Chattarpur Mandir in Delhi

Shri Adhya Katyani Shakti Peeth Mandir or as commonly referred to as Chhatarpur Mandir is a temple for the Hinduism followers and is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, a part of Navadurga. It is the second largest temple in India after Akshardham Temple (this is also one of the famous sights in Delhi). Chhatarpur Temple (Chhatarpur Mandir) also comparatively knew by Indian standards. Constructed in 1974, the temple worships the goddess Katyayani, which is revered as one of the nine forms of the warrior goddess Durga. This temple is built completely with marble, and has intricately carved walls and pillars that are actually very impressive.

The Architecture

Chhatarpur Temple is an amalgamation of North and South Indian temple architecture, making it one of the finest architectural specimens of modern India. So, a city so full of Mughal tombs and colonial structures, this is a nice addition. All around this 60-acre complex, you will find 20 other different sized shrines that honor other gods as well apart from Katyayani. The temple has extensive use of marble and has carvings which is called jali work. The intricate designs make Chattarpur Mandir one of the finest modern designed Hindi temples. There is a courtyard in the Chhatarpur Mandir that has a holy peepal tree. Many devotees tie threads there hoping for their wishes to come true. A huge basement room is also there where the pilgrims are fed with the meal from temple. Make sure to visit the rest of the other shrines all across the complex which abodes the other Hindu gods such as Ganesha, Shiva, Krishna, and Rama.

Chhatarpur Mandir was known as the biggest temple in India till 2005, after which Ardham Temple was built. However, it doesn’t take away any of Chhatarpur’s grandeur. Most people like to explore the Temple on a half or full day of Delhi tours. You can either get a private or enroll for a group tour. You have the choice to travel on foot, by tuk tuk, or get AC cars for sightseeing.

Things to Know before Visiting the Temple

•  Entry Fee: Free
•  Photography: Not permitted in prayer hall
•  Open on all days
•  Entry time: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm (the ideal time will be visit during the morning and evening aarti)
•  This is a must for architecture lovers and those who love history.
•  The official name of the temple is the Shree Adya Katyayani Shaktipeeth Mandir, however, given its location close to Chhatarpur area, it is called Chhatarpur Mandir.
•  There is prohibition for collection of fees for profit within the temple complex although there is a donation box for those who want to contribute.
•  Main deity: Goddess Katyayini (Avatar of Goddess Durga Mata)
•  Architectural style: Hindu temple architecture
•  Founder: Baba Sant Nagpal

When to Visit?

The busiest time in this temple is during October, when the Hindus celebrate Navratri. This is a 10-day festival that is celebrated in honor of the goddess Durga. The temple is decorated with colored lights and flowers and you will find a lot of happy worshippers. Visiting the Katyayani Shrine can be more special if you are making the trip during the full moon and obviously during the Navratri festival. Inside that shrine, you can offer worship to the golden image of Katyayani who is seen wearing an elaborate cloth and adorned with flower garlands.

What Tours Can You Take Near Chhatarpur Mandir?

•    A morning tuktuk tour to the Qutub Minar complex
•    Private walking tour around Qutub Minar and Mehrauli Complex
•    Spiritual tour across Delhi

How to Reach?

It is situated in a down town area in south of Delhi and can be reached by the Yellow Line of the Delhi Metro. The bus routes that take you to the temple includes- 516, 523, 536, 604, ML-83 (OLD), ML-83A (MODIFIED), NCR.

•  It is about 1 h 3 min (25.9 km) via Africa Ave.
•  Address: Chhatarpur, Near Chhatarpur Metro Station, New Delhi, Delhi 110074
•  Nearest Metro Station : Chhattarpur