Naina Devi Temple, Nainital – Sacred Shakti Peeth of Uttarakhand

Overview

Naina Devi Temple is one of the most famous religious sites in Nainital, Uttarakhand, located on the northern bank of the beautiful Naini Lake. This centuries-old temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, who is considered a form of Goddess Parvati and the presiding deity of Nainital. Known for its spiritual energy, historical importance, and stunning location, the temple attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year.

Historical & Mythological Significance

• According to Hindu mythology, the Naina Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths.
• It is believed that when Goddess Sati immolated herself at her father Daksha’s yagna, Lord Shiva carried her body across the universe in grief.
  In the process, her eyes (naina) fell at this spot, making it a sacred pilgrimage site.
• The original temple is believed to have been built in the 15th century but was destroyed in a landslide in 1880. It was later reconstructed in the same location.

Temple Architecture

• The temple is a small yet spiritually charged shrine.
• At the entrance, there are statues of lion mounts representing Goddess Durga’s vehicle.
• Inside the sanctum, the deity is represented by two eyes (symbolizing Naina Devi), along with idols of Maa Kali and Lord Ganesha.
• The temple premises offer panoramic views of Naini Lake and the surrounding Kumaon hills.

Festivals & Celebrations

• Nanda Ashtami: Celebrated in August/September, it is the biggest festival here with nine days of rituals, fairs, and cultural performances.
• Navratri: Devotees flock to the temple to offer prayers, and the temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights.
• Shravan Month: Special pujas and offerings are made during the holy month of Shravan.

Spiritual Experience

• The temple is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Nainital’s identity.
• The peaceful atmosphere, chanting of mantras, and breathtaking lake view create a perfect environment for meditation and devotion.
• Many believe that offering prayers here fulfills wishes and brings peace and prosperity.

Location

• City: Nainital, Uttarakhand
• Address: Naina Devi Temple, Mallital, Nainital – 263001
• Coordinates: 29.3956° N, 79.4542° E

Best Time to Visit

• March to June: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
• September to November: Perfect for spiritual visits after the monsoon.
• During Festivals: Nanda Ashtami or Navratri for a vibrant cultural experience.

Nearby Places to Visit Naina Devi Temple, Nainital

1. Naini Lake

• Distance from Temple: 0 km (next to the temple)
• Overview: Naini Lake is the centerpiece of Nainital, surrounded by the hills and town. This pear-shaped lake is ideal for boating, relaxing, and photography.
• Activities:
  • Paddle boating or rowing
  • Evening lakeside strolls
  • Photography during sunrise and sunset
• Highlights: The temple’s reflection on the lake creates a spiritual and scenic view, especially during early mornings.

HT 115 – (3 Nainital + 2 Ranikhet + 2 Corbett)

2. The Mall Road

• Distance: 0.5 km
• Overview: The bustling Mall Road is Nainital’s main shopping and leisure street. It runs along Naini Lake and offers shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Activities:
  • Buying local handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Street food tasting (like bal mithai and singodi)
  • Relaxing at lakeside cafes
• Highlights: Evening lights make the Mall Road picturesque, perfect for family walks or photography.

HT 114 – (3 Nainital + 2 Mukteshwar + 2 Binsar)

3. Snow View Point

• Distance: 3 km
• Overview: Snow View Point provides panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi. It’s accessible via a steep trek or cable car.
• Activities:
  • Cable car ride with breathtaking views
  • Photography of Himalayan peaks
  • Short trek to viewpoints nearby
• Highlights: The view of the surrounding mountains is spectacular during winter and post-monsoon seasons.

4. Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

• Distance: 4 km
• Overview: Tiffin Top is a popular picnic spot and viewpoint located on a hill. It provides a 360-degree view of Nainital town, Naini Lake, and surrounding valleys.
• Activities:
  • Trekking from the Mall Road or Naina Devi Temple area
  • Picnics and nature walks
  • Photography of Nainital’s skyline
• Highlights: Famous for adventure activities like paragliding nearby and a peaceful sunset view.

5. Nainital Zoo (Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo)

• Distance: 3.5 km
• Overview: This high-altitude zoo houses rare Himalayan species and is a must-visit for wildlife lovers.
• Animals to See:
  • Snow leopards
  • Himalayan black bears
  • Siberian tigers
  • Red junglefowl
• Highlights: The zoo is set in lush deodar forests, making the visit both adventurous and educational.

6. Hanuman Garhi

• Distance: 2 km
• Overview: Hanuman Garhi is a famous Hanuman temple perched on a hilltop. It is a spiritual and scenic spot, especially for morning visits.
• Activities:
  • Climb the hill via steps for a small trek
  • Witness sunrise views over Nainital
  • Participate in early morning aarti
• Highlights: Offers panoramic views of the town and Naini Lake.

7. Governor’s House (Raj Bhavan)

• Distance: 2.5 km
• Overview: A historic British-era building surrounded by well-maintained gardens. Raj Bhavan is the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand.
• Activities:
  • Sightseeing of colonial architecture
  • Photography of gardens and scenic viewpoints
• Highlights: Though entry is restricted, the exteriors are stunning and worth seeing during walks.

8. Eco Cave Gardens

• Distance: 2 km
• Overview: A network of interconnected caves and hanging gardens, perfect for exploration and adventure for families and kids.
• Activities:
  • Explore terraced caves and hanging gardens
  • Learn about local flora and fauna
  • Enjoy photography in natural surroundings
• Highlights: Great educational spot for children and a short fun adventure for tourists.

9. St. John in the Wilderness Church

• Distance: 3 km
• Overview: This 19th-century Anglican church is surrounded by dense deodar forests and represents colonial heritage.
• Activities:
  • Sightseeing of Gothic-style architecture
  • Photography of forested surroundings
• Highlights: Peaceful atmosphere ideal for reflection and history enthusiasts.

10. Naina Peak (China Peak)

• Distance: 6 km
• Overview: Naina Peak is the highest point in Nainital, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayas and Nainital town.
• Activities:
  • Trekking to the summit (moderate difficulty)
  • Sunrise and sunset photography
  • Birdwatching and nature walks
• Highlights: Offers panoramic Himalayan views; must-visit for adventure seekers.