Famous Devi Temples in Pune – to Visit During Navratri
Navratri is a sacred festival when Pune comes alive with devotion, lights, and cultural celebrations. Visiting Devi temples during this time is a wonderful way to seek blessings and experience the festive spirit. Here are some of the most famous Devi temples in Pune that you should consider visiting.
1. Shri Wandevi Mata Mandir, Karve Nagar
- Location: Karve Nagar, Pune
- Specialty: Dedicated to Goddess Wandevi, this temple is very popular among locals.
- Navratri Experience: Special pujas, aartis, and bhajan sessions are held during Navratri.
- Historical / Mythological Story: Goddess Wandevi is considered the protector of the forest and nature. Legends say that devotees in the past prayed to her for safety, and she ensured protection and prosperity for the local community.
2. Shri Tambadi Jogeshwari Mata Mandir, Pune
- Location: Budhwar Peth, Pune
- Specialty: One of the oldest and most revered temples in Pune.
- Navratri Experience: During Navratri, the temple is beautifully decorated with red lights and flowers.
- Historical / Mythological Story: Goddess Jogeshwari is considered the Gramadevata (presiding deity) of Pune. She is believed to have protected the city from invaders and continues to bless devotees with safety and courage.
3. Shri Chaturshringi Mata Mandir, Pune
- Location: Senapati Bapat Road, Pune
- Specialty: A hilltop temple with over 100 steps, around 250–300 years old.
- Navratri Experience: Large fairs, silver chariot processions, and special pujas attract thousands of devotees.
- Historical / Mythological Story: The swayambhu idol of Chaturshringi Mata was discovered by a merchant following a divine dream. The goddess is believed to have chosen this location to bless her devotees, and the temple is historically linked to the Maratha era.
4. Shri Mahalaxmi Mata Mandir, Sarasbaug, Pune
- Location: Sarasbaug, Pune
- Specialty: Houses three goddesses—Mahalaxmi (wealth), Mahasaraswati (knowledge), and Mahakali (power)—in a single temple.
- Navratri Experience: Special aartis, bhajans, and prasads are offered during the festival.
- Historical / Mythological Story: Built by the Peshwas in the 18th century, the temple is known for allowing devotees to worship all three goddesses together. According to legend, the site was chosen after the goddesses appeared in a devotee’s dream.
5. Shri Taljai Mata Mandir, Pune
- Location: Taljai Hills, Pune
- Specialty: A hilltop temple surrounded by nature, offering a serene environment.
- Navratri Experience: Morning and evening visits provide a panoramic view of Pune and a refreshing spiritual experience.
- Historical / Mythological Story: Taljai Mata is believed to protect the forest and wildlife. Historically, locals and hunters prayed to her before entering the forest, and she ensured their safety.
6. Shri Padmavati Mata Mandir, Pune
- Location: Pune
- Specialty: Dedicated to Goddess Padmavati, known for bringing peace and prosperity to devotees.
- Navratri Experience: Special Navratri pujas and aartis are held.
- Historical / Mythological Story: Devotees believe that Goddess Padmavati’s blessings help overcome obstacles and bring prosperity in personal and professional life.
7. Shri Bhavani Mata Mandir, Bhavani Peth, Pune
- Location: Bhavani Peth, Pune
- Specialty: Bhavani Mata is considered the protector of the brave and courageous.
- Navratri Experience: The temple hosts special pujas, aartis, and cultural programs during Navratri.
- Historical / Mythological Story: Bhavani Mata is closely associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who is said to have sought her blessings before going to battle. Her devotees believe she grants courage and protection.
8. Shri Vaishno Devi Mata Mandir, Pimpri, Pune
- Location: Pimpri, Pune
- Specialty: Dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi, a popular spiritual center in Pune.
- Navratri Experience: Devotees visit for special aartis, offerings, and prayers.
- Historical / Mythological Story: Modeled after the famous Vaishno Devi temple in Jammu, this temple is believed to bring spiritual fulfillment and protection to its devotees.
9. Shri Santoshi Mata Mandir, Katraj, Pune
- Location: Katraj, Pune
- Specialty: Dedicated to Goddess Santoshi, known for fulfilling the wishes of sincere devotees.
- Navratri Experience: Devotees perform special vrat (fast) and pujas during the festival.
- Historical / Mythological Story: Goddess Santoshi is believed to have originated from a story of Lord Ganesha and his consorts. Devotees say that fasting and offering prayers to her removes difficulties and brings happiness.
10. Shri Tulja Bhavani Mata Mandir, Kothrud, Pune
- Location: Kothrud, Pune
- Specialty: Dedicated to Goddess Tulja Bhavani, revered for power and protection.
- Navratri Experience: During Navratri, the temple is beautifully decorated, and thousands of devotees gather for aartis and bhajans.
- Historical / Mythological Story: Tulja Bhavani is historically associated with Maratha rulers. Legend says she appeared to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to bless him with strength and victory in battles.
Navratri in Pune is incomplete without visiting these famous Devi temples. From the historic Chaturshringi Mata Mandir to the serene Taljai Mata Mandir, each temple has its own spiritual significance, mythological story, and cultural charm. Visiting these temples during Navratri brings blessings, spiritual peace, and a deep connection with Pune’s rich heritage.
✨ Jai Mata Di! ✨
