Chhatarpur Temple, also known as Shree Adya Katyayani Shaktipeeth Mandir, is one of the largest and most famous temples in Delhi. It is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, who is one of the forms of Goddess Durga. The temple is spread across a vast area of around 70 acres, making it one of the largest temple complexes in India. The architecture of the temple is a mix of South Indian and North Indian styles, with tall gopurams, intricately carved pillars, and beautiful marble structures.
The temple was established in 1974 by Baba Sant Nagpal Ji, a spiritual saint. The main deity, Goddess Katyayani, is worshipped here in her most powerful form, and devotees believe that offering prayers here fulfills wishes, especially related to marriage, career, and family happiness. During Navratri festivals, lakhs of devotees visit the temple daily, making it one of the busiest temples in Delhi during this time.
Apart from Goddess Katyayani, there are several small shrines in the complex dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Ram, Lord Hanuman, and Radha-Krishna. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere, and the darshan is open for devotees throughout the year without any entry fee.
Overview of Chhatarpur Temple
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Chhatarpur Temple (Shree Adya Katyayani Shaktipeeth Mandir) |
| Location | Chhatarpur, South Delhi, India |
| Main Deity | Goddess Katyayani (Form of Goddess Durga) |
| Established | 1974 by Baba Sant Nagpal Ji |
| Architecture | Mix of South Indian & North Indian styles |
| Area Covered | Around 70 acres |
| Famous Festival | Navratri (Lakhs of devotees visit) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Special Attractions | Giant gopurams, marble shrines, several smaller temples |
| Best Time to Visit | Navratri (March-April & September-October) |
Chhatarpur Temple Timings
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday–Sunday | 4:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
- Morning Aarti: 5:00 AM
- Evening Aarti: 6:30 PM
- On Navratri and special occasions, darshan hours are extended till late night.
Sevas and Darshans at Chhatarpur Temple
| Seva / Darshan | Timing | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Free |
| Archana / Pooja | Morning & Evening | ₹101 – ₹501 |
| Navratri Special Darshan | 24 hours (festival days) | Free (Long queues) |
| Bhog / Prasad Seva | Daily 12:00 PM | ₹201 onwards |
| Special Aarti Seva | Morning & Evening | ₹501 – ₹1001 |
👉 Note: Most of the sevas are donation-based, and during Navratri, devotees may have to wait in long queues.
How to Reach Chhatarpur Temple
- By Metro: The nearest metro station is Chhatarpur Metro Station (Yellow Line), just 500 meters from the temple.
- By Road: The temple is well connected by buses, autos, and taxis from all parts of Delhi.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Delhi Railway Station (15 km away).
- By Air: The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport (12 km away).
How to Book Darshan or Sevas
Currently, Chhatarpur Temple does not have an online booking system for darshan. Devotees can directly visit the temple and participate in daily darshan or pooja services. However, for special poojas during Navratri, devotees can register at the temple counter.
Steps to book seva at temple counter:
- Visit the Seva booking counter inside temple premises.
- Select the seva/pooja you want to perform.
- Pay the donation amount (cash or card accepted).
- Receive seva receipt and participate in the ritual.
Nearby Attractions
- Qutub Minar (4 km away) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Mehrauli Archaeological Park (4 km away) – Historical monuments and ruins.
- Lotus Temple (8 km away) – A beautiful Baháʼí House of Worship.
- ISKCON Temple (10 km away) – Famous Lord Krishna temple.
- India Gate (15 km away) – A war memorial and picnic spot.
Accommodation Options Near Chhatarpur Temple
| Hotel / Lodge Name | Distance from Temple | Price Range (per night) |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Dolphin Grand | 1 km | ₹1500 – ₹2500 |
| FabHotel Chhatarpur Green | 1.5 km | ₹1200 – ₹2000 |
| Hotel Green Lotus | 2 km | ₹2000 – ₹3500 |
| Budget Guest Houses | 500 m – 1 km | ₹800 – ₹1500 |
Important Instructions for Visitors
- Photography is generally allowed in temple premises but not inside sanctum.
- Footwear must be removed before entering the temple.
- Modest dress code is advised – avoid shorts or sleeveless dresses.
- During Navratri, expect heavy crowds and long waiting times.
- Elderly and differently-abled devotees have separate queue arrangements.
- Free Prasad (Khichdi) is distributed daily to devotees.
Do’s and Don’ts at Chhatarpur Temple
Do’s
- Follow temple rules and maintain silence inside.
- Collect Prasad and partake respectfully.
- Respect queue system, especially during Navratri.
Don’ts
- Do not carry leather items inside temple.
- Avoid carrying large bags and valuables.
- Do not litter the temple premises.
FAQs about Chhatarpur Temple
Q1. Where is Chhatarpur Temple located?
It is located in South Delhi, near Chhatarpur Metro Station on Yellow Line.
Q2. What is Chhatarpur Temple famous for?
It is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani and is one of the largest temples in India, spread over 70 acres.
Q3. What are the temple timings?
The temple is open daily from 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Q4. Is there an entry fee for darshan?
No, entry is free for all devotees.
Q5. How to reach Chhatarpur Temple by metro?
You can take the Yellow Line and get down at Chhatarpur Metro Station, which is very close to the temple.
Q6. Can we book darshan tickets online?
Currently, there is no online booking. Darshan and pooja are done through the temple counter.
Q7. What is the best time to visit Chhatarpur Temple?
During Navratri festivals in March-April and September-October.
Q8. Are accommodation facilities available near the temple?
Yes, many hotels, lodges, and guest houses are available nearby.
Q9. Who built Chhatarpur Temple?
It was established by Baba Sant Nagpal Ji in 1974.
Q10. Is food available at the temple?
Yes, free Prasad is distributed daily, and many food stalls are located outside the temple.