India, a land of temples and traditions, is adorned with thousands of divine shrines that hold the essence of its spiritual soul. Among them, Chandrika Devi Mandir stands out as a powerful symbol of Shakti (divine feminine energy). Situated in two culturally rich locations – Buxar in Bihar and Unnao in Uttar Pradesh, the temple dedicated to Goddess Chandrika (a manifestation of Maa Durga) is revered for its miraculous legends, deep-rooted faith, and vibrant religious practices.
📍 Chandrika Devi Mandir – Buxar, Bihar
🏞️ Location:
District: Buxar
State: Bihar
Geography: Located along the banks of River Ganga, amidst serene surroundings
Nearest Railway Station: Buxar Railway Station (well-connected to Patna, Varanasi, and major cities)
📜 Origin & Mythological Story:
The Chandrika Devi Temple in Buxar is steeped in ancient lore. According to Hindu mythology:
It is believed that the Goddess Chandrika, an incarnation of Maa Durga, appeared here to destroy evil forces troubling the saints and locals.
This area is also linked to the epic Ramayana, with strong beliefs that Lord Rama, along with Lakshmana and Sage Vishwamitra, visited this region during their forest exile (vanvaas).
Another legend says that after slaying the demon Mahishasura, the Goddess’s forehead ornament (Chandrika) fell at this spot, giving the deity her name “Chandrika Devi” and turning this site into a Shakti Peeth.
📖 Religious Essence & Significance:
The temple is recognized as a Shakti Peeth and considered to hold tremendous spiritual energy.
Devotees believe that prayers offered with true devotion are always fulfilled, especially during Navratri.
The temple is an epicenter for those seeking protection, blessings, health, and family prosperity.
It is also believed that childless couples praying here are blessed with children.
🕉️ Puja, Rituals & Aarti Timings:
🪔 Daily Worship:
Morning Puja: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Evening Puja: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Offerings include: Red chunari, bangles, sindoor, flowers, and sweets
Devotees offer oil lamps (diya) and light incense during their prayers
🪘 Aarti Timings:
Mangala Aarti (Morning): Around 6:15 AM
Sandhya Aarti (Evening): Around 6:00 PM
📿 Ritual Practices:
Tuesday and Friday are considered most auspicious
Devotees observe vrat (fasting) and perform chanting of Durga Saptashati
Kanya Bhoj (feeding young girls) is performed during Navratri
🎉 Major Festivals Celebrated:
Navratri (Chaitra & Sharad) – Grand celebrations, bhajan-kirtans, special aartis, and devotional processions
Durga Puja – The temple becomes a hub of spiritual festivities
Deepawali and Kartik Purnima – Devotees offer special diyas on the riverbanks
Rama Navami – Due to the temple’s connection to Ramayana
🧭 Travel & Accessibility:
Nearest Town/City: Buxar
By Train: Buxar Junction (direct trains from Delhi, Patna, Varanasi)
By Road: Well-connected by NH-922; local buses and taxis available
By Air: Nearest airport is Patna (approx. 125 km)
📍 Chandrika Devi Mandir – Unnao, Uttar Pradesh
📌 Location:
District: Unnao
State: Uttar Pradesh
Proximity: Near Loni and Kanpur-Unnao border
Nearest Cities: Unnao (30 km), Kanpur (20 km), Lucknow (50 km)
📖 Historical and Mythological Background:
The Chandrika Devi Mandir in Unnao has deep mythological roots and local folklore:
As per legend, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandrika, who appeared here to rescue locals from demonic torment.
It is also believed that a local sage established the temple after having a divine vision of the goddess.
Over the years, the temple became a center for folk spirituality, healing rituals, and divine blessings.
The idol of the deity is said to be swayambhu (self-manifested) and has been worshipped for centuries.
🛕 Religious Importance:
The temple is widely visited by devotees from rural parts of Uttar Pradesh.
It is known for miraculous healing, especially for mental peace and family harmony.
Many visit to perform mannat puja for health, childbirth, and financial relief.
🕉️ Puja, Rituals & Aarti Timings:
🪔 Temple Schedule:
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
Special crowd observed every Tuesday and Friday
🪘 Rituals:
Devotees offer coconuts, red cloth, sindoor, flowers, and sweets
Performing 108 parikramas (circumambulations) is considered highly auspicious
Kirtan and Bhajan Mandalis visit during Navratri for night-long sessions
🪄 Aarti Timings:
Morning Aarti: 5:30 AM
Evening Aarti: 6:30 PM
Special Aarti during Ashtami & Navami
🎊 Festivals and Events:
Navratri is the main festival; the temple sees lakhs of devotees.
Chaitra and Sharadiya Navratri Mela – a spiritual fair and marketplace setup
Kartik Purnima, Shivratri, and Sankranti are also observed
🚗 How to Reach:
By Road: Located on Unnao–Kanpur route; local autos and taxis ply regularly
By Train: Unnao Station (well-connected to Lucknow and Kanpur)
By Air: Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport, Lucknow (approx. 45 km)
🧭 Traveler Tips:
Carry traditional offerings like red cloth, bangles, flowers, and prasad
Best time to visit: October to March or during Navratri
Light cotton clothes during summer, warm clothing in winter
Senior citizens and differently-abled devotees can get special access
Photography may be restricted inside sanctum – check with authorities
🧘♀️ Spiritual Experience:
Both temples offer a deeply soul-soothing experience, surrounded by peace, chants, and the fragrance of incense. Whether you are a devotee or a seeker of cultural-spiritual heritage, Chandrika Devi Mandirs are not just temples – they are living stories of faith and divinity.
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The Chandrika Devi Mandirs in Buxar and Unnao reflect the enduring power of Goddess Shakti and her presence in the daily lives of her devotees. These temples are not only spiritual destinations but also cultural and mythological landmarks that connect past legends with present faith.
Whether you're traveling for religious reasons, spiritual rejuvenation, or cultural exploration, visiting Chandrika Devi Mandir will surely enrich your journey with blessings, insights, and divine connection.
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