10 Devi Mata Temples to Visit During Navratri

Navratri, the nine nights of devotion to Goddess Durga, is a sacred time to invoke the divine feminine energy or Shakti. Visiting Devi temples during Navratri is believed to magnify blessings and spiritual merit. Here are 10 powerful Devi Mata temples in India that are highly recommended to visit during Navratri.

1. Vaishno Devi Temple – Jammu and Kashmir

One of the most visited Shakti Peethas

Nestled in the Trikuta hills of Jammu, Vaishno Devi is a manifestation of Maa Durga. During Navratri, the temple sees an enormous influx of pilgrims, and the atmosphere is charged with divine energy.

• Specialty: Natural rock formations (Pindis) of the Goddess

• Best Time: All 9 days of Navratri

2. Kamakhya Temple – Assam

Tantric Power Centre of the Divine Feminine

Located in Guwahati, the Kamakhya temple is one of the most powerful Shakti Peethas, associated with tantra sadhana. Devotees seek mystical blessings during Ashwin and Chaitra Navratri.

• Specialty: Worships the yoni (creative power) of Devi

• Unique Rituals: Secret tantric rituals during Gupt Navratri

3. Ambaji Temple – Gujarat

One of the 51 Shakti Peethas

Ambaji is a revered shrine in Gujarat. During Navratri, it becomes a hub of Garba and devotional celebrations.

• Specialty: No idol in the sanctum; worshipped as a Yantra

• Highlight: Millions participate in the annual Ambaji fair

4. Chamundeshwari Temple – Karnataka

Maa Durga as the Slayer of Mahishasura

Located atop the Chamundi Hills in Mysore, this temple celebrates the triumph of Devi over the demon Mahishasura.

• Specialty: Stunning panoramic view and ancient idol of Chamundeshwari

• Navratri Highlight: Mysore Dasara is world-famous

5. Mansa Devi Temple – Haridwar, Uttarakhand

The Wish-Fulfilling Goddess

Situated on the Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, Mansa Devi is worshipped for granting boons and protection.

• Specialty: Devotees tie sacred threads for wishes

• Ideal Visit: During Saptami and Ashtami of Navratri

6. Jwala Devi Temple – Himachal Pradesh

The Eternal Flame of the Goddess

This temple near Kangra is known for natural eternal flames that emerge from rock crevices, considered the presence of the goddess.

• Specialty: No idol—worship is through the flame

• Navratri Highlight: Flame pujas and hymns resound in the valley

7. Kalighat Temple – Kolkata, West Bengal

Fierce Form of Maa Kali

One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, Kalighat is a revered temple where Goddess Kali is worshipped in her fiery form.

• Specialty: Navratri ends with grand Durga Puja celebrations

• Best Visit: Maha Ashtami and Navami

8. Naina Devi Temple – Himachal Pradesh

Eyes of the Goddess

Located in Bilaspur district, this temple marks the spot where the eyes of Goddess Sati fell, according to mythology.

• Specialty: Hilltop temple with scenic beauty

• Navratri Rituals: Continuous chanting and lamps

9. Meenakshi Amman Temple – Tamil Nadu

Dravidian Devotion to the Divine Mother

This temple in Madurai is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, a form of Parvati. It is known for its architectural grandeur and deeply rooted Shakta worship traditions.

• Specialty: Unique southern celebration of Navratri

• Highlights: Daily decorated chariots and cultural programs

10. Chintpurni Devi Temple – Himachal Pradesh

Remover of Worries (Chinta)

This Shakti Peetha in Una district is believed to fulfill devotees' heartfelt desires and remove mental distress.

• Specialty: 'Chinta' is offered symbolically to the goddess

• Best Time: Mahanavami during Navratri

Conclusion

Navratri is a powerful period to connect with the Shakti (feminine divine energy) in her various forms. These ten Devi temples, spread across India, hold immense spiritual significance and energy. Whether for devotion, healing, or transformation, visiting these temples during Navratri can be a life-enriching spiritual experience.

May the Goddess bless your path with strength, devotion, and inner peace. 🙏