Chamunda Devi Temple, also known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham, is set on the banks of the Baner (Banganga) river with the Dhauladhar hills rising behind it. The colourful gateway, painted wooden roofs and courtyards are filled with images of Durga in her fierce Chamunda form, flanked by Shiva as Nandikeshwar. Pilgrims come to seek protection from obstacles, fear and negative forces, believing that vows made here are fulfilled. The temple is also a scenic stop for travellers moving between Dharamshala and Palampur, combining riverside peace with the energy of a major Shakti centre.
About this place
History & highlights
Local tradition and temple records describe Chamunda Devi as an ancient shrine, with the present accessible temple created about 400 years ago, when a local king and priest prayed for permission to move the original hilltop idol to a more reachable site. The goddess appeared in a dream indicating the place where her image would be found, which was then installed at the current location. The older Aadi Himani Chamunda shrine still stands high above as the original seat, reached via a tough trek. Chamunda is linked to Puranic stories in which she defeats the demons Chanda and Munda, symbolising the destruction of ego and evil. Over time, Kangra’s Chamunda became one of Himachal’s three especially famous Shakti temples (with Jwala Ji and Bajreshwari), featured prominently in state pilgrimage circuits and modern tourism campaigns.
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