Shree Naina Devi Ji, the Kuldevi of millions of Hindus worldwide, is one of the 51 Siddha Shaktipeethas. The mandir stands majestically atop a hill in the Shivalik Range, at an altitude of around 1,200 meters, in Bilaspur district, Himachal Pradesh. It was originally built by King Bir Chand of the Chandel dynasty in the 8th century.
Itihaas
According to the Puranas, during the Yagna of Daksha Prajapati, Devi Sati, feeling insulted by her father’s disregard for Bhagwan Shiva, sacrificed herself in the Yagna fire. Enraged, Shiva began his cosmic dance, Taandava, carrying Sati’s body. To save the universe from destruction, Bhagwan Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut Sati’s body into 51 parts, which fell at different places on Earth.
The eyes (नैन) of the Goddess are believed to have fallen here, giving the mandir its name—”Shree Naina Devi Ji”.
Another story speaks of a shepherd boy named Naina, who discovered the divine power of the site, leading to the establishment of the mandir .
Location and Accessibility
- Distance: ~70 km from Bilaspur, 105 km from Chandigarh, 15 km from Bhakra, 25 km from Anandpur Sahib, and 35–40 km from Kiratpur Sahib.
- The mandir is directly connected by NH-205.
- Pilgrims can reach the mandir via a traditional stairway, motorable road, or ropeway.
- Devotees traditionally chant “Jai Mata Di!” as they ascend the steps.
Mandir Premises
After entering the mandir , devotees encounter a sacred Peepal tree with idols of Bhagwan Ganesha and Bhagwan Hanuman beneath it. Two lion statues guard the entrance of the main shrine.
Inside the Garbh Griha (inner sanctum) are three idols:
- Kali Devi (left)
- Shree Naina Devi’s golden eyes (center)
- Bhagwan Ganesha (right)
A nearby Naina Devi Gufa (cave), about 500 meters away, is also a sacred spot. The panoramic view of the Sutlej River from the hilltop is breathtaking.
Festivals and Fairs
All Hindu festivals are celebrated here, with special grandeur during the Chaitra, Shravan, and Ashwin Navratri. During these times, the mandir hosts massive fairs (melas) that attract millions of devotees, particularly from North India.
Langar (Community Kitchen)
One of the mandir ’s most cherished traditions is its continuous Langar (free kitchen) run by the mandir trust.
It offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner—typically Kadhi, Dal, Rice, and Roti—to thousands of devotees daily. A 24-hour free meal service is available on request.
Accommodation
The mandir provides both free and affordable lodging:
Paid but nominal facilities: Matri Aanchal, Matri Chhaya, and Matri Sharan guest houses managed by the Mandir Trust.
Free facilities: Patiala Dharamshala and a motel near the Langar area (accommodates ~1,000 devotees).