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Siddhatek Ganpati Temple – Ashtavinayak Guide – Timings, Poojas, and Significance

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Siddhatek Ganpati Temple – Being one of the Ashtavinayaka temples in Maharashtra, the Siddhatek Ganpati temple is dedicated to the Hindu God, Lord Ganesha. It is present in the Ahmednagar district and is close to the Daund railway station. It is a sacred tourist destination for pilgrims all around the world.

Planning to visit this temple? Have a look at our Ashtavinayak Yatra Tour Packages.

Siddhatek Ganpati Temple – Facts

Deity Lord Ganesha
Location Ahmednagar in Maharashtra
Significance Right-Trunked Lord Ganesh idol
Best Time to Visit July to November
Darshan Timings 4:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Entry Fees Free
Vehicle Parking Fees Free
Dress Code Traditional
Festivals Ganesh Chaturthi, Bhadrapad and Magh Chaturthi
FairsVijayadashami and Somavati Amavasya
Architecture Hindu temple style

On giving appropriate donations temple trust or poojari performs Abhishek, Pooja and Sahastravartan. Prasad and holy ashes are sent by post.

What are the timings of Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

Here are the timings of Siddhatek Ganapati mandir:

Timings From To
Regular Temple Timings 5 AM 9:30 PM
Morning Aarti 4:30 AM
Dhoop Aarti Timing 9 PM

Which Poojas and Rituals take place at Siddhatek Ganpati?

The poojas and rituals that take place at Siddhatek Ganapati are:

Timings From
Saharan Pooja 5:00 AM
Khichdi 10 AM
Panchamriti Pooja 11 AM
Mahabhog 12:30 PM

Rules for performing pooja of Siddhivinayak are observed very strictly as such devotees are not allowed to do pooja personally.

Idol of Lord Ganesh at Siddhatek Ganpati Temple
The divine idol of Lord Ganesh in the sanctum of Siddhatek Ganpati Temple.

What is the significance of Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

Siddhatek Ganpati is along the river Bhima and is in Karjat taluka of Ahmednagar. The Ganesha idol here has his trunk to the right side and is named as Siddhi Vinayaka. Usually, the trunk is towards left and the right trunked Ganesha is very powerful and hard to please.

  • Siddhatek Ganpati Mandir is also famous as Jagrut Kshetra.
  • The Siddhatek Ganpati Mandir consists of black stones faces the north direction.
  • The Garbhagriha or the sanctum is 15ft in height and 10 ft in width. It has Jaya-Vijaya, the gatekeepers of Vishnu’s abode adjoining the main idol of Siddhivinayaka.
  • The Siddhatek Ganpati Mandir has a dome-shaped ceiling and the deity and the Ganesha image is self-existent. This is a natural icon in the form of an elephant.
  • The sanctum also has a Shiva – Panchayatana along with a shrine dedicated to Goddess Shivai.
  • Devotees can see the icon seated cross-legged with his consort siddhi located nearby. The Almighty remains covered with flower garlands and sindoor paste.

What is the history of Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

The history of Siddhatek Ganapati says that Lord Vishnu built the auspicious shrine. It was later destroyed over time and a cowherd had a vision of this temple who ultimately found the icon of Siddhi Vinayaka. From then on, the cowherd began worshipping the deity and this shrine became popular.

Sardar Haripant Phadke was the commander in chief and an official of the Peshwa rulers. He built the Nagarkhana or the chamber which is the home to Nagaras and a paved road leading to the main door of the temple. Moreover, he worshipped the deity for 21 days and circled the temple 21 times daily.

Ahilyabai Holkar, the Philosopher Queen of Indore built the Siddhatek Ganpati temple in its present form. The Ganapatya, a particular Sect of people that worships Ganesha as the Supreme Almighty, Saint Morya Gosavi, and Narayan Maharaj worshipped at the temple where they attained siddhi.

As such Siddhatek is holy place where God Vishnu, Sage Vyas and Bhrushundi, hermit Morya Gosavi and Narayan Maharaj had attained siddhi.

What are the legends of Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

As per the legends, the ‘Mudgala Purana’ describes the events relating to the beginning of the Creation. Lord Brahma emerged from the lotus that rises from Lord Vishnu’s navel. While creating the universe, Vishnu was in his yoga Nidra and two demons rise from the dirt in his ear.

Then the demons, namely, Madhu and Kaitabha disturbed the process of creation which made Lord Vishnu rise from his sleep. But, Vishnu was unable to defeat them and asked Lord Shiva for help. So, Shiva told him that he has forgotten to invoke Lord Ganesha before the fight.

Consecutively, Vishnu performed penance at Siddhatek and invoked the God of beginning and obstacle removal. Ganesha defeated all the demons, and it is in this place that Vishnu acquired Siddhi. Hence the place became famous as Siddhatek.

What is the Architecture of Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

Architecture of Siddhatek Ganpati temple
The Hindu Style architecture of Siddhatek Ganpati Temple.

The temple is developed in dark stone which faces north. The temple has a sabha-mandapa of dark stone and another sabha-mandapa, which is a later expansion. The threshold of the primary temple has a little demonic head mold. The temple likewise has a Nagarkhana.

The Garbhagriha (sanctum) is 15 ft high and 10 ft wide. It has the Jaya-Vijaya – the guards of Vishnu’s home, flanking the focal symbol of Siddhivinayaka. It has a vault formed a stone roof. Like all Ashtavinayaka places of worship, the focal Ganesha idol is accepted to be Swayambu.

The focal icon of Siddhi-Vinayaka is seated cross-legged with his associate Siddhi situated close-by, however regularly she is covered up with blossom laurels and the sindoor paste that covers the image. The idol is sheathed in metal and with its trunk turned to the right. The sanctum likewise has a Shiva-Panchayatana and a place of worship to goddess Shivai.

Which festivals are celebrated at Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

Ganesh Chaturthi Festival
Ganesh Chaturthi Festival in Siddhatek Temple

There are many festivals that are observed in this temple premises, such as:

  1. Bhadrapath: Lord Ganesh’s birth celebrations known as Ganesh Chaturthi or Vinayak Chaturthi is a key festival in the state of Maharashtra. Moreover, in Pali, Lord Ballaleshwar’s birthday is a five-day festival from Bhadrapath Shudh 1 to Bhadrapath Shudh 5 (August – September)
  2. Ganesh Jayanti: Another festival that draws visitors from all across India is Ganesh Jayanti. It is another popular occasion that celebrates the birthday of Ganesha on the fourth day of the Hindu month of Magha.
  3. Fairs and Celebration: Vijayadasami and Somavati Amavasya, a no-moon day that falls on a Monday are also important days on which the temple organizes a festival and a fair.
  4. Magh: The Magh Utsav is an important festival at the Siddhatek Temple.  Here, the celebrations are held from Magh Shudh 1 to Magh Shudh 6 (January – February). During this period, devotees conduct Bhajans, Kirtans and several programs.
  5. Holi: The colorful festival of Holi is in the month of Phalgun (February/March), on Phalgun Shudh Poornima.
  6. Shravan: Janmashtami or Krishna Ashtami, Lord Krishna’s birthday is celebrated here with a Dahi Handi event during Shravan ( July- August)

How to Reach Siddhatek Ganpati Mandir?

Here’s how to reach Siddhatek Ganapati mandir:

  • Air – The nearest airport is Pune Lohegaon Airport. There are numerous numbers of taxis and buses that will take you to Siddhatek from outside the airport.
  • Train – Daund Junction Railway Station, which is 18 km away, is the nearest railway station on the Pune – Solapur line. Mumbai Hyderabad Express, Jhelum Express, Nanded Pune Express, Mumbai Nagercoil Express, Konark Express, and Udyan Express passes through Daund Junction Railway Station.
  • Road – An alternate route is the long route of 48 km from Daund-Kashti-Pedgoan. In the morning hours, many buses ply from Pune directly to Siddhtek.
  • Boat – Buses are available from Pune and Daund to a village called Shirapur, which is a kilometer away from Siddhatek. From there, one can get on a boat to reach the temple.

Where to stay near Siddhatek Ganpati Mandir?

There are budget as well as luxurious hotels available to stay during your visit to Siddhatek Ganpati.  However, for people looking to stay at Siddhatek, prior booking is a must. One can call the Siddhatek Ganpati Mandir priest, Shree Gajanan Purohit to make prior arrangements near the Siddhatek Ganpati Mandir.

 If you are a single traveler and looking to save up on your budget, then dormitories or sharing rooms are a great alternative. For people traveling with families, there are double, triple and four beds available for rent.

Irrespective of the size of your room, all modern amenities are available in the hotels. From private balconies to basic electronic gadgets and free internet, the hotel staff provides all sorts of comfort to meet the requirements of a modern-day traveler.

Siddhatek temple trust is under control of Chinchwad Temple Trust. Temple trust is constructing a building fo r the purpose of devotees.

Where to eat near Siddhatek Ganpati Mandir?

Maharastrian Cuisine
Maharastrian Cusisine can be enjoyed by devotees while visiting Siddhatek Ganpati Temple.

There are quite a few other options available for good food :

  • Free food is provided inside the temple from 12:30 pm to 2 pm.
  • In addition, the people of Siddhatek are very friendly and cordial in nature. One can try the conventional Jhunka-Bhakri meal by paying a small amount to the natives.
  • By the banks of the Bhima, on the Pune side, one can find village women preparing wholesome, tasty Maharashtrian food. For Rs 35 per meal, diners may have unlimited Bhakri which are rotis made with a choice of jowar/ bajra/ wheat flour, on stone stoves, pithala, and some vegetable dish. 

What are the other Ashtavinayak Temples?

Ashtavinayak Temple
The divine idols of Lord Ganesh from different Ashtavinayak Temples.

Here’s a list of the other Ashtavinayak Temples:

  1. Mayureshwar Temple, Morgaon: Devotees begin and end their journey at the Mayureshwar Temple. Further, the temple got its name after the legend of Mayureshwar – Lord Ganesh riding a peacock, who defeated a demon at this place.
  2. Girijatmaj Temple, Lenyadri: Goddess Parvathi performed penance at this place to have a child. Then, her prayers were answered when Lord Ganesh was born. The temple gets its name from the words Girija (Parvathi) and Atmaj (son).
  3. Ballaleshwar Temple, Pali: This temple is named after Lord Ganesh’s devotee Ballal. This is the only Ganesh Temple whose name is after a devotee.
  4. Varad Vinayak Temple, Mahad: Lord Ganesh is referred to as Varadha Vinayak, the Lord who grants boons and wishes. It is in Mahad, 146 km from the Girijatmaj
  5. Chintamani Temple, Theur: Lord Ganesh retrieved the invaluable jewel – Chintamani from a greedy demon and given it back to sage Kapila. The sage rewarded Lord Ganesh by placing around Lord Ganesh’s neck and hence was the name, Chintamani Vinayak.
  6. Vighneshwar Vinayak Temple, Ozar: Lord Indra sent Vighnasur to disturb King Abhinandan’s prayer. The troubled devotees turned to Lord Ganesh who defeated the demon at this place.
  7. Mahaganapati Temple, Ranjangaon:  Lord Shiva worshipped Lord Ganesh here before proceeding to defeat the demon Tripurasura.

The place where Sage Bhrushandi had performed penances is nearer to the temple.

What are some temples near Siddhatek Ganapati temple?

Temples near Siddhatek Ganpati Temple
Few of the more renowned and important temples near Siddhatek Ganpati Temple.

Some temples near Siddhatek Ganapati temple are:

  1. Vishal Ganpati Mandir- This temple is for Lord Ganesha. It is a 100-year-old temple. It presents a spectacular sight with a red-colored idol. The Ganesha sits posture and has a Shivalinga coiled by a snake that originates from the navel.
  2. Shani Temple- One of the unique things about this temple is that there is no idol present in the temple. Only a black stone stands on a beautiful platform. The native’s belief that this stone has extraordinary powers which protect the village from all sorts of evil.
  3. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple– Being located only at a distance of 80 km from Ahmednagar, thousands of devotees throng to this place every day. Shirdi Sai Baba was a famous saint. Moreover, people considered him as the reincarnation of God by the pilgrims. This temple is in Shirdi itself.
  4. Renuka Temple- This shrine is for Goddess Durga. It is also among few of the temples that enjoy huge adulation and respect among the local people. As it is a Devi temple, devotees celebrate the Navaratri festival here with lots of fervor.
  5. Siddheshwar Temple- This beautiful temple has both a grand architecture along with a natural atmosphere. Also, this popular shrine, in fact, needs no introduction among both the devotees and the tourists visiting this holy place.

Frequently Asked Questions about Siddhatek Ganpati Temple –

Is there online booking available for Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

Entry to the temple is free and no booking is needed to visit the temple.

What is the nearest airport to Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

The nearest airport is Pune Lohegaon Airport.

What is the temperature in Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

The maximum temperature in summer can reach till 35°C. The minimum temperature that can fall down is 13°C in winter.

Where to stay near Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

Shree Siddhivinayak lodging and boarding is available near the temple. The rate for a single room for one day is Rs.75/- and for the big hall is Rs. 251/-.

What is the significance of Siddhatek Ganpati Temple among the Ashtavinayak Yatra?

The Siddhatek Ganpati Temple comes in 2nd number during the Ashtavinayak Yatra.

What is the prasad’s usually offered in the temple?

Ladoo and Modak prasad which are known to be favorite of Lord Ganesh are offered in the temple.

How much time does it take to do the Pradakshina in Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

To make one round (Pradakshina) around the temple it will take about 30 minutes with moderate speed.

What are the best Yatra’s taken by devotees for Siddhatek Ganpati Temple?

The Bhadrapada Shukla 4 and Magha Shukla 4 are the best time for yatra’s taken by devotees for Siddhatek.

Sree Vallabha Temple Thiruvalla Guide – Timings, Dress Code, and History

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Sree Vallabha Temple is located at Thiruvalla in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. It is a 400-year-old temple on the banks of the River Manimala. The temple has a beautiful 8 ft idol of Sree Vallabha within the sanctum sanctorum. The legendary architect Perunthachan constructed the unique Garuda Sthambha. 54 ft flag mast is made of a single block of granite.

Sree Vallabha Temple is considered as the most important temple for Vaishnavites all over India due to the presiding deity is Lord Maha Vishnu. As offerings by devotees Kathakali is performed almost on all days in Thiruvalla Temple. It is believed that its bottom touches the water table. Thiruvalla Temple has a Garudathara, which is unique and appeared magnificent. This also has a Garuda’s image atop.

There are sub-shrines around the Thiruvalla temple for Ayyapa, Karuppaya Swamy etc. The idol on the pillar is depicted as like a human form with beaks, and wings stretched and hands bowing. There is a legend that when the Garuda’s idol was erected on those pillar centuries back. It was about to fly off and so placed it in position by chains. It was erected after two years of consecration of Sree Vallabha’s idol. The idol of Maha Vishnu or Sree Vallabha was sculpted by Viswakarma at the behest of Lord Krishna and was given to Satyaki at the end of Dwapara Yuga.

Towards the end of Dwapara Yuga, Lord asked Garuda to keep the idol in safe custody. Keeping this in mind Garuda kept it in Netravati river which flows from Karnataka to Kerala. Later, the royal consort of Cheraman Perumal – the emperor of Kerala had a dream that the idol of Krishna was lying on the bed of Netravati river. All efforts were taken to search the idol.

Thiruvalla Temple

History and Legend of Sree Vallabha Temple

  • In a place called Sankaramangalam nearby, there was a very devout old lady. She was a devotee of Lord Vishnu and was referred to by people as Sankaramangalathu amma. She was very particular about observing Ekadasi. An ogre called Thugala (tholaga) used to trouble her a lot. On Dwadasi day she could not find any Brahmin to partake of her food. Lord Vishnu himself took the form of a Brahmachari and came there as her guest.
  • Sankaramangalathamma requested him to take a bath in the nearby well and come in. Lord Vishnu asked her whether there are any rivers nearby. She then told him that an Asura was living near the river and was not allowing anyone to take a bath there. Lord Vishnu went to the river and killed the Tholagasura with his Sudarshana Chakra and washed the Chakra in the river.
  • This place is presently referred to as Chakrasala ghat. When the lord returned, there were four more Brahmins. Sankakamangalathamma served food to all the five of them in areca nut sheath. Even today this feeding is done in areca nut sheath and is referred to as Paala Bhojanam.
  • Once some Brahmins came to her house and requested for food. She told them that it was Ekadasi, they laughed at her and informed her that the day was Dasami. To prove the same, one of them who was an astrologer, did a Prasna to find out the exact Thithi. The Prasna showed that it was Ekadasi but when they stepped out of the house, it showed it was Dasami.
  • It is believed that when Lord Vishnu came as a Brahmachari to the house of Sankaramangalathamma he consecrated His Sudarshana Chakra there. This Chakra has eight corners denoting Conch, wheel, mace, lotus flower, rope, goad, bow and stick.
  • Sacred ash called Vibhuthi is given as Prasada in this temple of Chakra. The main deity of this temple is Sri Vallabha. This is an eight-foot-tall idol in the standing pose which faces east. Here sandalwood paste is given instead of sacred ash. There is a story about Sri Vallabha.
  • When Cheraman Perumal was ruling Kerala, God appeared in his dreams and pointed out the exact location of the idol and asked him to consecrate it in a temple. The king found the idol and since there was an empty temple in Thiruvalla which was waiting for a suitable idol, the king consecrated the divine idol there. When the original idol ordered for that temple came, it was consecrated in a place called Malayin Keezh.
  • Malayin Keezh calls their God as Thiruvalla Appan even today. There is a stone inscription on the temple indicating that it was constructed in the year 59 AD. Padathi Banana was used as an offering by Sage Durvasa when he visited the temple. Even today Padathi Pazham is offered to the God. If one is looking at the face of the idol, one will not be able to see his feet and vice versa. The temple is built in such away.

Significance of Sree Vallabha Temple

  • Performing Kathakali is one of the main forms of worship to this Lord. It seems when Vilwamangalathu Swamiyar visited this temple, he found the Lord watching Kathakali along with the audience. Thereafter, whenever Kathakali is performed at this temple, they keep a seat covered with silk. And a lamp-lit near this divine seat.
  • Thiruvalla Temple was once a place famous for Vedic schools. There were more than 1000 students and 100 teachers in this Vedic school and was famous as Thiruvalla Sala. It was as famous as Thirumoozhikkulam Sala (Vedic school in Thirumoozhikkulam Temple) and was bigger than Niranam Sala and Kaviyoor sala.

Sree Vallabha Temple Timings

  • Thiruvalla Temple is open from 4:30 AM  to 11:30 AM in the morning and 5:00 PM  8:00 PM  in the evening.
  • The Palli Unarthal and Abhishekam is carried out in the temple from 4:00 AM to 5:00 AM. It is followed by the first pooja at 7:00 AM.
  • Thiruvalla Temple closes in the afternoon after Ucha Shiveli at 11:30 AM. It opens in the evening at 5:00 PM.
  • The Deeparadhana is performed from 6:30 PM  to 7:00 PM. It is followed by the Naalaam Pooja and Ancham Pooja.
  • Thiruvalla Temple closes at 8:00 PM after the Athazha Shiveli.

Festivals celebrated at the Sree Vallabha Temple

Uthra Sree Bali

Vadakkenada remains closed throughout the year except on the day of ‘Uthra Sree Bali’.  All the three Goddesses assemble together in the ‘North Nada’. The doors of the north gate tower are opened only at this auspicious time and the Goddesses are received with all spiritual austerity. Thousands of devotees assemble to see the majestic scene and also to offer their worship to the great Lord Vishnu along with the three goddesses. They are supposed to be the part of the almighty himself. All the three goddesses are taken to the ensign where the goddess Padappadu and Karunattukavu. Alumthuruthy goes inside the temple to invite Sreevallabha and Sudarsanamurthy.

Ekadasi Festival

One of the most important festivals of the town, Ekadasi Festival is celebrated on the eleventh day of every lunar fortnight. The Vrishchika Ekadasi has special importance in the town. A highlight of this festival is the commemorative plaque for Gajarajan Kesavan.

Utsavam or Annual Festival

This festival is celebrated on the day of Pushya in the month of February-March and is meant for the purification and revitalizing the powers of the deity.

Kathakali had become the greatest offering to Sreevallabha. The devotees of Sreevallabha used to offer Kathakali to him. This is the only temple in India where the maximum number of Kathakali are being performed every year.

Poojas and Rituals at Sree Vallabha Temple

  • In Thiruvalla Temple the deity is worshipped five times a day in different forms. In the early morning pooja, the deity is worshipped as Brahmachari. In the Pandeerati pooja, he is worshipped as a sanyasi. And during the noon Pooja he is worshipped as Vasudeva dressed in royal attire.
  • In the evening Pooja the deity is worshipped as Narayana. During night Pooja he is worshipped as Lakshmi Narayana. While the goddess is dressed in the usual manner, God during this Pooja is dressed as a Sanyasi. There is a custom is to keep all material necessary for doing pooja inside the sanctum sanctorum before closing the door. As it is believed that sage Durvasa would come in the night and do Pooja to the Lord.
  • Poojas for Lord Sudarsana is according to Ahirbhudhnya Samhitha.  After athazha, pooja Lord’s idol will be decorated with a Kavi Mundu and a long tulsi garland. For ucha pooja nivedyam, there must be truppuli, erisseri, parippu, upperi and uppu manga.  After athazha pooja, there is a ritual called Pallikkuruppu for Lord Sree Vallabha and Lakshmi Devi. It is held at Palliyara and closes the doors of the temple. In the morning poojas begin after Palliyyunarthal at Palliyara.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

By Air: Trivandrum is the nearest airport. One can also reach the temple from Kochi airport.  There are no flights available between Thiruvananthapuram to Thiruvalla, but there are 20 direct trains from Thiruvananthapuram to Thiruvalla.

By Train: Thiruvalla Railway station is about 30kms South of Kottayam on the Ernakulam-Kottayam-Kayankulam rail route. The temple is roughly 3 km from the railway station. It is also well connected to major cities like Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai via Kanyakumari Express, Trivandrum Express, and Kerala Express.

By Road: One can take State transport bus to Thiruvalla. There is Ers Patna Exp from Coimbatore to Srikalahasti if one is coming from Coimbatore.

Where to stay

Thiruvalla has some deluxe accommodation options. Bessota International Hotel (Thiruvalla), John’s Homestay (Thiruvalla) and Hotel Voyage (Thiruvalla) are popular deluxe accommodation options in the city. The hotels are homely and laced with modern amenities.

Where to eat

There are numerous hotels and restaurants for the convenience of the hoards of tourists visiting the destination. Restaurants are the perfect places to eat, drink and be merry. These are restaurants that offer a wide variety of delicacies and most of them are pretty affordable too. It is designed to suit everyone’s budget and taste. 

  • Hotel Aryaas Park Contact: Deepa Junction, Thiruvalla, India
  • The Food Village Contact: Kallisery P.O, Thiruvalla 689124
  • Arabian Restaurant Contact: Thiruvalla, India
  • Phosphorous Restaurant Contact: No 77, Club 7 Hotel | Scs Junction, Thiruvalla

Nearby Temples

Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple: Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is one of the most ancient and popular Hindu temples located at the village of Kaviyoor. It is at a distance of 6kms from Thiruvalla town in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala. Aval Nadyam and Vada Mala is the main offering to the presiding deity at Kaviyoor Mahadevar Temple. This can be offered after making a receipt from the counter. There are a number of rituals that are performed to please the presiding deity on a daily basis. Kaviyoor is another noted shrine which stands on a small hillock. It is built in the gable style architecture peculiar to Kerala.

Pracheen Hanuman Mandir Delhi Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Pracheen Hanuman Mandir Delhi located at Connaught Place, New Delhi, is an ancient Hindu temple and is believed to be one of the five temples of the Mahabharata days in Delhi. The other four temples include the Kalkaji, a Kali temple in South Delhi containing a Swayambu rock Idol, the Yogmaya Temple near Qutub Minar, the Bhairav temple near the Purana Qila and the Nili Chatri Mahadev (Shiva temple) at Nigambodh Ghat.

Pracheen Hanuman Mandir Delhi, which houses a self-manifested idol of Hanuman, has an intriguing feature fixed in the spire which is in the form of a crescent moon instead of the Hindu symbol of “Om”. This feature became mainly important during the Mughal period henceforth corroborating this extraordinary depiction.

The idol which is devotionally worshipped in the temple is of Bala Hanuman, the infant depiction of Sri Hanuman Ji Maharaj. The entry to the temple is through the Baba Kharak Singh Marg where the temple is located. Devotees enter through a set of marble steps from the road which leads into the main foyer of the temple through massive silver-plated doors, which are engraved with scenes of the epic Ramayana story.

The foyer is well ventilated with clerestory windows which are beautifully adorned with paintings of Hanuman in the four cardinal directions depicting his four aspects. Below each Hanuman painting is present a marble inscription of Tulsidas’s Sundar Kand that is affixed to the walls. The Sanctum Sanctorum, that houses the Hanuman idol is on the north wall with the idol facing the southern direction. Images of Radha and Krishna, a central triumvirate of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita are also installed to the right of the Hanuman idol on the same wall.

As the idol of Hanuman faces the southern direction, devotees can only one eye of the idol. The idol depicts a Gada in the left hand with the right hand crossed across the chest showing devotion to the adjacent idol of lord Rama, Lakshman, and Sita. The idol is adorned with a tapering crown and also has a sacred thread on the right shoulder and is clad in a dhoti. The height of the temple is reportedly 108 ft (32.9 m). The ceiling of the main mandap depicts the epic story of Ramayana which is artistically painted.

One of the most important features of this temple is the 24–hour chanting of the mantra (hymn) “Sri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram”, since August 1, 1964, which has earned the temple a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Several beliefs and traditional rituals are associated with this temple, one of them being that if the devotees whisper their heart’s wishes into the ears of the idol of Nandi bull (Lord Shiva’s mount) which is situated inside the temple, they are sure to be granted.

Hanuman

Pracheen Hanuman Mandir Delhi History

  •  It was originally built by Maharaja Man Singh I of Amber who ruled from during Emperor Akbar’s reign and was reconstructed by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1724.
  • Tulsidas who wrote Ramacharitamanas visited this temple in Delhi.
  • During his visit to Delhi, he was summoned by the Mughal Emperor who asked him to perform a miracle, which he successfully did with the blessings of Lord Hanuman.
  • The Emperor was impressed by Tulsidas’ feat and presented the Hanuman temple with an Islamic crescent Moon finial which adorns the temple spire.
  • The popular legends suggest that because of the crescent moon symbol on the spire, the temple had not been     destroyed by the Muslim rulers who had invaded India at various times.
  • Of late the Delhi’s Municipal Corporation has taken it upon them to renovate the temple.

Significance of the Pracheen Hanuman Mandir Delhi

  • Delhi which is located on the banks of the Yamuna River is believed to be the Indraprastha city which was built by the Pandavas of the Mahabharata epic period.
  • Pandavas who ruled from Indraprastha lost their kingdom in a dice game to the Kauravas and were exiled for a 12-year term.
  • Hanuman who is considered to be the brother of Bhima as both of them are Vayu’s children, appeared in the     forest disguised as a weak and aged monkey.
  • Bhima who was searching for a fragrant flower as asked  by Draupadi, found Hanuman lying with his tail blocking his way and, unaware of Hanuman’s identity, scornfully asked him to remove his tail.
  • However, Hanuman told Bhima to lift the tail as he was too weak to do it.
  • Bhima tried hard several times but failed to lift it, in spite of being a man of great strength and it was then he     realized that the monkey was none other his own brother.
  • He apologized for his arrogant behavior and requested Hanuman to show him his true form.
  • Hanuman was then said to have enlarged himself and showed Bhima the size in which he had crossed the sea to  go to Lanka, looking for Sita during the Ramayana period.

After the Pandavas won the Kurukshetra war against the Kauravas and re–established themselves in Indraprastha, the Pandava clan is stated to have built five temples of Hanuman and other deities

Pracheen Hanuman Mandir Timings

  •  Puja Timings: 5.00 am to 1.00 pm and 3.00 pm to 11.00 pm
  •  The temple is open for a full day on Tuesday and Saturday.
  •  Tuesday and Saturday are considered to be special days of worship of Hanuman when devotees come to the temple in large numbers.

Dress Code at Pracheen Hanuman Mandir

Men and women are advised to wear decent clothing. The entry is free. People are supposed to leave their chappals and other footwear outside the temple while entering the holy sanctum.

Festivals Celebrated at the Pracheen Hanuman Mandir Delhi

Hanuman Jayanti: The birthday celebrations of Lord Hanuman, is held every year with great pomp on the full moon (Purnima) day in the month of Chaitra (March – April) as per the lunar Hindu Panchangam or Hindu calendar. Colorful processions with festoons and with devotees wearing Hanuman masks and tails and carrying large idols of Hanuman fill the streets.

Poojas and Rituals at Pracheen Hanuman Mandir Delhi

The daily pujas are carried out at all times of the day. Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered for worshipping Lord Hanuman, so there are a few special pujas carried out on these days.

How to Reach

By Road: Connaught Place’s Prachin Hanuman Mandir is well connected by bus and the Delhi Metro services. Besides, one can also rent a car or auto-rickshaw from anywhere to Connaught Place. Delhi Transport Department has added more buses to its fleet. Though the old buses are still in service, now you will find the green buses which are more comfortable to reach Connaught Place and Prachin Hanuman Mandir. Terminuses such as Kashmere Gate, Sarai Kale Khan, and Anand Vihar are located nearby which leads to various important places in the city.

By Rail: Almost all the metro trains in New Delhi passes through Connaught Place Hanuman Mandir Delhi. Whether one is coming from Noida, Gurgaon, India Gate, and the Airport or from the Delhi University area, they will find ample metro trains to reach the destination. Besides the Delhi Metro. Connaught Place metro station is the nearest metro station to Hanuman Mandir Delhi. Also, New Delhi Railway station is the nearest railway station to Prachin Hanuman Mandir. Connaught Place is located just minutes away from both the Old Delhi Railway Station as well as New Delhi Railway Station. Most travellers visiting Delhi, prefer staying in one of the hotels in Connaught Place because of its good connectivity to different parts of the city.

By Air: Delhi is well connected with domestic and international flights, to all the major cities within and outside India. Almost all the major airlines have their flights operating from Indira Gandhi International Airport of New Delhi. Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is connected to all the important cities of the world with almost all the major international airlines operating from here.

Where to stay

Several 3-star and 5-star hotels are also available for pilgrims and tourists. Hotels namely The Park, The Connaught and Ram’s Inn are pretty popular among the tourists who come to visit regularly and are also located nearby.

Where to eat

Many lodges and hotels are present in the near proximity catering to different tastes. The kachoris available at the local shops are very famous. The temple’s neighbourhood is also famous for its clustered shops of bangles, kachoris, and kulfis. The Prasad served at the temple and its premises is made of pure desi ghee which altogether enamors the visiting crowd.

Nearby Temples

  • Kalkaji Mandir – Kalkaji Mandir is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Hindu Goddess Kali. This temple is located in the southern part of Delhi, India, in Kalkaji, a locality which has derived its name from this famous temple and is located right opposite to the Nehru Place business centre. The temple is easily commutable by all forms of public transport. The belief surrounding the temple is that the image of the Goddess Kalka or Kali, here is a self-manifested one, and the shrine dates back to Satya Yuga when the Goddess Kalika had incarnated and killed the demon Raktabija along with other giant demons.
  • Chhatarpur Mandir –  The second largest temple complex in India which is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, the sixth avatar of the Navadurga, who had slain the ferocious demon Mahishasur. The temple is famous for its Veesarra form of architecture and Navratra festivities which are celebrated with pomp and glory.
  • Mata Sheetala Mandir– Sheetala Mata Mandir which is located at Gurgaon village, a suburb of Gurgaon (Guru Dronacharya’s birth place), in the state of Haryana, is only 25 km from Hanuman Mandir. Sheetala Devi is also called as Bhagat Lalita Maa and Masani Maa. The word Sheetala refers to the disease smallpox and it is believed that if this deity is invoked with faith, she dispels the disease. Situated near a pond, this temple witnesses hordes of pilgrims throughout the year. During the month of Chaitra (March-April), this place resembles the grounds of Kumbh-Mela. Many devotees visit this place for the mundane ceremony of their children and also newly married couples who come to take blessings for a happy married life.

Vaishno Devi Temple Guide – Timings, History, and Poojas

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Vaishno Devi Temple is a pre-eminent dedication to Goddess Shakti (Sati or Adi Parashakti). The shrine sits comfortably among the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir.

Tribes of pilgrims flock to the beloved shrine battling harsh weather and a steep climb with zeal and admiration to shower themselves with her blessings.

This cave-structured temple is a place of worshipping the Goddess in the form of a five feet rock with a three-headed peak. Furthermore, the three heads locally go by the name Pindies, which are a reflection of the three holy forms of Goddess Shakti. The Pindi on the right peak represents Goddess Mahakali, the central Pindi represents Goddess Mahalakshmi and the Pindi to the left is an avatar of Goddess Saraswati.

Facts About Vaishno Devi Temple

LocationKatra, Jammu and Kashmir
Opening and Closing DatesOpen 365 days in a year
Darshan Timings5:00 am – 12:00 pm
4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
PoojaAarti before sunrise and after sunset
DeityGoddess Shakti
Nearest AirportJammu Airport
Entry FeeNo Entry Fee
Festivals Navratri
Photography in the templeNot allowed

What are the timings of Vaishno Devi Temple?

Time of the DayDuration
Morning5:00 am – 12:00 pm
Evening4:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Temple Poojas and Rituals

Pooja at Vaishno Devi Temple
Aarti takes place in both morning and evening right before sunrise and sunset

“Atma Pooja” meaning self-cleansing by the priests marks the start of the Pooja. The Goddess is then bathed with water, ghee, milk, honey and sugar. Amidst several chants and shlokas, the Goddess dresses up in a saree, chola and chuni.

The Morning and the Evening Aarti – The Aarti dedicated to the Goddess happens twice a day. Similar rituals take place once just before sunrise and once immediately after the sunset.

The whole process lasts up to two hours. Each Aarti is done once inside the main shrine or the sanctum and then outside the cave where devotees gather to witness the divine procedure.

Hereafter she is adorned with several ornaments like bangles and sindoor (kumkum). The offering of the Naivedyam is then made to the Goddess. Hereafter, the Aarti makes its way outside the cave where all the other Gods and Goddesses are worshipped.

Pooja PlaceTimings
Individual Pooja‘Yagyashaala’ in the main BhawanBefore 8:00 am at Room No.8
Shraddha Suman Vishesh PoojaIn front of the old cage of Mata’s DarbarBefore 8:00 am at Room No.8

Vaishno Devi Temple Routes – Old and New

Vaishno Devi Temple stands at one of the three peaks of the Trikuta Mountains. The 13 km Trek to the peak of the mountain starts in Katra, passes through Banganga and then diverges into two different pathways.

One route goes via the Adhkuwari Temple and is the old one to reach the Bhawan. Moreover, this route is steep and narrow but beliefs are that it is built along the original route that the Goddess took to reach the Holy Cave at the top.

However, Considering the convenience of the devotees, the administration of the temple constructed a new route. The new route is via Himkoti. This track is wide enough with an ascendable gradient. Also, most pilgrims accompanied by senior citizens and young ones prefer this route.

Banganga makes the first stop for the pilgrims on their way to the Bhawan. However, the next stops are Charan Paduka and Adhkuwari. The Adhkuwari shrine is a mark that denotes that the pilgrims are halfway through the Bhawan.

Management of Vaishno Devi Temple is quite well. And fulfils all necessary and modern requirements of its visiting pilgrims such as food, shelter, resting places, viewing points, blankets, toilets, hot water facilities and medical facilities.

Significance of Vaishno Devi Temple

  • The shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is both popularly and controversially the most important Shakti Peetha of Goddess Sati. According to a belief, the skull or the head of the Goddess fell here after the Daksha Yagna episode. However, the other belief says it was the right arm of Goddess Sati that fell here. To support this belief, there are remains of a human hand which can still be found in the holy cave. It is popular as “Varad Hast” which means “The Hand that grants blessings”.
  • Moreover, it is a strong belief of most of the devotees that they usually receive an inner spiritual call or pull from the Mata or the Goddess to visit the Vaishno Devi shrine. Belief says that only the one who receives the call receives her blessings. Once the call comes, nothing on Earth can stop the devotee from reaching Vaishno Devi Temple.
  • The three holy Pindies here are manifestations of Goddess Shakti and arise from a single rock at the base. However, they differ from each other in aspects of colour and texture of the rock. The Pindi of Goddess Mahakali is black representing the unknown energy. Goddess Mahalakshmi’s Pindi exhibits golden yellow shade representing wealth, prosperity, and quality of life. The Pindi of Goddess Saraswati has a whitish tinge representing purity and wisdom of life.
  • Vaishno Devi Temple is the most visited pilgrimage site in the Northern half of India and it ranks second as the most visited shrine in the Tirumala Sri Venkateshwara Temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh.
  • It is a local belief that any devotee who passes through the Garbha Joon (Womb shaped cave at Adhkuwari) with pure devotion ends up with his or her wish fulfilment.
  • As per the Hindu tradition, there are four Purusharth or the objectives of a good human life – Dharm (righteousness or justice), Arth (Material pursuits), Kaam (Contentment) and Moksha (Enlightenment). Beliefs are that ones who undertake the Vaishno Devi Temple pilgrimage attain all four of these. Moreover, no one goes back empty-handed from this shrine.

History of Vaishno Devi Temple

The exact date or the year of the beginning of the worship of the Goddess in the caves cannot be traced. However, several references are there in Mahabharata which hint towards the holy goddess of Jamboo Mountains.

Jamboo is the ancient name of the present-day Jammu. Beliefs are that Pandavas were the original worshipers of the Goddess in the holy cave. Five stone figures probably representing the Pandavas found in a nearby mountain range giving some credibility to the association of Pandavas to Vaishno Devi Temple.

Legends Associated with Vaishno Devi Temple

There are many legends about the temple such as –

Legend of Vaishno Devi as Trikuta

According to the legend, in the Treta Yuga, Mata Vaishno Devi was born as Trikuta to Ratnakar Sagar in South India. She later became popular as Vaishnavi as she was born from the lineage of Lord Vishnu.

At the age of 9 years, she performed penance on the seashore and met Lord Rama. She threw a marriage proposal before him. But he gave her a promise that Lord Vishnu’s tenth avatar in the Kaliyuga, Kalki will marry her.

Lord Rama gave her instructions to meditate in a cave present in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu. He instructed her to set up an Ashram at the base of the mountains. He also gave her a bow and an arrow, a lion and a small army of monkeys for her protection.

Legend of Mata Vaishnavi and Bhairavnath

A devotee of Mata Vaishnodevi, Sridhar organized a Bhandara (Community meal) in which the villagers and Mahayogi Guru GorakshNathJi along with all his followers including Bhairavnath were sent invitations as per the goddess’s wishes. Guru Gorakshnath visited the Bhandara along with his 300 disciples including Bhairavnath.

Goddess Vaishno surprised Bhairavnath with her powers. And then he wanted to test her powers. For this, he took Shiv Avatar Guru GorakshNathJi’s permission. However, Guru Gorakshnath did not recommend it but he let Bhairavnath go ahead with his plans.

Guru Gorakshnath and all his disciples enjoyed pure vaishnav food and went off. But Bhairavnath stayed back to test her powers. Then he attempted to grab Mata Vaishnodevi and she tried her best to daunt him. On failing to do so, Mata Vaishno decided to flee away into the mountains to continue her Tapasaya undisturbed. But BhairavNath chased her to her destination.

Vaishno Devi halted at Charan Paduka, Banganga, and Adhkuwari, but she observed much to her distaste that Bhairav Nath followed her everywhere. Finally, she lost her patience and beheaded him outside the holy cave. The head of Bhairon Nath fell 1.5 km away and the site became popular as Bhairon Nath Temple today.

His soul repented the incident and asked for forgiveness from the Goddess. The Goddess forgave him and granted him the boon that the devotees will have to pay a visit to Bhairav Nath’s shrine to complete her pilgrimage.

Beliefs say that the Goddess then shed her human form and took the form of a rock to continue uninterrupted meditation.

Legend of Shridhar Pandit and Mata Vaishno Devi

The cave was unknown until about 700 years ago. In a village named Hansali, near the Trikuta Mountains, lived a Brahmin Pandit named Shridhar. He was a loyal devotee of Goddess Shakti. Goddess Shakti was happy with his devotion and gave him darshan in the form of a Kanya (young girl).

Then on her request, Shridhar invited all the villagers to his humble abode for a Bhandara (a feast of food). But seeing the crowd for the Bhandara increase Shridhar was afraid if he could accommodate them all inside his hut. Also, he worried about the food availability for all his guests.

Miraculously, the girl that gave him darshan appeared and created abundant food and space so as to fulfil everyone’s hunger.

After the Bhandara, Shridhar wanted to thank the girl but she disappeared. Hence, he spent several sleepless nights. Eventually, the Goddess gave him darshan in his dreams directing him to proceed towards the cave that was her abode.

He followed the directions that he got in his dreams and eventually discovered the cave. According to the beliefs all the three Goddesses, Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Saraswati gave him darshan there.

Other Legends related to Vaishno Devi

Legends of Vaishno Devi
These three spots in the pilgrimage of Vaishno Devi have significant legends associated with them
  • The trek to the Bhawan begins at the Darshani Darwaza. As per beliefs, Mata Vaishno Devi met Pandit Sridhar in a child’s form right at this spot. One can also get a complete view of the Trikuta Mountain range from the Darwaza.
  • The legend of Banganga states that Goddess Vaishno Devi created the River by shooting an arrow in the ground. Hence, the name “Ban” meaning Arrow in Hindi and Ganga signifying the holy River Ganga. Creation of Banganga was to quench the thirst of a langoor called Veer who accompanied her to the holy cave.
  • The legend of the Charan Paduka states that it is where the Goddess Vaishno turned to check whether Bhairav Nath was following her or not. Her footprints got engraved on a stone at the location and are worshipped since then.
  • The Adhkuwari cave is a place where Goddess Vaishno did meditation and observed a penance devoted to Lord Shiva for nine months. This cave was womb-like in shape and hence became popular as Garbha Joon. During the meditation, she realized the presence of Bhairav Nath and created an exit route from the back of the cave with a Trishul. Devotees can still visit the cave and the Garbha Joon.

Dress Code in Vaishno Devi Temple

  • The Bhawan or the Holy Cave is 13 km away from Katra at an altitude of 5200 meters. Minimum temperatures of this region vary from -2 to 15 degree Celsius throughout the year. Hence, the region faces chilly winters almost throughout the whole year. Hence, devotees should dress in warm clothes. Jackets, scarves, socks, and shawls are a must. If travelling with children old people then take special care should be taken regarding their winter tolerance.
  • Months of December and January face heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of the mountains. Hence, blankets and proper shoes are highly advisable.
  • Also, one must carry a raincoat, especially during monsoons and winters. Walking sticks are helpful for the occasional steep climb. And devotees can avail them from the shops lining along the walking track.

Festivals celebrated at Vaishno Devi Temple

  • Navaratri – This festival dedicated to the Mother Goddess Shakti calls for a celebration at the Bhawan with great excitement and religious fever. The festivities continue for nine days. The first three days are dedicated to Durga or Kali who signifies the destruction of evil. The next three days are dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. The last three days are dedicated to the Goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. During this time the entire city of Katra is cleaned and decorated. Lightings of the main Vaishno Devi Complex and surrounding temples are done during Navratri. The Shobha Yatra of the Goddess is held during these nine days. Several cultural events like devotional singing competitions are held. The priests also conduct religious discourses throughout the nine days.
  • Besides Navaratri, Deepavali, Ram Navami, and Mahashivratri also call for a celebration here with great enthusiasm.

How to reach Katra?

How to reach Vaishno Devi Temple
Devotees can also take Helicopter rides to reach the holy destination
  • By Air – The nearest airport to the temple is the Jammu domestic airport. It is 75 km away from the temple. There are regular flights by several private airlines including Air India from cities like Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru and Chennai to Jammu.
  • By Train – The Katra railway station was built for travellers in 2014. The station is titled ‘Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra’ and the IRCTC code for it is SVDK. This station is 18.9 km away from the temple. There are trains from all major cities like New Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Pathankot, Jalandhar, Mangalore, and Kalka to SVDK.
  • By Road – Katra lies 50 km away from Jammu city. There are several luxury bus operators running regular buses between Jammu and Katra. Devotees can hire private taxies at reasonable costs. However, one can hire them outside Jammu Railway Station or the Airport.
  • The trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine begins at the Banganga Checkpost in Katra. It is a journey of about 13 km to the Bhawan at the top. Devotees can take the journey n foot, on horses, on palki (palanquin) and in a helicopter.
  • Notably, the helicopter services should be booked 60 days in advance. However, the booking can also be made at the Jagjivan Ghat near the Katra Bus Stand. Nevertheless, there are limitations to these services. And they are also subjected to cancellation due to climatic changes. Online bookings of the ticket are advised as they are subjected to easy cancellation.

Related Videos With Vaishno Devi Mandir

Obtaining “Yatra Parchi” or a “Travel Slip” at the Yatra Registration Counter near the Katra Bus Stand is a must for on-foot travellers. One can also do the booking of the slip on the temple website.

Where to stay?

  • The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board overlooks the maintenance of several guest houses and Dhams located in Jammu, Katra, Adkuwari, Sanjichhat and Bhawan. Online bookings of clean and well-maintained rooms can be made via the official website of the Board. There are 3 Dhams operated by the Board in Jammu named Vaishnavi Dham, Saraswati Dham, and the Kalika Dham. Four options namely Niharika, Shakti Bhawan, Trikuta Bhawan and the Aashirwad Bhawan can be booked at Katra. The Main Bhawan provides options of both double bedded rooms as well as dormitories. One must make the bookings at least 60 days in advance. And these bookings are non-refundable.
  • Besides these options, several halls have been built for the pilgrims to take rest before heading for darshan. Blankets and medical aid are also provided here.

Where to eat?

  • Temple administration runs Bhojanalaya services both in the Main Bhawan and the Manokamana Bhawan Complex. The Bhojanalaya services are on the basis of no profit-making. Hence, they are cheap and affordable. Moreover, the food here is pure vegetarian and hygienic. Other than traditional food, pilgrims can avail mineral water, hot and cold beverages as well as milk at a fixed and nominal price.

Nearby Temples

  • Bhairon Nath Temple – This temple is 2 km away from the Main Bhawan that houses the holy cave. The temple is a dedication to Bhairon Nath. Legend says that Bhairon Nath’s head fell at this spot after Vaishno Devi beheaded him.
  • Raghunath Temple – This famous Temple holds the title of the largest Temple Complexes in India. It consists of seven individual shrines each of which has its own Shikhara or Tower. The Temple was built in 1860 by Maharaja Gulab Singh. And it is a dedication to Lord Rama.
  • Ranbireshwar Temple – This temple shelters the biggest Linga of Lord Shiva. Moreover, the Linga is 8 feet tall and is made out of black shining stone. One can also view twelve Shiva Lingas made of crystal enshrined in this temple.

Other famous temples in Jammu and Kashmir are:

  • Hemis Monastery: Hemis Monastery is a Himalayan Buddhist monastery of the Drukpa Lineage. The monastery was re-established by the Ladakhi King Sengge Namgya, in 1672. The monastery is situated 45 km from Leh City, Hemis. It is present on a mountain on the west bank of the River Indus.

If you have any questions about The Vaishno Devi Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

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Tawang Monastery
Tawang Monastery

The Tawang  Monastery is also known in Tibetan as Galden Namgey Lhatse. It means ‘celestial paradise in a clear night’. This monastery is the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world. The monastery is located in Tawang city of Tawang district in Arunachal Pradesh. It is situated in the valley of the Tawang River, in the northwestern part of Arunachal Pradesh.

The Tawang Monastery was founded in 1680-1681, Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso. It was built in accordance with the wishes of the 5th Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. The monastery is situated on a mountain at an altitude of over 3000 m. Tawang Monastery is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world.

Tawang Monastery is a big monastery with living quarters, a museum, institutions and libraries. The Monastery can hold a capacity of 700 monks and is currently home to around 450 lamas.

What is the history of the Tawang Monastery?

In Tibetan, ‘Ta’ means ‘horse’ and ‘wang’ means ‘chosen’. Therefore, the name Tawang means chosen by a horse. According to the legends, Merak Lama was having difficulty in finding a good place to build the monastery. He once rested in a cave where he prayed, seeking divine guidance. When e came out, he found his horse missing. After searching for a while, he found the horse, grazing at the top of a mountain. Merak Lama realized it as a good spot where the monastery could be built.

The full name of the monastery is thus Tawang Galdan Namgye Lhatse. It means ‘The site chosen by the horse is the divine celestial paradise’.

What is the architecture of the place?

  • Entrance and outer walls: At the entrance to the monastery there is a Kakaling, which is a colorful gate structure. It is a ‘hut-like structure’, with side walls built of stone masonry. The interior walls of the Kakaling have murals of divinities and saints painted on them. The roof features Mandalas. Ahead of the main gate of the Kakaling to its south, is another entry. On the main entrance to the monastery, there are huge walls. The outer wall is 925 feet in length, with heights varying from about 10–20 feet.
  • Main buildings: The monastery is three-storied. It is built like a large mansion. There is a large assembly hall, ten other functional structures and 65 residential quarters for students, Lamas and monks. There is a center for Buddhist cultural studies. The monastery also has a school. The walls of the monastery have a profusion of  Buddhist deities and saints.
  • Main temple: The main temple is known as the Dukhang. ‘Du’ means ‘assembly’ and ‘Khang’ means ‘building’. It was built in the year 1860-61. An 18 feet image of Buddha is deified which is gilded and decorated.

Tawang Monstery

What are the festivals celebrated in the Tawang Monastery?

Choksar, Losar, Ajilamu, and Torgya are the main festivals that are held in the monastery.

  • Choksar: In this festival, the Lamas recite religious scriptures in the monasteries. Following which, the villagers carry the scriptures on their back and circumambulate their agricultural land. They seek blessings for the good yield of crops without any infestations by pests and to protect against attack by wild animals.
  •  Losar: This festival marks the beginning of the Tibetan New Year. In this festival, people visit the monastery to offer prayers.
  • Torgya: This festival is also called Tawang-Torgya. It is an annual festival that is exclusively held in the monastery. The objective of the festival is to ward off evil spirits. It ushers prosperity and happiness to the people in the ensuing year. It is held according to the Buddhist calendar days of 28th to 30th of Dawachukchipa, which corresponds to 10 to 12 January of the Gregorian calendar. It is a Monpa celebration.

How to reach the Tawang Monastery?

Air: The nearest airport is located in Tezpur. It is at a distance of 387 km. The nearest international airport is located in Guwahati. It is at a distance of 480 km.

Train: The nearest railway station is Rangapara Railway Station. It is at a distance of 383 km. Rangapara Railway Station is directly connected to about 88 stations.

Road: Tawang Monastery is well-connected by road to all places.

What is the best time to visit the Monastery?

  •  Summer- March to June: This is the best time to visit Tawang. The temperature ranges between 5 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius. The days are pleasant and nights are colder.
  • Monsoon- July to September: It is mostly wet during monsoon season. There is rainfall all over and the temperature drops. However, this place looks even more beautiful during this season.
  • Winter- November to February:  The temperature sometimes drops near the freezing point. The temperature gets around 10 degrees. The coldest month of winters is January.

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