Pilgrimage & sacred places
Saptashrungi Temple
Abode of Goddess Saptashrungi Nivasini in the Sahyadris
- District
- Nashik
- Elevation
- 1,230 meters
- Surroundings
- Sahyadri Hills
Overview
The Saptashrungi Temple, located near Vani in Nashik district, is one of Maharashtra’s most venerated Shakti Peethas. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Saptashrungi Nivasini — the seven-hill goddess — believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
Perched on a hill surrounded by seven mountain peaks, the temple attracts lakhs of devotees every year, especially during Navratri and Chaitra Poornima. The idol of the goddess, carved from a rock and smeared with sindoor, is considered self-manifested (Swayambhu).
According to legend, it was at this very site that Goddess Durga killed the demon Mahishasura, marking it as a symbol of divine strength and victory of good over evil.
Highlights
One of the Shakti Peethas
Saptashrungi is among Maharashtra’s three and a half Shakti Peethas, representing immense divine energy.
Hilltop Pilgrimage
Located atop a scenic mountain range with 510 steps leading to the temple, offering panoramic views of the Sahyadris.
Location & landscape
Nestled in the Sahyadri range, the Saptashrungi Temple stands at an elevation of about 1,230 meters near the town of Vani in Nashik district.
With its divine aura and mountain backdrop, Saptashrungi Temple offers both a spiritual and natural retreat.
- District
- Nashik
- Elevation
- 1,230 meters
- Surroundings
- Sahyadri Hills
- Best Time to Visit
- October to February
- Major Festival
- Navratri & Chaitra Poornima
Best Time to Visit
The region experiences moderate weather, with cool winters and pleasant monsoons, making it ideal for pilgrimage and trekking.
- Monsoon: Lush greenery surrounds the temple (June–September)
- Winter: Best time for comfortable travel (November–February)
Things to do
Darshan and Pooja
Seek blessings of Goddess Saptashrungi through daily rituals and special aartis.
- Morning aarti starts at 5:30 AM and evening aarti at 7:00 PM.
- Special poojas during Navratri and Chaitra festivals.
Trek to the Temple
Devotees climb 510 steps to reach the temple situated on the hilltop.
- Ropeway facility available for devotees unable to climb.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Sahyadri hills during ascent.
Explore Nearby Hills
The surrounding hills are perfect for short treks and nature walks.
- Ideal for early morning or evening walks.
- Offers beautiful viewpoints of the temple and valley below.
Places to explore
Sacred Steps of Saptashrungi
The flight of 510 steps leading to the shrine is believed to cleanse devotees of sins.
Vani Town
A small town at the base of the hill, famous for local shops selling coconuts, sindoor, and offerings to the goddess.
Local ecology
Saptashrungi combines divinity with the beauty of the Sahyadris.
It remains one of Maharashtra’s most spiritually uplifting pilgrim destinations.
Divine Energy
Devotees feel immense peace and rejuvenation in the temple’s sacred environment.
Nature’s Harmony
The temple’s location amidst seven peaks symbolizes unity and natural balance.
Practical Travel Tips
Use the ropeway for quicker access during crowded festival days.
Carry water and light snacks as the climb can be tiring.
Accommodation is available at temple guesthouses and nearby lodges in Vani.
Local Transit & Routes
By Train
- Nearest railway station: Nashik Road (70 km).
- Regular trains connect Nashik to Mumbai, Pune, and other major cities.
By Road
- Regular buses available from Nashik, Vani, and Kalwan to the temple base.
- Private taxis and jeeps can be hired for hilltop access.
By Air
- Nearest airport: Nashik Airport (60 km) and Mumbai International Airport (230 km).
- Cabs and buses available from both airports to Vani.