Shree Manudevi
Shree Manudevi is a Hindu temple located in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Manudevi, who is believed to be the goddess of food and prosperity.
The temple is situated on a hilltop, and visitors have to climb around 500 steps to reach the main shrine. The climb to the temple is considered to be an important part of the pilgrimage, and many devotees undertake it to seek blessings from the goddess.
The temple complex is spread over a vast area and has several other shrines dedicated to different deities, such as Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Hanuman. The main shrine of the temple has a beautiful idol of Goddess Manudevi, which is made of black stone and adorned with gold ornaments. The idol is around four feet tall and is seated on a lotus.
The temple is believed to be over 300 years old and has a rich history and mythology associated with it. According to local legend, the goddess appeared in the dreams of a farmer and instructed him to excavate a particular area. Upon excavation, the farmer discovered the idol of the goddess, and the temple was subsequently built at the site.
The temple is known for its serene surroundings, and many visitors come here to seek blessings from the goddess and to meditate in the peaceful environment. The temple is also known for its annual festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show. The festival is marked by the performance of various cultural programs, such as folk dances and music, and the distribution of prasadam among the devotees.
Places To Visit Shree Manudevi
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary:
Located near Manudevi Temple, Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the Indian giant squirrel and several species of birds. It also houses the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple, a significant pilgrimage site.
Malshej Ghat:
Situated in the Western Ghats, Malshej Ghat is a scenic mountain pass known for its breathtaking views and natural beauty. It is a popular destination for monsoon tourism, with stunning waterfalls, mist-covered hills, and a wide variety of avian species.
Ozar:
Ozar is a small town known for the Vigneshwara Temple, one of the eight Ashtavinayak Temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple is visited by devotees seeking blessings and is believed to fulfill wishes. It is located near Junnar, which is known for its ancient cave complexes.
Harishchandragad:
Harishchandragad is a historic hill fort located in the Ahmednagar district. It offers trekking opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The fort is known for its ancient caves, including the Kedareshwar Cave, which houses a Shivling.
Shivneri Fort:
Shivneri Fort is situated near Junnar and is the birthplace of the legendary Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The fort offers a glimpse into Maratha history and boasts impressive architecture, including the Shivai Devi Temple.
Lenyadri Caves:
Lenyadri Caves are a series of Buddhist caves situated on a hill in Junnar. These caves are renowned for their rock-cut sculptures and ancient Buddhist architecture. Of the 30 caves, Cave 7 is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is a popular pilgrimage site.
Bhandardara:
Bhandardara is a serene hill station located near the Sahyadri range. It is known for its pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush green landscapes. The Randha Falls, Arthur Lake, and the Kalsubai Peak are popular attractions in the area.
Nearby Places
Mumbai
Ajanta And Ellora Caves
Panchgani
Mahabaleshwar
Lonavala
Rajmachi
Alibaug
Khandala
