Maya Devi Temple Haridwar

Instituted in the 11th century, Haridwar’s popular Maya Devi Temple is one of the oldest temples in India. The temple is devoted to the Hindu goddess Maya and holds the distinction of being one of the three shaktipeeths. It is also believed that the heart and navel of Goddess Sati are enshrined here. Considered to be a form of Adi Shakti, Goddess Maya welcomes devotees in large numbers, especially during Navratra and Kumbh Mela. Additionally, many devotees believe that by offering prayers at this sacred site, one can attain salvation and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Regarded by numerous individuals as the primary deity of Haridwar, Maya Devi is an essential figure, and no pilgrimage is deemed fulfilled without seeking a glimpse of the goddess. Formerly, the city of Haridwar was even called ‘Mayapuri’, in veneration of this deity. This structure is also one of the three oldest temples of Haridwar, which is still intact, the other two being Narayana-shila and Bhairava Temple. Along with Goddess Maya, the sacred temple houses the idols of Goddess Kamakhya and Goddess Kali - regarded as the different forms of Adi Parashakti.

Apart from its religious significance, Maya Devi Temple holds ample historical importance too. Nestled on the banks of the holy Ganges, the temple has witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties while being renovated several times, over the centuries. It serves as a living testimony to the enduring spirit of faith and devotion that has been passed down through generations. Unaffected by the passage of time or environmental factors, this temple still stands strong, along with the Narayana-Shila Temple and the Bhairava Temple, belonging to its era of construction.

Devotees from far and wide come to Haridwar to visit the Maya Devi Temple. It is believed that all wishes made at this temple are fulfilled. Especially women who come to this temple with any wish, do not return empty-handed. Their wishes are always fulfilled. Maya Devi Temple is the first of the 52 Shakti Peethas, located in the heart of Haridwar city. The story of this temple is related to Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati. The center of origin of all Shakti Peethas is the Maya Devi Temple, the presiding deity of Haridwar. Goddess Sati sacrificed her body here by sitting in yogic fire.

A fine blend of traditional and modern styles, the Maya Devi Temple showcases traditional architecture - typical to northern India. Despite its modest size, the temple features stucco images that portray various postures of the Devi. Inside the main sanctum, three idols are enshrined: Maya Devi in the centre, Goddess Kali on the left, and Goddess Kamakhya on the right. Moreover, the temple houses two other goddesses, believed to be manifestations of the Goddess Shakti. A metal idol of Chamunda and a sub-shrine dedicated to Sheetala Devi, are also present. Here, devotees often embark on a parikrama (circumambulation) around the temple complex, seeking blessings from each deity and immersing themselves in the spiritual energy that permeates the surroundings.

Fruits, coconut, sweets, flowers and incense sticks are offered at Maya Devi temple.

By Air: For those arriving by air, the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located approximately 35 km from the temple.

By Train: The closest railway station to access the temple is Haridwar Railway Station, which is only 0.5 km away from this site.

By Road: Haridwar can easily be reached from Delhi, Haryana, UP, Punjab and other parts of Uttarakhand. State transport and private buses can easily be reached from Haridwar from all these places.