Best Temples to Visit During Vasantha Navaratri 2025 in India
Vasantha Navaratri, also known as Chaitra Navaratri, is a vibrant nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. Celebrated in March or April, it marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year in many regions. Devotees observe fasts, perform rituals, and visit sacred temples to seek blessings.
India, with its rich spiritual heritage, houses countless temples where Navaratri is celebrated with grandeur. If you’re planning a pilgrimage in 2025, here are the best temples to visit during Vasantha Navaratri.
1. Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu & Kashmir
Why Visit During Navaratri?
The Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in India. Nestled in the Trikuta Mountains, this temple attracts millions of devotees every year. During Navaratri, the pilgrimage becomes even more special with grand celebrations, night-long bhajans, and elaborate aartis.
Festive Highlights
- Special Akhand Jyoti(eternal flame) is lit for nine days.
- Shobha Yatra(procession) of the Goddess’s palanquin.
- Devotees observe fasts and offer chunri, coconut, and sweetsto the deity.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid heavy crowds.
2. Kamakhya Temple, Assam
Why Visit During Navaratri?
Kamakhya Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, is famous for its unique Tantric rituals. During Navaratri, the temple witnesses the Ambubachi Mela, symbolizing the menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya. The energy here is believed to be at its peak during these days.
Festive Highlights
- The temple remains closed for three days (symbolizing the Goddess’s rest period).
- On the fourth day, devotees receive prasadin the form of a red cloth.
- Tantric rituals and yagnasare performed for spiritual empowerment.
Best Time to Visit: Early hours to witness the morning aarti.
3. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai
Why Visit During Navaratri?
Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (an avatar of Parvati), this temple is an architectural marvel. Navaratri here is celebrated with grand processions, music, and dance performances. The temple’s vibrant gopurams (towers) are illuminated, creating a mesmerizing sight.
Festive Highlights
- Golu(display of dolls) depicting mythological scenes.
- Ther Thiruvizha(chariot festival) on Vijayadashami.
- Classical dance and music performances in the temple complex.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the illuminated temple view.
4. Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kolkata
Why Visit During Navaratri?
Made famous by Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, this temple is a major spiritual hub. Navaratri here is marked by intense devotion, with thousands gathering to chant hymns and offer prayers to Goddess Kali.
Festive Highlights
- Sindoor Khela(vermilion play) on Vijayadashami.
- Dhunuchi Naach(fire dance) during evening aarti.
- Special bhog(food offering) distribution.
Best Time to Visit: During evening aarti for a powerful spiritual experience.
5. Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore
Why Visit During Navaratri?
Perched atop Chamundi Hills, this temple is the epicenter of Mysore’s grand Dasara celebrations. The goddess is worshipped as the slayer of demons Mahishasura, making Navaratri celebrations here truly majestic.
Festive Highlights
- Mysore Dasaraprocession with a decorated elephant carrying the Goddess’s idol.
- Lighting of the Mysore Palacein golden hues.
- Cultural performances and exhibitions in the city.
Best Time to Visit: During the Dasara procession for a grand spectacle.
6. Bhadrakali Temple, Warangal
Why Visit During Navaratri?
One of the oldest temples in Telangana, Bhadrakali Temple is known for its fierce yet benevolent deity. Navaratri here is celebrated with deep-rooted traditions, including animal sacrifices (now symbolic in many cases).
Festive Highlights
- Bonalufestival (offering pots decorated with flowers and lamps).
- Potharaju Dance, a folk ritual performed by devotees.
- Special homams(fire rituals) for prosperity.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for peaceful darshan.
7. Maa Durga Temple, Varanasi
Why Visit During Navaratri?
Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, houses the famous Durga Kund Temple. Navaratri here is a blend of devotion and ancient rituals, with the Ganga Aarti adding to the divine atmosphere.
Festive Highlights
- Kanya Pujan(worshipping young girls as forms of the Goddess).
- Ganga Aartiwith thousands of diyas (lamps) floating in the river.
- Special yagnasat the temple premises.
Best Time to Visit: At sunset for the Ganga Aarti.
8. Kanaka Durga Temple, Vijayawada
Why Visit During Navaratri?
Located on Indrakeeladri Hill, this temple offers breathtaking views of the Krishna River. Navaratri celebrations here include special pujas and cultural events.
Festive Highlights
- Teppotsavam(boat festival) on the Krishna River.
- Alankarana(decorating the deity in different forms each day).
- Massive crowds chanting “Jai Kanaka Durga”throughout the night.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a serene darshan.
9. Jwalamukhi Temple, Himachal Pradesh
Why Visit During Navaratri?
This unique temple has no idol—instead, a natural flame burns continuously. Navaratri here is marked by mystical energy and deep spiritual practices.
Festive Highlights
- Akhand Jyoti(perpetual flame) worshipped as the Goddess.
- Maha Abhishekamwith milk and water.
- Homa ritualsfor fulfillment of wishes.
Best Time to Visit: During the morning puja for a powerful aura.
10. Kalkaji Temple, Delhi
Why Visit During Navaratri?
One of Delhi’s most visited temples, Kalkaji Mandir is always bustling with devotees. Navaratri here is a grand affair, with non-stop chanting and a festive atmosphere.
Festive Highlights
- 24-hour Akhand Paath(continuous scripture reading).
- Mega bhandara(community feast) for devotees.
- Jagran nightswith devotional singing.
Best Time to Visit: Late evening for the spiritual vibe.
Vasantha Navaratri 2025 is the perfect time to embark on a spiritual journey across India’s most sacred temples. Whether you seek blessings, wish to witness grand celebrations, or simply want to soak in the divine energy, these temples offer unforgettable experiences.
Plan your trip in advance, check temple timings, and immerse yourself in the devotion and culture that Navaratri brings. May the goddess bless you with prosperity and peace!