Saptashrungi Mata Temple, Vani (Nashik): The Shakti Peetha of the Seven Peaks

Perched dramatically on a cliff at over 4,600 feet in the Sahyadri hills near Vani village in Nashik district, Saptashrungi Mata — the Divine Mother of the Seven Peaks — is one of Maharashtra’s most powerful Shakti Peetha pilgrimages. The temple takes its name from the seven peaks (Sapta = seven, Shrungi = peaks) that surround and protect the sanctum.

The Mythological Significance: a Sacred Shakti Peetha

According to Shakti Peetha tradition, this is the holy site where the right arm of Goddess Sati fell during Lord Shiva’s cosmic Tandava — making Saptashrungi Mata one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of Bharat, and one of the famous "three and a half Shakti Peethas" of Maharashtra (counted as the half Peetha). The Goddess is worshipped here as Saptashrungi Nivasini, the one who resides in these sacred hills.

The other revered sites in this Maharashtra group are the Mahalakshmi Temple (Kolhapur), the Tulja Bhavani Temple (Tuljapur)) and the Renuka Mata Temple (Mahur).

The Swayambhu Idol of Mahishasura Mardini

What makes the temple unique is its Swayambhu murti — self-manifested, carved into the rock face inside a natural cave-like sanctum.

• Height: approximately 8 feet tall
• Arms: 18 divine arms (Ashtadasha Bhuja)
• Form: Mahishasura Mardini, the slayer of the buffalo demon
• Covered in bright auspicious sindoor (vermilion)
• Eyes of a special white porcelain-like stone that shines with divine grace
• Adorned with a majestic crown, silver nath and traditional jewelry

At the base of the murti lies a stone representation of the slain Mahishasura — the eternal triumph of Dharma over Adharma.

Spiritual Significance

Devotees believe Saptashrungi Mata bestows immense strength, courage and protection. She is especially worshipped by those seeking victory over obstacles, family welfare and spiritual growth, and many report a deep sense of peace and divine protection after darshan.

Major Festivals

• Chaitra Navratri (March–April)
• Sharadiya Navratri (September–October)
• Chaitra Purnima and other auspicious tithis

During Navratri, special abhishekams, grand alankarams with ancient jewelry, extended aartis and devotional programs create an electrifying spiritual atmosphere.

How to Reach Saptashrungi Mata Temple

Location: Saptashrungi Gad, near Nanduri village, Kalwan Taluka, Nashik district, Maharashtra (≈60–65 km from Nashik city).

• By air: Nashik Airport (≈70–80 km) or Mumbai Airport (≈200 km).
• By train: Nashik Road Railway Station, then taxi or bus.
• By road: well connected via NH-3 and state highways.

Pro tip: many families from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana combine this pilgrimage with the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga and other Nashik temples.

Ropeway vs Traditional Steps

Modern ropeway (recommended): a funicular (SGFRL) reaches the top in about 3 minutes; round-trip ≈₹90–150 (subject to change), bookable online — ideal for the elderly, families and those short on time.

Traditional steps: over 500 steps lead to the sanctum — highly meritorious but needs good fitness (30–60 minutes one way). After reaching the top, a short climb of 20–25 steps remains to the main sanctum.

Darshan Timings, Sevas & Tips (2026)

• Timings: generally 6:00 AM–9:00 PM daily (extended during festivals)
• Entry fee: free
• Special sevas: daily Panchamrut Abhishekam; special alankarams on festivals
• Carry water and light snacks; wear comfortable shoes and modest clothing
• Maintain silence and reverence inside the sanctum; book ropeway tickets ahead in peak season

For NRIs & Devotees from Distant Places

Even if you cannot visit in person, keep a photo or small murti at your home altar, perform daily aarti, recite the Durga Saptashati (Chandi Path) or simple stotras, observe Navratri with kanya puja, and chant "Jai Saptashrungi Mata." Her grace transcends all distances.

Mantra for Saptashrungi Mata

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शक्तिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥ (Yā Devī sarvabhūteṣu śakti-rūpeṇa saṃsthitā…)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Saptashrungi a Shakti Peetha?

Yes — it is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, where Goddess Sati’s right arm is believed to have fallen. It is counted among Maharashtra’s "three and a half" Shakti Peethas (as the half Peetha).

What is the height of the Saptashrungi Mata idol?

The Swayambhu (self-manifested) idol is approximately 8 feet tall with 18 arms (Ashtadasha Bhuja), in the form of Mahishasura Mardini.

Is there a ropeway at Saptashrungi Temple?

Yes — a modern funicular ropeway reaches the top in about 3 minutes, with a round-trip fare around ₹90–150 (subject to change). It is highly recommended for elderly devotees and families.

What is the best time to visit Saptashrungi Mata?

October to March offers pleasant weather; Navratri (Chaitra and Sharadiya) is the most spiritually vibrant time.

Can elderly devotees visit easily?

Yes — the ropeway makes darshan comfortable even for senior citizens and families; a short climb of 20–25 steps remains to the main sanctum.

Are there accommodation options near the temple?

Basic guesthouses and dharamshalas are available near the base; many devotees stay in Nashik city and visit as a day trip.

Jai Saptashrungi Mata! 🙏

Part of our Shakti Peethas of Maharashtra series — see also Tulja Bhavani (Tuljapur) and Renuka Mata (Mahur).