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Naina Devi Temple, Nainital Overview
The renowned Naina Devi Temple stands on the banks of the picturesque Naini Lake in Nainital. Any person visiting Nainital doesn’t miss offering their prayers at the famous Hindu pilgrimage site. Maa Naina Devi or Maa Sati is the presiding deity of this temple. Legends have it that the temple is built on the site where Maa Sati’s eyes fell on the earth while Lord Shiva was taking her charred body out of the fire. The city has also got its name from Naina Devi.
You need to climb a hill to reach the temple. On your way to the temple atop the hill, you will find several small shops selling prasad and other items used for puja.
The temple is at a walking distance from the Nainital city bus stand, and you can also hire an auto-rickshaw from there. Boats also take you across the Naini Lake up to the temple.
Another exciting way to reach the temple is through the ropeway. The ropeway operates from the bottom of the hill and transports tourists to the temple. Locals also operate palkis for those who want to go in groups and enjoy the pilgrimage.
One of the biggest festivals that attract a lot of tourists to the Naina Devi Temple is the Nanda Ashtami. The festival goes on for around eight days. Devotees from across the country visit the temple to seek blessings from the goddess.
The temple is also thronged by visitors on other auspicious occasions like Navratri.
Best time to visit: You will witness massive crowd if you visit the temple during Navratri, i.e., September to October, or during Shravan, i.e., July to August.
While in Nainital, tourists do not miss the opportunity to visit the temple that is revered by Hindus.
