Chhatarpur Mandir, Delhi Overview

Situated in the posh locality of South Delhi, i.e. Chhatarpur, Chhatarpur Temple is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, a part of Navadurga. Founded by Baba Sant Nagpal Ji in 1974, the temple is the second largest in all of India after Akshardham Temple (which is also in Delhi). Popular for its fabulous lattice screen work (jaali design), the shrine is a masterpiece of spectacular architecture which is an amalgamation of South and North Indian designs. Besides the presiding deity, the complex has smaller chambers dedicated to idols of different gods including Maa Mahishasurmardini, Ram-Darbar, Radha-Krishna, Shiv-Parvati, Laxmiji, Ganeshji, Hanumanji etc. The highlight of the mandir is the opulent ‘Shayya Kaksh’ which is the resting room for Goddess Katyayani; the room houses a bed and dressing table made of silver.

Sprawling over a vast area of approximately 70 acres, the temple is plonked by thousands of deities every day. A sacred tree in the compound is also a revered site of worship. People tie a thread around it and make a wish; it is believed that the tree has supernatural powers and wishes made with faith, fervour and a religious temperament do come true. Navratri is the major festival at the temple and is celebrated with much zeal and enthusiasm; the management also provides langar food to over a lac devotees during the occasion.

Architecture of Chhatarpur Temple

Spread over 60 acres of land, the temple compound has over 20 big and small shrines dedicated to various gods further divided into three major complexes. Enshrined by Goddess Katyayani, a part of Navdurga, Chattarpur Mandir has smaller chambers for Lord Rama, Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva. The shrine made for Goddess Katyayani is only open and accessible to visitors during the bi-annual Navratri festival. Adjacent to the chief shrine is the resting room of the deity, popularly called as ‘Shayya Kaksh’. It has a bed and a dressing table carved out of silver, which is the major attraction of the temple. A different shrine of Goddess Durga is also present within the premises for the daily visitors. Made with a combination of South and North Indian architectural styles, the temple compound also houses a sacred tree used for wish fulfilment by the devotees.

Facilities at Chhatarpur Temple

1. Chhatarpur Temple has a facility of Dharamshala for the devotees for a short stay. Spread over a vast area, Dharamshala compound has 12 halls with a 30 people capacity and 36 rooms with a 6 people facility. Besides the tourists, the facility is also utilized by Sewadars (volunteers) helping with activities in the temples.
2. The temple premises also have a huge free parking facility available for the easy conveyance of the visitors.

Best Time To Visit Chhatarpur Mandir

The ideal time to visit the temple is during Navaratri when the celebrations are the temple are in full swing and you can be a part of the vibrant festivities.

How To Reach Chhatarpur Mandir

The nearest metro station to the Chhatarpur Temple is Chhatarpur Metro station situated on the yellow line. The temple is just 500 metres from the metro and you can reach there by a 10 min walk down the road. Nearest bus stands to the temple are Chhatarpur Village bus stand and Chhatarpur crossing. It is also just 4 kms away from Qutub Minar so you can also choose to club both the visits. Sharing autos and rickshaws are available from Qutub Minar.