About Adhar Devi Temple
Adhar Devi Temple is a Hindu cave shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga in her form as Katyayani, located approximately 3 kilometers north of Mount Abu town in Rajasthan. The temple is situated inside a natural cave accessed by climbing 365 steep stone steps carved into the mountain, symbolizing the days of the year. According to legend, it is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where the lips (Adhar) of Goddess Sati fell.
Visitors guide
Visitors must climb 365 steep stone steps carved into the mountainside to reach the temple. The final approach requires crawling through a narrow rocky crevice before entering the cave sanctum. Inside, devotees find a black granite idol of Goddess Durga illuminated by lamps. Mobile phones, cameras, and bags must be deposited before entering the inner sanctum. The temple offers panoramic views of Mount Abu during the ascent.
Key highlights
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Cave temple accessed by climbing 365 steep stone steps
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One of the 51 Shakti Peethas according to Hindu tradition
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Natural cave sanctum with black granite idol of Goddess Durga
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Final entry requires crawling through a narrow rock crevice
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Panoramic views of Mount Abu during the climb
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Dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, sixth form of Durga
History of Adhar Devi Temple
The temple is mentioned in the Skanda Purana as the Katyayani Shakti Peetha. According to legend, it is believed to be approximately 5,000 years old. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where parts of Goddess Sati's body fell after Lord Vishnu's Sudarshana Chakra cut through her corpse.
Culture & Context
Adhar Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, sacred pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. The name 'Adhar' refers to the lips of Goddess Sati that are believed to have fallen at this location. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga in her sixth form as Maa Katyayani. Navratri is the most important festival celebrated here with grand festivities. The 365 steps symbolize the days of the year.
Route
| By air |
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