 Chamunda
Devi Temple |
 Mata
Chamunda Devi Temple is located at a distance of 15 km from
Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh. Dedicated to goddesses Mata
Durga or Chamunda (Hindu deity), the surroundings of the temple
provide an excellent venue for meditation prayers and spiritual
attainments. It is an enchanting and charming spot with fascinating
view of the mountains, rivers and forests. The location of temple
was used as a cremation ground by the people of 22 villages
and supposed to be a place of solace, spiritual attainments.
A large number of devotees travel to this place for worship
and to attain spiritual peace for their ancestors. Taking dip
in the Ban Ganga river is considered as more auspicious and
sacred. People perform prayer to Lord Shiva with the water of
Ban Ganga river. A 700 years old temple, Chanmunda Devi comprises
of big complex with a 'Kund' (pond) in it. As per the rituals,
the devotees coming to the temple take holy dip in the Kund.
The main deity of the temple is kept under cover and is not
accessible by the visitors, because of its sacred importance.
There is a cave-like scoop located at the back of the temple,
representing the stone lingam ( embodiment of Shiva). Apart
from these attractions, there are many brightly painted images
of gods and goddesses located in the vicinity of the Chamunda
Devi temple.
The legend of the temple is related with two demons Chanda and
Munda of Shumbh Nishumbh, the notorious demon king. With their
wicked mind, they try to harass the goddess Ambika, which turned
out in the form of battle between the gods and demons. Chamunda,
emerged as Chandika from an eyebrow of goddess Ambika, was assigned
the task to eliminate the demons. Chandika destroyed those two
demons and presented their heads in front of Ambika. Pleased
with the act of Chamunda, the goddess Ambika named the city
as Chamunda and since then the temple Chamunda Devi is worshipped
with that grace and faith. Other Attractions: Beside temple,
there is Ayurvedic dispensary, library and a Sanskrit college
situated in the temple complex. The dispensary provides medical
treatment to the pilgrims and locals. The library comprises
of rare stock of old manuscripts, books on astrology, Hindu
philosophy, Vedas, Puranas, Upnishads, Sanskrit and History.
There is book sale counter, which provide these books on reasonable
rates. A Sanskrit college is also run by the temple trust and
they organize free classes on Vedas and Puranas.
How To Reach:
Tourists can hire private taxis from Palampur or Dharamsala
to reach the temple. Besides, state transport bus services are
also available to reach this place. |
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