Naina devi temple
Naina devi temple is situated in Nainital district of Uttarakhand. The temple is one of the most famous temples of the region and attracts hundreds and thousands of devotees every year. There is a legend which describes that Lord Shiva’s consort, Sati’s body, which was cut into fifty one pieces by lord Vishnu to save the earth. Lord Vishnu wanted to save the earth from the distraught of Shiva who wanted to destroy the earth. When Lord Vishnu cut the Sati’s body into 51 pieces, these pieces fell at different places on earth.
The general belief is that Sati’s eyes fell at a place in modern day Uttarakhand where this temple is situated. Since eye of the Sati fell at this place therefore this place got the holy name of Naina Devi. Soon after, devotees visited this temple and the temple became an important place of worship for the local population.
Durga Maa is the goddess who is worshipped in this temple. The idol which is worshipped in this temple is in the shape of a Pindi. Devotees visit this temple and consider the darshan of the pindi as a holy act. A great number of devotees visit the temple during Navratras and on the eighth day in the month of Shravan, the day is called Ashtami.
The Naina Devi Temple is also known as Mahishapitha. Since the temple has been associated with Mahishasur, the other name of the temple is Mahishapitha. According to Hindu scriptures, Naina Devi temple is considered to be one of the fifty sati piths.
Garjia Devi Temple
The devotees or tourists who visit the temple get an experience of majestic scenic beauty and get a feeling of peace and satisfaction after receiving blessings from the Naina Devi goddess. India, famous for its pilgrimage spots and temples is frequently visited by foreigners and this temple is no exception. Since the temple is situated near Govind Sagar Lake and the Bhakra Dam, the soothing environment of the temple filled with the blessings of Ma Durga gives a deep satisfaction to every devotee.
Garjia Devi Temple is situated 14 kms. from Ramnagar in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. The location of the temple is a pleasure to any devotee who comes to the temple for blessings. This temple is situated in the midst of the Kosi river bed. In the midst of Kosi river, there is a huge rock based on the bed of river Kosi. Garjia Devi Temple is situated on the top of this huge rock. Devotees have to climb long and narrow stairs to reach to the temple. The temple provides a majestic view of river Kosi from the top of the rock. The temple provides ample opportunity to say prayers and worship. This beautiful temple of Durga Mata is visited by hundreds and thousands of devotees who come from different parts of the country. On the occasion of Kartik Poornima, a large fair is organized at the temple complex. Devotees can easily visit the beautiful temple which comes on the way to Ranikhet while coming from Ramnagar.
Kainchi Temple
Kainchi Temple is another famous temple near Nainital which has its own historic importance. This temple is situated near a famous township of Bhowali. While traveling from Almora to Ranikhet, the Kainchi temple complex is visited by thousands of devotees every year.