Key Takeaways
- Mata Mansa Devi Temple sits in Bilaspur village, Panchkula, roughly 11 km from Chandigarh’s bus station, and is a major Shakti pilgrimage site.
- The main temple was established in 1815 AD by Maharaja Gopal Singh of Manimajra, with a second Patiala temple built nearby in 1840.
- Summer darshan timings run from 4 am to 10 pm, while winter hours are 5 am to 9 pm.
- The temple hosts two major Navratra melas each year, drawing lakhs of devotees over nine-day festivals.
Mata Mansa Devi Temple, located in Bilaspur village near Panchkula, is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the Chandigarh Tricity, dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi, a form of Shakti. Sitting roughly 11 km from Chandigarh’s bus station, the temple draws devotees from across North India throughout the year, with footfall peaking during its two annual Navratra melas. Consequently, it remains a significant religious and cultural landmark for the wider Tricity region. This guide covers its history, timings, and festival schedule.
History of the Temple
The main temple was established in 1815 AD by Maharaja Gopal Singh of Manimajra. A second temple, located about 200 metres away, was constructed by Karam Singh, the Maharaja of Patiala, in 1840, and the complex today spans roughly 100 acres housing both structures.
Temple Timings
During summer months, the temple remains open for darshan from 4 am to 10 pm, while winter timings run from 5 am to 9 pm. During Navratri, the temple extends darshan hours from 5 am to 10 pm to accommodate the higher number of visitors.
The Shrine Board organises two Navratra melas each year, in the months of Chaitra and Ashwin, each lasting nine days. Lakhs of devotees visit during these periods, making them the temple’s busiest and most significant religious events.
How to Reach the Temple
The temple is easily accessible from Chandigarh by road, roughly a 20 to 30 minute drive depending on traffic, making it a convenient half-day pilgrimage trip for residents and visitors staying in the city.
Tips for Visiting
Visiting on weekday mornings outside the Navratra mela period generally means shorter queues. Additionally, comfortable footwear is recommended given the temple complex’s considerable size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Mansa Devi Temple located?
The temple is located in Bilaspur village, Panchkula, roughly 11 km from Chandigarh’s bus station.
Who built Mansa Devi Temple?
The main temple was established in 1815 AD by Maharaja Gopal Singh of Manimajra.
What are the temple’s darshan timings?
Summer timings are 4 am to 10 pm, and winter timings are 5 am to 9 pm; Navratri hours extend to 5 am to 10 pm.
Two Navratra melas are held each year, in the Chaitra and Ashwin months, each lasting nine days.
Is there a second temple in the complex?
Yes, a Patiala temple built in 1840 stands about 200 metres from the main Mansa Devi temple.
How far is the temple from Chandigarh?
It is approximately 11 km from Chandigarh’s bus station, about a 20 to 30 minute drive.
Mata Mansa Devi Temple remains one of the Tricity’s most significant pilgrimage destinations, blending centuries-old history with an active festival calendar. For more Tricity attractions, see our guides to Fun City Chandigarh and Places to Visit in Chandigarh.