Saptashrungi Devi Temple: The Mountain Abode of Shakti
Overview
Perched 4,200 feet high on the Saptashrungi Hills in Nashik district, Saptashrungi Devi Temple is one of India’s most powerful Shakti Peethas. This ancient shrine honors Goddess Saptashrungi (“Seven-Peaked Goddess”), believed to be self-manifested (swayambhu) on the mountain face.
Saptashrungi Devi Temple features:
- A 60-foot-tall rock-cut idol adorned with gold ornaments
- 462 stone steps leading to the shrine (alternative road access available)
- Seven natural peaks surrounding the sanctum
- Jaw-dropping views of the Sahyadri ranges
Mentioned in the Devi Bhagavatam, this is where:
- Goddess Durga slew demon Mahishasura
- The right arm of Sati fell (as per Shakti Peetha legend)
- Pandavas worshipped during their exile
How to Reach Saptashrungi Devi Temple
- Nearest Airport: Nashik (60 km) / Mumbai (200 km)
- Railhead: Nashik Road (50 km)
- By Road:
- State transport buses from Nashik/Vani
- Private vehicles allowed till foothills
- Ropeway available (covers 1.2 km in 5 mins)
Why Saptashrungi Devi Temple Matters
- One of 51 Shakti Peethas
- Maharashtra’s second most important Devi shrine
- Ashtadasa Shakti Peetha mentioned in Tantric texts
- Navratri celebrations attract lakhs of devotees
5 Divine Experiences of Saptashrungi Devi Temple
- Climb the holy steps at sunrise
- Witness the golden-hued idol during arati
- Walk the parikrama path around the hill
- Visit the underground water spring near sanctum
- Buy local sindoor as sacred prasad
Nearby Sacred Sites
| Distance | Pilgrim Spot | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 50 km | Trimbakeshwar | Jyotirlinga |
| 65 km | Shirdi | Sai Baba Samadhi |
| 80 km | Grishneshwar | Jyotirlinga |
| 100 km | Bhimashankar | Jyotirlinga |
Mythological Significance of the Saptashrungi Devi Temple
The temple represents:
- Feminine divine energy at its most potent
- Geological marvel – the natural rock formation resembles a seated goddess
- Living tradition of warrior goddess worship
- Ecological balance – the dense forests are considered Devi’s abode
Pilgrim FAQs
Q: Best time to visit?
A: October-March (avoid monsoon) & Chaitra/Ashwin Navratri
Q: Accommodation options?
A: MTDC guest house & private lodges at foothills
Q: Physical difficulty level?
A: Moderate climb; elderly can use palkhi/doli services
Q: Special rituals?
A: Kumkum Archana (₹500) & Maha Abhishek (₹1100)
Q: Photography rules?
A: Allowed except inner sanctum
Why Pilgrims Keep Returning
More than a temple, Saptashrungi offers:
- Spiritual awakening in nature’s lap
- Panoramic vistas of the Western Ghats
- Cultural immersion through folk traditions
- Physical challenge with divine rewards
[tourismdna_related_places]