Brijeshwari Mata Temple – Kangra

Situated in Kangra’s historic township, the Brijeshwari Temple was formerly well-known for its enormous wealth, which attracted kings and robbers from all over the world. The temple is regarded as one of the 51 shaktipeethas in the nation and is devoted to Goddess Vajreshwari, a manifestation of Durga.

It is thought to have been built over the location where Goddess Sati’s breast dropped. According to legend, when Goddess Sati’s father planned a yajna (a fire ritual), he neglected to invite Lord Shiva, his son-in-law, to the event. Sati burned herself alive in the yajna, feeling insulted by this. Lord Shiva, grieving, took her corpse in his arms and began the dance of cosmic destruction, known as tandava. Fearing he would destroy everything in his path, Lord Vishnu used his chakra to rend Sati’s body to pieces. It is reported that a shrine, or shaktipeetha, was built in the location where her dismembered body parts fell.

A stunning goddess idol made of silver is kept in the shrine. The stunning white temple is near the Kangra Fort and is reached through a busy bazaar dotted with prasad (devotional food offering) stalls. The Pandavas of the epic Mahabharata are said to have constructed the temple in accordance with a common tradition, following their dream vision of Goddess Durga, who instructed them to construct a shrine at Nagarkot for their protection.

Temple Opening Time

April through September: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm

October through March: 06:30 pm to 8:00 pm

The hours of the temple may be extended on special days.

Fair and Special Days

Numerous fairs and festivals are held all year round at Kangra Devi Mandir. The following is a list of some of the major celebrations.

• Diwali
• Navratri
• Makar Sankranti
• Shivratri

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Because of the important festivals held there, September through March is the ideal time of year to visit the temple. Additionally, the state’s climate is pleasant throughout these months.

ATTRACTIONS

Where to Stay

There are cozy, reasonably priced hotels in Kangra with all the amenities needed, as well as Dharamshala.

HOW TO REACH

By Flight

The closest airport, located 10 kilometers from the Mata Kangra Devi Temple, is Gaggal Airport.

By Train

Kangra is 85 kilometers away from the closest major railway station, Pathankot.

By Road

Since Kangra has excellent road access, getting to the Nagarkot Temple is easy with a variety of buses and taxis.