Regarded as the holiest place for the Hindu community, the Hinglaj Valley in the depths of Hingol National Park in Balochistan, Pakistan is the home of their sacred deity Hinglaj Mata. It is the largest Hindu pilgrimage site, attracting more than 250,000 Hindus every year to the annual yatra in spring.
This holy temple, also known as the Nani Mandir is ingrained into the spiritual fabric of the Hindu community. According to lore, this temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, shrines of Shaktism, the goddess-focused Hindu culture.
Hindu legend has it that the head of Sati, Lord Shiva’s beloved, lies here in the Hinglaj temple. This significant event in Hindu mythology makes this place potent with divine energy, perfect for their worship.

This tale dates back to the Satya Yuga, when a big war between Mata Sati and her father led her to throw herself into the fire pit (Hawan Kund) and die. When her husband Shankar Bhagwan (God Shankar), got to know about her demise, he got furious and came to collect her remains. He picked her up and wandered around the world for six months aimlessly.
Seeing his uselessness, other gods got worried about the workings of the world. In order to snap him out of his grief, lord Vishnu took charge. Using his Sudharshan Chakra, he struck Mata Sati, shattering her body into fifty-one pieces. All the fragments fell in different places around the world.
The most important piece, the Head of Mata Sati fell in Hinglaj Valley in Pakistan, giving the place its name.
The Pilgrimage
The pilgrimage, referred to as Hinglaj Yatra, is a four-day event held in April, aligning with the Navratri festival. During this time, the valley echoes with the chants and prayers of thousands of pilgrims.
Devotees embark on a demanding trek through the desert to reach the temple, nestled in a mountain cavern along the banks of the Hingol River. This arduous journey is a testament to their deep faith and unwavering devotion.

The Importance and Respect of Hinglaj for Hindus and Muslims
The Hinglaj Mata Mandir is more than a religious symbol; it is a convergence of faiths, respected by local Muslims who fondly call it ‘Nani Maa Mandir.’
Therefore, the importance of Hinglaj Mata goes beyond the religious boundaries, representing cultural harmony and the celebration of Pakistan’s Hindu heritage. The pilgrimage serves as a reminder of the nation’s pluralistic history and the lasting legacy of its indigenous faiths. The valley, where the sacred temple resides, stands as a symbol of strength for the Hindu community in Pakistan, promoting a sense of belonging and identity.
Learn about how the Balochi Muslims and the Hindu community are living harmoniously and explore their history here.