Naina Devi Temple - Nainital, Uttarakhand

The Naina Devi Temple is a popular Hindu temple located in the beautiful city of Nainital in Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the most visited temples in the region and is dedicated to the goddess Naina Devi.

The temple is situated on the northern shore of Naini Lake, at an approximate latitude of 29.3914° N and longitude of 79.4636° E. The location of the temple makes it a popular tourist destination, as it offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.

History of Naina Devi Temple

The history of the Naina Devi Temple dates back to the 15th century, when a temple was first built at the site. It is believed that the temple was destroyed by a landslide in the early 19th century, and the current temple was built in its place in 1883.

The temple has undergone several renovations over the years, and today it stands as a beautiful example of traditional Hindu temple architecture. The temple is made of white marble and features intricate carvings and statues of Hindu deities.

Significance of Naina Devi Temple

The Naina Devi Temple is considered a very important pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is believed that the temple is one of the 64 Shakti Peeths, which are places where the body parts of the goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva carried her body across the universe. It is said that the eyes of the goddess fell at the site of the Naina Devi Temple.

Visitors to the temple believe that offering prayers and performing rituals at the temple can bring them good luck and fortune. The temple is particularly popular among couples, who come to seek the blessings of the goddess for a happy and successful marriage.

Visiting Naina Devi Temple

The Naina Devi Temple is open to visitors throughout the year. The temple is busiest during the months of May and June, when the weather is pleasant and many tourists visit Nainital. It is advisable to visit the temple early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Visitors to the temple are required to remove their shoes before entering. The temple is located on a hill, and visitors need to climb a flight of stairs to reach the temple. The climb can be challenging for some visitors, but the stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills make it worth the effort.

The Naina Devi Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Nainital. The temple's beautiful architecture, stunning location, and religious significance make it a unique and exciting destination for tourists and spiritual seekers alike.