Hinglaj Shakti Peeth is among the 51 Shakti Peeth of Maa Sati. It is said that, the head of Sati fell here, then a temple dedicated to it was built at this place. Hinglaj Devi temple is located near Makran Coastal Range, Bulchistan, Pakistan. The whole complex of temple is situated in place that is very arid region and lies 20 Km away from the Arabian Sea and 120 Km away from the Indus River Delta. It is also called as the ‘Nani Ka Haj’ by the Muslim population living near to it and pilgrimage to it generally starts before summer. Makran Coastal Highway linking Karachi is the best way by which people can visit this temple. Due to its religious importance, various communities in India have Hinglaj as their Kuldevi and every year people in large visit this temple. People living nearby know this temple for other purposes also like it is said that the medicine taken from this temple treats the poison related ailments like the snake bites etc. So, people living nearby have great faith in the temple healing power and this is the reason why this temple was not destroyed even though surrounded by major Muslim population. In fact, Muslim people offers, sandals (Perfumed), cloths etc as their offering to this religious monument.
This Shrine is also called as the ‘Palace’ in Local and supposed to be constructed by the gods themselves called as ‘Yakshas’. The whole structure of the temple is made of unique stones having different colors, the roofs and walls are inscribed with such beautiful stones and presents picturesque views. The most magnificent and adorable part starts from the very beginning, i.e. the entrance of this cave, it is 50m in height. The main holy relic is placed at the end of this cave and it generally covered with red cloth. This part is called as the Sanctum Sanctorum and has two entrances to enter in to it. The Pilgrimage to this temple involves a harsh on foot journey across the Baluch desert. It is said that it eliminates the sins of the people coming to the temple during the pilgrimage. A very famous stop during the whole journey is that Baba Chandrakup, which is situated near the mud volcano. People perform different type of ceremonies and it is considered auspicious to stop here and to perform all the essential rituals. Here the idol of Maa Sati is called as Kotari and the lord Shiva is worshipped as ‘Bhimlochan’.
History of Hinglaj Shakti Peeth
As Such there are no records of when this temple was constructed, who constructed etc. But people visiting this temple will surely find from local people about the existing of this temple. Raja or King Nala of vidhraba region was ardent devotee of Maa Hinglaj. In puranas, it is written the Lord Rama came to this temple for worship because he killed a Brahmin (Ravana). And it is said that Ravana was strong worshipper of Lord Shiva and Maa Durga.
Festivals in Hinglaj temple
From time to time there are many ceremonies, rituals and festivals are conducted around this temple. Special prayers are organized on the eve of Shivaratri, Navratri etc. During the Navaratri the celebration is something to see for and is celebrated with the exorbitant energy and devotion by the people. Four Day Theerth Yatra in April is prime attraction of this place and people from all over the world come here to attend this Theerth Yatra.
Where to stay
Hinglaj temple is pretty near to the city of state Karachi, Pakistan. There are several tourist lounges, hotels and motels can be found. The price of a room depends on the choice of hotel. If you don’t want to visit the Karachi city then there are several small hotels around the vicinity, but quality is compromised here. But in the prime season like during the festive seasons, the rooms get filled quickly. During this time the price of the hotel rooms shoots up. So, it is advisable to make a prior booking of the rooms when you are coming in the prime season.
Shopping around Hinglaj temple
There are various religious stuff that is available around the temple. For people coming from the different countries, there are items like local outfits, handmade products available in the temple vicinity. Peoplk can also try the local cuisines like Sirini and it also offered as a ‘prasad’ in some places around this temple. There are shops (So many), and they offer variety of items related to the Hindu religion. You can buy various things that will serve as souvenir for your journey. If you want to do, heavy shopping, then head towards the Karachi city. Do Bargain for the items before buying them.
How to reach the Hinglaj temple
First of all, people going from India need to get the visa from this pilgrimage journey. Since Hinglaj temple is located near to Karachi city, it is well connected by all three modes of transport. From Karachi several local transports ply towards this region and it is easier to reach because of the presence of Highway near to it. From Gujarat, if people want to go to this holy site, it much easier and less time consuming from there. They can take the sea route to reach this holy site, but need to take the permission from the Pakistan government. There are various national flights that directly fly to this part. The railway is also having a good connectivity to this place. Road transport is also as good as other means of transport. Do prior booking of the seats for having a comfortable journey to your destination.