Chandi Devi Temple

The Chandi Devi Temple is the choicest of the must visit places in Haridwar. The presiding deity, Goddess Chandi, is believed to fulfill all the wishes of her true devotee and this brings thousands of people everyday to the sacred temple.

This temple in Haridwar is believed to have been enshrined first by Adi Shankaracharya around the 8th century. Situated on a hill top, the temple can be accessed by cable car in five minutes or one may opt to walk up the steep hill slope in around 45 minutes.

According to Indian mythology, when the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha had thrown out Gods from the heaven, Goddess Chandi was created by bestowing all the powers to save the Gods. After slaying the demons, Goddess Chandi is said to have rested on this hill of Haridwar. Interestingly enough, two nearby hills to the Haridwar Chandi Devi Temple are known as Shumbha and Nishumbha after the demons.

The Chandi Devi Temple of Haridwar is open all through the year from 6.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. Festivals like Chandi Chaudas Fair and Navratri Festival witnesses mass congregation of devotees in the renowned temple. Non-vegetarian food and alcohol are not allowed within the temple. Leather accessories are also prohibited including leather purses, jackets, shoes and belts. The foothills of the Chandi Temple can easily be reached by buses, cars, tempos and auto rickshaws from any part of Haridwar and there are numerous hotels in Haridwar.

Last Updated on 7/29/2011