Shardiya Navratri 2025: The auspicious Navratri festival has begun today. During this period, the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped across the nation. If you are planning to travel during this Navratri and wish to visit some unique and mysterious temples, why not explore those with intriguing traditions in India? The beliefs and rules tied to these places might truly astound you.
Some stories surrounding these temples are mind-boggling, such as bans on married couples entering together or temples becoming deserted after sunset due to being cursed. These enchanting and mystical sites promise an unforgettable and pleasant journey, provided you are aware of certain unique aspects before visiting.
Devi Chamunda Temple in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, holds an air of mystery. People avoid visiting this temple after sunset. Legends hint that this temple is cursed and bizarre events occur here at night. Locals believe you can sometimes hear the roars of lions or the eerie ringing of bells. It is claimed that those entering with malicious intentions often face adversity here. This temple is not just a spiritual site but a mystical and historic marvel where faith blends with folklore.
Source: aajtak
The Shrai Kothi Temple in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, is renowned for its unique rule prohibiting couples from worshipping together. There is a mythological tale behind this: Once, Lord Shiva asked his sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya, to circle the universe. When Kartikeya returned, he found that Ganesha had already married, fuelled with anger, Kartikeya vowed to remain unmarried. Observing her son's anger, Goddess Parvati declared that any couple visiting the temple together would separate. Consequently, couples visit the temple separately even today.
Nainital's Naina Devi Temple by Naini Lake in Uttarakhand is one of India's 51 Shakti Peethas. This temple is dedicated to the eyes of Goddess Sati and marks the spot where her eyes fell to the earth. Known for both spiritual significance and stunning location, it is a recognized site.
In Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, the Alopi Temple stands out as an unusual Shakti Peetha. Unlike others, it has no idol or fragment of the deity. Worship here centers around a cradle symbolizing the goddess. This distinctive tradition makes it a special attraction. During Navratri, devotees swarm the temple, and it is believed that their wishes are fulfilled by either seeing or touching the cradle.
The Bagoria Durga Mata Temple in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, stands as a symbol of harmony and trust between Hindu and Muslim communities. A unique feature of this temple is that the priests belong to the Muslim community and have served here for generations.
Visiting devotees are convinced that their troubles dissipate with worship here. The Muslim families that serve as priests follow strict traditions, abstain from offering Namaz, and adhere to Hindu customs of worship and fasting. This temple is a testament to how faith and belief connect individuals beyond the boundaries of religion.
