Mansa Devi Temple
Located in Panchkula district of Haryana, just 8 km from Chandigarh, Mata Mansa Devi Temple is nestled amidst the picturesque Shivalik foothills. This revered shrine is one of the most prominent Shakti Peethas in North India, attracting millions of devotees each year.
Mythological Story & Religious Significance
Mansa Devi, meaning “Goddess who fulfills wishes,” is a form of Shakti and is deeply revered by devotees across North India.
đź“ś Mythological Background:
- As per legend, Mansa Devi emerged from the mind (manas) of Lord Shiva to destroy demons and protect sages.
- She is believed to be a sister of Naga (serpent) deities and is often associated with cures for snake bites and protection from venomous creatures.
- Devotees believe that if they tie a sacred thread to the branches of the holy tree in the temple complex and pray sincerely, their wishes are fulfilled.
The temple is one of the major Shakti Peethas in Northern India and attracts lakhs of pilgrims during Navratri.
History & Development of the Temple
- The main temple complex was constructed by Maharaja Gopal Singh of Mani Majra (a small princely state) between 1811–1815.
- The architecture follows the Nagara style, with intricate floral motifs, mythological figures, and elegant domes.
- The complex has two main temples: one built by Maharaja Gopal Singh and the other by the Maharaja of Patiala.
- Managed today by the Shri Mata Mansa Devi Shrine Board, the site has undergone significant development to accommodate pilgrims, including infrastructure upgrades, paved paths, lighting, and accommodation.
Natural Beauty Surrounding the Temple
- Located in the Shivalik foothills of the Himalayas, the temple offers panoramic views of the plains and hills.
- The temple complex is surrounded by lush gardens, flowering trees, and sacred groves, giving it a tranquil and divine ambiance.
- The Sivalik Hills add a backdrop of serenity and natural charm, especially during monsoons and spring.
Beauty of the Road Journey
- The road journey to Mansa Devi Temple is calming and picturesque.
- As you leave the bustling Panchkula or Chandigarh behind, the landscape becomes greener with scenic stretches of forests, mustard fields (in winters), and hills.
- Devotional music playing in vehicles and shops on the roadside selling garlands, prasad, and incense add a vibrant religious charm to the drive.
Best Time to Visit
Season | Highlights |
February – April | Spring season; flowers bloom, pleasant weather |
September – November | Post-monsoon clarity; excellent visibility and cool evenings |
Avoid May – July | Scorching summer heat; daytime temperatures can exceed 42°C |
Monsoon (July–August) | Green surroundings but slippery paths; avoid during heavy rain |
🔆 Navratri (March–April & September–October) is the most celebrated time. The temple is beautifully decorated, and the energy is divine, though it can be very crowded.
Season | Highlights |
February – April | Spring season; flowers bloom, pleasant weather |
September – November | Post-monsoon clarity; excellent visibility and cool evenings |
Avoid May – July | Scorching summer heat; daytime temperatures can exceed 42°C |
Monsoon (July–August) | Green surroundings but slippery paths; avoid during heavy rain |
🔆 Navratri (March–April & September–October) is the most celebrated time. The temple is beautifully decorated, and the energy is divine, though it can be very crowded.
How to Reach Mansa Devi Temple
Mode | Details |
By Air | Nearest airport: Chandigarh Airport (12 km), well-connected to major Indian cities |
By Train | Nearest railhead: Chandigarh Railway Station (6 km) or Panchkula Station (3 km) |
By Road | Located on Mansa Devi Road in Panchkula; accessible via auto, taxi, bus from Chandigarh and Panchkula |
Free and paid parking is available near the base. Electric rickshaws also ferry devotees to the temple.
Mode | Details |
By Air | Nearest airport: Chandigarh Airport (12 km), well-connected to major Indian cities |
By Train | Nearest railhead: Chandigarh Railway Station (6 km) or Panchkula Station (3 km) |
By Road | Located on Mansa Devi Road in Panchkula; accessible via auto, taxi, bus from Chandigarh and Panchkula |
Free and paid parking is available near the base. Electric rickshaws also ferry devotees to the temple.
Accommodation Options
Category | Options |
Budget | Yatri Niwas, Shrine Board Dormitories & Rooms near temple (bookable online) |
Mid-range | Hotels in Panchkula like Hotel KC Residency, Hotel Solitaire |
Luxury | Hyatt Regency Chandigarh, The Lalit Chandigarh (approx. 20–30 minutes away) |
🛏️ Book accommodation through the official Shri Mata Mansa Devi Shrine Board website or at the temple office.
Category | Options |
Budget | Yatri Niwas, Shrine Board Dormitories & Rooms near temple (bookable online) |
Mid-range | Hotels in Panchkula like Hotel KC Residency, Hotel Solitaire |
Luxury | Hyatt Regency Chandigarh, The Lalit Chandigarh (approx. 20–30 minutes away) |
🛏️ Book accommodation through the official Shri Mata Mansa Devi Shrine Board website or at the temple office.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Place | Distance | Attractions |
Chandigarh Rock Garden | 10 km | Sculptures from industrial waste |
Sukhna Lake | 12 km | Boating, morning walks, cafes |
Pinjore Gardens | 15 km | Mughal-style terraced gardens |
Morni Hills | 35 km | Scenic hill station, trekking, birdwatching |
Nada Sahib Gurudwara | 10 km | Sacred Sikh shrine on riverbank |
Place | Distance | Attractions |
Chandigarh Rock Garden | 10 km | Sculptures from industrial waste |
Sukhna Lake | 12 km | Boating, morning walks, cafes |
Pinjore Gardens | 15 km | Mughal-style terraced gardens |
Morni Hills | 35 km | Scenic hill station, trekking, birdwatching |
Nada Sahib Gurudwara | 10 km | Sacred Sikh shrine on riverbank |
Other Travel Tips
- Carry water bottles, caps/hats (during summer), and comfortable walking shoes.
- Avoid visiting during peak noon in summer.
- Expect large crowds during Navratri and weekends—early morning or late evening visits are peaceful.
- Photography is restricted in some areas—respect temple rules.