Pushkar, a small town in Rajasthan, India, is known for its religious and spiritual significance. It is home to over 500 temples, many of which are ancient and have a rich history. But one of the most famous and important temples in Pushkar is the Savitri Mata Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of wisdom and learning, Savitri. This temple is located on the Ratnagiri hill, which is a popular pilgrimage site for the Hindus. Visit during One Day Pushkar Local Sightseeing By Private Cab
In this article, we will explore the overview, location, timing/entry fees, how to reach, things to do/must see, significance, FAQ’s and conclusion of this hilltop temple.
Overview of Savitri Mata Temple
The Savitri Mata Temple, also known as Savitri Mandir or Savitri Temple, is a Hindu temple of Goddess Savitri located on the Ratnagiri hill in Pushkar, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India. The temple is situated at an elevation of about 750 ft and a flight of 970 steps to Savitri temple, which is one of the most significant temples in India. The temple has three idols: Goddess Savitri is in the middle flanked by Goddess Sharda on the right side and Goddess Saraswati on the left.
According to the Hindu calendar, Jagran is organized on the night of Saptami of Bhado month at the temple of Mata Savitri situated on the Savitri Hill. The temple is open on all days of the week from 5 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 9 pm. There is no entry fee. Pilgrims can reach at Satvitri Mata Mandir by footsteps or ropeway.
The temple has a mythological connection with Lord Brahma, the creator god in Hinduism. According to a legend, Brahma was performing a yagna (sacrifice) on the bank of the Pushkar Lake where the presence of Goddess Savitri was required. But as she was late in arriving and the holy moment was passing by, Brahma married another girl named Gayatri without her consent.
When Savitri arrived, she was upset to see someone else in her place and in her anger she cursed everyone present there. Later on, she went to the Ratnagiri hills to sacrifice for her deeds and changed into a river. After this incident, the temple was constructed in her dedication and still you will notice a small stream flowing beside the temple.
Location of Savitri Mata Temple
The Savitri Mata Temple is located in Pushkar town, which is about 10 km northwest of Ajmer city in Rajasthan state. Pushkar town is one of the oldest towns in India and has a rich history and heritage. It is also known as the “City of Temples” or “Tirth Raj” (the king of pilgrimage sites). Pushkar town is situated at an elevation of 530 meters above sea level and has a pleasant climate throughout the year.
Timing/Entry Fees Savitri Mata Temple
The Savitri Mata Temple is open for visitors every day from 5 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 9 pm. The temple remains closed from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm for lunch break. There is no entry fee for visiting the temple, but donations are accepted at various ghats and temples. Visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the temple premises and dress modestly and respectfully. Photography and videography are not allowed inside the temple.
How to Reach Savitri Mata Temple
The nearest airport to Pushkar is Jaipur International Airport, which is about 150 km away from Pushkar. From there, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach Pushkar. The nearest railway station to Pushkar is Ajmer Junction Railway Station, which is about 10 km away from Pushkar. From there, one can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach Pushkar. There are also regular buses available from Ajmer to Pushkar. Alternatively, one can also drive to Pushkar by taking the National Highway 48 or 58.
To reach the Savitri Mata Temple from Pushkar town, one can either trek up the hill by climbing 970 steps or take a ropeway ride that takes about 6 minutes. The ropeway ride costs Rs.110 per person for a round trip and operates from 9 am to 6 pm. The trekking route offers scenic views of the Pushkar Lake and the town below, while the ropeway ride offers panoramic views of the Aravalli hills and the desert.
Things to Do/Must See Savitri Mata Temple
Apart from visiting the Savitri Mata Temple, there are many other things to do and see in Pushkar. Some of them are:
- Take a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake, which is believed to have been created by Brahma himself. The lake has 52 ghats (steps) where pilgrims can bathe and perform rituals. The lake also has many temples and shrines around it.
- Visit other temples in Pushkar, such as Brahma Temple (dedicated to Brahma), Varaha Temple (dedicated to Vishnu’s boar incarnation), Rangji Temple (dedicated to Ranganatha), Apteshwar Temple (dedicated to Shiva), and many more.
- Enjoy the annual Pushkar Fair or Camel Fair, which is held in November every year along with the Kartik Poornima festival. It is one of the largest and most colorful fairs in India, where thousands of camels, horses, cattle and other animals are traded and exhibited. The fair also features cultural events, competitions, folk dances, music and handicrafts.
- Explore the local markets and shops in Pushkar, where one can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, jewelry, clothes, books and more. One can also try the local cuisine, such as dal bati churma, malpua, kachori, lassi and more.
- Experience the spiritual and cultural vibe of Pushkar, which is known for its ashrams, yoga centers, meditation camps and festivals. One can also interact with the local people, who are friendly and hospitable.
Significance of Savitri Mata Temple
The Savitri Mata Temple is significant for many reasons. Some of them are:
- It is one of the few temples in the world dedicated to Savitri, the goddess of wisdom and learning. Savitri is considered to be the first wife of Brahma and the mother of the Vedas (sacred scriptures).
- It is also one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus, as it is believed that Savitri sacrificed herself on this hill to atone for her curse on Brahma and his yagna. Visiting this temple is said to grant wisdom and salvation to the devotees.
- It is also one of the best viewpoints in Pushkar, as it offers stunning views of the Pushkar Lake, the town and the surrounding landscape. One can enjoy the sunrise and sunset from this temple and witness the beauty of nature.
FAQ’s
Q: Why is Savitri Mata Temple located on a hill?
A: Savitri Mata Temple is located on a hill because it is believed that Savitri went to this hill after cursing Brahma and his yagna. She then changed into a river that flows beside the temple. The hill is also a symbol of her sacrifice and penance.
Q: What is the best time to visit Savitri Mata Temple?
A: The best time to visit Savitri Mata Temple is during the Kartik Poornima festival in October-November, when thousands of pilgrims and tourists flock to Pushkar to worship Brahma and Savitri and take a dip in the lake. The temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and a grand aarti (worship) is performed at night.
Q: What are the rules and regulations for visiting Savitri Mata Temple?
A: The rules and regulations for visiting Savitri Mata Temple are:
One has to remove their shoes before entering the temple premises.
One has to dress modestly and respectfully, covering their shoulders and knees.
One has to maintain silence and decorum inside the temple.
One has to refrain from taking photographs or videos inside the temple.
One has to follow the instructions of the priests and staff.
Conclusion
The Savitri Mata Temple is a hilltop temple of Goddess Savitri in Pushkar that attracts millions of devotees and tourists every year. It is a place where one can witness the glory and grace of Lord Brahma’s first wife, who is also the goddess of wisdom and learning. It is also a place where one can experience the spiritual and cultural richness of Pushkar, which is a town full of temples, festivals, fairs and markets. Visiting Savitri Mata Temple is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that should not be missed by anyone who wants to explore the essence of Hinduism.
