Panchkula is a major district in the state of Haryana and is situated at a distance of just 10 km from the capital city of Chandigarh. Panchkula is known for its lush green atmosphere and for housing the densest forest region of Haryana. This city attracts a large number of visitors who come here to enjoy the beautiful mountain ranges that cross through it. Panchkula is also known for housing five ancient water canals and caters to the water needs of the state of Haryana. From the beautiful range of Shivaliks to ancient temples and from densely covered forests to an extremely pleasant weather, Panchkula offers you enough reasons that compel you to visit this place.
The planning of the city has been done in a well organized way. Green trees encircle the place. The word ‘Panchkula’ stands for the “five kuls” or canals constructed for irrigation purposes. Areas of Barwala, Raipur Rani and Pinjore make up the place, Panchkula.
The activity of worshipping Lord Shiva is linked to this place; however more important is idolizing His Consort in the figure of Shakti or Mother Goddess. Durga, Kalika, Chandi, Naina, Mansa, Sharda, Ambika, Kali and Bhawani are the names of the Goddess. Numerous temples dedicated to these goddesses are present on the foot hills of the Shiwaliks. In order to reach these temples, a drive through Chandigarh is must.
The sacred Siddh Peeth of Sri Mata Mansa Devi is situated at a distance of 8 Kms from the bus stand in Chandigarh. At this spot, two temples have been constructed. The Maharaja of Patiala had given the orders to construct these temples in order to celebrate his win in the battle of 1861. The main temple is the one, which is situated close to the parking lot – it is believed so. The ruler of Mani Majra built it in the year 1815 AD.
Among many followers, this temple is quite famous and well liked. The reason for this is the fact that it is so believed that the residing Goddess endows the devotees with benevolence. During the sacred time of Navratra, this place hosts fairs in the near grounds. The followers offers huge amount of money to pay homage to Her. Beside the shrine of Mata Mansa Devi, there is Jatayu Yatri Niwas, which has been constructed by the department of tourism of Haryana state.
