Introduction

From the enormous religious lore of India, comes the story of the goddess Ambika who was harassed by two demons, Chanda and Munda. Enraged, Ambika knitted her brows and from their folds emerged a terrifying form of the goddess Kali who slew the demons. Pleased, Ambika declared that Kali would now be worshipped as 'Chamunda' – slayer of the demons, Chanda and Munda. This is the most popular of the legends connected with Chamunda Devi who is worshipped all over India.

In the Kangra area, her shrine is located on the banks of Baner rivulet. Lore has it that a local ruler and a Brahmin prayed to the goddess to allow them to build her a temple that could be reached with relative ease. The goddess, Chamunda appeared to the Brahmin in a dream and told him where her image could be found under the soil. The image was found but could not be moved. The goddess again appeared to Brahmin and told him that the image could only be lifted by him with due reverence and after all suitable ablutions had been undertaken. This was done and the image was placed at the present location and the temple built.

The gateway of the temple, that draws thousands of worshippers every year, is flanked by images of Hanuman and Bhairav who are considered as its guardians. By the shrine of the Devi, there is a narrow staircase that leads down into a cave. In this cavern, a ‘lingam’, the symbol of Lord Shiva is worshipped. Chamunda Devi is said to have the power to grant boons and many come to her for succor. The shrine has a large water tank in which various images of Hindu deities have been placed on pedestals.

The area around is also lush and attractive. Much of the road to Chamunda Devi is through tea gardens and clumps of woodland.

Special Attributes

Temple held in considerable reverence

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Conservative

Connectivity

Taxis and buses

Enjoyed by

Pilgrims

Exposure

Some exposure during the summer months

Avoidable Season

open through the year

Facilities

Parking and restaurants close by

Things Not Allowed

No shoes in the temple

Tip

Huge crowds and long queues at festive times

Type of site

Temple