Sheetla Mata Temple, Mainpuri

The temple of Mata Sheetla Devi is considered a symbol of faith and devotion. It is believed that devotees who pray here with a true heart have their wishes fulfilled. During Navratri and other auspicious occasions, a huge crowd of devotees gathers to receive the blessings of the Goddess. If you want complete information about this temple and also plan to visit it, read the article till the end to learn everything about the temple.

Sheetla Mata Temple is a famous religious site located on the northern edge of Mainpuri district in Uttar Pradesh. According to available information, the temple is around 542 years old, and the faith associated with it is deeply rooted in the hearts of the people. Devotees firmly believe that worshipping Mata Sheetla with pure devotion fulfills their wishes. The temple is especially known for providing relief from diseases, particularly skin ailments and infections. Every year, large numbers of devotees visit during Chaitra and Shardiya Navratri. During Chaitra Navratri, the Shri Devi Fair and Village Development Exhibition are also organized, in which people from nearby villages and districts participate. On this occasion, the temple is beautifully decorated, and various bhajan-kirtan programs, tableaux, and cultural events are organized. The Sheetla Mata Temple stands as a symbol of peace, devotion, and faith.

The Sheetla Mata Temple is not only a center of devotion but also a place with a rich and inspiring history. The royal lineage of Mainpuri began in 1173 CE with Maharaja Devbrahm. The 11th king of this lineage, Maharaja Jagatman Devju, ascended the throne of Mainpuri in 1478 CE. He was a devoted follower of Maa Kada Devi Shaktipeeth (Kada Manikpur). During Chaitra Navratri, when the king visited Kada for the Goddess’s darshan, Maa Adya Shakti appeared in his dream, expressing satisfaction with his devotion and ordering him to install her idol in Mainpuri. Obeying the divine command, the king returned to Mainpuri and decided to construct a grand temple on the Mainpuri–Kurawali road. The beautifully crafted idol he installed there reflects the exceptional art, sculpture, architecture, and devotion of that era. In the 16th century, when severe diseases like smallpox and measles spread across the region, people began worshipping Maa Sheetla. It is believed that by her grace, the outbreak subsided. Since these diseases caused extreme body heat, Maa Adya Shakti came to be revered as Sheetla (the one who cools). This is how the temple came to be known as Sheetla Mata Temple. Another interesting historical incident occurred around 80 years ago, when the valuable idol of the Goddess was stolen. It is said that the thieves could not bear the divine energy of the idol and abandoned it under a banyan tree near the Devi Gate. Later, devotees found the idol and reinstated it in the temple. The tradition of offering Neja (a type of sacred spear) at the temple has also been followed for many years.

The temple showcases a blend of Rajasthani and North Indian architectural styles. The entrance gate is adorned with intricate carvings and artistic patterns that add a royal touch and captivate visitors. Inside the sanctum sanctorum sits the idol of Maa Sheetla, beautifully decorated with flowers, garlands, and offerings from the devotees.

The temple remains open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM for devotees. On festivals and special occasions, the timings may be extended as required. During Navratri and other major festivals, the temple remains open 24 hours a day, while on regular days, it is open from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM. Timing adjustments may be made during special rituals or religious events.

Devotees are offered sacred prasad dedicated to Maa Sheetla, usually items that provide coolness and freshness. Prasad mainly includes cold food items, fruits, sweets, and water.

Here is detailed information on reaching the temple by train, bus, or air: By Train: The nearest railway station is Mainpuri Junction, located about 5 km from the temple. It is situated on the Shikohabad–Farrukhabad branch line and is well connected to major cities like Kanpur, Etawah, Agra, and Shikohabad.

By Bus: The main bus stand of Mainpuri is well connected through UPSRTC and private buses from cities like Agra, Etah, Etawah, Farrukhabad, Mathura, and Lucknow. The temple is around 2 km from the Mainpuri city headquarters. Auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws are easily available to reach the temple.

By Air: The nearest airport is Kheria Airport, Agra, located about 130 km from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi, cab, or private vehicle to reach Mainpuri. Another option is Lucknow International Airport, though it is farther (about 230 km away). Using all these routes, you can easily reach the divine and sacred Sheetla Mata Temple.