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Located in Virar, Maharashtra, Jivdani Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination. It is dedicated to Goddess Jivdani, who is an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is located at an elevation, roughly 1500 feet above sea level. Every year, the temple draws in tourists from across the country, especially individuals who are looking for prosperity, good health, and protection from evil. Seeking divine blessings from the Devi inside, this temple is believed to bring a lot of prosperity and peace in one’s life.
Quick Details About Jivdani Temple
Jivdani Temple Address: Public Registration No. A/397, Shree Jivdani Marg, Virar East, Virar, Maharashtra 401305
Jivdani Temple Timings: 5 AM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearest Railway Station: Virar Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
Ropeway Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
About Jivdani Temple
Photo: Udaykumar PR / Wikimedia Commons
Jivdani Temple is located in the town of Virar and is a renowned pilgrimage site that attracts tourists from across the globe. The temple is dedicated to Maa Jivdani, who is an incarnation of Maa Durga. The temple is located roughly 1500 feet above sea level and draws in devotees from across the country. The word “Jivdani” translates to “Goddess of Life.” One of the most striking elements of the temple is its location, which sits on top of a hill. To get to the inner sanctum, the devotees have to climb 1,375 steps. For those who prefer a more convenient route, a ropeway system is available, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Virar landscape and the Arabian Sea.
How To Reach Jivdani Temple
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
Getting to Jivdani Temple is relatively easy due to its proximity to Mumbai. You can get to the temple via air, rail and road too:
By Air: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai is the nearest airport to the temple, located roughly 60 km away. From the airport, you’d have to take a taxi or a local train to Virar and then take local transportation to get to the temple.
By Rail: Virar Railway Station on the Western Line of Mumbai’s suburban railway network is the closest railway station to the temple. From Virar, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the base of the Jivdani Hill and then either climb the steps or you can take the ropeway too.
By Road: You can drive to the temple from Mumbai via the Mumbai-Ahmedabad National Highway (NH 48), which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can take a cab or consider driving down yourself.
By Ropeway: For visitors who prefer not to climb the 1,375 steps, a ropeway system is operational at the temple, providing a quick and scenic ride to the top. The ropeway operates from 8 AM – 6 PM.
Things To Do At Jivdani Temple
When you are planning your visit to the Jivdani Temple, there are numerous activities to look out for:
1. Climb The 1,375 Steps To The Temple
Photo: Jeeteshvaishya / Wikimedia Commons
If you are physically fit to make the ascent, consider climbing the steps leading to the temple. Along the way, the staircase is flanked by vendors selling flowers, coconuts, incense, and other religious offerings, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. However, keep in consideration that it is a pretty physically challenging experience, so prepare yourself for the same. The view from the staircase is equally rewarding, as you can catch glimpses of the vast Virar plains and the Arabian Sea. There are designated resting stops along the way to catch a break from the climbing.
2. Seek Blessings From Goddess Jivdani
Photo: Booradleyp1 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Once you get to the top of the temple, the primary activity is to seek blessings from Goddess Jivdani whose shrine sits at the top. The deity is decorated with flowers, ornaments, and colourful sarees. Devotees offer their prayers, seeking prosperity, good health, and protection from evil forces. There are aartis and poojas conducted throughout the day, which you can be a part of. One of the most significant times to visit is during the festival of Navratri, when the temple is beautifully decorated, and special aartis are held as well.
3. Experience The Scenic Ropeway Ride
Photo: Udaykumar PR / Wikimedia Commons
For the devotees who aren’t physically fit to climb the stairs, you can consider the alternative ropeway ride. It is a quick and thrilling experience and the panoramic views that you get to witness along the way are pretty amazing too. As you ascend, you’ll be able to see the entire Virar region below, dotted with homes, trees, and the glistening waters of the Arabian Sea in the distance. The operational hours are from 8 AM – 6 PM, and it’s recommended to reach early to avoid long lines during weekends.
4. Visit Nearby Shrines And Temples
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Close to Jivdani Temple are other smaller shrines dedicated to deities such as Lord Ganesha and Goddess Bhavani. After you finish offering your prayers to Maa Jivdani, you can then head to these nearby shrines to seek blessings from the deities. The Bhavani Mata Temple, located near the base of Jivdani Hill, is particularly notable and attracts visitors seeking blessings from another form of Goddess Durga.
Places To Visit Around Jivdani Temple
Given that the temple is located in Virar, there are numerous adjoining tourist attractions that you can add to your travel plans:
1. Arnala Beach
Photo: Pratishkhedekar / Wikimedia Commons
Just a short drive from Jivdani Temple, Arnala Beach is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the soothing sound of waves. Unlike the many commercialised beaches in Mumbai, this one is quite less crowded. The beach is known for its black sand, calm waters, and a picturesque view of the nearby Arnala Fort, a Portuguese-era structure. Besides the food stalls, the beach is equally popular for its sunset views.
Distance From Arnala Beach: 10.7 km
Timings: 24*7
2. Yazoo Park
Photo: Jeeteshvaishya / Wikimedia Commons
Yazoo Park is one of Virar’s most popular family-friendly attractions. The park features a variety of rides and attractions, including a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and water slides, making it an exciting destination for children. If you want a more laid-back experience, the park also has landscaped gardens and paved pathways that you can take a stroll in. Yazoo Park also hosts live performances and cultural shows on weekends, which add an extra layer of entertainment for visitors.
Distance From Arnala Beach: 3.8 km
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
3. Vajreshwari Hot Springs
Photo: ROMAN ODINTSOV / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
This is a short drive from Virar and brings you to the town of Vajreshwari. It is famous for its hot springs, which are said to have therapeutic properties. The springs, rich in sulphur, are believed to cure ailments like arthritis and skin diseases. Many people visit Vajreshwari not just for the healing hot springs but also to pay respects at the nearby Vajreshwari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Vajreshwari, another form of Durga.
Distance From Arnala Beach: 27.8 km
Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
Where To Stay
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Virar offers several accommodation options for visitors to Jivdani Temple. If you are planning a laidback of the nearby sightseeing spots, you can plan your visit for a few days and stay at the hotels or resorts. Some of the most popular ones include Sangam Residency, Sunnys 1 BHK Virar and Wandernature Resort.
Where To Eat
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To appease your hunger after a long day of exploring the temple and the nearby sightseeing spots, you can head to one of the many restaurants and food outlets including Jivdani Temple Prasadalaya, Maa Jivdani Dosa Centre and Jivdani Chinese and Indian Food.
Other Factors To Consider
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Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable and modest clothing when visiting the temple.
- Taking Jivdani temple photos from the outside is allowed but avoid taking pictures inside the shrine.
- The temple complex can be crowded, so it’s a good idea to carry your water and snacks.
- If you’re visiting during peak season, be prepared for crowds and longer waiting times.
- If you wish to avoid the steps, opt for the ropeway but be aware of the safety protocol.
Jivdani Temple is one of the leading devi temples in Maharashtra, renowned for its unique architecture, location and the history behind it. The next time you are planning your visit to the temple, ensure that you keep a check on all the basic experiences and hire a local guide to get a better understanding of the historical significance too. You can plan your trip with TripXL for an enjoyable journey.
Cover Photo: Udaykumar PR / Wikimedia Commons
