s famous Dasara festival, the temple becomes even more crowded but the festive energy is truly palpable.
3. Karni Mata Temple, Rajasthan
Karni Mata temple in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is different from other Goddess Durga temples in India. At this temple, thousands of rats are worshipped as sacred beings. These rats are believed to be an incarnation of Karni Mata’s followers. Unlike elsewhere, where people get scared of rats or try to catch them, at this temple, they roam freely and are fed well. It is also believed that if you catch sight of a white rat among the rats, your wishes will come true. This temple carries an air of mystery, making it one of the most fascinating places in India.
4. Jwala Devi Temple, Himachal Pradesh
Jwala Devi Temple in Himachal Pradesh is located in the Kangra Valley. This place is considered sacred because of the eternal flames that burn continuously without any fuel. The unique aspect of this temple is that instead of an idol, the goddess is worshipped in the form of natural flames. Many Hindus believe that these eternal flames symbolise the goddess’s divine power. Devotees from all around the world visit this temple to witness this miraculous sight.
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5. Mahalakshmi Temple, Maharashtra
In Maharashtra’s Kolhapur, the Mahalakshmi Temple, also known as Ambabai Temple, is dedicated to Goddess Durga’s Mahalakshmi form. The Mahalakshmi Temple, also known as Ambabai Temple, is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi. Goddess Mahalakshmi is an incarnation of Goddess Durga. This temple was built centuries ago and is admired for its beautiful stone carvings and detailed architecture. Thousands of devotees visit this temple every year, especially during Navratri, when the temple is decked to the nines with flowers and lights.
6. Kamakhya Temple, Assam
Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati is one of the most powerful Shakti Peethas in India. At this temple, Goddess Durga is worshipped as Kamakhya Devi, who represents feminine power and fertility. This temple is sacred and unique because it annually celebrates the menstruation cycle of the goddess. Offering one of the mesmerising experiences, this temple is surrounded by hills, making it one of the most visited Goddess Durga temples in India.
7. Kalighat Temple, West Bengal
One of the most important Shakti Peethas in India is the Kalighat Temple in West Bengal. This place is believed to be the exact spot where Sati’s right toe fell, making it a deeply sacred site for devotees of Goddess Kali. This temple is vibrant all year round, filled with chants, offerings, and long queues of worshippers. The goddess in this temple is in the form of a striking black idol with a long tongue in gold hue.
8. Dakshineswar Kali Temple, West Bengal
Located on the banks of the Hooghly River in Kolkata, the Dakshineswar Temple was built in 1855. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, a fierce form of Durga. This temple is famous for its beautiful nine-spired structure and peaceful riverfront atmosphere. It is also associated with saint Ramakrishna Paramhansa, who spent much of his life there. Every year, devotees not only visit this temple to worship but also to admire its stunning architecture. This temple is also one of the famous landmarks of Kolkata.
Have you visited any of these Goddess Durga temples in India? Let us know your experience in the comment section!
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