Chandi Devi and Mansa Devi Temple in from Rajaji
By JAGAT- 04-July-24: Imagine nature, wildlife and spirituality - all in one getaway is a dream-fulfilling sojourn on the foothills of the Himalayas and in the state of ‘Devbhoomi’, that is Uttarakhand. Rajaji National Park, nestled in the lush hills of Uttarakhand, India, is a sanctuary of diverse flora and fauna spread across an expansive area of over 820 sq. km. Named after the renowned freedom fighter C. Rajagopalachari, this national park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. It spans across the Shivalik range and offers a picturesque landscape of dense forests, grasslands, and river valleys, including the Ganges and its tributaries. Rajaji National Park is famed for its population of Asian elephants, which roam freely alongside other majestic creatures like tigers, leopards, and deer. Visitors can explore the park through thrilling jeep safaris and guided nature walks, immersing themselves in the tranquil surroundings and spotting diverse bird species such as the Great Hornbill and Himalayan Pied Kingfisher. Beyond its natural splendor, Rajaji National Park serves as an important conservation area, preserving the biodiversity of the region and offering a peaceful retreat into the heart of the Himalayan foothills.
The best time to visit Rajaji National Park is from mid-November to March to enjoy the benefits of cool and pleasant weather. Make the payment of the Rajaji safari booking price online to secure an advance booking for the jeep safari. Being located between the two renowned spiritual cities of Uttarakhand - Haridwar and Rishikesh, there is a lot more to do on a trip to Rajaji beyond wildlife exploration. Going for a trip to Rajaji National Park, you can blend a spiritual journey with wildlife safari by visiting two highly revered temples of Haridwar, nestled atop two hills - Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple. Learn about these two shrines that are of extreme devotional significance to thousands of pilgrims.
Mansa Devi Temple - Maa Mansa Devi Temple, perched atop the Shivalik mountain range in Haridwar, is a significant pilgrimage site revered by devotees. It houses two idols of Maa Mansa: one with three faces and five arms, and the other with eight arms. The name "Mansa" translates to "wish," and believers hold steadfastly to the conviction that Goddess Mansa grants the heartfelt desires of those who sincerely visit her temple. Therefore, this revered site is known as a 'Siddh Peetha', where aspirations are believed to be fulfilled.
Alongside the Maya Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple, it constitutes one of Haridwar's trio of Peethas. Located in a city reputedly blessed by accidental drops of elixir from Lord Vishnu's vehicle, Garuda, Haridwar holds profound religious significance. The Mansa Devi Temple attracts a high number of visitors, drawn not only by its spiritual aura but also by its scenic ropeways, adding to the temple's allure and making it a magnet for tourists from across the nation.
Chandi Devi Temple - The Chandi Devi Temple stands majestically atop Neel Parvat near Haridwar, dedicated to Goddess Chandi, revered as a Siddh Peeth where devotees' desires are believed to be fulfilled. This holy site holds immense religious significance and is regarded as one of North India's Shakti Peethas. Legend has it that Goddess Chandika Devi briefly rested on Neel Parvat after vanquishing the demon kings Shumbh and Nishumbha. The temple, also known as Neel Parvat Teerth, is one of the Panch Tirth (Five Pilgrimages) within Haridwar. It was constructed in 1929 by Suchat Singh, the then king of Kashmir, although the main idol is said to have been installed in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya, a revered Hindu scholar.