Perched upon the Mangalagauri hillock in the historic pilgrimage city of Gaya, Bihar, the Maa Mangalagowri Temple is the 16th Ashta Dasa Shakti Peetham. Here, Devi Sati's breast (Sthana), symbolizing universal maternal nourishment and benevolence, fell.
Sacred Peedam
Gaya Peedam / Mangalagowri Hill
Devi Swaroopa
Goddess Mangalagowri Devi
Associated Shiva
Lord Shaktishwara Shiva
Fallen Body Part
Breast (Sthana Bhaga)
Sacred Location
Gaya, Bihar
Ashtadasha Shakti Peetha Stotram
"Gaya Mangalya gourika"
Sacred Topography & Temple Sanctuary
Goddess Mangalagowri Devi
Spiritual Significance & Temple Architecture
The temple is documented extensively in the Padma Purana, Vayu Purana, and Devi Bhagavata Purana. The inner sanctum houses a natural rock representation of the Devi illuminated by sacred brass oil lamps, beside which stands a revered Shiva Lingam.
The Sacred Legend (Sthala Purana)
At the base of the hill temple stands the shrine of Bhima (one of the Pancha Pandavas) where his knee impression is revered as Bhimavedi Gaya. Pilgrims who climb the steps to worship Maa Mangalagowri are blessed with lifelong prosperity, harmonious family life, and fulfillment of all righteous desires.