About Chanda Devi Temple
Opening time- 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Prime days and hours- Weekends, Morning, and Evening
Suggested Duration- 2-3 hours
Tickets- Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station- Haridwar Railway Station, about 4 km
Nearest Bus Stand- Haridwar Bus Stand, about 5 km
Nearest Airport- Jolly Grant Airport, about 38 km
Located atop Neel Parvat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, Shri Maa Chandi Devi Temple sits at an altitude of 2,900 ft and is dedicated to Goddess Chandi, a form of Goddess Parvati. Listed among the best places to visit in Uttarakhand, this is the spot where the Goddess defeated demon kings Shumbh and Nishumbh, who had been terrorising the heavens. The fierce battle symbolised the triumph of divine strength over evil forces. To honour her victory, an idol of the Goddess was later established by the revered saint Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
Built in 1929, the temple is a popular Siddha Peetha, one of those spiritual sites where the goddess is believed to fulfil the wishes of her devotees, attracting pilgrims from across the country. Visitors can reach the temple by trekking a scenic trail or by taking the ropeway, which offers panoramic views of Haridwar and the Ganges.
During festivals like Navratri, Chandi Chaudas and Kumbh Mela, the temple comes alive with traditional music, rituals and devotion. The surrounding shops, selling local handicrafts and souvenirs, add to the experience. Whether you are seeking blessings, culture, or nature, Chandi Devi Temple offers it all in one divine setting.
Chanda Devi Temple Highlights
• Visit the sacred Shri Maa Chandi Devi Temple, also known as a Siddha Peetha, perched at about 2,900 feet on Neel Parvat in Haridwar.
• Engage in a breathtaking ropeway ride (Udan Khatola) or enjoy a walk up the hill through scenic trails surrounded by lush Shivalik Hills.
• Participate in traditional rituals and vibrant festivals like Navratri and Chandi Chaudas, celebrated with great energy and joy.
• Learn about the history of Goddess Chandi and how she defeated the demons Shumbh and Nishumbh.
How To Reach Chanda Devi Temple
By Car- You can reach the Maa Chandi Devi Temple by driving from the Haridwar city centre via NH 34 which is a 3 km drive taking approximately 15 mins to reach.
By Cable Car/Ropeway- After reaching the base of Chandi Devi Temple, you can opt for the cable car service to reach the temple premises, which takes about 10 minutes. The cable car station is well-marked and is a popular way to reach the temple.
Best Time To Visit Chanda Devi Temple
Peak Season (March-June)
Weather Insight: Clear skies and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C.
Things to Do: Ideal for a ropeway ride, participate in the Navratri festivals.
Moderate Season (October-November)
Weather Insight: Post-monsoon with less humidity and temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C.
Things to Do: Best for photography, trekking, and exploring the local souvenirs.
Low Season (December-March)
Weather Insight: Heavy snow and potential landslides in winters, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 12°C.
Things to Do: Explore the temple and learn about its history.
Chanda Devi Temple Other Essential Information
Know Before You Go!
- It is advised to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, enjoy cooler weather, and have a more peaceful experience.
- Carry water bottles and snacks, as the queues for the ropeway or temple entry can be lengthy.
- Watch out for monkeys near the temple; they may try to snatch food or offerings.
- Consider booking ropeway tickets online in advance to save time and avoid long lines.
- Wear comfortable footwear as light trekking or walking is needed to reach the temple from the ropeway or trek route.
- Photography is permitted, but please refrain from using flash and be respectful during prayer times.
- Don’t miss the evening Ganga Aarti at nearby Har ki Pauri for a beautiful end to your spiritual journey.
Take a Ropeway Ride
Enjoy a scenic ropeway ride offering stunning views of the Ganges and Haridwar. This cable car journey, locally known as Udan Khatola, gives a quick and breathtaking route to the temple. It is safe, convenient, and a memorable experience of your visit, especially for people who are travelling for the first time.
Participate in the Celebrations
Experience the temple at its liveliest during festivals like Navratri, Chandi Chaudas, and Kumbh Mela. The temple comes alive with rituals, music, prayers, and colourful decorations. It is a special time to witness deep-rooted traditions and vibrant culture while joining thousands of devotees in celebration and spiritual devotion.
Trek through the Shivalik Hills
For those who enjoy nature and adventure, the 3 km trek to the temple is an enriching journey. Starting at Chandighat, the trail winds through trees, monkeys, and scenic viewpoints. It is a moderate hike that rewards you with spiritual peace and beautiful views from the top.
Tourism Board Alliances
Shri Maa Chandi Devi Temple FAQs
Who are the main deities worshipped in the Chandi Devi Temple?
The main deity worshiped at the Chandi Devi temple is Goddess Chandi, who is considered a form of Goddess Parvati. Goddess Chandi is revered as a powerful and fierce form of the divine mother. The temple is also associated with Goddess Durga, another form of Goddess Parvati, who embodies strength and valour. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings for courage and protection against evil.
What is the historical significance of the Chandi Devi Temple?
The Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar is dedicated to Goddess Chandi, a form of Goddess Parvati. It is said that Goddess Chandi rested here after killing the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha. The temple is a significant religious site with a rich historical background, believed to have been built in 1929 by the King of Suchat Singh, although the legend of the temple dates back to the 8th century.
What are the key rituals and ceremonies performed at the Chandi Devi Temple?
Shri Maa Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar is a significant spiritual site, and several rituals and ceremonies are performed there. Some of the key rituals include- Mangal Aarti, which is an early morning prayer ritual performed to seek blessings from the deity. A ritual bathing called “Abhishek” of the deity with sacred substances like milk, honey, and water is performed every morning. Devotees also offer food and sweets, “Bhog”, to the deity as a mark of their devotion. An Evening Aarti with a grand prayer ceremony is held in the evening, attracting many devotees. Apart from these, Special Pujas during festivals and special occasions are also conducted.
