Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Mansa Devi Temple is a famous religious pilgrimage site located in Haridwar of Uttarakhand state. This holy temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, which is dedicated to Ma Mansa Devi. Mansa Devi is considered as a form of power, who is said also to be the sister of Vasuki Nag. Mansa Devi Kashyap was the daughter of the sage, which was manifested from his mind, therefore they are called Mansa. It is believed that both the Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi are two forms of Goddess Parvati, who live close to each other. It is also believed that Mansa Goddess is a power emerged from Lord Shiva's mind. The word 'Mansa' literally means "desire". According to the name, Mansa Ma fulfils the wishes of her devotees. The devotee to fulfil her wishes situated in the temple courtyard, on the branch of the tree, binds a sacred thread. When the wishes of the devotees are fulfilled then devotees come back and open the same thread from the branch. This custom shows immense shraddha, devotion and fidelity towards Ma Mansa. In this temple, there are two statues of Ma Mansa, an idol "eight-arm" and the second idol has "three heads" and "five-arm". With "Chandi Devi" and "Maya Devi" of Haridwar, "Mansa Devi" is also considered as the major in the Siddha Peethas. This temple of Mansa Devi is one of the main religious destinations of Haridwar.
How To Reach Mansa Devi Temple
By Air
The nearest airport to Haridwar is Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun, which is about 38 km from Haridwar.
By Rail
The nearest railway station of Haridwar is Haridwar, which comes under to the Northern Railway Zone of Indian Railways.
By Road
Mansa Devi Temple is located on the Bilwa Parvat. To reach the temple is about 3 km trek from the road. The temple can also be reached through the Ropeway (Udankhatola).
Best Time To Visit
The journey of Mansa Devi Temple can be done throughout the year, but the best time to visit here is between the months of October to March. Travelling here in these months is the best and enjoyable. During the winter season, the weather of here is cold. Due to cold in the winter season, the temperature of here goes down very much. Due to heavy rains in the rainy season, it is a bit difficult to travel of here because of rains.
