Sateri Devi Jal Mandir, Malvan / Sindhudurg - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 12 Km from Malvan, Sri Sateri Devi Mandir is a Hindu temple located at Bilwas village near Malvan, Maharashtra. It is one of the must-include places in the Malvan pilgrimage packages.

Dating back to the 12th century, the ancient Sri Sateri Temple located in Malvan is dedicated to Goddess Sateri, the village deity revered by the twelve nearby villages. Also referred to as Jal Mandir, this distinctive temple is notable for being surrounded by water, which creates a captivating atmosphere for visitors. The water temple of Shri Sateri Devi was constructed approximately seven hundred years ago! It is believed that a devotee from a Jain family was responsible for its establishment. Since Sateri Devi is associated with serpents, large water towers are present in the temples dedicated to her throughout Konkan. The goddess is said to reside within that water tower.

The ancient Sri Sateri Temple is a concealed treasure rich in history and mythology. According to legend, the temple was built on top of an anthill that inexplicably exuded a blood-like substance, leading to stories of divine intervention. Cows and buffaloes were watered in the pond that encircles the temple. One day, blood began to flow from the pond. At that moment, the goddess appeared in a villager's dream and instructed, 'My residence is in this pond. Since I am being disturbed by the animals, construct a temple for me on this pond!' Following the goddess's 'command', the villagers erected a temple at that location.

The architecture of the temple, which reflects the local Konkani style, features intricate details and conveys a sense of historical importance. This east-facing temple is bordered by water on three sides. It includes a large pavilion that serves as the entrance to the temple. In earlier times, when there was no idol present, a tall varula was worshipped in the temple. It was believed that the goddess resided in the varula in the form of a shesha. Some devotees even claim to have witnessed the goddess manifesting as a shesha. To the right of the temple lies a well-like tank, which contains a statue of Lord Shiva at its base. It is said that the water in this tank never runs dry.

The festival held in the month of Ashadh is the most significant celebration of this temple. Devotees from distant places come to witness the goddess during this time. The temple's remote location within the village adds to its charm, surrounded by a vast forest where the sounds of nature create a soothing backdrop for exploration.

Timings: 7 AM - 7 PM

Entry: Free