Shri Mankameshwar Temple, Lucknow

Shri Mankameshwar Temple is one of the major religious sites of Lucknow, located on the banks of the Gomti River in Daliganj. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The atmosphere here is filled with devotion and peace. It is believed that this temple fulfills the wishes of devotees, which is why it is named “Mankameshwar”, meaning the God who fulfills desires. During the month of Sawan and on the occasion of Mahashivratri, this temple witnesses a very large crowd of devotees. It holds a special place in the religious, cultural, and historical heritage of Lucknow.

The history of Shri Mankameshwar Temple, located on the banks of the Gomti River, is considered to be very ancient. According to belief, when Lord Rama sent Goddess Sita into exile, Lakshman was deeply saddened. While returning to Ayodhya, he spent the night near the Gomti River and worshipped Lord Shiva the next morning. This worship gave him spiritual peace. It is believed that Lord Shiva was established at that very spot, and later, this temple was built there. Hence, the temple came to be known as “Mankameshwar”—the one who fulfills heartfelt desires. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is regarded as a highly sacred and spiritually potent place. Devotees visit this temple to express their wishes with the faith that Lord Shiva listens to every sincere prayer. One unique aspect of this temple is that it is led by a female Mahant (chief priest). The current Mahant, Devyagiri Ji, took charge in 2008 at just 28 years of age. She is known as the first woman Mahant of Uttar Pradesh and the only female Mahant in Lucknow. Under her leadership, temple administration, religious activities, and service works are conducted with great devotion.

The architecture of the temple follows the traditional Indian temple style. The sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) houses a Shiva Lingam, to which devotees offer water, bel leaves, milk, and dhatura. The temple’s shikhara (tower) is beautifully carved, and the outer walls feature religious artwork and statues of various deities. The temple complex also includes a small garden and a meditation area where devotees can sit peacefully for chanting and meditation. The temple regularly hosts religious programs, bhajans, kirtans, and grand aartis. The positive energy and spiritual atmosphere bring a sense of inner peace to devotees. The structure of the temple allows ample natural light and ventilation, keeping the premises cool even during summer.

The temple remains open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The morning begins with Mangla Aarti, and a special aarti is held in the evening, attended by many devotees. During Sawan and Mahashivratri, timings are extended to accommodate the large number of visitors. The temple is decorated beautifully during festivals, and night-long devotional events like bhajan sandhya and jagran are also organized.

The main prasad offered at the temple includes: Dry fruits

Mishri (rock sugar)

Coconut

Panchmeva

Bel leaves

This prasad is considered very sacred and auspicious. Devotees take it home and share it with family. On Mahashivratri and Sawan Mondays, special bhog is offered to Lord Shiva, including: Kheer

Fruits

Panchamrit

Sweets

Devotees perform special rituals and offer prasad to Lord Shiva for the fulfillment of their wishes. It is believed that the prasad brings blessings of prosperity, health, and mental peace.

The temple is located in Daliganj, along the Gomti River, and is well-connected to all major parts of Lucknow. By Train: Lucknow’s main railway station (Charbagh) is about 7–8 km from the temple. Autos, taxis, and local buses are easily available. Lucknow is well-connected by rail to all major cities. By Bus: Alambagh Bus Station or Kaiserbagh Bus Stand is around 6–7 km from the temple. You can reach the temple by auto, e-rickshaw, or local bus. By Air: Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport is about 15 km from the temple. Taxis, Ola/Uber, or private cabs make the journey convenient. Flights from all major cities operate regularly here.

Shri Mankameshwar Temple is a divine place where devotees find both the fulfillment of wishes and inner peace. The temple attracts visitors not only for its religious significance but also for its rich history, architecture, and serene atmosphere. Anyone visiting Lucknow must include this holy temple in their itinerary. Devotees return from here with blessings, positivity, and a deep sense of spiritual satisfaction.