Dwelling within the seven peaks of the Sahyadri range, nestled in the small village of Vani, carrying in her eighteen arms weapons of various Gods is the Mahishasuramardhini (slayer of Mahishasura). The idol of Saptashrungi Devi is believed to be 'swyambhu'. Mythology describes that during Rama-Ravana war, Hanuman came to Saptashrungi hills in search of medicinal herbs to restore the life of Lakshman. The sage Markandeya, is said to have resided in the hill located to the east of the temple and is believed to have recited puranas to please Devi. The steps to the temple were built by Umabai Dabhade in 1710.

Location Maharashtra, Nashik, Mumbai

Legend

Legends states that when the demon king Mahishasura was creating havoc in the forests, the God  requested the help of Durga Devi. Then the 18 armed Devi vanquished Mahishasura here, and since then is also known as Mahishasura Mardhini.

This temple is part of famous Sade Theen Shakthipeet Darshan Yatra

Architecture

The Saptashrungi temple is surrounded by seven peaks from which it get its name. A climb of 500 steps through the mountain side, takes the devotees to the Saptashrungi temple. At the foot of the hill, from where one starts climbing the steps, there is the stone head of a buffalo, believed to be of demon Mahishasura. The Devi is said to be swayambhu (self-manifested) sculpted on a rock on the face of a mountain. . The idol  covered in sindoor is adorned with ornaments and crown. The front courtyard of the temple has a trident/Trishula decorated with bells and lamps.  There is a community hall and gallery for devotees.

Goddess Saptashrungi Devi Temple1 by AmitUdeshi - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Commons - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Goddess_Saptashrungi_Devi_Temple1.jpg#/media/File:Goddess_Saptashrungi_Devi_Temple1.jpg

Culture

One of the popular religious havens of the Hindus, noted for its association with Ramayana, Nashik, on the banks of Godavari, is one of the four holy cities of the country to host Kumbh Mela. The combination of forts, temples, spirituality and history makes Nashik an important tourist destination.

Darsan Info

Saptashrungi Temple timings  : 6.00 AM to 10.30 PM

There is a 500 step climb to the temple. Dolis are available for those who cannot climb.

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative attire while visiting Saptashrungi Temple.

Famous Festival

January - Dhanumasa festival(Dec/Jan)

March - Maha shivratri(Feb/Mar)

April - Chaitrotosav, Gud Padva

October - Navratri(Sept/Oct)

November - Kartik Purnima(Nov/Dec)

Temple Rituals

The priests perform puja and aarti to the Goddess through the day. Devotees often circumbulate the whole hill as the idol of Devi of Saptashrungi is carved onto the hill side.

Special Rituals

Sarees and expensive items which are to be offered to the Goddess have to be registered first in the office located at the entrance of Saptashrungi Temple.

Additional Info

 

Meals available at Prasadalaya of Saptashrungi. Small eateries are there in the vicinity