Sheetla Mata Mandir Gurgaon Haryana India Dotted in the midst of Gurugram’s ancient corners, Shri Sheetla Mata Devi Mandir is much more than a religious destination — it provides healing to visitors and is an essential part of Haryana’s culture. Catholic shrine Some of the devout followers also come to the temple for protection from diseases as well as blessings by the “Cooling Mother”Known globally known Shakti Peeth, this Temple attracts millions of devotees.
Mata Sheetla, the Goddess: The Divine Legend
The temple itself dates back to the Mahabharata period. Mata Sheetla, the presiding deity is believed to be Kripi (also known as Kirpai), wife of Guru Dronacharya.
The Healer: Legend has it; she spent her life nursing sick kids, especially smallpox and pustules.
The Symbols: She is usually shown with a broom (to sweep away germs), a winnowing fan, a pitcher of Ganga water and a cooling jar.
The Miracle: In the 18th century, after conquering Delhi and attributing his victory to the Goddess’s blessings, Maharaja Jawahar Singh of Bharatpur commissioned the existing structure.
Architectural Splendor
Contrary to the elaborate marble temples of a more modern day, Sheetla Mata Mandir displays architectural influences from Rajput and Mughal styles.
The Idol: It is a 4 kg gold-plated idol of Ashtadhatu (eight metals) nestled within a gilded sanctum.
The Pyramid Shikhara: The temple boasts of a one-of-its kind tiered, pyramid-shaped roof, quite different from other temples and prominently visible on the Gurugram skyline.
The Sacred Pond: A holy pond is placed next to the temple. Here devotees often wash their hands and feet before entering the shrine.
The Banyan Tree: There is a large, ancient banyan tree covered with red threads. The devotees tie these threads while expressing a wish (mannat)
The Tradition of Basoda
One unique ritual is to cook food a day before the event. Sheetla Ashtami, the kitchen fire is not lit. Following this, devotees present cold food to the Mother like Rabri, curd and Bajra which also represents her cooling nature and soothes the heat of diseases.
Key Festivals & The “Basoda” Tradition
The temple transforms into a mini-Kumbh during certain times of the year:
| Festival | Month | Significance |
| Sheetla Ashtami | March/April (Chaitra) | The most important day. Devotees offer “stale” food (Basoda) to the Goddess. |
| Chaitra Mela | March/April | A month-long fair where pilgrims from across North India congregate. |
| Navratri | Twice a year | The temple stays open nearly 24/7 to accommodate the massive rush. |
Essential Visitor Information (2026)
Timings & Entry：6 AM ~ 8 PM, 9 PM
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings from 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM on weekdays, to avoid long queues.
Entry Fee: Free.
How to Reach
By Metro: The closest station is HUDA City Centre (Yellow Line). From there, you can hire a 15-minute auto-rickshaw ride.
Train: The Gurugram Railway Station is located at a distance of 3 km from the hotel.
Air: IGI Airport Delhi is around 17 km away.
Pro-Tips for Travelers
Mundan Ceremony: Mondira is among the most favourite places for Mundan (the first cutting of hair) ceremony of children. These are specific halls for this.
Bhairav Mandir: It is said that the darshan of Sheetla Mata is not complete without a visit to Bhairav Nath mandir situated just behind the main complex.
Dress Code: No strict code exists, but modest and traditional Indian attire is suggested to show security.
Does this place have a parking: Yes, paid parking available but crowded on Mondays & festivals.
Must-visit Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Trip
If you have a day, you can visit the following within 5–15 km.
Lush green escape with a peaceful lake and space to unwind − Leisure Valley Park
Kingdom of Dreams — For a dash of Indian culture and performing arts.
Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary: A must for nature lovers (approx.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the reason behind the popularity of Sheetla Mata Mandir?
The temple is known as a Shakti Peeth and the deity is Mata Sheetla (Kripi), Guru Dronacharya’s wife. It is best known for its purported healing properties, especially in connection to skin ailments such as smallpox and chickenpox. Followers, too, go there to get the first haircut (Mundan) of their children for a healthy life.
What’s the importance of “Basoda” or “Thandi Mata”?
“Sheetla” literally means the cool one. On the day of Sheetla Ashtami, devotees observe Basoda by offering and consuming cold food (leftover from the previous day). On this day, no fire is lit in the kitchen to signify the “cooling” of the body and the surroundings so that one does not suffer from heat-related diseases.
When can one visit the temple (temple timings)?
The temple usually opens daily between 06:00 AM to 08:00 PM. However, temple usually remains open around the clock during Chaitra Mela and Navratri festivals for large number of pilgrims.
What’s the best day of the week to go?
Monday is believed to be the most pious day to visit at Sheetla Mata Mandir. But if you want to see it without the throngs and long waits, Tuesdays or Wednesdays are generally much quieter.
What is the way to get to the temple from Delhi?
By Metro: Yellow Line to Huda City Centre or IFFCO Chowk. You can then take an e-rickshaw or auto-rickshaw (15–20 minute ride).
By Bus: There are several DTC and Haryana Roadways buses from Dhaula Kuan and Sarai Kale Khan that drop passengers off directly at the Gurgaon Bus Stand, which is a short distance from the temple.
There is no dress code at the temple?
Although there isn’t an official dress code, but this is a very sacred religious site so traditional Indian modest clothing are advised to be worn. Also, you should cover your head with a scarf or handkerchief inside the main sanctum.
Is Mundan (Head Shaving) ceremony possible there?
Yes. The temple has its own dedicated facilities and authorized priests to conduct the Mundan Sanskar. This is among the Salbbest place for this ritual in North India. Especially on Mondays, arrive here very early in the day to do this.
Is there any entry fee or special darshan tickets?
Entry to the temple is free. In peak seasons, the temple management periodically launches “Sugam Darshan” (Fast Track) lines for a token nominal fee to handle the crowd but standard entrance remains free for every one.
Q1: Online booking of Puja or Prasad is available or not?
Yes, Shri Mata Sheetla Devi Shrine Board has up-to-dated its services. You can now go to their official portal for booking special Pujas, Aarti donation and Mata ka Bhog(Prasad) donation. This is especially useful during peak seasons like Navratri.
Q2: Is there Bhandara (community feast) at the temple?
Yes, bhandaras are very common here on Mondays or during festivals. These feasts are also sponsored by many devotees who seek to express gratitude. To be organized or to help organize one, you can reach out to the Shrine Board office at temple premises
Q3: Do you have accommodation for seniors or differently-abled?
The temple compound has been remodeled for wheelchair accessibility. Ramps are available at main entry points and during festive peaks the Shrines Board sometimes arrange free battery operated carts or special queues for senior citizens, etc.
Accommodation & Logistics
Q4: Can anyone suggest places to stay (hotel) around the temple?
Absolutely. You have two main options:
Dharamshalas: A few low-cost Dharamshalas on Sheetla Mata Road (Aggarwal Dharamshala, Saini Dharamshala) offer simple and clean accommodation.
Hotels: For greater comfort, hotels such as Country Inn & Suites (Sector 12) and FabHotel Gazelle Inn are also a stone’s throw away, in less than 2 km.
Q5: Are there any rules governing photography and videography?
Although you may take photographs in the outer courtyards and of the temple’s exterior architecture, photography inside the Main Sanctum (Garbhagriha) is strictly prohibited. To ensure the sanctity and avoid crowding.
Q6: Is parking also safe?
There is a designated parking lot at the temple, but it fills up very quickly on weekends. CCTV has been set up, giving a stronger security presence in 2026. Public transport or taxi is highly recommended to use as there can be traffic diversions on the way if you are visiting during a Mela (fair)
Rituals & Beliefs
Q7: Is Sheetla Mata Mandir a Shakti Peeth?
It is revered locally with the same fervour? As a Shakti Peeth, and also referred to as one in folk tradition, it is technically a historical shrine of Mata Kripi. But by millions of adherents, the spiritual energy is thought to be equal.
Q8: What is red thread (Mouli) tie at a tree inside?
Inside the complex, the ancient Banyan tree is referred to as the “Wishing Tree.” A red thread or a bangle is tied as a symbolic act for Mannat (vow) making. Once their wish is fulfilled, devotees usually come back to untie a thread.
Q9: What do I need to know if visiting during the Chaitra Mela?
Brace yourself for a “Kumbh-like” ambience.
Security: Listen to instructions from Gurugram Police and Shrine Board volunteers.
Health: Inline help centers and ambulances are arranged on site at these times.
Timing: Try to reach by 4AM for early darshan.
Administration & Digital Services
Q1: Does this temple come under Government management?
Yes. It is governed by the Shri Mata Sheetla Devi Shrine Board (Gurugram) due to its great popularity and scale of festivals, chaired by Chief Minister of Haryana. Which again ensures that the donations go towards the temple upkeep as well as local infrastructure and social welfare projects.
Q2: Can I order “Prasad” to my home?
Fast forward to 2026, the Shrine Board has strengthened its digital presence. Usually Online Prasad can be booked via official website or government-accredited apps. The “Dry Prasad” (in general Mishri, Makhana and a small photo of the Goddess) is couriered to devotees across India.
Q.3 Is VIP Darshan ticket available?
The temple, however, is seen as “Sarv Darshan” (equal for all). However, in case of rush periods (for example during the Chaitra Mela) the board may introduce a separate Sugam Darshan line for a minor fee (normally ₹50–₹110), aimed at assisting families with toddlers or people who have limited time.
Deep Cultural Traditions
Q4: What is the significance of offering a “Broom” (Jhadu) to the Goddess?
This is the most unique aspect of this temple. The broom is representing purity and hygiene. Mata Sheetla is also known to protect against diseases; hence offering a small broom to her means sweeping away the illness and negativity inside one’s house and body.
Q5: What is the “Jal” (Holy Water) ritual?
Purified water offered to the Goddess is collected by devotees. It is believed that sprinkling this “Sheetla Jal” around the house purifies the environment and protects family members from getting infected, as well as prevents “heat” accumulation in their bodies.
Traveler’s Logistics & Safety
Q6: Do you have a cloakroom for luggage and shoes?
Yes. Just off the main entrance is a shoe stand and cloakroom. So if you can, leave any leather (wallets, belts) and shoes there as it is usually forbidden to wear leather in the inner sanctum.
Q7: How safe is it for single female travelers?
Absolutely. It’s a very busy and well-policed area. However, as with any crowded religious site, it’s best to visit during daylight hours (from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM), and be aware of your belongings in the bustling market areas that lead up to the temple.
Q8: Does it have clean restrooms and a drinking water facility?
Multiple RO drinking water stations and clean public convenience blocks have been established by the Shrine Board in the complex. Revoltingly, there are even public toilets there called “Sulabh Shauchalayas” (while bleeding heart liberals only claim to have toilets close to homes).
Food & Shopping Nearby
Q9: What to eat around the temple?
The lanes around the temple are also known for their street food. Must-tries include:
Kachori with Aloo Sabzi: Pilgrims’ traditional breakfast
Lassi and Rabri Keeping with the Goddess (cooling) theme
Jalebis: Made fresh, in desi ghee
Q10: What is available in Temple Market?
The Sheetla Mata Bazaar is bustling. You can buy:
Chunris (red veils) as well as various other religious artifacts and brass idols
Traditional Rajasthani/Haryanvi bangles and jewelry.
Toys and sweets for children.
Quick Visitor Summary Table
| Feature | Detail |
| Mobile Phones | Allowed in the complex, but silent mode is preferred. |
| Locker Facility | Available at the entrance. |
| Wheelchair | Available upon request at the main office. |
| Best Entry Gate | Gate No. 1 (usually the main entrance for pedestrians). |
