Chandi Devi Temple, Uttarakhand
The Chandi Devi Temple of Haridwar is a charming temple dedicated to the Chanda Devi Goddess, perched on the Neel Parvat of the Shivalik Hills. The Chandi Devi Mandir, also known as Neel Parvat Teerth, is one of the five pilgrimages of Haridwar and is also known as Siddha Peetha, a place where devotees worship to fulfill their desire. Because of its location, the Chandi Devi temple is also a preferred choice for trekking tourists. You can also reach the temple zenith by the means of a ropeway, the view from which is exhilarating.
The historic beauty of Chandi Devi Temple is best experienced as you hike your way up to the top. With the verdant greenery of the surrounding, you will certainly feel the presence of the divine around you. Being one of the oldest and revered temples in Haridwar, this shrine has a tremendous footfall throughout the year. One of the most festive times here is during the festivals of Chandi Chaudas, Navratra, and Kumbh Mela when the temple sees amazing celebrations and massive participation. The Chandi temple during the festival time is a must-visit.
History
According to mythology, the two demons named Shumbha and Nishumbha captured heaven from Lord Indra. Then Lord Indra requested Goddess Parvati for help and then Goddess Parvati incarnated as Chandika Devi. The devil Shumbha got attracted towards the beauty of the Goddess and wished to marry Her but The Goddess rejected his request.
Then the demon Shumbha sent his two main demons Chanda and Munda for the war. The Devi Chandika killed both the demons Chanda and Munda. After the death of Chanda-Munda, the two demons Shumbha and Nishumbha together fought with Chandi Devi but got killed by the Devi in the war. After killing the demons, the Goddess rested on the Nile mountain for some time. Later on, a temple dedicated to Chandi Devi was built at that place.
Chandi Devi is one of the three Shakti peetha in Haridwar. The other two beings are Mansa Devi and Maya Devi. These three temples together make a triangle. It is believed that both Chandi Devi and Mansa Deviare two forms of Goddess Parvati and are very close to each other.