Chamunda Devi Temple, or the ‘Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham,’ is one of the most prestigious and renowned holy shrines in Himachal Pradesh. It was built during the reign of Maharaja Umed Singh and presents the impressive architecture of the old era and is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Chamunda Devi Temple also known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham is also known as the abode of Lord Shiva and Mata Shakti.
The temple is located on the banks of the Banganga River in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh and is only 10 km from the well-known Palampur city. It is one of the most visited places in Chamba, one of the most prominent temples in Himachal Pradesh and one of the most popular temples all over India and is full of devotees throughout the year. But, Navratri is the most bustling and energetic time as thousands of devotees visit the temple to get the blessings of Chamunda Devi. Rakkh, our resort in Himachal Pradesh is in close proximity to the temple.
The temple is ancient and came into existence in the 16th century. There is a legend associated with the story of shifting this temple. It was around 400 years ago that a king and a priest prayed to Shri Chamunda Devi asking her consent to shift the image to an accessible location. The goddess appeared in the priest’s dream and suggested to him the exact location of where the idol would be found. This was told to the king and his men to recover the ancient idol and placed it at the place where the temple has been built now.
This 16th-century temple is the unique masterpiece of ancient times and is full of floral and animal carvings on silver sheets. It was built using only wood and gabled roofs. It has a cave-like scoop with structures (Lingam) representing Nandikeshwar (Shiva) and a running water pool with the statues of Lord Shiva and Saraswati at the backside of the temple.
Not only this, but the temple complex also houses a handicraft centre, which allows visitors to explore the vibrant culture and art scene of the Kangra district through the local artefacts. Visitors can take back souvenirs from a range of items, including wood carvings, wooden toys, handkerchiefs, honey, black pottery, chappals, Kangra tea, world-famous Kangra paintings, etc. This is the place where radiance glorifies, making everything tranquil and shower fervour.
The Chamunda Devi Temple has always been a major tourist attraction for anyone who visits Palampur. The temple attracts travellers from all parts of India, not only because there are a lot of spiritual legends attached to it, but also because the temple is ancient and its architecture, is built-in Himachali architecture. Rakkh, our resort in Himachal Pradesh is also built in the most sustainable Himachali architecture.
Apart from the plenty of tourists who visit the Chamunda Devi Temple as a major tourist attraction of Palampur, the local residents of the quaint hill town consider it one of the holiest places of worship in the area, especially because of its many interesting legends and history that are attached to it. These residents and other devotees from the neighbouring hill towns visit this temple in order to offer their prayers to the goddess.
Other places to near Chamunda Devi Temple in Chamba:
Lakshmi Narayan Temple: It is a beautiful 10th-century Shikara shaped temple which is a must-visit destination of Chamba if you are visiting Chamunda Devi Temple. It is the oldest and the largest temple in Chamba and also houses the most beautiful idols of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
Chaugan Market: This lovely local shopping promenade is another must-visit. With several small shops selling local artefacts and organic items. It is the perfect place to explore the tradition and culture of Chamba valley.
Manimahesh Lake: This sacred lake is considered to be blessed by the goddess Kali and protected by Lord Shiva. Thousands of believers come here during the festival of Janmashtami and take a bath in the holy water to get the blessings of spiritual powers.
Jakhni Mata Mandir: It is a temple which is situated on a hilltop with serene surroundings and offers awesome views of the valley. It is accessible by a short mountain drive.
You can stay at our Rakkh, our resort in Himachal Pradesh and visit the beautiful temples and other places in Chamba.