Aadi Himani Chamunda Temple, Himachal Pradesh

Address

Aadi Himani Chamunda Temple, Kudan, Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh 176059

Deity

Amman: Chamunda Devi

Introduction

• Location: Situated in Chandar Bhan, Jia, Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India, in the Himalayas.
• Deity: Dedicated to Shri Chamunda Devi, also known as Chamundi, Chamundeshwari, and Charchika.
• Significance of the Deity:
  • Shri Chamunda Devi is a fierce aspect of the Divine Mother, Devi, and one of the seven Matrikas (mother goddesses).
  • She is part of the group of Yoginis, attendants of the warrior goddess Durga.
  • The name “Chamunda” is derived from her victory over two demons, Chanda and Munda.
  • She is closely associated with the goddess Kali and sometimes identified with Parvati, Chandi, or Durga.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Context:
  • The temple is located near the ruins of the palace of Raja Chandar Bhan Chand Katoch, who died in 1660. The temple’s age is estimated to be similar or older than the palace.
  • Before 1992, the temple was in a state of disrepair but underwent significant restoration due to the efforts of Mr. P. D. Saini, a retired Class 1 officer, who dedicated 20 years to its revival with the help of devotees.
  • As of 2013, Mr. Saini continued to contribute to the temple’s improvements, even after government administration took over.
• Local Legends:
  • According to local lore, Goddess Chamunda defeated the demons Chand and Mund by hurling large boulders from the mountain’s peak.
  • One of these boulders is reportedly located above a nearby Shiva Temple along the Dharamshala-Palampur state highway.
• Recent Developments:
  • A recently constructed temple was destroyed in a devastating fire in 2014.
  • The temple is currently under reconstruction, with the support of devotees and the Temple Trust.

Century/Period/Age

1000 Years old

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)- Himachal Pradesh

Nearest Bus Station

Chandar Bhan

Nearest Railway Station

Kangra

Nearest Airport

Gaggal

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