51 Shaktipeeth - The Sacred Abodes of Mother Divine

During mid-June (Assamese month of Ahar), when the Sun moves into the zodiac sign of Gemini, Assam gears up for a unique celebration—the Ambubachi Mela held at Kamakhya Devi temple. It is the time when the Brahmaputra overflows, and the earth is believed to be at its peak fertility. For three days, the doors of the Kamakhya Devi temple are closed. It is considered the time of Mother Divine's annual menstruation. Farmers avoid tilling the land or sowing seeds, allowing Mother Earth to rest undisturbed.

Kamakhya temple celebrates the creative power of the feminine. Among the 51 Shaktipeeth (primary centres of Devi worship), the Kamakhya temple represents the Divine Mother's yoni (womb), the starting point of all creation.

The term Shaktipeeth or Shaktipeetham is derived from the words Shakti, meaning the Supreme Energy manifesting as Mother Goddess, and Peeth, meaning a seat, altar, or sacred dwelling. We find reference to the Shaktipeethas in the following verse from the Ashtadash Shaktipeeth Stotram by Adi Shankaracharya.

"panchashad-eka-peethani evam bhairav-devatah |
ang-pratyang-patena vishnu-chakra-kshatena cha
mam-adya-vapusho deva hitaya tvayi kathyate ||"

(Divine Mother proclaims that the 51 sacred Peeth, along with their Bhairav, came into being when her divine body was severed by Lord Vishnu's Chakra.)

Shaktipeethas are revered centers of cosmic energy where the various parts of Devi Sati's body fell as the grief-stricken Lord Shiv carried her while doing the fierce dance of destruction, the Rudra Tandav.

The details of the various Shaktipeethas are found in the Kulachudamani Tantra (Tantra Chudamani), a prominent Shakta Agam text. In this Tantra text, presented as a dialogue between Devi and Bhagwan Shiv, Mother Divine explains the principles of Shakti worship, including rituals, mantras, and spiritual practices.

Within the Tantra Chudamani, the section called Peeth Nirnaya Tantra or Mahapithanirupana, lists the sacred Shaktipeethas and describes the particular form of Devi (feminine energy) worshipped at each site. It also identifies the corresponding Bhairav (a form of Bhagwan Shiv and the masculine side) associated with each Peeth.

Highlights of the blog:

• Complete List of 51 Shaktipeethas
  • North India
  • East India
  • West India
  • South India
  • Beyond the Indian Borders
• Origin of the Shaktipeethas: Katha of Devi Sati and Lord Shiv
• Lord Bhairav: Guardian of the Shaktipeeth
• The Deep Connection of 51: Shaktipeeth Locations and Matrikas
• From Mahadev to Devi Ma

Complete List of 51 Shaktipeethas

According to the Devi Bhagavat Puran, Devi Sati's body fell at 108 locations known as Shaktipeeth. Today, 51 Shaktipeeth (Shaktipeethas) are recognised, of which 18, called the Ashtadasha Maha Shaktipeeth, are considered the major centres.

The Indian subcontinent is dotted with revered Shaktipeeths, each an eternal shrine where the power of the Divine Mother continues to bless and protect the world. They are situated in the mystical hills of the Northeast, high in the Himalayan landscape, across the western shores, down to the southern seas, and even beyond into neighbouring lands.

North India

1. Uma Shaktipeeth, Mithila (Bihar)
2. Mangala Gauri Shaktipeeth, Gaya (Bihar)
3. Vishalakshi Shaktipeeth, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
4. Panchasagar Shaktipeeth, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
5. Lalita Devi Shaktipeeth, Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh)
6. Katyayani Shaktipeeth, Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh)
7. Shivani Devi Shaktipeeth, Ramagiri (Uttar Pradesh)
8. Bhadrakali Shaktipeeth, Kurukshetra (Haryana)
9. Tripurmalini Devi Shaktipeeth, Jalandhar (Punjab)
10. Jwalaji Shaktipeeth, Kangra (Himachal Pradesh)
11. Brajeshwari Devi Shaktipeeth, Kangra (Himachal Pradesh)
12. Chhinnamastika Devi Shaktipeeth, Chintpurni, Una District (Himachal Pradesh)
13. Mahamaya Shaktipeeth, Amarnath (Jammu and Kashmir)
14. Avanti Shaktipeeth, Bhairava Parvat, Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)
15. Mangal Chandika Shaktipeeth, Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)
16. Sharada Devi Shaktipeeth, Maihar (Madhya Pradesh)
17. Kaalmadhav Devi Shaktipeeth, Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh)
18. Narmada Shaktipeeth, Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh)
19. Devi Danteshwari Shaktipeeth, Bastar (Chhattisgarh)

East India

1. Tripura Sundari Shaktipeeth, Udaipur (Tripura)
2. Kamakhya Devi Shaktipeeth, Kamgiri (Assam)
3. Jayanti Devi Shaktipeeth, Jaintia Hills (Meghalaya)
4. Tara Tarini Shaktipeeth, Ganjam (Odisha)
5. Vimala Devi Shaktipeeth, Puri (Odisha)
6. Kalighat Shaktipeeth, Kolkata (West Bengal)
7. Jogadya Shaktipeeth, Kshirgram (West Bengal)
8. Bahula Shaktipeeth, Ketugram, Katwa (West Bengal)
9. Kankalitala Devi Shaktipeeth, Bolpur (West Bengal)
10. Phullara Devi Shaktipeeth, Attahas (West Bengal)
11. Ratnavali Shaktipeeth, Hooghly (West Bengal)
12. Mahishamardini Shaktipeeth, Birbhum (West Bengal)
13. Nandikeshwari Shaktipeeth, Birbhum (West Bengal)
14. Kiriteshwari Devi Shaktipeeth, Murshidabad (West Bengal)
15. Bargabhima Devi Shaktipeeth, East Midnapore (West Bengal)

West India

1. Triambakeshwar Bhramari Devi Shaktipeeth, Panchvati, Nasik (Maharashtra)
2. Kalika Shaktipeeth, Pavagadh (Gujarat)
3. Chandrabhaga Shaktipeeth Prabhas, Girna Hills (Gujarat)

South India

1. Srisailam Shaktipeeth, Srisailam (Andhra Pradesh)
2. Umakotilingeshwara Swamy / Godavari Tir Shaktipeeth, Rajahmundry (Andhra Pradesh)
3. Chamundeshwari Shaktipeeth, Mysuru (Karnataka)
4. Devagarbha Shaktipeeth, Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu)
5. Kanyashram Shaktipeeth, Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu)

Beyond the Indian Borders

1. Gandaki Devi Shaktipeeth, Muktinath (Nepal)
2. Guhyeshwari Shaktipeeth, Kathmandu (Nepal)
3. Dakshayani Devi Shaktipeeth, Manas (Tibet)
4. Bhabanipur Shaktipeeth, Karatoya, Bhabanipur (Bangladesh)
5. Jashoreswari Devi Shaktipeeth, Jessore (Bangladesh)
6. Sugandha Devi Shaktipeeth, Shikarpur (Bangladesh)
7. Kottari Devi Shaktipeeth, Hinglaj (Pakistan)
8. Shivaharkaray Shaktipeeth, Karavipur, Karachi (Pakistan)
9. Indrakshi Shaktipeeth, Manipallavam (Sri Lanka)

Let us now journey deeper into the legends of the powerful Shaktipeethas and uncover the spiritual truths they radiate across time.

Origin of the Shaktipeethas: Katha of Devi Sati and Lord Shiv

According to the Vishnu Puran and Padma Puran, Prajapati Daksh, one of Lord Brahma's sons, had 24 daughters with his wife, Prasuti. The youngest daughter was Devi Sati, also known as Dakshayani. She married Lord Shiv despite her father's strong disapproval.

(Devi Sati set herself on fire after Daksh's humiliation)

As narrated in the book Kundalini, An Untold Story by Om Swami, after Devi Sati's marriage to Lord Shiv, Prajapati Daksh organised a massive yagna. Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, the Rishis, the Vasus, the Adityas, and numerous other Devas were invited to this yagna. Ritwik of this yagna was none other than Brihaspati Devta himself. While all the Devas were present, Lord Shiv meditated quietly on Mount Kailash.

Devi Sati, filled with excitement about the grand ceremony, decided to attend it even though Prajapati Daksha had not invited her and Mahadev. Despite Lord Shiv's advice against going, she chose to participate in the yagna.

When Devi Sati arrived at the yagna, she could not find a seat for herself and Lord Shiv. When she confronted her father, he angrily told her that he still disagreed with her for choosing Bhagwan Shiv as her husband, and thus, there were no seats for them.

The Devi Bhagavat Puran and Kalika Puran mention that Devi Sati was shocked and unable to bear this insult. With an aching heart, she declared not to remain in her mortal body inherited as the daughter of Daksh (Dakshputri), since Daksh was the very person who had dishonoured 'Shankara'. Soon after, Devi Sati invoked her inner energy and set herself on fire.

When Shiva heard the news, his grief turned into intense anger. From his matted hair emerged the powerful warrior Veerabhadra, along with the fierce goddess form Bhadrakali. They stormed Daksha's yagna, destroying everything. Veerabhadra cut off the head of Prajapati Daksh. The assembled Devas trembled in fear.

(Bhagwan Shiv carrying Devi Sati's body)

Filled with sorrow and rage, Lord Shiv carried Devi Sati's body on his shoulders while performing the Rudra Tandav (dance of destruction). Fearing that Mahadev's anger would upset the balance of the cosmos, the Devas prayed to Sri Vishnu to restore harmony. On their plea, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra and cut Devi Sati's body into many parts.

"yatra yatra patat angam sati-dehasya bhutale
tatra tatra sthitah shaktih peetha-rupena sashvati ||"
(Tantra Chudamani)

(Wherever the parts of Sati's body fell on earth, there the eternal Shakti abides as a Peeth.)

Interestingly, there is a specific Bhairav associated with each Shaktipeeth.

Lord Bhairav: The Guardian of the Shaktipeeth

(Kaal Bhairav, kotwal or protector of Ujjain)

As Ma Sati's body fell completely, Bhagwan Shiv's sorrow and anger lessened, and the universe regained its balance. Before Mahadev left for Mount Kailash to immerse in deep meditation, he blessed each Shaktipeeth. He left a part of himself (ansh) in every place as Bhairav—the protector or guardian (kshetrapaal)—who always watches over and stays with Shakti.

In the highest Tantric principle, Devi and Bhairav are never separate. A famous teaching from the Kularnava Tantra goes: Bhairavo'ham para shaktih (I am Bhairav; I am the Supreme Shakti).

In Kaula, or Kaulachaar (a tantric tradition that honours and worships Shiv-Shakti with distinct rituals), one of the primary principles is 'Shaktihina Shiva Shav'. Without Shakti, Bhagwan Shiv is a corpse. But the reverse is also true: without the Bhairav awareness, Shakti becomes uncontrolled.

According to the advanced Kaula masters, the falling of Devi Sati's body represents the fragmentation of cosmic energy into the human body. Therefore, the Peethas are sacred places or energy centres in both the universe (macrocosm) and the human body (microcosm).

Lord Bhairav represents the awakened consciousness at each Shaktipeeth and also in each Matrika energy centre in the body. (Discussed in detail later.)

Therefore, tantric traditions state that to approach Devi, we must first invoke inner steadiness (Bhairav awareness) through Shiv Sadhana. Similarly, when visiting a Shaktipeeth, it is mandatory to honour Lord Bhairav.

The Deep Connection of 51: Shaktipeeth Locations and Matrikas

(The Sacred Connection of Shakti Across Bharat)

The 51 Shaktipeeth are symbolically connected to the 51 letters of the Sanskrit alphabet, which are said to have emerged from Lord Shiv's drum (Damaru). These letters representing the creative sound vibrations of the Divine Mother are collectively known as the Matrikas (the subtle forms of Devi).

In the Lalita Sahasranaam, the Divine Mother is praised as Panchashat Peeth Roopini, meaning 'She who exists in fifty sacred centers of worship.' In the context of the subtle body (Sukshm Sharir), this idea suggests that the Shaktipeethas are also inner spiritual centers, associated with the Matrika Shakti—the fifty letters or sounds from Aa (अ) to Ksh (क्ष) or fifty-one letters (including the Anusvar (bindu) and Visarg to reach 51) of the Sanskrit alphabet.

Thus, Devi resides within the subtle body as the Matrika Shakti, the power of sacred sound. At the same time, she is worshipped externally in the sacred Shaktipeethas as the outer manifestations of the inner spiritual centers.

In Sri Vidya Upasana, this understanding is expressed through a consecration (purification and protection of mind and body) ritual called 'Peeth Nyas,' where the Sadhak places the energy of Shaktipeethas and Matrikas within the body, recognising the body as the sacred abode of Mother Divine.

Let us take this sacred journey forward and share some important information regarding the 51 Shakti Peeths.

Uma Shakti Peeth, (Bihar)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Darbhanga, Bihar. It is believed that Goddess Sati's Vama Skandha (left shoulder) fell here. Here, the Goddess is worshipped as Maa Uma, and Lord Shiva is worshipped as Mahodara Bhairav.

Mangla Gauri Shakti Peeth, Gaya (Bihar)

Mangla Gauri Shakti Peeth is located in Gaya, Bihar. This is believed to be the holy place where Goddess Sati's breasts fell. Here, the Mother Goddess is worshipped in her Sarvamangala form, and Lord Shiva resides here as Maheshwar.

Vishalakshi Shakti Peeth, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located near Mir Ghat, close to Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi (Kashi), Uttar Pradesh. It is believed that the Mani-Kundal (jewelled earring) of Goddess Sati's right ear fell at this place. Here, Lord Shiva resides as Kaal Bhairav alongside Goddess Vishalakshi.

Panchsagar Shakti Peeth, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)

Panchsagar Shakti Peeth is located in Varanasi (Kashi) and is dedicated to Maa Varahi. It is believed that Goddess Sati's lower jaw (lower teeth) fell here. The presiding Bhairav is Vigneshwar (Maharudra) Bhairav.

Lalita Devi Shakti Peeth, Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh)

Lalita Devi Shakti Peeth is located at the holy confluence (Sangam) of rivers in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. It is believed that fingers(anguli-vrind) from Goddess Sati's hand fell here. Here, the Mother Goddess is worshipped in the forms of Lalita, Madhaveshwari, and Rajrajeshwari. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is known as Bhava.

Katyayani Shakti Peeth, Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh)

Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, Katyayani Shakti Peeth is situated in the holy city of Vrindavan in the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh. It is believed that Goddess Sati’s hair fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Maa Katyayani. The Bhairav residing with her at this Shakti Peeth is called Bhairav Bhutesh.

Shivani Devi Shakti Peeth, Ramgiri (Uttar Pradesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located in the Ramgiri region, near the border of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. It is believed that Goddess Sati’s right breast fell here. At this Shakti Peeth, Mother Goddess Shivani and Bhairav Chand are worshipped.

Bhadrakali Shakti Peeth, Kurukshetra (Haryana)

Bhadrakali Shakti Peeth is located near Brahma Sarovar in Kurukshetra, Haryana. It is believed that Goddess Sati’s ankle fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Bhadrakali form, and Lord Shiva is worshipped as Sthanu Bhairav.

Tripuramalini Shakti Peeth, Jalandhar (Punjab)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Jalandhar, Punjab, and is also known as the Devi Talab Mandir. Goddess Sati’s left breast fell here. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is called Bheeshan. Goddess Tripuramalini is considered the presiding deity of knowledge, prosperity, and power.

Jwalaji Shakti Peeth, Kangra (Himachal Pradesh)

Located in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Jwalaji Shakti Peeth is considered the place where Goddess Sati’s tongue fell. The unique feature of this temple is that the Goddess is worshipped in the form of a natural and eternal flame, rather than an idol. The presiding Bhairav is known as Unmatta.

Brajeshwari Devi Shakti Peeth, Kangra (Himachal Pradesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is believed that Goddess Sati’s left breast fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Maa Brajeshwari, and Baba Lal Bhairav (Bhairavnath) is considered the Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth.

Chhinnamastika Devi Shakti Peeth, Chintpurni (Himachal Pradesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Chintpurni town in the Una district of Himachal Pradesh. It is believed that a part of Goddess Sati’s feet fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Chhinnamasta and Chhinnamastika Devi. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Rudra Mahadev.

Mahamaya Shakti Peeth, Amarnath (Jammu & Kashmir)

This Shakti Peeth is located inside the sacred Amarnath Cave in Jammu & Kashmir. It is believed that Goddess Sati's throat fell here. The Mother Goddess is worshipped here as Mahamaya. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is called Trisandhyeshwar.

Avanti Shakti Peeth, Bhairav Parvat, Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located on Bhairav Parvat on the banks of the Shipra River in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. It is believed that Goddess Sati's upper lip fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Maa Avanti, Garhkalika, or Mahakali. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Lambakarna.

Mangal Chandika Shakti Peeth, Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located near Rudra Sagar Lake in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, and is also known as the Harsiddhi Mata Temple. It is believed that Goddess Sati's elbow (kurpar) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Mangal Chandika. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is called Kapilambar.

Sharda Devi Shakti Peeth, Maihar (Madhya Pradesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located atop the Trikuta Hill in Maihar town, Madhya Pradesh. It is believed that the necklace of Goddess Sati fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Maa Sharda, who is the presiding deity of knowledge and learning. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Kaal Bhairav.

Kalmadhav Devi Shakti Peeth, Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, near the source of the Narmada River at the confluence of the Vindhya, Maikal, and Satpura mountain ranges. It is believed that Goddess Sati's left buttock (hip) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Kali. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is called Asitanga (Ruru).

Narmada Shakti Peeth, Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh)

Narmada Shakti Peeth is located near the Kalmadhav Devi Shakti Peeth. It is believed that Goddess Sati's right buttock (hip) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Shona (Sona). The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Bhadrasen.

Devi Danteshwari Shakti Peeth, Bastar (Chhattisgarh)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Dantewada, in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. It is believed that Goddess Sati's tooth (danta) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Danteshwari Devi. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Kapal Bhairav.

Kalighat Shakti Peeth, Calcutta (West Bengal)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the banks of the Adi Ganga River in the southern part of Calcutta city, West Bengal. It is believed that the toes of Goddess Sati's right foot fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Dakshina Kali. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is called Nakuleshwar.

Yugadya Shakti Peeth, Khirgram (West Bengal)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Kshirgram village of the Bardhaman district in West Bengal. There are differing opinions regarding which body part of Goddess Sati fell here. While Chandimangal identifies it as the place where the Goddess's back fell, the Peethanirnaya section of Tantrachudamani considers it as the place where the big toe of the right foot (Dakshina-Pada-Angustha) fell. The Goddess is worshipped here as Yugadya. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Ksheerkhand.

Bahula Shakti Peeth, Ketugram (West Bengal)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the banks of the Ajay River in the Ketugram area of Purba Bardhaman district, West Bengal. It is believed that Goddess Sati's arm (baahu) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Bahula Mata. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Bhiruk.

Kankalitala Shakti Peeth, Bolpur (West Bengal)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the banks of the Kopai River in the Bolpur area of Birbhum district, West Bengal. It is believed that Goddess Sati's waist bone fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Devgarbha or Kankaleshwari. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Ruru.

Phullara Devi Shakti Peeth, Attahas (West Bengal)

Phullara (Attahas) Shakti Peeth is located in the Labpur region of the Birbhum district, West Bengal. It is believed that Goddess Sati's lip (oshtha) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Phullara. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Vishwesh.

Ratnavali Shakti Peeth, Hooghly (West Bengal)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the banks of the Ratnakar River in the Hooghly district of West Bengal. It is believed that Goddess Sati's Dakshina Skandha (right shoulder) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Kumari form, and Lord Shiva is worshipped as Ghanteshwar.

Mahishasuramardini Shakti Peeth, Birbhum (West Bengal)

This Shakti Peeth is located within the Bakreshwar (Vakreshwar) Temple complex situated on the banks of the Papahara River in the Birbhum district of West Bengal. It is believed that Goddess Sati's Bhrumadhya (the space between the eyebrows, which corresponds to the Ajna Chakra) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Mahishasuramardini form. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Vakranath.

Nandikeshwari Shakti Peeth, Birbhum (West Bengal)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the banks of the Mayurakshi River in Nandipur village of the Birbhum district, West Bengal. It is believed that Goddess Sati's necklace fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Nandini or Nandikeshwari. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Nandikeshwar.

Kiriteshwari Devi Shakti Peeth, Murshidabad (West Bengal)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Kiritkona village of the Murshidabad district, West Bengal. It is believed that Goddess Sati's Kirit (crown) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Kiriteshwari or Vimla. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Samvarta.

Bargabhima Devi Shakti Peeth, Purba Medinipur (West Bengal)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the banks of the Rupnarayan River in the Tamluk area of the Purba Medinipur district, West Bengal. It is believed that Goddess Sati's foot (ankle) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in the forms of Bargabhima, Bhimarupa, and Bhimkali. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Sarvanand.

Bhramari (Saptashrungi) Shakti Peeth, Nashik (Maharashtra)

This Shakti Peeth is located in the Saptashrungi mountain range, about 24 kilometres from Nashik, Maharashtra. It is believed that Goddess Sati's chibuk (chin) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Bhramari Devi or Saptashrungi Devi. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Vikritaksha.

Kalika Shakti Peeth, Pavagadh (Gujarat)

This Shakti Peeth is located on Pavagadh Hill, situated near Vadodara in the Panchmahal district of Gujarat. It is believed that the big toe of Goddess Sati's right foot fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Maa Kalika. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Lakulish (Nakulish).

Chandrabhaga Shakti Peeth, Prabhas (Gujarat)

This Shakti Peeth is located near the Triveni Sangam (holy confluence of three rivers) in the Prabhas region of the Gir Somnath district, Gujarat. It is believed that Goddess Sati's udar (stomach) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Chandrabhaga form. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Vakratunda.

Srisailam Shakti Peeth, Srisailam (Andhra Pradesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located near the Krishna River on the Sriparvata (part of the Nallamala mountain range) in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh. It is believed that Goddess Sati's greeva (neck) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Bhramaramba Devi. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Samvaranand.

Godavari Teer (Sarvashail) Shakti Peeth, Rajamahendravaram (Andhra Pradesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the banks of the Godavari River in Rajamahendravaram (Rajahmundry), Andhra Pradesh. It is believed that both cheeks (ganda) of Goddess Sati fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in the forms of Vishweshwari (Vishwamatrika) and Rakini. At this Shakti Peeth, Dandapani Bhairav resides alongside Maa Vishweshwari, and Vatsanabh Bhairav resides alongside Goddess Rakini.

Chamundeshwari Shakti Peeth, Mysuru (Karnataka)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the Chamundi Hills of Mysuru, Karnataka. It is believed that strands of Goddess Sati's hair (kesh) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Chamundeshwari form. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Mahabaleshwar.

Devgarbha Shakti Peeth, Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. It is believed that Goddess Sati's skeleton (kankal) fell here. According to some traditions, her navel also fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Kamakshi or Devgarbha form. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Ruru.

Kanyashram Shakti Peeth, Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu)

This Shakti Peeth is located at the southernmost tip of India in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. It is believed that Goddess Sati's Prishthabhaga (spine) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Sarvani form. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Nimish.

Tara-Tarini Shakti Peeth, Ganjam (Odisha)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the Tara-Tarini Hill near the banks of the Rushikulya River in the Ganjam district of Odisha. It is believed that both breasts of Goddess Sati fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in the forms of Tara and Tarini. The Bhairavs of this Shakti Peeth are Someshwar (Tumkeshwar) and Udayeshwar (Utkeshwar).

Vimla (Bimla) Devi Shakti Peeth, Puri (Odisha)

This Shakti Peeth is located inside the Lord Jagannath Temple complex in Puri, Odisha. It is believed that Goddess Sati's feet fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Vimla (Bimla) form. Lord Jagannath himself is considered the Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth.

Jayanti Devi Shakti Peeth, Nartiang (Meghalaya)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Nartiang village in the Jaintia Hills region of Meghalaya. It is believed that Goddess Sati's Vama Jangha (left thigh) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Jayanteshwari form. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Kamadishwar Mahadev.

Tripura Sundari Shakti Peeth, Udaipur (Tripura)

This Shakti Peeth is located on a small hill in Udaipur town, Tripura. It is believed that Goddess Sati's right foot fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Tripura Sundari form. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Tripuresh.

Kamakhya Shakti Peeth, Guwahati (Assam)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Assam. It is believed that Goddess Sati's Yoni fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Kamakhya form. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Umanand.

Gandaki Devi Shakti Peeth, Muktinath (Nepal)

This Shakti Peeth is located near the source of the Gandaki River within the sacred Muktinath Dham premises in the Mustang district of Nepal. It is believed that Mother Sati's right cheek (ganda) fell here. For this reason, the place became famous as the "Gandaki Devi Shakti Peeth." The Goddess is worshipped here as Gandaki Chandi, and the Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Chakrapani.

Guhyeshwari Shakti Peeth, Kathmandu (Nepal)

This Shakti Peeth is located near the Pashupatinath Temple on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. It is believed that Goddess Sati's guhyanga (reproductive organ) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Guhyeshwari or Guhyakali. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Kapali.

Dakshayani Devi Shakti Peeth, Manasarovar (Tibet)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the banks of the sacred Manasarovar Lake, situated at the foothills of Mount Kailash in Tibet. It is believed that Goddess Sati's right hand fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Dakshayani or Manasa Devi. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Amar.

Bhavanipur Shakti Peeth, Karatoya (Bangladesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Bhavanipur on the banks of the Karatoya River in the Bogra district of Bangladesh. It is believed that Goddess Sati's left nupur (anklet) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Aparna. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Vaman-Bhairav.

Jeshoreshwari Shakti Peeth, Jessore (Bangladesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located in the Jessore region of Bangladesh. It is believed that Goddess Sati's left palm fell here. Some traditions also mention the falling of both palms and soles of the feet. The Goddess is worshipped here as Jeshoreshwari Kali. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Chand.

Sugandha Devi Shakti Peeth, Shikarpur (Bangladesh)

This Shakti Peeth is located on the banks of the Sugandha River in Shikarpur village, Bangladesh. It is believed that Goddess Sati's nasika (nose) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Sugandha or Sunanda Devi. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Tryambak.

Kottari Devi Shakti Peeth, Hinglaj (Pakistan)

This Shakti Peeth is located in a natural mountain cave in the Hinglaj region, on the banks of the Hingol River in the Balochistan province of present-day Pakistan. It is believed that Goddess Sati's Brahmarandhra (the top part of the head) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Kottari or Hinglaj Mata. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Bhimalochana.

Shivaharkaray Shakti Peeth, Karachi (Pakistan)

This Shakti Peeth is located in Karachi city, Pakistan. It is believed that Goddess Sati's third eye (trinetra) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here in her Mahishasuramardini form. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Krodhish.

Indrakshi Shakti Peeth, Manipallavam (Sri Lanka)

This Shakti Peeth is located on Nainativu Island in Sri Lanka, which was known as Manipallavam in ancient times. It is believed that Goddess Sati's nupur (anklet) fell here. The Goddess is worshipped here as Indrakshi, Nagapooshani, or Bhuvaneshwari. The Bhairav of this Shakti Peeth is Rakshaseshwar.

From Mahadev to Devi Ma

Shiv Sadhana provides inner steadiness, protection, and purification, preparing a Sadhak to pray to Mother Divine. If you have invoked Mahadev through the Maha Rudra Sadhana this year (on the Sadhana App), you can now experience the worship of Mother Divine through the Nav Durga Sadhana.

Please note that if you’ve not done Maha Rudra Sadhana or any other sadhana till now, you can still participate in the upcoming Nav Durga Sadhana on the Sadhana App, from 15th to 24 July, 2026. Mother Divine accepts the devotion of all her children and guides them on the spiritual path with grace and protection.

Note:

Different scriptures mention different numbers of Shaktipeeth. The Srimad Devi Bhagavat Puran mentions 108 Shaktipeeth, while the Ashtadasha Shakti Pitha Stotram by Adi Shankaracharya mentions 18 Shaktipeeth. We understand that several shrines and temples of Devi Ma are revered as Shakti peethas across different traditions and scriptural accounts. However, please note the list of 51 Shaktipeeth in this blog has been sourced from the book, Shakti: 51 Sacred Peethas of the Goddess by Dr. Alka Pande, based on her extensive scriptural research (Pande, Alka. Shakti: 51 Sacred Peethas of the Goddess. Rupa Publications, 2020. pp. 213-221).