Temple · Haridwar
Maya Devi Temple
Ancient Shakti Peeth of Haridwar’s presiding goddess, and one corner of the city’s Siddh Peeth triangle.
Maya Devi is the adhishthatri devi (presiding goddess) of Haridwar, which is why the city was once called Mayapuri. The temple is counted among the Shakti Peethas, where, according to tradition, the heart and navel of Sati fell.
Together with Mansa Devi on Bilwa Parvat and Chandi Devi on Neel Parvat, it completes the triangle of Siddh Peeths that many pilgrims visit on the same day. Unlike the other two, it is on level ground in the old town, so it is easy for seniors.
Visiting tips
- Visit on the way to or from Har Ki Pauri—it is a short walk or e-rickshaw ride.
- Navratri and the Kumbh months are the busiest times.
More places in Haridwar
Ghat
Har Ki Pauri
Heart of the mela
Haridwar’s most sacred ghat and the main Kumbh bathing site, famous for its evening Ganga Aarti.
Temple
Mansa Devi Temple
Above Har Ki Pauri, by ropeway
Hilltop Shakti temple on Bilwa Parvat, reached by ropeway or a steep walk, with views over Haridwar and the Ganga.
Temple
Chandi Devi Temple
About 4 km from Har Ki Pauri
Temple of Goddess Chandi on Neel Parvat across the Ganga, reached by ropeway through forested hills.
Temple
Daksheswara Mahadev, Kankhal
About 4 km south, in Kankhal
Ancient Shiva temple at the site of King Daksha’s yagna, where Sati gave up her life.
Day trip
Rajaji National Park (Chilla)
Chilla gate about 10 km from Haridwar
Forest safari on the edge of Haridwar, home to wild elephants, leopards, deer and hundreds of bird species.
Day trip
Rishikesh
About 25 km north
The yoga capital of the world: suspension bridges, riverside ashrams and the Triveni Ghat aarti.