Thawe Mandir, Gopalganj | Bihar Tourism

Overview

Thawe Mandir, located in Thawe village of Gopalganj district, Bihar, is a prominent shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga—revered locally as Thawewali. Established centuries ago, the temple draws devotees from across the state, especially during the annual Navratri fair. Its serene setting beneath ancient banyan trees and the melodious chants of bhajans create a divine atmosphere.

Learn more about the region on our Gopalganj page or explore other Top Cities in Bihar.

Historical Significance

12th Century: Origins trace back to local legends of a divine appearance of Goddess Durga beneath a banyan tree near Thawe pond.
16th Century: Renovations by local zamindars, establishing the main sanctum and mandapa.
18th–19th Century: Further expansions, including the construction of the current shikhara and courtyard walls.
Modern Era: Became a central pilgrimage site for Navratri and Durga Puja; regular improvements by devotees.

Architectural Features

Thawe Mandir exhibits a blend of traditional North Indian temple architecture with local craftsmanship. Built primarily from locally sourced stone, its square sanctum is topped by a pyramidal shikhara adorned with lotus motifs. The sprawling courtyard is framed by pillared corridors, leading to smaller shrines dedicated to various deities associated with Durga.

Pyramidal shikhara with intricately carved panels depicting Durga’s avataras.
Spacious central mandapa supported by 12 granite pillars, each engraved with floral motifs.
Courtyard surrounded by subsidiary shrines for Shiva, Kartikeya, and Ganesha.
Large sacred banyan tree on the northern side, believed to be centuries old.

Spiritual Importance

Thawe Mandir is one of North Bihar’s most venerated Durga shrines. The goddess here is believed to bless childless couples and protect families from calamities. Pilgrims perform prasad offerings of rice and flowers, while chanting mantras dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple becomes the epicenter of devotion during Navratri, drawing tens of thousands of devotees.

Maa Thawewali’s Banyan Tree

Sacred tree where Goddess Durga is said to have appeared. Devotees tie threads on its branches to fulfill wishes.

Learn More

Thawe Pond (Sankat Mokshini)

Believed to cure ailments and wash away sins. Pilgrims bathe here before entering the temple.

Learn More

Gopalganj Shiv Mandir

Renowned Shiva temple in Gopalganj town, frequented by devotees after offering prayers at Thawe Mandir.

Learn More

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

06:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free (Donations Welcome)

Best Time to Visit

Navratri (Sept–Oct), Durga Puja (Oct–Nov)

How to Reach

By Air: Gaya International Airport (60 km) and Patna Airport (120 km).
By Train: Thawe Junction (1 km) on Patna–Muzaffarpur line; regular trains from Patna.
By Road: State buses and taxis from Gopalganj (20 km), Chapra (35 km), and Patna (120 km).

Travel Tips

Dress modestly; cover shoulders and knees inside the temple premises.
Visitors are encouraged to offer fresh flowers and prasad of rice and jaggery.
Participate in morning aarti for a tranquil spiritual experience.
Carry drinking water; few stalls around the temple, but it can get crowded during festivals.

Nearby Attractions

Thawe Pond (Sankat Mokshini)

Sacred pond where pilgrims bathe to wash away sins; right beside the temple.

Learn More

Thawe Wildlife Reserve

A small forested reserve home to deer, peacocks, and migratory birds; ideal for nature walks.

Learn More

Gopalganj Shiv Mandir

Prominent Shiva shrine in Gopalganj town, often visited after offering prayers at Thawe Mandir.

Learn More

Accommodation & Dining

Thawe Dharamshala

Economical lodging managed by temple committee; basic amenities and dormitory-style accommodation.

Gopalganj Guest House

Comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms; 20 km from Thawe; easy access by road.

Local Canteen & Prasad Stall

Serves simple vegetarian meals, snacks, and distribution of prasad (rice, jaggery, sweets).

Testimonials

“I found peace and blessings after my visit to Thawe Mandir. The atmosphere is so serene, especially during Navratri.”

— Anita Kumari

“The annual fair at Thawe brings everyone together. I felt the divine energy as soon as I entered the temple grounds.”

— Ramesh Singh

“Visiting Thawe Mandir during Durga Puja was a life-changing experience. The devotion of people is truly inspiring.”

— Sunil Yadav

FAQs

The prime time is during Navratri (September–October) and Durga Puja (October–November), when special rituals and fairs are organized.

Yes, the temple committee operates a basic dharamshala. For more comfortable stays, visitors can book accommodations in Gopalganj town (20 km away).

Thawe Mandir (Gopalganj)

Overview

Historical Significance

Architectural Features