Mount Abu Adhar Devi Temple, Rajasthan

Address

Subhash Rd, Arbuda Devi,

Mount Abu, Rajasthan 307501

Amman

Mount Abu Adhar Devi (Durga)

Introduction

Arbuda Devi Temple is considered the most sacred pilgrim point in Mount Abu and stands as a testimony to the rich architectural heritage of Rajasthan. It is situated three kilometres north of the main town of Mount Abu. The Adhar Devi Temple is reached by climbing up 365 stairs carved into the mountain. The temple itself is located inside a rocky cleave and is reached by crawling through a small opening into the cave.

Puranic Significance

Legend has it that ‘Adhar’ of the goddess fell and it was found hanging in mid-air owing to which the temple is also known as Adhar Devi Temple. Arbuda Devi is considered as the incarnation of Katyayani Devi. The temple is a favourite pilgrimage spot and it is swarming with devotees during the 9 holy days of the Navratri season.

Some historians believe that Parmar rulers were originated at Mount Abu from ‘Agnikund’, which is why Arbuda Devi is still the Ancestral Goddess of Parmar Kshatriyas. Dhoodh Baori, a sacred well with milk coloured water near Adhar Devi Temple is believed to have heavenly powers. The locals consider the well as a form of Kamadhenu (Holy Cow), the well is also the main source of water for the temple. The temple is constructed out of one huge solid piece of rock and the inner sanctum is reaching by crawling a narrow cave and is one of the best specimens of rock-cut temples in India.

Special Features

The Temple is believed to be more than 1000 years old. The Adhar Devi Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Durga. It got its name because the legend has it that “Adhar” of the Mataji (Goddess deity) fell here also it was believed that the image of the goddess could be found there hanging in mid-air. The Adhar Devi temple receives most pilgrims during the 9 days of the holy Navratri season.