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Jaipur, the vibrant Pink City of India, is renowned for its royal heritage, awe-inspiring palaces, and historic forts. Amidst these magnificent structures lies the Shila Devi Temple, a sacred site that has attracted both devotees and tourists for centuries. Nestled within the historic Amer Fort, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga in her form as Shila Devi, and it holds a rich history intertwined with the legends of Jaipur.
The Shila Devi Temple is a must-visit spiritual destination in Jaipur, dedicated to Goddess Durga, revered here as Shila Devi. The temple’s origins date back to 1604 when Maharaja Man Singh brought the idol of the goddess from Jessore, now part of Bangladesh. Legend has it that the Goddess appeared to the Maharaja in a dream, guiding him to retrieve her statue, which was floating in the sea near Jessore. The statue, discovered in the form of a slab or 'Shila,' was cleaned, revealing the current idol that has since been worshipped as Shila Devi.
The temple's construction, a labor of love and devotion, took a decade to complete, and it now stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of that era. During the Navratri festival, the temple becomes a focal point for celebrations, drawing thousands of devotees who come to offer their prayers.
In the 17th century, an astrologer advised Maharaja Man Singh that worshipping the goddess Shila Devi would ensure victory in all his battles. Taking this prophecy to heart, the Maharaja waged war against the ruler of West Bengal and emerged victorious. As a symbol of goodwill and in celebration of his victory, the Bengal monarch presented him with a black statue of Goddess Kali.
Some accounts suggest that this statue was originally discovered by Maharaja Man Singh floating in the sea—a sight so extraordinary that he decided to carve the stone into an idol and enshrine it in his royal premises. Over time, this divine figure became the revered Shila Devi idol, housed in the temple we see today.
Beyond its historical and spiritual significance, the Shila Devi Temple is an architectural marvel. The temple’s main gate is adorned with intricate silver carvings depicting the nine forms of Goddess Durga—Nav Durga—and other significant deities. As you enter, the beautifully crafted silver doorway captures your attention, detailing the forms of Kali, Tara, and other goddess incarnations.
A striking feature of the temple is the large, painted statue of Lord Ganesha at the entrance, adding to the temple's grandeur and spiritual ambiance.
Visiting the Shila Devi Temple is a soulful experience, and the best part is that there’s no entry fee. The temple is open throughout the week, welcoming visitors in the morning and evening.
| Day | Timing |
|---|---|
| Monday | 6:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm |
| Tuesday | 6:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm |
| Wednesday | 6:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm |
| Thursday | 6:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm |
| Friday | 6:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm |
| Saturday | 6:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm |
| Sunday | 6:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm |
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After soaking in the spiritual aura of Shila Devi Temple, explore the nearby historic gems:
Located close to Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort was built by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1726 to protect the Amer Fort. Also known as Victory Fort, it offers panoramic views from the Hill of Eagles (Cheel ka Teela).
A short walk from Amer Fort, this temple is dedicated to Meera Bai, Sri Krishna, and Lord Vishnu. Built between 1599 and 1608 AD, it’s a serene spot for spiritual reflection.
Originally named Sudarshangarh, this fort was constructed by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1734. Later expanded by Sawai Ram Singh and Sawai Madho Singh, it offers a glimpse into the royal life of Jaipur.
A stepwell located just 0.6 km from Amer Fort, it served as a community gathering place during the summers. The cool stone floors offer a respite from the heat, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing visit.
Situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, Jal Mahal is a five-story palace that seems to float on the water. Built by Raja Jai Singh II, it combines Mughal and Rajput architecture, and the boat ride to the palace is a must-experience.
After visiting the Shila Devi Temple, take a leisurely hike through the surrounding hills, or explore the bustling markets of Amer town, known for their handicrafts and traditional Rajasthani artwork. For a unique experience, consider an elephant ride up to Amer Fort, especially if you're traveling with kids.
If you’re staying until evening, don’t miss the light and sound show at Amer Fort, available in both English and Hindi. And for a culinary delight, savor authentic Rajasthani cuisine at the Surabhi Restaurant 1135 AD within the fort grounds or at the Stag Rooftop Restaurant, which offers stunning views of the fort.
Reaching Shila Devi Temple is convenient, thanks to Jaipur’s well-connected transport network:
By Air: The nearest airport is Sanganer Airport, approximately 11 km from the temple.
By Train: Ramganj Mandi Railway Station is just 2 km away.
By Road/Bus: The nearest bus stand is 5 km from the temple.
By Cab: Consider hiring a private cab for a comfortable journey, especially if you're traveling from different parts of Jaipur.
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Buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available from Jaipur city center. Public buses from Ajmeri Gate and MI Road also serve Amer town. Once at the fort, you can either walk or enjoy an elephant ride to the temple.
Visiting the Shila Devi Temple is a journey into Jaipur’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Whether you're drawn by the temple's history, its architectural splendor, or the peaceful ambiance, the experience is nothing short of magical. The temple, with its divine atmosphere and stunning surroundings, continues to captivate visitors, just as it has for centuries.