Ugra Tara Sthan
Ugra Tara Sthan, located in the historic village of Mahishi, is one of the most significant Shakti Peethas in the Mithila region. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara, one of the ten Mahavidyas in Hinduism, and is renowned for its deep roots in the Tantrik tradition. The main deity is flanked by two smaller goddesses, Ekjata and Nil Saraswati, creating a powerful spiritual trinity. This site is not only a religious hub but also a place of great intellectual history, as Mahishi is the birthplace of the famous 8th-century philosopher Mandan Mishra. It was here that the legendary debate between Mandan Mishra and Adi Shankaracharya took place, with Mishra's wife, Bharti, serving as the judge. The temple's atmosphere is one of intense devotion, especially during the Navratri festival when thousands of practitioners from across India and Nepal arrive for penance and rituals. The architecture reflects the ancient stone-carving traditions of Mithila, with a dark, mysterious sanctum that enhances the spiritual experience. The location near the Kosi river adds to its serene yet powerful aura, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the mystical side of Bihar. For the people of Saharsa, this temple is the ultimate protector and the center of their cultural and spiritual life, holding stories of miracles and divine intervention that have been passed down for generations.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Shakti Peetha & Tantric SiteEntry Fees:
Entry Fee: There is No Fee for general entry into the Ugra Tara Sthan temple or the nearby Mandan Mishra memorial site.
Donations: While not mandatory, many visitors choose to donate small amounts to the temple trust for the maintenance of t...Entry Fee: There is No Fee for general entry into the Ugra Tara Sthan temple or the nearby Mandan Mishra memorial site.
Donations: While not mandatory, many visitors choose to donate small amounts to the temple trust for the maintenance of the ancient structures and local school.Timing:
Daily Timings: The temple remains open for devotees from 5:00 AM to 8:30 PM, though the garbhagriha is closed for a short time in the afternoon.
Ideal Time: Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered particularly powerful for worshipping the Godd...Daily Timings: The temple remains open for devotees from 5:00 AM to 8:30 PM, though the garbhagriha is closed for a short time in the afternoon.
Ideal Time: Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered particularly powerful for worshipping the Goddess; visit at 6:00 PM for the evening Aarti.Special Events:
Sharadiya Navaratra: The ten-day festival in September-October is the largest event, attracting over a lakh devotees for elaborate ceremonies and fairs.
Mela at Mahishi: A large village fair is organized during the month of October, featurin...Sharadiya Navaratra: The ten-day festival in September-October is the largest event, attracting over a lakh devotees for elaborate ceremonies and fairs.
Mela at Mahishi: A large village fair is organized during the month of October, featuring traditional Maithili theater, music, and local handicrafts.Best Photo Spots:
Temple Sanctum Gate: The heavy, carved wooden door leading to the inner chamber provides a beautiful, dark-toned frame for traditional photography.
Mandan Mishra Memorial: The white structure of the memorial against the lush green fields of ...Temple Sanctum Gate: The heavy, carved wooden door leading to the inner chamber provides a beautiful, dark-toned frame for traditional photography.
Mandan Mishra Memorial: The white structure of the memorial against the lush green fields of Mahishi creates a striking and peaceful visual contrast.
Ritual Fire: Capture the orange glow of the sacred fire (havan) during the evening rituals, which adds a mystical element to your photo collection.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Shakti Worship: Offer red hibiscus flowers and traditional sweets to Goddess Tara to seek her protection and the fulfillment of your wishes.
Historical Exploration: Visit the Mandan Mishra Dham to understand the high level of intellectual discourse that existed in Mithila during the 8th century.
Tantric Ritual Witnessing: If visiting during Navratri, observe the specialized rituals and homas (fire sacrifices) conducted by the tantric priests.
Visit Kandaha Sun Temple: Take a short trek or rickshaw ride to the nearby Kandaha village to see the stunning carvings of the Sun God.
Photography: Capture the intricate details of the ancient stone idols and the vibrant market that springs up outside the temple during festivals.
Information
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Why Famous:
Tantric Significance: It is famous as a major center for the Tantrik cult, where advanced spiritual practitioners gather for special rituals during the new moon.
Philosophical Debate: The site is renowned for being the location of the world-...Tantric Significance: It is famous as a major center for the Tantrik cult, where advanced spiritual practitioners gather for special rituals during the new moon.
Philosophical Debate: The site is renowned for being the location of the world-famous discourse between Adi Shankaracharya and Mandan Mishra.
Ancient Deity: The idol of Goddess Tara is believed to be exceptionally old and is one of the few places where she is worshipped alongside Ekjata. -
Architecture:
Ancient Stone Work: The temple features heavy stone walls and a traditional pyramid-style roof, typical of ancient East Indian religious architecture.
The Main Idol: The statue of Goddess Tara is carved from a single block of black stone, st...Ancient Stone Work: The temple features heavy stone walls and a traditional pyramid-style roof, typical of ancient East Indian religious architecture.
The Main Idol: The statue of Goddess Tara is carved from a single block of black stone, standing about 3 feet tall, and is dressed in vibrant silk sarees.
Mandan Mishra Dham: Adjacent to the temple is the memorial site of the philosopher, featuring a modern structure built over the traditional foundation of his home.
Tantric Geometry: The layout of the temple complex is said to follow specific Yantra patterns, which are believed to enhance the energy of the prayers performed inside. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The closest airport is Patna (200 KMs); however, the upcoming Darbhanga Airport (100 KMs) is a much closer and more convenient option.
By Train:
Saharsa Junction (code: SHC) is the main railhead, con... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Kandaha Sun Temple (3 KMs), 2. Karu Khirhari Temple (2 KMs), 3. Chandika Sthan (25 KMs), 4. Saharsa Museum (18 KMs), 5. Matsyagandha Lake (20 KMs), 6. Bangaon (22 KMs), 7. Supaul (35 KMs), 8. Madhepura (25 KMs), 9. Singheshwar Sthan (32 KMs), 10. Simri Bakhtiyarpur (35 KMs).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: During the peak of Navratri, be prepared for very large crowds and keep your children and valuables close to you at all times.
Packing Essentials: Wear modest clothing, carry some dry snacks, and bring a power bank as elec...
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