The Presiding Deity of Ancient Mayapuri
Before it was known as Haridwar or Gangadwar, this sacred holy realm was celebrated in the Puranas as Mayapuri, named in honor of Goddess Maya Devi. As one of the seven Moksha Dayini holy cities of Sanatana Dharma, Mayapuri derives its central sanctity from the historic Maya Devi Temple, recognized as one of the 51 supreme Shaktipeeths.
Puranic Legend of Devi Sati's Navel
According to the Shiva Purana, when Lord Shiva carried the burning body of his divine consort Sati across the cosmos in grief, Lord Vishnu dispatched his Sudarshana Chakra to sever the body into 51 pieces. The heart and navel (Nabhi) of Devi Sati fell at this very spot. The ancient sanctum houses an idol of Goddess Maya Devi with three heads and four arms, flanked by Goddess Kali and Goddess Kamakhya.
Location & Itinerary Timing
Maya Devi Temple is centrally situated near the Upper Road in Haridwar, just 1 km from Har Ki Pauri and 500 meters from the railway station. It is open daily from 05:00 AM to 09:00 PM and forms the core of any comprehensive Haridwar Siddhpeeth circuit.