Nartiang Durga Temple
Also known as Monolith Durga
The most important Hindu temple in Meghalaya, set among a cluster of giant monoliths (the largest is 7.6 m tall) raised by the Jaintia kings.
Photos of Nartiang Durga Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Devi
- Established
- Ancient (Jaintia kingdom era)
- Architecture
- Jaintia monolith
- Address
- Nartiang, West Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya 793151
- Timings
- 06:00–18:00 daily
History of Nartiang Durga Temple
Originally a Jaintia Hindu shrine of the Koch-era. The monoliths and the 16-armed Durga idol are unique to the site.
Festivals Celebrated at Nartiang Durga Temple
- Navaratri
- Shivaratri
- Jaintia festivals
How to Reach Nartiang Durga Temple
Nartiang is 70 km from Shillong on the NH-206 to Jowai.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nartiang Durga Temple
Where is Nartiang Durga Temple located?
- Nartiang Durga Temple is located at Nartiang, West Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya 793151, in Nartiang, Meghalaya, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Nartiang Durga Temple?
- The presiding deity at Nartiang Durga Temple is Devi (also known as Shakti, Durga), worshipped in the Shakta tradition.
What are the timings of Nartiang Durga Temple?
- Nartiang Durga Temple is generally open 06:00–18:00 daily. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Nartiang Durga Temple built?
- Nartiang Durga Temple was established Ancient (Jaintia kingdom era). Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Nartiang Durga Temple?
- Nartiang Durga Temple is built in the Jaintia monolith style, characteristic of Devi shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Nartiang Durga Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Nartiang Durga Temple include Navaratri, Shivaratri, Jaintia festivals. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Meghalaya and beyond.
How can I reach Nartiang Durga Temple?
- Nartiang is 70 km from Shillong on the NH-206 to Jowai.
Why is Nartiang Durga Temple significant?
- The most important Hindu temple in Meghalaya, set among a cluster of giant monoliths (the largest is 7.6 m tall) raised by the Jaintia kings.
Is there an entry fee at Nartiang Durga Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Nartiang Durga Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Nartiang Durga Temple?
- Nartiang Durga Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Meghalaya temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.