Banswara, Rajasthan
Tripura Sundari Temple, locally revered as Tartai Mata Temple, is a highly significant shrine located near Talwara village, approximately 19 km from Banswara. Dedicated to Goddess Tripura Sundari, the temple houses a magnificent 5-foot-tall black stone idol of the Goddess with eighteen arms (Ashtadash Bhuja), seated on a tiger. It is considered one of the Shakti Peeths and holds immense spiritual importance for devotees across Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. The Goddess is believed to take three different forms throughout the day: a young girl (Kumarika) in the morning, a youthful woman (Sundari) at midday, and a mature woman in the evening.
The temple boasts a long history, believed to date back to before the reign of Emperor Kanishka (pre-3rd century AD), although the current structure was renovated in the 16th century. The temple complex is built with white marble and lime mortar, featuring a spacious sanctum and a Shikhar (spire) typical of North Indian temple architecture. The idol carries various emblems and weapons in her eighteen hands, symbolizing her power.
Navratri: The temple witnesses a massive footfall during both Chaitra and Ashvin Navratri. Special prayers, Garba, and Dandiya events are organized.
Daily Worship: The Aarti performed in the morning and evening is a spiritual experience for visitors.
Dress Code: Visitors are requested to dress modestly as per traditional norms.
Photography: Photography is generally allowed in the outer complex but strictly prohibited inside the main sanctum sanctorum.
Offerings: Devotees often offer coconuts, flowers, and sweets (prasad) to the Goddess.
Distance: About 19 km from Banswara city. One needs to take a turn from Talwara on the Banswara-Dungarpur road.
Road Access: The road is well-paved and accessible by buses, taxis, and private cars.
Regular buses ply between Banswara and Talwara. From Talwara, local jeeps or auto-rickshaws are available to reach the temple. Mobile network coverage is good around the temple complex.
The temple can be visited year-round, but the atmosphere is most electric during Navratri (September/October and March/April). For a quieter darshan, regular days during the winter months (October to March) are ideal. Mornings are generally less crowded than evenings.