Ekvira Devi Temple near Karla Caves in Lonavala is one of the most powerful and visited goddess temples near Mumbai. Located near the ancient Karla Buddhist Caves in Pune district, about 110 km from Mumbai, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Ekvira Devi, the kuldevi (clan deity) of the Koli and CKP communities of Maharashtra.
About Goddess Ekvira Devi
Goddess Ekvira Devi is the principal kuldevi of the Koli fishing community of Maharashtra and several other communities including CKP (Chandraseniya Kayastha Prabhu). She is a fierce form of the Shakti goddess and is believed to fulfill the wishes of all devoted worshippers. The name Ekvira means the lone brave one or the goddess without a partner.
History of Ekvira Devi Temple
The Ekvira Devi Temple at Karla is one of the most ancient temples in the region and is mentioned in various historical texts. The temple is situated adjacent to the famous Karla Buddhist Caves which date back to the 2nd century BCE. The combination of ancient Buddhist architecture and Hindu temple worship makes this a unique and fascinating destination. The temple complex has been renovated several times over the centuries.
Temple Timings
Ekvira Devi Temple is open from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM daily. The morning aarti begins at 6:00 AM and the evening aarti is at 7:30 PM. Navratri is the biggest festival here when the temple is packed with lakhs of devotees from all over Maharashtra for all nine days. Tuesdays and Fridays are specially crowded as these are auspicious days for the goddess.
How to Reach Ekvira Devi Temple from Mumbai
The Ekvira Devi Temple at Karla is approximately 110 km from Mumbai. By road via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, take the exit at Lonavala and then head towards Karla village. The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. By train, take a train to Lonavala station on the Central Railway and then take a bus or shared taxi to Karla (about 8 km). There are also direct ST buses from Mumbai (Dadar, Thane) to Karla during peak festival seasons.
Karla Buddhist Caves
While visiting Ekvira Devi Temple, do not miss the ancient Karla Buddhist Caves located right next to the temple. These caves are among the most well-preserved ancient rock-cut caves in India and date back to the 2nd century BCE. The main chaitya hall is one of the finest examples of ancient Buddhist architecture in Asia.
Flowers for Ekvira Devi Pooja
Goddess Ekvira Devi is worshipped with great devotion especially during Navratri. Fresh flowers, garlands, and rangoli are key parts of the worship. Popular flower offerings at Ekvira Devi Temple include:
- Red hibiscus (Jasvand) - goddess's favorite
- Red rose garlands
- Marigold garlands
- Mixed red flower offerings
- Jasmine mogra strings
- Tuberose (Rajnigandha) strings
- Yellow marigold loose flowers
Mumbai Florist Hub delivers fresh Navratri flowers and goddess pooja flower sets across Mumbai every morning. Order red hibiscus, marigold garlands, rose garlands, and complete Devi navratri flower boxes for your daily Ekvira Devi or home goddess puja. Delivery available across Bandra, Andheri, Borivali, Thane, and all Mumbai areas.
FAQ
Is Ekvira Devi Temple accessible from Mumbai in a day trip? Yes, Ekvira Devi Temple at Karla is an ideal one-day trip from Mumbai. With a 2.5-hour drive each way, you can comfortably visit the temple and return the same day.
When is the best time to visit Ekvira Devi Temple? Navratri is the most auspicious time but also the most crowded. For a peaceful visit, any weekday morning from November to March is ideal.
What communities worship Ekvira Devi? Ekvira Devi is the kuldevi of the Koli community and is also worshipped by CKP (Chandraseniya Kayastha Prabhu) and several other Maharashtra communities.
Ekvira Devi Temple at Karla is a powerful spiritual destination near Mumbai that fills devotees with divine energy and blessings. Plan your visit and experience the grace of Mata Ekvira. Mumbai Florist Hub is your daily flower partner for all goddess pooja needs in Mumbai.
