Enjoy a Spiritual Journey: 11 Most

Famous Temples in and Around

Dharamshala
The world is full of beautiful places to visit. Temples are among the most fascinating and
rewarding destinations on the globe. Ancient structures of stone and wood, the temples of the
world carry the weight of history, the stories of the people who have been there and the services
offered to the Gods and Deities.

Himachal is known as ‘Dev Bhoomi’ for a reason. People here are strong believers of Devtas and
myths told by the legends. Here every village has its own Deity to which they are purely
dedicated and the colourful stories behind them are always waiting to unfold. Nevertheless, the
state is full of magnificent temples, of which some of which belong to the local ‘Devtas’. Perched
on the mountains with their pristine beauty, temples in Himachal Pradesh boast rich cultural
history. It is no wonder that even God loves this place

Apart from the majestic Dhauladhars, Dharamshala is home to some ancient shrines and
temples. It has an age-old and intimate connection with spirituality. People looking for miracles
and spiritual awakening visit these temples. Amidst the numerous temples of various religions in
and around Dharamshala, diverse religious beliefs and cultural diversity can be found peacefully
coexisting. Let’s explore the various temples in Dharamshala. Come on
11 Temples in Dharamshala
1. Dalai Lama’s Temple, Mcleodganj
2. Aghanjar Mahadev Temple
3. Indru Nag Temple
4. Guna Mata Temple
5. Shri Kunal Pathri Devi Temple
6. BhagsuNag Temple
7. Masroor Rock Cut Temple
8. Chamunda Temple
9. Brijeshwari Temple
10. Jwala Ji Temple
11. Baijnath Temple

 Kunal Pathri Temple: temple of mata

 Chintpurni Devi Temple: Offer Prayers

 Kunal Pathri Temple: temple of mata
 Guna devi temple:temple

2.

1. Dalai Lama’s Temple, Mcleodganj

It is said that every religion has its own unique place of worship. The same is true for
the Buddhist religion. Located conveniently on the bustling streets of Mcleodganj is the
glorious Dalai Lama Temple offering solitude and serenity. The main attraction of the temple is
the idol of Buddha placed on an elevated pedestal. It is a unique place of worship for
Buddhists, which is visited by people of all religions. From the subliminal chanting of
mantras and the constant rotating prayer wheels to the luminosity of butter lamps, everything
here is so peaceful. You can even catch the glimpse of His Holiness Dalai Lama if he is in
Mcleodganj. So, if it’s your first time in Dharamshala make sure you pay a visit here.
2. Aghanjar Mahadev Temple
3. Located at a 9 km distance from Dharamshala Aghanjar Mahadev temple is peacefully
situated in the Khaniyara Valley at the foothills of Dhauladhars. This temple is believed to
be five hundred years old. Looking back to history, once Arjuna, one of the Pandavas from the
Mahabharata, was on his way to the Kailash Mountains, Lord Shiva showed up at this spot and
revered him with the boon of victory over the Kauravas. Inside the temple, there are several idols
of Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman. Also, there is a small cave with Shivlinga near the temple.
The temple has a waterfall running behind it and of course surrounded by forests and mountains.
So, take blessings, relax and enjoy the surreal beauty around!
3. Indru Nag Temple
A temple dedicated to the Snake King! Indru Nag is situated on a hilltop, 4 km from
Dharamshala and was built by the local villagers. It is believed that individuals offer prayers to
the Indru Nag, trusting that God will spare them from the awful events, such as substantial
downpours. As the temple is situated at the top of the slopes, one can enjoy the view of
Dharamshala and Dhauladhar ranges from there. Do not miss the opportunity to capture some
joyous moments with your loved ones while you are experiencing mother nature doing
wonders.
4. Guna Mata Temple
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is an important pilgrimage site for Gaddi
Shepherds, a semi-nomadic tribe of northern Himachal Pradesh. One can hike to Sri Guna
Devi Temple from Naddi village, located above Dal Lake, 4 kilometres from McLeod Ganj.
Now, after crossing a bridge over a small stream, a 2-kilometre walk will take you to Baal village.
The hike to Guna Devi Temple from Baal village is 2 km further and takes 2 hours one way. It’s
a day hike but for those who wish to spend the night at the temple, there are sleeping
facilities with mattresses and blankets.
6. BhagsuNag Temple
You might’ve heard of Bhagsu waterfall? We’re sure you did. But have you heard of Bhagsu Nag
temple? It is one of the oldest ancient temples in Dharamshala, well to be accurate in
Mcleodganj. Surrounded by the lush greenery and lovely pools this temple is situated on the
way to the famous Bhagsu waterfall. It is said that the Snake God got into a fight with King
Bhagsu because he stole water from the sacred lake called the Nag Dal Lake. Later, the King
was defeated by the Snake God and forgiven eventually. The site, from then on, was known as
Bhagsu Nag
7. Masroor Rock Cut Temple
Kangra might not appeal to you as a city but if we were to mention that it has some of the most
beautiful places to visit like this one ‘Masroor Rock Cut Temple’, you’re surely going to fall for
this place. This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is a cluster of 15 rock temples carved
out of a single rock. The central shrine was cut from the inside whereas the other 14 were cut from
the outside. Really! A marvel of construction. It is believed that the Pandavas built it around the
8th and 9th centuries. Before entering the temple you may need to submit your identification and
an entry fee. Do visit, click some Instagram worthy pictures, after all, it’s the trending media.
Anyway, have a good time here!

Did you know Kangra has Three Shaktipeeths?. Shaktipeeth is the string of temples that
are devoted to Goddess Shakti. According to folklore, Shakti gave herself up to the sacrificial
fire. Her body was carried by Shiva to the mountains. Her body was cut into 51 pieces and
every body part was buried in 51 different places. This trail of 51 temples is known as the
Shaktipeeth. There are temples built in these 51 locations dedicated to the various forms of
Goddess Shakti.

8. Chamunda Temple
Located at a 15 km distance from Dharamshala, this temple is dedicated to Goddess
Chamunda, one of the forms of the divine maa Durga and one of the seven Matrikas. It is said
that Goddess’ name is derived from the monsters Chanda and Munda, two monsters who she
killed from the very same mountain the Chamunda Devi temple is built on. The temple is not only
devoted to the Goddess, but also to Lord Shiva, whose Lingam is situated in a cave under the
main temple.

The temple is visited by thousands of devotees each year. The temple has an idol of the Goddess
surrounded by an idol of Lord Bhairav and Lord Hanuman. Legends believe that reciting Shat
Chandi Mantras here will bring good luck and prosperity to the individuals. The temple has very
beautiful surroundings tho, with Dhauladhar mountains as a backdrop and a river flowing
beside it. It really enjoys a seat in nature!

9. Brijeshwari Temple
Brijeshwari Temple is situated behind the crowded market of Kangra. It is believed that this
temple was originally built by Pandavas and underwent many attacks. Also, legends say that
after Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra cut Sati’s corpse into pieces, her left breast fell right
here. It will be best if you make it to the temple during aarti. The atmosphere’s incredible, filling
the air with spirituality. Speaking of the best time to visit– it’s in January during Makar
Sankranti celebrations and obviously in October during Navratas.

10. Jwala Ji Temple

This ancient temple is located in the small town of Kangra, Jwalamukhi 40 km from
Dharamshala. The main attraction of this temple is the eternal flames which the main flames
keep burning constantly. It is believed that Goddess Sati’s tongue fell on this very spot. The
temple has a four-cornered sanctum- sanctorum with a small dome and a square central pit where
the sacred stone is found. If you ever plan to visit this beautiful temple, offering coconut is a
popular practice. In the temple complex, you’ll see the Golden Chatra offered by the Mughal
emperor Akbar.

As per the legends, once Akbar tried to douse the flames with a stream of water but failed.
Acknowledging the power of the Goddess he decided to give a golden Chatra(umbrella) to the
goddess. He almost did, but the goddess declined his offering which led to the turning of the gold
into copper. From then on, Akbar became a devotee of the Goddess. At present, the stream of
water drips into a tank within the temple premises.

11. Baijnath Temple

A temple that holds highly religious importance! Situated at Baijnath 51 km from
Dharamshala this temple is a highly popular temple as it houses one of the 12 holy Jyotirlingas of
Lord Shiva in the country. The Baijnath temple was built in 1207 AD and it is believed that
the water emerging from the temple is holy and is used to heal people from illness. What
makes it a must-visit- you ask? It’s the architecture of the temple. The exotic carving and
sculptures depicting the incidents of Hindu mythology are more than just beautiful. The
temple is surrounded by the lush green gardens overlooking the snow-clad mountains which
definitely will take your breath away. Truly, it’s a raw sojourn amidst the mountains! Do not forget
to pay a visit.

Baijnath Temple

12. Kalachakra Temple

This temple is an architectural marvel with intricate carvings on the walls and pillars of the temple. The temple is
known for the astonishing murals of ‘Wheel of Time’. Kalachakra Temple is located in the Thekchen Choling temple
complex and was the major centre of public teachings by Dalai Lama. The beautiful architecture and pious ambience
of the temple is a stunning representation of the Tibetan culture. This temple is a popular tourist attraction of
Dharamshala.

13. Kaleshwar Mahadev temple

Situated in the Kangra district, Kaleshwar Mahadev temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The
Shivalinga of this temple is situated quit below from the ground level. The complex of the temple is covered with
numerous small tombs and shrines. The festival of Shivratri is the main attraction of this temple in which locals and
pilgrims from across the country participate with great enthusiasm and grandeur. If you are looking for spiritual peace
amidst picturesque surroundings, this temple is the place for you. To reach the temple, the devotees have to walk a
distance of at least 7 kilometres.

14.Guptkashi:
If you are looking to visit temples near Dharamshala and Kangra, you must make time to visit
the Guptkashi temple. This ancient pilgrimage site is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has some of the
finest examples of art on its walls.

15.Shankaracharya Temple:
The Shankaracharya temple in Dharamshala offers a spectacular view of Dhauladhar ranges. This
temple is a popular destination for its serene environment and beautiful architecture. your trip to
temples in dharamshala will not be completed until you visit this place.

16.Kunal Pathri Temple: temple of mata

Kunal Pathri Temple is a popular Hindu temple located in the town of Dharamshala in the
Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Mata (Goddess) Kunal Pathri,
who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga.

According to legend, the temple was built at the spot where the goddess appeared before a
local shepherd boy named Munna. The boy had lost his cattle and was searching for them
when he saw the goddess, who directed him to the location of his cattle and also instructed
him to build a temple in her honor.

The temple is located on top of a hill, which can be reached by climbing a flight of stairs.
From the top of the hill, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains
and valleys. The temple itself is small but beautiful, with intricate carvings and paintings
adorning its walls and ceilings.

The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Mata Kunal Pathri, who come from
far and wide to offer their prayers and seek blessings. The best time to visit the temple is
during the Navratri festival, which is celebrated with great fervor and devotion by the locals.

17.Chintpurni Devi Temple: Offer Prayers

Chintpurni Devi Temple is a popular Hindu temple located in the Una district of Himachal
Pradesh in India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chintpurni, who is believed to fulfill
the wishes of her devotees.

The temple is situated on a hilltop and can be reached by climbing a flight of stairs. The
temple complex is quite large and comprises several shrines dedicated to different deities.
The main shrine is dedicated to Goddess Chintpurni, and it is believed that offering prayers
here can cure all kinds of ailments and fulfill the wishes of the devotees.

The temple attracts a large number of devotees throughout the year, but it is especially
crowded during the Navratri festival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and
devotion. During this time, the temple is beautifully decorated with lights and flowers, and
there are special ceremonies and rituals conducted every day.

Visitors to the temple can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys,
and there are several small shops and stalls selling souvenirs and religious items near the
temple. Overall, the Chintpurni Devi Temple is a must-visit for anyone seeking spiritual
solace or wishing to offer prayers to the Goddess

18.Guna devi temple:temple

Yes, the Guna Devi Temple is a popular temple located in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh,
India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Guna Devi, who is considered to be a form of
Goddess Durga.
The temple is located on a hilltop and can be reached by climbing a flight of stairs. It offers
breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a popular
destination for tourists and devotees alike.

The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings, and it is believed
that offering prayers here can fulfill the wishes of the devotees. The temple is especially
crowded during the Navratri festival, which is celebrated with great fervor and devotion.

Visitors to the temple can also explore the nearby forests and enjoy trekking and hiking in
the beautiful surroundings. The Guna Devi Temple is a must-visit for anyone seeking
spiritual solace or wishing to explore the natural beauty of the region..