Jhandewalan Temple

Jhandewalan Temple is a Hindu shrine in Delhi with an octagonal main structure and a lotus-shaped dome that houses several shrines for different deities. An underground cave at the lower level of the complex contains the original idol, which pilgrims reach by descending a set of steps.

During excavations in the 18th century, workers discovered an old statue of the goddess beneath a spring. The shrine was then built around this find and grew into an important place of worship for the city's residents.

The shrine takes its name from the old marketplace for flags and banners that once stood here. Worshippers gather in the morning for prayer and often participate in group devotions where hymns are sung and offerings made.

The shrine uses different entrance gates and organized queues to guide visitor flow during busy times and festivals. Worshippers should remove footwear before entering the shrines and can usually receive blessed food after devotions.

The original idol was found with damaged hands and restored using silver appendages that remain visible today. It stands in the cave where the spring once flowed, and pilgrims regard it as particularly powerful.