Visit Chhatarpur Temple: Delhi’s Spiritual Gem | Best City Guide
In Delhi, there are different divine places like Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, and many more temples. Among these is the Chhatarpur Temple in Delhi – a temple dedicated to the goddess Katyayani. The entire complex of the temple is spread over a wide area of 28 hectares (70 acres). Chhatarpur Temple, New Delhi is a beautiful temple and becomes the second largest temple after the construction of the Akshardham temple.
The Architecture of Chhatarpur Temple, this whole temple is constructed from marble, and on all of the facets there is jaali work. It can be classified as a Vesara style of architecture. Many tourists used to visit this place on a regular basis and also explore the best places to visit in Delhi.
Chhatarpur Temple History
The Chhatarpur temple in Delhi was established in 1974, by Baba Sant Nagpal ji, who died in 1998. His samadhi shrine lies in the premises of the Shiv-Gauri Nageshwar Mandir within the temple complex.
The story of the temple revolves around Baba Sant Nagpal Ji who does not leave his rules and regulations to anyone. He was born on the special day of Holi and that day was a full moon day. He even lost his parents at an early age. Then a woman told him that she was the universe’s mother and she would be taken to a temple where he could live with her. He used to make contact with the divine directly and did not do anything without her permission.
The Temple Complex
The entire temple complex spread over 60 acres, has over 20 small and large temples divided in three different complexes. The main deity in the temple is Goddess Katyayani, who is part of Navadurga, the nine forms of Hindu goddess Durga or Shakti, worshipped during the Navratri celebrations.
A side shrine within the main temple houses a shrine of Goddess Katyayani (Durga), which opens only during the Navratri season when thousands of people visit the temple for darshan. One nearby room has been made as a living room with tables and chairs made in silver, and another is regarded as the Shayan Kaksha (bedroom), where a bed, dressing table and table are carved in silver.
At the entrance to the main temple stands an old tree, where devotees tie holy threads for wish fulfillment. Another shrine of Durga is open for devotees from morning to evening, it lies above the shrines dedicated to Radha Krishna, and Ganesh.
Apart from this, the complex also has other temples dedicated to Rama, Ganesha and Shiva. The temples have been built in both South and North Indian styles of temple architecture.
Tips For Visiting Chhatarpur Temple Delhi
- Attire- Traditional Indian attire is encouraged, recommended to avoid revealing clothes out of respect for temple’s cultural norms.
- Entry Fee- No fee
- Chhatarpur Temple Timings- Opens at 6AM-10PM.
- Chhatarpur Temple Delhi location- Main Chhatarpur Road, Dr Ambedkar Colony, Chhatarpur, New Delhi, 110074.
- Chhatarpur Temple Nearest Metro- Chhatarpur Metro Station.
- Best Time to visit Chhatarpur Temple- The ideal time to visit the temple is during Navaratri when the celebrations are in full swing and you can be a part of the vibrant festivities.
How to Reach Chhatarpur Temple?
By Train: The nearest major railway station to Chhatarpur Temple is the New Delhi Railway Station, which is well-connected to all the major cities of India. From NDLS, one can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple, which is around 18 kilometres away, or opt for Delhi Metro services
By Road: If you are in Delhi then you have several options to choose from:
- By Metro
- By Taxi/ Cab/ auto-rickshaw
By Bus: Nearest bus stands to the temple are Chhatarpur Village bus stand and Chhatarpur crossing.
Facilities at Chhatarpur Temple in Delhi
- Chhatarpur Temple has a facility of Dharamshala for the devotees for a short stay. Spread over a vast area, Dharamshala compound has 12 halls with a 30 people capacity and 36 rooms with a 6 people facility.
- The temple premises also have a huge free parking facility available for the easy conveyance of the visitors.
Things to do in Chhatarpur Temple Delhi
There are so many things to do in Chhatarpur temple like:
1. Guided Temple Tour– Explore the ancient Chhatarpur Temple with a guided tour. Indulge into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this sacred site. The tour covers the main shrine dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, a form of Durga, and encompasses the numerous smaller temples within the complex.
2. Attend the Navratri Celebrations– Navratri, which is a nine-night festival dedicated to the nine forms of the Goddess Durga, is celebrated with great celebration at the Chhatarpur Temple. During this beautiful time, the temple is lavishly decorated, and thousands of devotees from across the country flock to participate in the rituals and prayers. Engage in the special ‘pujas,’ devotional offerings, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as the temple precincts echo with the chanting of mantras and devotional songs.
3. Temple Prasadam Tasting– In Chhatarpur Temple, visitors can sample a variety of ‘Prasadam’ that is prepared daily by temple cooks. No visit to an Indian temple is complete without tasting the ‘Prasadam,’ a divine offering of food that is first given to the deities and then distributed to the devotees.
4. Evening Light and Sound Show– The Light and Sound Show at Chhatarpur Temple is a mesmerising experience that brings to life the legends and lore associated with the temple through a spectacular display of lighting and acoustics. It is one of the best Things To See at Chhatarpur Temple. Narratives of the temple’s history, the stories of the deities worshipped, and the significance of the temple in the Hindu faith are all woven together in a rich tapestry of audio-visual delight. It’s a must-see for those visiting the temple, offering a unique evening activity that’s both educational and entertaining.
5. Photography Session– For photography enthusiasts, Chhatarpur Temple offers a wealth of visual treasures. From its stunning marble architecture to the intricate carvings on the temple walls, there are countless opportunities to capture the essence of this spiritual site. Visitors can spend time framing the perfect shot of the towering spires or capturing the play of light and shadow in the temple courtyards.
Conclusion
Yes! We know that after checking the amazing facts and reading so much about this beautiful temple, you can’t hold yourself to visit here. So, what are you waiting for? Hurry Up and plan your trip today to this amazing place and feel inner peace.
Are there any special festivals or events celebrated at Chhatarpur Temple?
Navratri, a nine-night festival dedicated to the nine forms of the Goddess Durga, is celebrated with great fervour at the Chhatarpur Temple. During this auspicious time, the temple is lavishly decorated, and thousands of devotees from across the country flock to participate in the rituals and prayers.
What are the visiting hours and entry requirements for Chhatarpur Temple?
Visiting hours for the temple is from 6 AM to 10 PM.
What is the significance of Chhatarpur Temple?
Dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, an incarnation of Goddess Durga, Chhatarpur Temple is said to be the second-largest temple complex in India, spread over an area of 60 acre. Constructed from marble, the temple boasts Dravidian and Nagara styles of architecture.
What is Chhatarpur Temple and where is it located?
It is a temple dedicated to the goddess Katyayani. It is located in Chhatarpur, on the southwestern outskirts of New Delhi.