Kangra Devi, located in the picturesque Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. The temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is believed to have been built over 1000 years ago and is known for its exquisite architecture and beautiful surroundings.
History of Kangra Devi Temple:
According to legend, the Kangra Devi Temple was built by the Pandavas during their exile in the forest. The temple was later destroyed by an earthquake and was rebuilt by the Katoch dynasty in the 10th century. The temple complex was expanded over the centuries, and today, it is a beautiful blend of ancient and modern architecture.
Architecture of the Temple:
The Kangra Devi Temple is a stunning example of traditional North Indian temple architecture. The main entrance of the temple is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures of Hindu deities. The sanctum sanctorum, which houses the idol of Goddess Durga, is made of marble and is beautifully decorated with gold and silver ornaments.
The temple complex also houses several other shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha. The temple also has a beautiful water tank called the Bajreshwari Kund, which is believed to have healing properties.
Significance of Kangra Devi Temple:
The Kangra Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India, and it is believed that the right breast of Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva, fell at this spot. The temple is also associated with several mythological stories, including the story of King Jaistambh, who was cured of leprosy after offering prayers at the temple.
Festivals at Kangra Devi Temple:
The Kangra Devi Temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Navratri, Diwali, and Shravan Ashtami. Navratri is the most significant festival celebrated at the temple, and it attracts thousands of devotees from all over the world. During the festival, the temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights, and a grand bhandara or community feast is organized for the devotees.
Surrounding Attractions:
Apart from the Kangra Devi Temple, there are several other attractions in the surrounding area that visitors can explore. The Kangra Fort, which is around 20 kilometers from Kangra Devi, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. The fort is a beautiful example of ancient Indian architecture and is believed to have been built by the Katoch dynasty. The Masroor Rock Cut Temple, which is around 30 kilometers from Kangra Devi, is another popular attraction. The temple is believed to have been built around the 8th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Accommodation and Dining:
There are several accommodation options available near the Kangra Devi Temple, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Visitors can also stay in nearby cities like Dharamshala and Palampur, which have a wider range of accommodation options. There are several restaurants and food stalls near the temple, which serve delicious local cuisine, including Himachali Dham, a traditional meal served during festivals.
Kangra Devi is a revered Hindu temple located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is situated on the banks of the Banganga River. It is believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas during their exile.
Kangra Devi temple is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in Himachal Pradesh and attracts a large number of devotees from all over the country. The temple complex is spread over a vast area and is surrounded by lush green forests and picturesque hills.
The main deity of the temple is Goddess Durga, who is also known as Chamunda Devi. The idol of the goddess is made of gold and is adorned with precious jewels. The temple also houses idols of Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganesha.
The temple is a perfect blend of ancient and modern architecture. The main entrance of the temple is adorned with intricate carvings and the walls are decorated with beautiful paintings. The temple also has a large courtyard where devotees can sit and meditate.
The best time to visit Kangra Devi temple is during the Navratri festival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. The temple is beautifully decorated during this time and a large fair is also held near the temple complex.
Apart from the temple, Kangra also has many other attractions that are worth visiting. The Kangra Fort, which was built by the Katoch dynasty, is a popular tourist spot. The fort is situated on top of a hill and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Kangra is also known for its beautiful tea gardens and is home to the famous Kangra tea. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular destination for nature lovers.
In conclusion, Kangra Devi temple is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Himachal Pradesh. The temple’s serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a perfect place for spiritual seekers. The town of Kangra also has many other attractions that make it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
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