Mangla Gauri Temple, Gaya

According to the widely told legend, after Sati gave up her life at her father Daksha's sacrifice, Shiva wandered the world carrying her body. To end his grief and his dance of destruction, Vishnu cut the body apart with his discus, and the places where the pieces fell became Shakti Peethas. Bihar Tourism and Incredible India both record the belief that Sati's breast fell at Gaya, which is why the goddess here is worshipped as a source of nourishment and benevolence.

Wikipedia and Bihar Tourism describe the temple as one of the eighteen Maha Shakti Peethas, and the sources note references to it in the Padma, Vayu and Agni Puranas and the Devi Bhagavata, with Wikipedia and Incredible India adding the Markandeya Purana. Wikipedia remarks on its place as a Shakta shrine within Gaya, a predominantly Vaishnava pilgrimage centre.

The temple is closely tied to the observances of married women. Incredible India records that women keep a fast on Tuesdays (Mangalvar) for the welfare of their families and the success of their husbands, with offerings that include sixteen bangles, seven kinds of fruit and five sweets. Bihar Tourism notes that newlyweds visit the temple to seek blessings for a happy married life.

Mangla Gauri is a busy working temple; expect large crowds on Tuesdays, during the Shravan Tuesday fasts and through Navratri. The climb up the hill involves steps. Confirm current timings and arrangements with the temple or Bihar Tourism before visiting.

Timings and arrangements change with seasons and festivals. Confirm current details with the temple administration before travelling. Last reviewed 1 November 2026.