Temples of Meghalaya greatly cater to the spiritual needs of the pilgrims. The picturesque natural beauty of the state enhances the popularity of the temples even more and makes the journey of the pilgrims even more attractive. Some of these temples are reachable only on foot owing to their location deep inside the hills and valleys.
Matri Mandir
Matri Mandir is one of the most popular temples in the country dedicated to Goddess Kali. This huge ancient temple has unique architecture with beautiful artistic carvings. Apart from its beauty and location, another alluring feature of this temple is the celebration of Diwali. During this festival, the temple is adorned with lights and flowers in the most exquisite way. Grand puja is organized in the honor of Goddess Kali late at night.
Mahadev Khola Dham
Mahadev Khola Dham situated in Shillong is another popular temple of Meghalaya. Lord Shiva is the presiding deity of this temple. Umshyrpi River flows near this holy place. Myths suggest that a saint known as Lakhiya Baba was the first person to reach this place. When the major of Subhedar, Gurkha Rifles Battalion searched for him, they were surprised to find a `shivling` at that place. The temple was then created as a dedication to Lord Shiva.
Sri Vithal Temple
Another famous temple of Meghalaya is Sri Vithal temple situated in Sanquelim. Lord Vithal, who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is the presiding deity of this temple. In 1942 AD, the temple was built by the Rane families who had migrated to Sanquelim from Udaipur. Standing along the bank of Valvanta River, Vithal Temple has a magnificent architecture. This temple was reconstructed in the year 1942. Kartik Ekadashi and Ashadi Ekadashi are two main festivals dedicated to Lord Vithal and are celebrated in this temple for nine days. The most attractive feature of this temple is the huge chariot which symbolizes the chariot of Arjuna which was driven by Lord Krishna in the epic Mahabharata.
Nartiang Durga Temple
Ancient temples of the country also enlist Nartiang Durga Temple which is situated in the Jaintia Hills district. It is believed to be one of the most holy sites for the people belonging to Shakti cult of Hinduism. Grand celebrations of Durga Puja can be witnessed here in which a banana plant is adorned and worshipped in the form of Goddess. The temple is also enlisted among the 51 Shakti Peethas of India. Unique rituals are followed in this temple, which are combinations of ancient Khasi and Hindu traditions.
Other Temples of Meghalaya
Hanuman Temple, Ganesh Temple, Sani Temple, Kali Temple, Buddha Temple and Jawala Temple are some of the other Temples of Meghalaya.
In addition to being a significant place for devotees, these temples are also a huge attraction for the tourists of the whole country. Unique religious rituals and customs are most beautifully depicted in these temples.
