Name: Shila Mata Mandir Amber Fort
Address: JAIGARH FORT, Amer Palace, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302028
Location: Google Maps
Timing:
| Day | Timing (Morning & Evening) |
| Sunday | 6 am–12 pm, 4–8 pm |
| Monday | 6 am–12 pm, 4–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–12 pm, 4–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–12 pm, 4–8 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–12 pm, 4–8 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–12 pm, 4–8 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–12 pm, 4–8 pm |
Nestled within the majestic Amer Fort Jaipur, the Shila Devi Temple (also known as Shila Mata Mandir) is one of the most revered spiritual sites in Rajasthan. Dedicated to Goddess Durga in her Kali form, this centuries-old shrine is not only a religious landmark but also a cultural treasure that draws thousands of devotees and tourists every year.
The temple holds a special place in the hearts of locals, who affectionately call the deity Amer Mata or Shila Mata. It is believed that worshipping here brings strength, protection, and prosperity. During Navratri and Durga Puja, the temple becomes the epicenter of devotion, with grand rituals, traditional aartis, and special offerings attracting devotees from across India.
The story behind the temple is as fascinating as its architecture. Legend has it that the idol of Shila Mata was carved from a single stone slab (“Shila”) brought from Bengal, hence the name Shila Devi. Commissioned by Raja Man Singh I in the late 16th century after his victory over Bengal, the temple symbolizes the ruler’s devotion and gratitude to the goddess for granting him strength in battle.
Located in the inner courtyard of Amer Fort, the temple is known for its intricate carvings, silver doors, and the idol of Shila Mata. The spiritual energy of the temple, combined with the grandeur of the fort, creates an awe-inspiring experience for every visitor.
Today, the Shila Devi Mandir Jaipur continues to be a place of worship where history, faith, and heritage meet. For tourists exploring Amer Fort, it offers not just a glimpse of Rajput devotion but also a chance to participate in a living tradition that has been carried forward for more than four centuries.
History of Shila Devi Temple Amer Fort
The Shila Devi Temple Jaipur, located inside the iconic Amer Fort, has a history that dates back to the late 16th century. Commissioned by Raja Man Singh I, one of the most powerful Rajput rulers and a trusted general of the Mughal emperor Akbar, the temple was built to honor Goddess Durga in her manifestation as Kali.
Legend has it that after suffering defeat at the hands of the King of Bengal, Raja Man Singh prayed to the goddess for strength and victory. The goddess appeared in his dream and promised to support him, instructing him to retrieve her idol from the seashore of Bengal. Following this divine guidance, a large stone slab or “Shila” was brought to Amer, and from it, the idol of the goddess was carved. This gave rise to the name Shila Devi or Shila Mata.
The temple soon became the royal family’s patron deity shrine, where the kings of Amer performed regular worship to seek blessings before important battles and political endeavors. Over the centuries, the temple became not only a religious center but also a symbol of the Rajput rulers’ unwavering devotion and faith.
Interestingly, the temple also had a controversial tradition of animal sacrifices during festivals like Navratri, a ritual believed to appease the goddess. This practice continued for many years but has since been discontinued. Today, offerings are limited to coconuts, flowers, and sweets.
The Shila Mata Mandir is thus not just a temple but also a living chapter of Rajasthan’s royal history. It represents the deep bond between faith and power in the Rajput era, while continuing to serve as a sacred destination for devotees and a fascinating heritage site for tourists visiting Amer Fort Jaipur.
Architecture of Shila Devi Mandir Amer Fort
The Shila Devi Mandir Jaipur, located in the inner courtyard of Amer Fort, is a stunning example of Rajput temple architecture combined with Mughal artistic influences. Built in the late 16th century under Raja Man Singh I, the temple’s design reflects both grandeur and spiritual devotion, making it one of the most admired sacred spaces in Rajasthan.
Temple Layout & Design
The temple is constructed using red sandstone and marble, the two materials widely used in Amer Fort’s architecture. It is situated in the Diwan-e-Aam courtyard, an accessible area where devotees can gather for darshan and rituals. The sanctum houses the idol of Shila Mata, carved from a single stone slab, which is the focal point of worship.
Ornamental Features
The entrance to the temple is marked by large silver-plated doors intricately carved with mythological motifs, floral patterns, and depictions of Hindu deities. These silver doors are among the temple’s most striking features, symbolizing both wealth and devotion. The pillared hall inside has beautifully detailed carvings and inscriptions that add to the temple’s regal atmosphere.
Idol of Shila Mata
The idol of Shila Devi is a unique depiction of Goddess Kali, fierce yet protective. Believed to have been carved from the sacred stone slab (Shila) brought from Bengal, the idol holds immense religious significance. The goddess is adorned with garlands, ornaments, and offerings from devotees throughout the year, especially during Navratri.
Blend of Rajput & Mughal Influences
While primarily a Rajput temple, the design also bears Mughal-era artistic touches, evident in the archways and decorative patterns. This blend mirrors the cultural exchange of the period when Rajput rulers had close ties with the Mughal empire.
Religious Significance of Shila Mata
The Shila Devi Temple Amer Fort, also known as the Shila Mata Mandir Jaipur, holds immense religious significance for devotees of Goddess Durga. Worshipped here in her fierce manifestation as Kali, the goddess is revered as a symbol of strength, protection, and victory. For centuries, the temple has been the kuldevi (family deity) of the Kachwaha Rajput rulers of Amer, making it not just a spiritual shrine but also a royal legacy.
Goddess of Strength & Protection
Devotees believe that Shila Mata blesses her followers with courage and resilience, helping them overcome struggles and adversities. Historically, Rajput kings of Amer sought her blessings before embarking on military campaigns. Even today, visitors pray here for protection, success, and peace in their lives.
Festivals & Rituals
The temple becomes especially vibrant during Navratri, when grand rituals, devotional songs, and special pujas are performed to honor the goddess. Earlier, animal sacrifices were part of the rituals, believed to appease the goddess, but this practice has since been discontinued. Today, offerings of coconuts, flowers, sweets, and red cloth (chunari) are made instead.
onnection with Bengal
The idol of Shila Mata is believed to have originated from Bengal, linking the temple to the Shakti Peethas of eastern India. This adds to its significance, as devotees from Bengal and across India come to seek blessings here.
Spiritual Experience for Devotees
Visiting the Shila Devi Mandir is said to bring peace of mind and spiritual fulfillment. Many devotees also believe the goddess grants special blessings during aarti times, when the temple resonates with devotional chants, conch sounds, and the fragrance of incense.
For both locals and tourists, the Shila Devi Temple Jaipur is more than a religious spot, it is a place where faith, heritage, and devotion converge, making it one of the most sacred destinations in Rajasthan.
Amer Shila Devi Temple Timings
The Shila Devi Temple Amer Fort Jaipur welcomes devotees and tourists throughout the year. Knowing the temple timings helps visitors plan their visit, especially if they wish to attend the daily aarti rituals or experience the spiritual ambiance during festivals.
Daily Temple Timings
The temple generally follows the same visiting hours as Amer Fort, with special timings for morning and evening prayers.
| Day | Morning Darshan | Evening Darshan |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Sunday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
Best Time for Darshan
- Morning: The early morning darshan is considered highly auspicious. Devotees often bring offerings like coconuts, flowers, and sweets. The calm atmosphere makes it the best time for meditation and prayers.
- Evening: During the evening, the temple is beautifully lit, and the sound of aarti chants, bells, and conch shells creates a deeply spiritual experience. This is the most popular time for visitors.
Special Festival Timings
During Navratri, Durga Puja, and other Hindu festivals, the temple sees a massive inflow of devotees. On these days, extended darshan hours are allowed, and special rituals are conducted throughout the day. The temple remains open late into the night to accommodate worshippers.
Travel Tip
Since the temple is inside Amer Fort, it’s best to combine your darshan with a tour of the fort. Early mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds, while evenings are perfect for those who wish to experience both the aarti and the fort’s illuminated grandeur.
Festivals & Special Occasions at Shila Devi Temple Amer Fort
The Shila Devi Temple Jaipur, also called Shila Mata Mandir, comes alive during festivals, when the atmosphere is filled with devotion, rituals, and celebration. While the temple attracts worshippers daily, certain occasions draw thousands of devotees who come to seek blessings of the goddess.
Navratri Festival
The most significant celebration at the Shila Mata Amer Temple is Navratri, held twice a year (Chaitra Navratri in March–April and Sharad Navratri in September–October). During these nine days, the temple is beautifully decorated with flowers, lights, and traditional fabrics. Devotees offer coconuts, red chunari (cloth), sweets, and garlands to the goddess. Special aartis, bhajans, and rituals are performed, making Navratri the best time to experience the temple’s spiritual energy.
Durga Puja
Owing to the temple’s historical link with Bengal (the idol of Shila Devi was brought from Bengal), Durga Puja is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Rituals and offerings are performed in traditional Bengali style, and devotees from eastern India often visit the temple during this time.
Other Festivals & Rituals
- Diwali: The temple glows with lamps and diyas, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.
- Dussehra: Marking the triumph of good over evil, this day sees special prayers and offerings at the temple.
- Daily Aarti: While not a festival, the morning and evening aartis are daily occasions of devotion, with chanting, bells, and incense filling the air.
Past Traditions
Historically, animal sacrifices were part of the rituals during Navratri, believed to appease the goddess. This practice has since been discontinued, replaced by symbolic offerings of coconuts and sweets.
Visiting the Shila Devi Temple during festivals offers a deeply spiritual experience, combining faith, tradition, and the cultural richness of Jaipur.
Location & How to Reach Shila Devi Mandir Jaipur
The Shila Devi Mandir Jaipur, also known as Shila Mata Temple Amer Fort, is located within the magnificent Amer Fort complex, one of the most visited landmarks in Rajasthan. The fort stands atop a hill in the Aravalli ranges, around 11 km from Jaipur city center, making it easily accessible for both devotees and tourists.
Exact Location
📍 Shila Devi Temple, Amer Fort, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan – 302028
The temple is situated in the Diwan-e-Aam courtyard inside Amer Fort. As soon as you enter the fort’s main gate (Suraj Pol), you’ll find signboards guiding you to the temple premises.
Distance from Major Landmarks
- Jaipur Railway Station: ~13 km (30–35 minutes by car)
- Sindhi Camp Bus Stand: ~12 km (30 minutes by road)
- Jaipur International Airport: ~22 km (45–50 minutes drive)
- City Palace / Hawa Mahal: ~10 km (25 minutes drive)
- Jal Mahal: ~5 km (10–15 minutes drive)
How to Reach
- By Car/Taxi: The most convenient option is to hire a cab (Ola, Uber, or private taxi) directly to Amer Fort.
- By Auto Rickshaw: A budget-friendly choice for short distances from Jaipur city.
- By Bus: Rajasthan State Roadways and private buses frequently run from Jaipur city to Amer. The temple can be reached with a short walk inside the fort.
- By Elephant/Jeep Ride: For a royal experience, tourists can also opt for elephant rides or jeeps to reach the inner fort area where the temple is located.
Travel Tip
Since the temple lies within Amer Fort, it’s best to combine your visit with a full tour of the fort, including Sheesh Mahal, Ganesh Pol, and courtyards. Early mornings are ideal to avoid crowds, while evenings offer the charm of illuminated views.
Things to Do Near Shila Mata Amer Temple
A visit to the Shila Mata Temple Amer Fort Jaipur is not just about spiritual darshan—it also opens the door to exploring the rich heritage and attractions surrounding Amer Fort. After paying respects at the temple, visitors can enjoy several nearby experiences that highlight the history, culture, and beauty of Jaipur.
1. Explore Amer Fort
The temple lies within the Amer Fort complex, so it’s natural to combine darshan with a tour of the fort. Must-see attractions include the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Ganesh Pol (gateway), the Diwan-e-Aam, and the sprawling courtyards. Each corner of the fort narrates the grandeur of Rajput architecture and artistry.
2. Jal Mahal
Just 5 km from Amer Fort, the beautiful Jal Mahal (Water Palace) stands in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. It’s a perfect spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the palace glows in the reflection of the lake.
3. Jaigarh Fort
Located above Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort is famous for housing the Jaivana Cannon, one of the largest cannons in the world. The fort also offers panoramic views of Amer and Jaipur city.
4. Nahargarh Fort
A short drive away, Nahargarh Fort is a popular sunset point overlooking Jaipur. Its stepwells and palace structures add to its charm.
5. Local Shopping & Food
Around Amer Fort, you’ll find bustling shops selling handicrafts, jewelry, block-printed textiles, and souvenirs. Street food stalls offer Rajasthani delicacies like kachori, mirchi bada, and lassi, making the experience wholesome.
6. Cultural Shows & Light & Sound Show
In the evenings, Amer Fort hosts a light and sound show that narrates Jaipur’s history with beautiful visuals, making it a great way to end your visit.
Tips for Devotees & Visitors at Shila Devi Temple Amer Fort
A visit to the Shila Devi Temple Amer Fort Jaipur is both a spiritual and cultural experience. To make the most of your trip, it’s helpful to keep a few practical tips in mind, especially if you’re visiting for darshan during peak hours or festivals.
1. Dress Modestly
Since the Shila Mata Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine, it’s advisable to wear modest and traditional clothing. Covering shoulders and knees shows respect for the sanctity of the temple.
2. Plan Around Timings
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Arriving early in the morning helps avoid crowds and ensures a peaceful darshan. Evenings are more vibrant with the daily aarti.
3. Offerings (Prasad)
Devotees often bring coconuts, flowers, sweets, and red chunari (cloth) as offerings to the goddess. These can also be purchased outside the temple from local vendors.
4. Best Time to Visit
The temple sees heavy footfall during Navratri and Durga Puja. If you wish to witness the grandeur of rituals, plan your trip during these festivals. For quieter visits, choose weekdays or non-festival days.
5. Combine with Amer Fort Tour
Since the temple lies inside Amer Fort, it’s best to allocate at least 3–4 hours for your visit. Explore attractions like Sheesh Mahal, Ganesh Pol, and courtyards along with darshan.
6. Respect Temple Etiquette
Photography inside the sanctum is usually restricted. Always follow instructions of the temple priests and staff. Maintain silence during puja or aarti to preserve the spiritual atmosphere.
7. Accessibility
The temple is inside the fort, requiring some walking or climbing. Elderly visitors may prefer jeep rides or elephant rides (available outside Amer Fort) to reach closer to the temple area.
FAQs about Shila Devi Temple Amer Fort
Who built the Shila Devi Temple at Amer Fort?
The Shila Devi Temple Jaipur was built by Raja Man Singh I in the late 16th century. He commissioned the shrine after bringing the idol of the goddess from Bengal, carved from a sacred stone slab (“Shila”).
Why is it called Shila Devi or Shila Mata?
The name comes from the legend that the idol of the goddess was carved from a single stone slab (Shila) brought from Bengal. Hence, she is worshipped as Shila Devi or Shila Mata.
What are the Amer Shila Devi Temple timings?
The temple is open daily from:
Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
These timings may be extended during festivals like Navratri and Durga Puja.
What is the religious significance of Shila Devi Mandir Jaipur?
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga in her Kali form, worshipped as a symbol of strength, protection, and victory. It has been the kuldevi (family deity) of the Kachwaha Rajput rulers of Amer for centuries.
Which festival is most important at Shila Mata Amer Temple?
Navratri is the most important festival celebrated here, with special pujas, rituals, and large gatherings of devotees. Durga Puja is also significant due to the temple’s historical connection with Bengal.
Can tourists visit the Shila Devi Temple inside Amer Fort?
Yes, tourists can freely visit the temple while exploring Amer Fort Jaipur. However, photography inside the sanctum may be restricted to maintain the sanctity of the shrine.
What offerings are made to Shila Mata?
Devotees typically offer coconuts, sweets, flowers, and red chunari (cloth). During Navratri, large quantities of offerings are presented as part of the rituals.
Conclusion
The Shila Devi Temple Amer Fort Jaipur, also known as the Shila Mata Mandir, is more than just a place of worship, it is a living symbol of Jaipur’s royal devotion, cultural heritage, and spiritual traditions. Built in the late 16th century by Raja Man Singh I, the temple’s origin is rooted in legend, with the idol carved from a sacred stone slab brought from Bengal. This divine history continues to attract devotees from across India who come to seek the blessings of the goddess.
Worshipped as a powerful form of Goddess Durga (Kali), Shila Mata is regarded as the protector of Amer Fort and the kuldevi of the Kachwaha Rajput dynasty. The temple has long been associated with strength, victory, and prosperity, making it a must-visit shrine for those who wish to experience the spiritual essence of Jaipur.
Beyond its religious significance, the temple enchants visitors with its architecture, silver-plated doors, intricate carvings, and regal setting inside Amer Fort. The atmosphere is particularly vibrant during Navratri and Durga Puja, when the temple resonates with chants, aarti, and colorful decorations.
For tourists, visiting the Shila Devi Mandir Jaipur provides not only an opportunity for darshan but also a chance to immerse in the history and grandeur of Amer Fort, one of Rajasthan’s most iconic landmarks. The temple, with its blend of legend, spirituality, and artistry, offers a truly enriching experience.
In essence, the Shila Devi Temple at Amer Fort is where faith meets heritage, a sacred space where history lives on through rituals, architecture, and devotion. Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveler exploring Jaipur’s heritage, this temple is a destination that should not be missed.