Shri Manudevi Tirthakshetra

Shri Manudevi Tirthakshetra

Jalgaon district in Maharashtra stands as a glorious and prosperous region with a rich cultural and religious heritage. The northern part of Jalgaon is bordered by the Satpuda mountain range and is blessed with the fertile lands of the Tapi River. On the highway from Yawal to Ankleshwar, specifically from Chopda to Yawal state road, towards the western side of Chincholi Kinggav, lies a junction called Andgaon Phata, approximately 9 kilometers from Shri Manudevi Tirthakshetra.

While traveling from Andgaon Phata to the temple, a well-paved tar road leads to a Hanuman temple located 6 kilometers ahead. Near this Hanuman temple, a beautiful pond adds to the serenity. The Shri Manudevi Tirthakshetra is about 3 kilometers from the Hanuman temple. With help from the Maharashtra government, a 3-kilometer gravel road has been constructed, allowing private vehicles to directly access the temple. The distance from Jalgaon to Shri Manudevi Temple is approximately 35 kilometers.

History of the Temple

As one approaches Shri Manudevi Tirthakshetra, tall trees stand in welcome. The temple appears ancient, as shown by the old remnants and sculptures found during excavations. The temple is said to have been discovered around 1251 CE by the ancestors of the Ingale family, specifically late Pandu Jeevan Ingale.

About 4–5 kilometers from the temple, within the Satpuda mountains, there are still visible remnants of the Gavli Wadi. During the reign of King Ishwaseen, the temple was believed to be built in Hemadpanti style. The bricks used for the 13-foot-high and 2-kilometer-long wall surrounding the temple reflect unique craftsmanship. Although parts of the structure are in ruins, the existing remnants suggest strong architectural integrity.

• The temple hall measures 86 x 50 feet, and the sanctum is 22 x 14 feet in size.
• There are 7–8 wells located around the temple premises.

Legends Associated with the Tirthakshetra

According to the Devi Bhagavata Purana, when deities Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva were troubled by demons, they sought refuge in the deep ravines of the Satpuda mountains. At this sacred site, they meditated, and a divine light emerged from their breath, manifesting Shri Manudevi. She vowed to destroy the demon Mahishasura and liberated the world from his terror.

Shri Manudevi, also known as Ashtabhuja Devi, is believed to have appeared in places like Shiragad, Nandra, and Patna. Her connection to the legendary Shri Saptashrungi Devi further enhances her religious importance.

Shri Manudevi as a Shakti Peeth

Shri Manudevi is considered a powerful Shakti Peeth where devotees, particularly women and those seeking prosperity, come to worship. The temple is believed to fulfill the wishes of those who offer sincere prayers and rituals. As mentioned in the scriptures, it is said that worshippers from all over will build temples and shrines dedicated to her under various names such as Durga, Kalyani, Chandi, Krishna, Madhavi, and others.

The Scenic Beauty of the Temple Surroundings:

The temple is surrounded by steep cliffs, with a waterfall cascading from an estimated 400 feet high. The waterfall flows through the base of the Satpuda range for 6 to 7 months each year. The government has also helped in constructing a pond near the temple, which enhances the temple’s serene environment. Alongside, there is a beautiful Hanuman temple. This makes the temple area a mesmerizing and attractive destination, drawing many devotees, tourists, and students on excursions. The hope is that this sacred place will continue to develop as a tourist site.

Travel Information and Bus Timings

Timings for buses from Jalgaon to Manudevi (via Idgaon, Dambhoorni, Kinggaon, and Andgaon to Manudevi Pahari):

• 08:15 AM
• 11:15 AM
• 03:30 PM

Return Timings from Manudevi Pahari to Jalgaon:

• 09:15 AM
• 12:15 PM
• 04:30 PM

Distance: The distance from Jalgaon to Shri Manudevi Temple is approximately 35 km.

Note: If you’re traveling from Yawal or Chopda, you will need to take a bus to Kinggaon, and from Kinggaon, you can use the mini-bus service to reach Manudevi Pahari.

Contact Details