Saptashrungi Devi Temple, Nashik - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Saptashrungi Devi Temple

At a distance of 26 Km from Vani and 65 Km from Nashik, Saptashrungi Devi Mandir is a Hindu temple situated near Nanduri village. Perched on a cliff at an elevation of 1,230 meters, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Saptashrungi, also referred to as Mahishasura Mardini, the slayer of the demon Mahishasura. It is widely recognized as one of the 'three and a half Shakti Peethas' in Maharashtra and is part of the 51 Shakti Peethas found across the Indian subcontinent. The term 'Saptashrungi' translates to seven mountain peaks, referring to the hill range that comprises seven hills, where the Saptashrungi Goddess is revered among these peaks. It is the must-include place in the Nashik tour packages.

History & Mythology of Saptashrungi Devi Temple

The Saptashrungi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas situated on the Indian subcontinent, believed to be the site where a limb of Sati, specifically her right arm, is said to have fallen. This temple, dedicated to the goddess Saptashrungi, is recognized as one of the three and a half Shakti Peethas in Maharashtra, alongside the Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur, the Tulja Bhavani Temple, and the Renuka Mata Temple in Mahur. Collectively, these four temples symbolize the four components of Omkara: A, U, M, and Bindu.

According to another legend, the powerful goddess assumed the form of Devi Durga to vanquish the demon Mahishasura, known as the buffalo demon, at Saptashrungi. After defeating Mahishasura, Devi Saptashrungi Nivasini is said to have made her abode in Saptashrungi. To commemorate this event, a large statue of a buffalo's head is positioned at the temple entrance, and the temple's front yard features a Trishul adorned with bells and lamps.

Architecture of Saptashrungi Devi Temple

Saptashrungi Temple is a two-storey temple built in front of a natural cave that serves as its sanctum. The cave is located on the upper level of the temple. The idol of the goddess is believed to be swayambhu (self-manifested), having been carved from a rock on the steep face of a mountain within the cave. She is encircled by seven peaks (sapta in Sanskrit), which is reflected in the name Saptashrungi Mata (Mother of the Seven Peaks). The statue of the Devi is approximately 10 feet tall and features 18 arms, each holding various weapons such as the Trishul and Sudarshan Chakra. The idol is consistently adorned with Sindoor, a substance regarded as auspicious in this region. The Devi is embellished with an ornate crown, a silver nose ring, and multiple necklaces. Additionally, there are 108 water bodies located in the vicinity of the temple.

Festivals of Saptashrungi Devi Temple

The most important festival of the Saptashrungi Temple is Chaitrotsav. The festival starts on Rama Navami and culminates on Chaitra Poornima (full moon day), the biggest day of the festival. The festival is also attended specifically by childless women making vows seeking blessings of goddess for children. About 250,000 attend the festival on the final day and as many as 1 million gather on the last three days of the nine-day festival. Dussehra and Navratri are also celebrated with great pomp and fervor at this temple.

Saptashrungi Devi Temple Dress Code & Other Restrictions

When planning a visit to the Saptashrungi Temple, it is recommended to adhere to modest clothing that covers your upper arms and legs as a sign of respect. Men are encouraged to wear a dhoti or pajama paired with an upper garment, as well as formal trousers and shirts. Women may opt for a saree, half saree, or chudidhars. It is advisable to refrain from wearing contemporary attire such as mini-skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops while on the temple grounds.

Non-Hindus are welcome to explore the temple complex and appreciate its architectural beauty; however, access to the sanctum sanctorum may be restricted.

Saptashrungi Devi Temple Timings

Monday: 6 AM - 9 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM - 9 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM - 9 PM
Thursday: 6 AM - 9 PM
Friday: 6 AM - 9 PM
Saturday: 6 AM - 9 PM
Sunday: 6 AM - 9 PM

Saptashrungi Devi Temple Entry Fee

General Entry is Free
Special Darshan available for Rs. 100
Ropeway Cost Rs. 90 for Adults & Rs. 45 for Children (Round Trip)

Best Time to Visit Saptashrungi Devi Temple

The ideal period to explore Saptashrungi Temple is between October and March, when the climate is exceptionally enjoyable and the area's natural beauty is at its peak. During the monsoon season, the region experiences significant rainfall, making the hilly terrain surrounding the Saptashrungi shrine especially susceptible to landslides. Visitors should exercise caution during this time. Additionally, summer is not advisable for a visit due to the hot and humid conditions prevalent in the region.

How to Reach Saptashrungi Devi Temple

Mumbai Airport is the nearest airport which is about 230 Km from Saptashrungi. About 72 Km away from Saptashrungi, Nashik Road Railway Station is the nearest railhead that is well connected by train with all major towns and cities in India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. The Maharashtra State Transport Corporation (MSTC) runs regular bus service to the temple, which in effect also gives access to the Saptashrungi hills from Nashik. To reach the top of the temple, one needs to take 510 steps or a ropeway which takes around 2 minutes.