Naina Devi Temple in Nanital

Naina Devi temple is one of the most iconic Hindu temples of India and is located in Nainital, Uttarakhand. Situated atop the tranquil Naina hillock, towards the northern side of Naini Lake, it draws thousands of devotees each year from all over the world. 

This temple has great mythological and historical significance and is one of the most prominent shakti peeths in India. A famous Hindu pilgrimage site situated amidst beautiful surroundings, Naina Devi temple is one of the most sought-after places to see in Nainital. The deity within the temple is Goddess Naina Devi; the two eyes represented in the temple are in her honour.

According to Hindu scripture and mythology, Naina Devi temple emerged when the eyes of Goddess Sati fell to the ground while Lord Shiva was carrying her burnt corpse. This ancient 15th century temple is said to have been ruined in a landslide, but in 1842, a great devotee of Naina Devi had it rebuilt and installed the first idol of the goddess. The temple was hit by a massive landslide again in 1880, after which the locals took it upon themselves to rebuild the temple. It was completed by 1883.

Those travelling to Nainital make it a priority in their itinerary to visit Naina Devi temple for its religious and historical significance. It is considered to be the most sacred among the temples in Nainital. It attracts thousands of travellers and local devotees, especially during Nanda Ashtami, a grand festival celebrated over 5-8 days in September. The festival is celebrated in the premises of Naina Devi temple. A statue immersion ceremony of Nanda Devi and Naina Devi is conducted on the last day of the festival. 

Naini Lake in Nainital
Naini Lake in Nainital

Other holy occasions like Navratri and Chaitra fair also see thousands of visitors to the temple. Naina Devi temple is a short walk from Nainital’s main bus stand, around 35 km from the nearest railway station at Kathgodam, and approximately 55 km from Pantnagar Airport, which makes it easily accessible.

The legend of Naina Devi draws huge crowds to Naina Devi temple. Accommodation in Nainital gets booked well in advance and the place can get overcrowded. Hence, it makes sense to book your stay in a place like Club Mahindra Naukuchiatal Resort while in Nainital as it is close to all the travel spots, yet removed from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

A property of Club Mahindra, this resort offers comfortable and spacious rooms with a host of modern amenities to make your stay memorable. The in-house restaurant lets you relish local dishes of the Uttarakhand region. The resort caters to families as well as smaller groups and boasts of excellent service. 

Check out the Club Mahindra reviews online to know more about happy customer experiences. And book your tickets to one of the most tranquil places in northern India!

Written by

Manu Khandelwal

An engineer and a travel blogger. Loves trekking and doing bike road trips. Burger lover (want to try every burger in the world). Clinomaniac. Sports fanatic. Likes technology but not a technology addict.