Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir
Also known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham, Chamunda Mata Temple, Shakti Peeth Shri Chamunda Devi Temple
Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir in Kangra, HP, is one of the state's five principal Shakti temples, a rare joint shrine of the goddess with Shiva as Nandikeshwar.
Photos of Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir
- Presiding Deity
- Devi
- Established
- Present structure c. 16th century
- Architecture
- Traditional Himachali hill-temple architecture (wood and stone, slate roofing) with a natural cave shrine for a Shiva lingam
- Address
- Padar, Chamunda Temple Path, Himachal Pradesh 176052
- Timings
- 05:00–22:00 daily
History of Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir
Per the Devi Mahatmya, the goddess Kaushiki manifested a fierce warrior form who slew the demons Chanda and Munda, giving the name Chamunda. The original shrine is said to have stood at a remote hilltop (now Aadi Himani Chamunda); around the 16th century a king and priest relocated worship to this more accessible site on the Baner river after the goddess appeared in a vision. A cave at the rear holds the Shiva lingam.
Festivals Celebrated at Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir
- Navaratri (Chaitra & Sharad)
How to Reach Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir
Nearest airport: Kangra (Gaggal) Airport, ~25 km. Nearest railhead: Kangra narrow-gauge station, ~14 km; broad-gauge at Pathankot, ~90 km. ~15–19 km from Dharamshala via SH17.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir
Where is Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir located?
- Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir is located at Padar, Chamunda Temple Path, Himachal Pradesh 176052, in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir?
- The presiding deity at Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir is Devi (also known as Shakti, Durga), worshipped in the Shakta tradition.
What are the timings of Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir?
- Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir is generally open 05:00–22:00 daily. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir built?
- Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir was established Present structure c. 16th century. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir?
- Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir is built in the Traditional Himachali hill-temple architecture (wood and stone, slate roofing) with a natural cave shrine for a Shiva lingam style, characteristic of Devi shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir include Navaratri (Chaitra & Sharad). These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir?
- Nearest airport: Kangra (Gaggal) Airport, ~25 km. Nearest railhead: Kangra narrow-gauge station, ~14 km; broad-gauge at Pathankot, ~90 km. ~15–19 km from Dharamshala via SH17.
Why is Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir significant?
- Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir in Kangra, HP, is one of the state's five principal Shakti temples, a rare joint shrine of the goddess with Shiva as Nandikeshwar.
Is there an entry fee at Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir?
- Entry to the main shrine of Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir?
- Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir follows the traditional dress code observed at Himachal Pradesh temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.