Goddess Durga, the fierce yet compassionate mother, holds a sacred and powerful place in the hearts of millions. As the embodiment of divine feminine energy, she protects her devotees from evil, negativity, and suffering. In India—a land where the feminine divine is revered in countless forms—Durga temples stand as powerful sanctuaries of strength, courage, and blessings.
Navaratri, the grand festival dedicated to Durga Mata, celebrates her divine power to bring joy, health, and spiritual protection. During this vibrant time, devotees across the country honour her with deep devotion and rituals.
In this blog, let’s explore 10 must-visit Durga temples in India that are spiritual landmarks and also rich in cultural heritage and tradition.
1. Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu & Kashmir
Vaishno Devi, also known as Mata Rani, Trikuta, Ambe, and Vaishnavi, is an unmarried form of the Hindu Mother Goddess Lakshmi, embodying the essence (tattvas) of Sarasvati and Kali. She is worshipped as a unified manifestation of Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasarasvati. The Vaishno Devi Shrine is one of the most visited Hindu temples in India. Devotees undertake a 12-kilometer uphill trek to seek the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi. The sacred cave enshrines the Goddess in the form of three natural rock formations (pindis), symbolizing her divine trinity. A pilgrimage to this holy site is a profound journey of devotion, endurance, and spiritual connection.
Address: Bhavan, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir 182301
Timing: Opening Hours: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
2. Kamakhya Temple, Assam
Located atop the Nilachal Hills in Guwahati, Assam, the Kamakhya Temple is one of the oldest and most revered Shakti Peethas in India. Uniquely dedicated to the celebration of feminine power, menstruation, and fertility, the temple honours Goddess Kamakhya. Within the sanctum lies a yoni-shaped stone, symbolizing the goddess, which is bathed with water and worshipped with deep reverence.
The temple gains national attention during the annual Ambubachi Mela, a festival that marks the goddess’s yearly menstruation cycle and draws thousands of devotees and Tantric practitioners from across the country. Kamakhya eventually emerged as a major pilgrimage site, particularly among devotees from Bengal.
Other important festivals celebrated at the temple include Manasha Puja and Durga Puja during Navaratri in the autumn, the latter being a five-day event that attracts thousands of visitors.
Address: Kamakhya, Guwahati, Assam 781010
Timing: Opens from morning 5:30 Am to 1:00 pm and 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm
3. Dakshineswar Kali Temple, West Bengal
Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River near Kolkata, this 19th-century temple was built by Rani Rashmoni and is dedicated to Bhavatarini Kali, a form of Durga. The temple is historically significant as it was closely associated with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, whose spiritual teachings inspired millions. With nine spires and a large courtyard, the Dakshineswar temple radiates spiritual calm and architectural splendour
Address: Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700076
Timing: Opens from Morning: 6:00 am to 12:30 pm and Evening: 3:30 pm to 9:00 pm
4. Ambaji Temple, Gujarat
Located near the Gujarat-Rajasthan border, Ambaji Temple is a major Shakti Peetha where the heart of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen. The temple does not have an idol but worships a holy Shree Yantra etched on a rock. Ambaji is a deeply revered site, especially during the Bhadarvi Poonam fair, when thousands of devotees walk barefoot to the temple. The temple's simple yet powerful aura leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.
Address: Ambaji, dt. Danta District: Banaskatha 381550
Timing: Morning from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Afternoon from 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Evening from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM
5. Chamundeshwari Temple, Karnataka
Perched atop the Chamundi Hills in Mysuru, Chamundeshwari Temple honours Goddess Chamundi, an incarnation of Durga who slew the demon Mahishasura. The temple offers panoramic views of Mysore and is adorned with Dravidian-style architecture. The majestic 1,000-step climb to reach the temple is a pilgrimage in itself. During Dussehra, the temple becomes the heart of grand celebrations that retell the victory of good over evil.
Address: Shri Chamundeshwari Temple Road, Chamundi Hill, Mysuru, Karnataka 570010
Timing: Morning from 7.30 am to 2.00 pm and 3.30 pm to 6.00 pm
6. Kanaka Durga Temple, Andhra Pradesh
Located on Indrakeeladri Hill overlooking the Krishna River in Vijayawada, Kanaka Durga Temple is one of the most powerful Shakti temples in southern India. The goddess is depicted here in a radiant golden form, standing on the demon Mahishasura. The temple is especially vibrant during Navaratri, with rituals, music, and divine energy filling the air.
Address: Sri Kanaka Durga Temple, Indhrakeeladhri, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520001
Timing: Opens from 5:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
7. Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Temple, Andhra Pradesh
Situated in Srisailam, this temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and 18 Shakti Peethas. The temple complex houses Bhramaramba Devi, a fierce form of Durga worshipped in her bee (bhramara) form, and Mallikarjuna, a form of Lord Shiva. The spiritual blend of Shakti and Shiva makes this temple an essential pilgrimage site for devotees seeking balance and inner strength.
Address: Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh 528101
Timing: Opens from 4:30 am – 10:00 pm
8. Banashankari Temple, Karnataka
Dedicated to Banashankari Amma, a form of Shakambari Devi, this temple is located in Badami, Karnataka. It is believed that the goddess protects devotees from evil and grants prosperity. Unlike most South Indian temples, Banashankari Temple follows Rahukala pooja timings, which is considered inauspicious elsewhere. The Banashankari Jatre, a local fair, attracts thousands of worshippers annually.
Address: Kanakapura Main Rd, Sarbandapalya, Banashankari Temple Ward, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560070
Timing: Temple opens from 6:00 am – 1:30 pm & 4 pm – 9 pm.
9. Naina Devi Temple, Uttarkand
The Naina Devi Temple is situated atop the Naina Hill on the northern shore of Naini Lake in Nainital, Uttarakhand. The presiding deity of the temple is Maa Naina Devi, symbolized by two netras (eyes). Nainital is recognized as one of the Shakti Peethas, and the temple is believed to mark the sacred spot where the eyes (naina) of Goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva carried her dismembered body across the universe.
Inside the sanctum, three deities are enshrined—Mata Kali Devi, Maa Naina Devi, and Lord Ganesha. On Bhadrapada Shukla Ashtami, a statue immersion ceremony is held at the temple, like the grand celebrations seen in Maharashtra and West Bengal.
Address: Ayarpatta, Near Naini Lake, Nainital, Uttarakhand, 263002
Timing: Temple opens from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm
10. Shri Durga Kund Mandir, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Situated near the sacred Durga Kund (pond) in Varanasi, this 18th-century red-colored temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is believed to have been built by a Bengali queen. The idol here is said to have self-manifested (swayambhu). During Navratri, the temple becomes a hub of devotion, lights, and celebrations, honouring the goddess who protects Kashi, the city of light.
Address: Durgakund, Naipokhari, Chetganj, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timing: Temple opens from 4 pm to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 8 pm
The temples of Goddess Durga across India are not just architecturally diverse, but also reflect varied beliefs, deep faith, resilience, and divine energy. Each shrine holds a unique story, a different form of the Devi, and a powerful vibration that touches the soul of every devotee. Visiting these Durga temples during Navaratri or at any time of the year can be a life-enriching journey. Let your footsteps follow the path of devotion, and may the blessings of Maa Durga light your way with courage, clarity, and compassion.
