Shri Aadya Katyayani Shakti Peeth, also called Chhatarpur Temple, is a Hindu temple complex in Chhatarpur, South Delhi, dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, an incarnation of Durga. Its marble buildings combine North and South Indian architectural styles, with detailed lattice screens and more than 20 shrines to different deities. Look for the large Hanuman statue and the smaller temples for figures including Radha-Krishna and Shiv-Parvati. The main sanctum of Goddess Katyayani is open to devotees during Navratri, making the festival a special time to visit.
A temple complex in Chhatarpur
Shri Aadya Katyayani Shakti Peeth is commonly known as Chhatarpur Temple. It stands in the Chhatarpur area of South Delhi, near the Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road. Temple complexes line both sides of the main road in this area; this shrine is the best-known and most important of them.
The temple was established by Baba Sant Nagpal Ji in 1974. Its main deity is Goddess Katyayani, an incarnation of Goddess Durga and one of the forms associated with Navadurga. Katyayani is shown riding a lion and holding a Chandrahasa, or sword. She represents a fierce form of Shakti, the mother goddess.
The complex is among India’s largest temple complexes. Its many individual temples honor different deities, giving visitors more to explore than the principal shrine alone.
Marble buildings and lattice screens
The buildings are made of marble and bring together North and South Indian architectural styles. Look closely at the jaali, or lattice-screen, work, a notable detail across the complex. The large Hanuman statue is another prominent feature, visible from a distance.
Smaller shrines within the grounds are dedicated to deities including Maa Mahishasurmardini, Ram-Darbar, Radha-Krishna, Shiv-Parvati, Lakshmi and Ganesh. The complex also has a large hall used for satsang events during festivals. Take your time moving between the buildings, and pause for quiet reflection if that is part of your visit.
Visiting during Navratri
The main sanctum of Goddess Katyayani is open to devotees during Navratri. If entering this shrine is central to your visit, plan around the festival. The complex is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM.
Wheelchair-accessible entry, restrooms and parking are available. There is ample parking across from the Dharmshala. People may solicit donations near the entrance; visitors who prefer not to give can proceed into the temple. Keep the visit focused on the shrines and the space for prayer or reflection.
FAQ
Where is Chhatarpur Temple?
It is in Chhatarpur, South Delhi, near the Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road.
Which deity is Chhatarpur Temple dedicated to?
The main deity is Goddess Katyayani, an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
When is the main Katyayani sanctum open to devotees?
The main sanctum is open to devotees during Navratri.
Is Chhatarpur Temple wheelchair accessible?
The temple has wheelchair-accessible entry, restrooms and parking.
