Nagni Mata Mandir
Nagni Mata Mandir - Sacred Temple of the Serpent Goddess
Nagni Mata Mandir, located in the peaceful village of Bhadwar near Kandwal in the Nurpur region of Himachal Pradesh, is a sacred site devoted to Nagni Mata, also known as Sursa Mata—the revered goddess of snakes. The temple attracts thousands of pilgrims every year who come seeking blessings, spiritual experiences, and miraculous healing—especially from snakebites.
Legend of Nagni Mata Temple
According to a well-known legend, a snake charmer once trapped Nagni Mata in his box using deceptive tricks. That very night, the goddess appeared in the dream of Raja Jagat Singh, pleading for help. Deeply moved by her divine presence, the king intervened and found the snake charmer in the village of Kandwal. He freed the goddess and respectfully brought her back to Bhadwar, where the Nagni Mata Temple stands today.
Divine Visions and Miracles
One of the most unique aspects of Nagni Mata Mandir is the frequent reports of divine visions. Devotees often see serpents in various divine forms—sometimes golden, sometimes copper-colored, or even milky white—appearing in the water stream, in the temple courtyard, or near the sacred pindi (holy stone). It is believed that Nagni Mata herself reveals these forms to her true devotees.
Nagni Mata Mandir and Snakebite Healing
The temple is renowned for its healing powers, particularly in cases of snakebites. It is a widely held belief that anyone suffering from a snakebite who reaches the shelter of Nagni Mata is miraculously cured. This faith draws many people from nearby and far-off areas. Even in today's era of modern medicine, locals still turn to the healing powers of Nagni Mata for relief from snake venom.
Festivals and Celebrations
The annual fair held at the Nagni Mata Temple is a grand event attended by thousands of devotees. Traditional music, devotional dances, and rituals fill the air with spiritual energy. It is during this time that many devotees claim to experience enhanced spiritual visions, making it a highly significant time to visit the temple.
Natural Beauty and Serenity
Surrounded by lush greenery, hills, and a holy water stream, the Nagni Mata Mandir offers a tranquil setting for spiritual reflection. Pilgrims often bathe in the stream before offering prayers, believing the water possesses purifying and healing properties. The simplicity of the temple structure is overshadowed by the powerful divine aura that envelopes the site.
How to Reach Nagni Mata Mandir
If you're planning a visit and wondering how to reach Nagni Mata Mandir, here's how:
- By Road: The temple is well-connected by road from Pathankot, Kangra, and Dharamshala. Local buses and taxis are available.
- By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Pathankot Junction, around 25–30 km away.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (Kangra Airport), approximately 60 km from the temple.
Conclusion
Nagni Mata Mandir stands as a powerful symbol of faith, healing, and divine energy. With its rich mythology, miraculous healing reputation, and scenic beauty, it continues to attract devotees from all walks of life. Whether you seek blessings, recovery from snakebite, or spiritual solace, the presence of Nagni Mata at this sacred temple offers an experience unlike any other.