Maya Devi Temple, Haridwar

The temple's sanctity is tied to the story of Sati. According to the legend, as retold by Incredible India, Sati gave up her life in the sacrificial fire of her father Daksha after he insulted Shiva. Shiva wandered the world carrying her body in grief and rage, and Vishnu cut the body with his discus so that its parts fell across the land; each place where a part fell became a Shakti pitha. Devotees believe that the heart and navel fell at Haridwar, on the site of this temple, and Wikipedia notes that the temple is therefore sometimes referred to as a Shakti pitha.

Maya Devi is worshipped as a form of Shakti and is described by both Incredible India and Wikipedia as three-headed and four-armed. Wikipedia calls the temple a siddha pitha, a place where devotees believe wishes are fulfilled, and names it with Chandi Devi and Mansa Devi as the three such pithas of Haridwar. Incredible India similarly groups the three temples as the city's shaktipeethas.

Because Maya Devi is regarded as the guardian goddess of Haridwar, many pilgrims who come to bathe at the ghats also visit her shrine. Incredible India and Wikipedia both note that the temple is especially crowded during Navratri and the Kumbh Mela.

Maya Devi Temple is a busy working temple in a crowded part of the city. Expect long queues during Navratri, on festival days and during the Kumbh Mela. Dress modestly, follow the instructions of temple staff and keep valuables secure in crowds. Confirm current timings and any special arrangements locally before visiting.

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