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Chhatarpur Temple, Delhi
Goddess Katyayani · South Delhi
॥ ॐ दुं दुर्गायै नमः ॥
The Chhatarpur Temple in south Delhi — properly the Shri Adya Katyayani Shakti Peeth Mandir — is one of the largest temple complexes in India, a sprawling campus of white-marble shrines built from 1974 around the worship of the goddess Katyayani, a fierce form of Durga. Its scale, its many shrines and its great Navaratri crowds have made it one of the most visited temples of the capital.
The goddess Katyayani
The presiding deity is Katyayani, the sixth of the nine forms of Durga invoked in Navaratri, a warrior goddess born to destroy the demon Mahishasura. Her shrine at Chhatarpur is the heart of the complex, opened to devotees most fully during the nine nights of the goddess.
A vast complex of marble shrines
Founded by Baba Sant Nagpal in 1974, the temple grew into a great campus of shrines spread over many acres, built largely in white marble and carved stone, with halls, gardens and dozens of subsidiary deities. It is counted among the very largest temple complexes in the country, a place to wander as much as to worship.
Navaratri in the capital
During Navaratri the temple draws enormous crowds, when shrines normally kept closed are opened and the goddess is worshipped through the nine nights. Set near the Qutub area of south Delhi, amid green ridge country, it offers a great pilgrimage close to the heart of the city.
How to reach Chhatarpur
- By metro: Chhatarpur station on the Delhi Metro Yellow Line is close to the temple.
- By road: the temple is in Chhatarpur, south Delhi, off the Mehrauli–Gurgaon road.
- By air/rail: Delhi’s airport is about 15 km away; the city’s major railway stations are within easy reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the deity at Chhatarpur Temple?
The presiding deity is Katyayani, the sixth of the nine forms of Durga invoked at Navaratri, a warrior goddess worshipped here in south Delhi.
How large is the Chhatarpur Temple?
It is one of the largest temple complexes in India, a campus of white-marble shrines spread over many acres, founded in 1974 by Baba Sant Nagpal.
When is the temple busiest?
Navaratri draws enormous crowds, when shrines normally kept closed are opened and the goddess Katyayani is worshipped through the nine nights.
How do I reach Chhatarpur Temple?
Chhatarpur metro station on the Yellow Line is close by; the temple is off the Mehrauli–Gurgaon road in south Delhi. The airport is about 15 km away.
Who founded the temple?
It was founded in 1974 by Baba Sant Nagpal, and grew over the years into the vast marble complex seen today.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to the temple is free; it is open to all devotees, with the fullest access to its shrines during Navaratri.
॥ जय माता दी ॥ • Bhaktiras.net Temple Guide
| Deity | Goddess Katyayani (a form of Durga) |
| Significance | One of the largest temple complexes in India |
| Built | 1974, by Baba Sant Nagpal |
| Material | White marble and carved stone |
| Nearest Metro | Chhatarpur (Yellow Line) |
| Main Festival | Navaratri |