8 Most famous Durga Temples To Visit in India

Goddess Durga is revered as the ultimate source of creation, preservation, and destruction. Embodying pure power, or ‘Shakti’, she is worshipped as the protector of the universe. As a central figure in Hinduism, Goddess Durga is venerated in various forms across India. Recognized as the supreme soul, devotees pray to her for strength and the fulfillment of their wishes. From the northern plains to the southern tip of the country, her divine presence is felt far and wide. Numerous temples dedicated to her can be found nationwide, some of which hold special significance as Shakti Peethas or are linked to important legends.

# Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu and Kashmir

Vaishno Devi is one of India’s most renowned Durga temples, perched amidst the Trikuta Mountains, 61 kilometers north of Jammu at an elevation of 1,584 meters. According to legend, Vaishno Devi was a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu and practiced celibacy. She was pursued by Bhairo Nath, a tantric, and sought refuge in a cave within the Trikuta Mountains. There, she remained hidden for nine months before assuming the form of Kali to defeat Bhairo Nath. Today, the cave, known as Garbh Joon, is a major pilgrimage site, accessible throughout the year, though winter visits can be challenging.

# Mansa Devi Temple, Uttarakhand

Located in Badi Lambore (Lambore Dham) village near Haridwar, Mansa Devi Temple is believed to grant the wishes of devotees. Legend has it that the Goddess appeared in the dream of Seth Surajmalji, head of the Hamirwasiya family, instructing him to construct a temple. Surajmalji entrusted the task to his son, and the temple was completed in 1975.

# Chamunda Devi Temple, Himachal Pradesh

Chamunda Devi Temple, situated on the banks of the River Baner near Palampur, is dedicated to the Goddess in her fierce form. Devotees often visit to offer prayers for their ancestors. Historically, human sacrifices were reportedly offered to the Goddess. The temple also features a sacred pond believed to possess holy waters.

# Kamakhya Temple, Assam

One of Guwahati’s most famous temples, Kamakhya is perched on Nilachal Hill, 8 kilometers from the city. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, who represents the essence of female energy, this temple is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas. Legend holds that Kamakhya came into being when Lord Shiva carried the corpse of Sati, and her Yoni fell at the site where the temple now stands. Housed within a natural cave containing a spring, the temple has a dark chamber where the Yoni, draped in silk and flowers, is kept. Kamakhya is especially significant for Tantric worship, with grand celebrations during the Ambubachi Fair and Durga Puja.

# Amba Mata Temple, Gujarat

Amba Mata Temple in Junagadh, Gujarat, is a revered pilgrimage site attracting devotees from across the country. Located at the base of the sacred Girnar mountain, the 12th-century temple is dedicated to an incarnation of the mother Goddess. Couples often visit to seek blessings for a happy married life. The temple also offers breathtaking views from the mountain top.

# Dakshineswar Kali Mandir, Kolkata

Situated along the Vivekananda Bridge in northern Kolkata, Dakshineswar Kali Temple is famous for its association with Ramakrishna, who attained spiritual vision here. Built by Rani Rashmoni in 1847, the temple has twelve spires and an expansive courtyard surrounded by twelve smaller Shiva temples. Ramakrishna, who once served as the head priest, would often enter deep spiritual trances while worshipping the Goddess Kali.

# Maa Jwala Ji Temple, Himachal Pradesh

Located 30 km south of Kangra Valley, Jwala Ji Temple is dedicated to Goddess Jwalamukhi, a form of the mother Goddess. The temple is famous for its natural, ever-burning flames, considered manifestations of the nine Goddesses—Mahakali, Unpurna, Chandi, Hinglaj, Bindhya Basni, Maha Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ambika, and Anji Devi. Legend says the Goddess emerged from these flames to vanquish demons in the Himalayas, making Jwala Ji a revered manifestation of Adishakti—the First Power.

# Karni Mata Temple, Rajasthan

Dating back 600 years, Karni Mata Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga in her form as Karni Mata. The temple is famous for its population of rats, believed to be the reincarnated souls of the Goddess’s devotees, who are carefully protected and fed by visitors. The shrine also features massive silver gates and intricate marble carvings donated by Maharaja Ganga Singh. The temple attracts huge crowds, especially during Navratri, and is associated with the legend of Karni Mata prophesying Rao Bika’s victory.