The Aadi Himani Chamunda Temple is more than 700 years old, as mentioned at Wikipedia - “The temple stands close to the ruins of the palace of Raja Chandar Bhan Chand Katoch (d. 1660), and is of least the same age, if not for older.” Aadi Himani Chamunda or Barfani Chamunda, refers to a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Chamunda Devi located at a high altitude in the Dhauladhar ranges of the Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh, India. As per ancient tradition every day one dead body is burnt in great cremation rites of deceased for the salvation of the dead at Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir is also known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham in Kangra. Among devotees as it is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva and Shakti.
In both side of main entrance of the sanctum sanctorum idols of Hanuman and Bhairav are established and they are known as concierge of goddess Chamunda ji.
Original Shrine: The Aadi Himani Chamunda temple is considered the original and much older shrine compared to the more accessible Chamunda Devi Temple located in the Kangra Valley below. Holy shrine at 10000 feet has tons of devotees visits just after snow melts in the area .Trek: One day trek.(offbeat)
Distance: 9-12 km (7-11Hrs).
Time: March to November.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
Height: 10449 feet (3184 meter).
Nearest Railway Station: Nagrota Bagwan .(14 km away)
Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala Airport). (25 km away)
Nearest Bus Stand: Chamunda Devi Bus Terminal in Kangra.
Two Routes: 1. From Jia village (Begin from near Jia village.)
This route is described as more rugged or "trail-like". or
2. From Jadrangal Village (Trek Begin from the Shakti Peeth Chamunda Devi Temple.)
This route follow a well-marked, paved path that is frequented by pilgrims.
Start early 🌞: Begin your trek before dawn to avoid the midday sun and allow enough time for the journey.
Stay hydrated 💧: Carry plenty of water, as water sources on the trek are limited.
Pack essentials 🧰: Bring sturdy trekking shoes, snacks, and other necessary gear.
Consider the weather 🌡️ : The monsoon season (July to September) and winter (after October) can make the trek difficult due to rain and snow.
Safety ❗: Start early in the day to allow plenty of time for the ascent and descent before evening. The trail can be challenging, especially the Jia route, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
Views: Trekkers are rewarded with stunning, panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range and the Kangra Valley. The sunset and sunrise from the hilltop are especially beautiful.
The Temple: The Aadi Himani Chamunda temple is a pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Chamunda. According to local legends, the goddess defeated demons by throwing large boulders at them from the mountain. The original temple was destroyed in a fire in 2014 but has been under reconstruction with the help of devotees.
Overnight Stay : ⏲ A dormitory and bedding are available for pilgrims and trekkers at the temple, though you may need to bring your own gear like Tent ⛺︎, Torch 🔦, First-Aid ✙, Sleeping Bags 💤, Rain Gears ☂️, Walking Sticks 🦯etc, you can buy gears or take on rent also from some tapri's.
Goddess Chamunda is a fierce form of the Hindu goddess Durga or Kali, known as the slayer of the demons Chanda and Munda. She is a warrior goddess who symbolizes death, destruction, and disease, and is believed to destroy evil and protect her devotees. It is believed that Goddess Chamunda, a fierce form of Durga, defeated the demons Chand and Mund at this very site.
Worshipped for her strength and ability to overcome negativity, she is also known as Chamundi and Chamundeshwari.
The story of Goddess Chamunda, described in texts like the Devi Mahatmya, is primarily about her emergence to kill the demons Chanda and Munda. She is often said to have sprung from the forehead or third eye of the goddess Durga (or Kaushiki), who was fighting the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha. Her victory over these two generals earned her the name "Chamunda."
The yoginis are not the primary deity but are powerful, fierce feminine deities, who protect and assist in the spiritual practice of the Mahavidyas.
Connection between Ma Chamunda and the 64 Yoginis Temple in Madhya Pradesh.
Chief Matrika: The tradition of the 64 Yoginis is largely based on the Ashta Matrikas (eight major mother goddesses). Ma Chamunda is one of these eight principal Matrikas, alongside Brahmani, Vaishnavi, Maheshwari, Indrani, Kaumari, Varahi, and Narasimhi.
Leader of the Group: In many traditions, each of the eight Matrikas is associated with a group of eight attendants, which, when assembled, total 64 goddesses (8 x 8 = 64). Chamunda is considered the commander-in-chief of this army of Yoginis or the head of her own group of eight Yoginis.
A Yogini Herself: Ma Chamunda is explicitly listed as one of the 64 individual Yoginis in various temple lists and texts.
Some Of The Surviving Yogini Temples Are:🏰
Chausath Yogini Temple, Ranipur‑Jharial in Odisha.
Chausath Yogini Temple, Hirapur — near Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Chausath Yogini Temple, Bhedaghat (near Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh).
Chausath Yogini Temple, Mitaoli (also called Ekattarso Mahadeva Temple) in Morena district, Madhya Pradesh.
Understand Real "Hidden History" For Centuries. ? ☀️
🔱 The origin and purpose of the 64 Yoginis.
🔮 The meaning behind their circular design.
🌌 Why these temples are roofless and open to the sky.
⚔️ The role of Tantric rituals and cosmic energies.
🕉️ Their connection to Shiva, Shakti, and Kundalini awakening.
🏛️ Rare temples you can still visit today — in Odisha & Madhya Pradesh.
Entering the temple could elevate consciousness. Watch Video to know more.
India’s Most Mysterious Yogini Temple. - A Temple with no roof ?
From Mahabharata like Chakraview formations to rituals under moonlight, this story is not just about architecture, it’s about energy, mystery, and a forgotten spiritual science.
Everything is Energy, Frequency and Vibration (Prana, chi, qi, life-force).
Credits @The Gupta Bharat.
The 64 Yoginis, also known as Chausath Yogini in Hindi, are powerful female divinities in Hinduism. They represent manifestations of divine feminine energy, or Shakti 💥, and are significant in ancient Tantric traditions, often linked to Goddess Kali and Lord Shiva's Bhairava form.
Bahurupa,
Tara,
Narmada,
Yamuna,
Shanti,
Varuni,
Shemkari,
Aindri,
Varahi,
Ranveera,
Vanarmukhi,
Vaishnavi,
Kalaratri,
Vaidyaroopa,
Charchika,
Betali,
Chinnamastika,
Vrishabanana,
Jwala Kamini,
Khatwara,
Karkali,
Saraswati,
Biroopa,
Kobeeri,
Bhaluka,
Narasimhi,
Viraja,
Viktanan,
Mahalakshmi,
Koumari,
Mahamaya,
Rati,
Karkari,
Sarpshaya,
Yakshini,
Vinayaki,
Vindryavalini,
Veerkumari,
Maheshwari,
Ambika,
Kamayani,
Khatabari,
Stuti,
Kali,
Uma,
Narayani,
Samudra,
Brahmi,
Jwalamukhi,
Agneyi,
Aditi,
Chandrakanti,
Vayubega,
Chamunda,
Murti,
Ganga,
Dhumavati,
Gandhari,
Sarvamangala,
Ajita,
Surya Putri,
Vayu Veena,
Aghora, and
Bhadrakali.
These names are chanted in rituals and are associated with specific powers and aspects of life. They are also celebrated in various temples dedicated to the Yogini cult across India, reflecting their historical and spiritual significance.
Scan and pay through any Bharat qr/upi app.🌱
UPI ID: 051380398320004.mab@pnb
Aadi Himani Temple
In Himachal Pradesh, "Jagran" (also known regionally as Jagra) refers to a traditional cultural and religious practice involving an all night gathering with music, dance, and prayers dedicated to village or local deities (Devi and Devta). It is a significant event that reflects the deep-rooted spirituality and community life of the region.
"Langer Bhaan" is a local or colloquial reference related to the provision of food (langar) for devotees, a common practice at many Hindu pilgrimage sites. The feast, cooked without onion or garlic, is rich in local lentils and dairy products.
People engaged in tourism speak and understand English Hindi and Punjabi the natives mostly speak Kangri a dialect in their everyday lives.
Chamunda's anger is not a negative emotion in a human sense, but a powerful, protective energy. Her fierce expression and weapons symbolize her role as a protector, capable of conquering fear and ignorance for her devotees.
This is a sacred and peaceful environment dedicated to spiritual practice and reflection. The consumption of any intoxicants and disruptive behavior is strictly prohibited.
Failure to comply with rules, regulations, or lawful orders can have serious consequences. The specific outcomes mentioned, removal from the premises or arrest, depend on the context and the severity of the non-compliance.
NO ALCOHOL, NO DRUGS, NO SMOKING, NO PARTIES.
Preserve the peace, Keep this a place of worship and reflection and avoid any "party" behavior. Maintain the sanctity of this sacred 📿 space. Please respect the health and peace of all visitors.
Chandi Di Vaar is a martial composition used traditionally to prepare the Sikh psyche for battle. Chandi Di Vaar (also known as Vaar Durga Ki) is a revered Sikh composition written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It appears in the Dasam Granth and is traditionally recited in Nitnem by many Sikhs, especially within the Amrit Sanchar ceremony ੴ.
Connection between Ma Chamunda & Chandi Di Vaar in
(Sikh Dasam Granth).📜
The Chandi Di Vaar is deeply related to the goddess Chamunda, as Chamunda is considered a fierce manifestation of the mother goddess Durga, who is the central figure of the Chandi Di Vaar. The Chandi Di Vaar, a Sikh composition, tells the story of the goddess Chandi (another name for Durga) in her battle against the demons.
Scriptural Painting of Chandi Slaying Indic Demons From a Folio from The Chandi Di Vaar Section of a Dasam Granth.
Var Durga Ki, meaning the "Ballad of Durga"
Var Sri Bhagauti Ji Ki, meaning the "Ballad of Revered Bhagauti"
Chandi Di Var (Chandi Di Vara), meaning the "Ballad of Chandi"
Var Durga Ki is the title of the work in the oldest extant manuscripts of the Dasam Granth.
Historical significance : The Chandi Di Vaar has been used historically to inspire courage and resilience among the Sikh community. It tells the story of the goddess's triumph over adversity and her role in vanquishing evil.
VAAR means "martial ballad" is a heroic ode or martial ballad in Punjabi poetry is a song or narrative poem with a military theme, focusing on stories of war, bravery, or the lives of soldiers. The term can also refer to specific musical pieces designed for a military context, such as marching music, or even more broadly to music that evokes the sounds of battle. The term can also refer to music that is specifically military in nature, such as the sounds of battle, marching music used in parades, or compositions that evoke the sounds of war.
Objective of Vaar : Prepare the psyche for battle. This bir rass in Dasam Granth empower Sparrow to fight hawks, created a deep transformative sea change in the subconscious mind, Invoking the powerful astral entity of Chandi , to protect dharma in kalyug.
The phrase "make sparrows fight hawks" is a famous quote attributed to the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh ji, And is primarily symbolic of empowering the weak 💪 and oppressed to take on the mighty.
Baba Deep Singh Ji Recited Chandi Di Vaar.
At the age of 75, Baba Deep Singh Ji took a vow in war : ⚡
" He declared that he would not rest until his head was offered at the temple's threshold."
What makes Baba Deep Singh’s story extraordinary is what happened after he was wounded. According to historical records Baba Deep Singh picked up his detached head in his hand and continued to fight with one hand, Held his Khanda ⚔️(double-edged sword) in the other, till he reached the gates of the Golden Temple.
Baba Deep Singh died at the gates of the Golden Temple, but his death became a symbol of supreme sacrifice. 🕊️
His bravery and devotion to the Guru left an indelible mark on Sikh history and served as an inspiration for the future generations.🌷
Many Sikh rehni-behni (oral traditions) say that before the battle of Amritsar (1757), Baba Deep Singh Ji and the Shaheedan Misl recited Chandi Di Vaar
(Vaar Sri Bhagauti Ji Ki) to ignite bir rass (warrior spirit). Reciting bir rass ♫♪ bani before battle was standard practice among his warriors.
His entire life was dedicated to serving his religion and fighting against the tyrannical and oppressive invaders. This righteous cause gave him an indomitable spirit and determination to stand up for the weak and needy👨👩👧👦 , a core principle of the Khalsa way of life.
Ultimately⭕, his fearlessness came from an unwavering dedication to his principles, making him a revered martyr and an enduring symbol of courage and devotion in Sikh history.
The Story Represents : Reciting Bir rass/ Chandi di Vaar provides a spiritual warrior spirit, a courage fueled by righteousness rather than anger, and the determination to fight for justice.
Unmatched courage.
Commitment to justice.
Selfless devotion.
Defending sacred values even at the cost of life.
"Wounded, Not Hurt, Still Standing in the Storm."
Himani Chamunda.
❤ जब तक दम में दम है, तब तक बेदम मत हो जाना."❤
Assist everyone.
Be happy, be courteous.
Love and serve all humanity.
Be a dynamo of irrepressible joy.
Let the Lord's grace set you free.
Be original, be inventive.
Do not imitate, be strong, be upright.
Do not lean on the crutches of others.
Think with your own head. Be yourself.
Be courageous. Take courage again and again.
Recognize God and goodness in every face.
Wisdom, too, is already within you. Let it shine forth.
Praise everyone. If you cannot praise someone, let them out of your life.
Let your life be that of the rose; in silence, it speaks the language of fragrance.
There is no saint without a past and no sinner background sky without a future.
All perfection and every divine virtue are hidden within you. Reveal them to the world.
Humanitarianism: 👩🏿❤️👩🏽
Maa Himani taught that acting for the universal good and helping one another is the real religion and duty of human beings.
ॐ Truth, Simplicity & Love ॐ as the path to spiritual upliftment and a happy life. She emphasized the importance of diligent work, selfless service, and devotion, particularly through the constant chanting of the mantra. She stressed that all people are equal, regardless of nationality, and that we are all one with each other and with God.
Video- In Depth.🎦 For Courage And Positivity🎦
The supreme goddess (Chandi) is transformed into a liberating divine power in the form of sword, that crushes perpetuators of falsehood. The purpose of the work was to raise warrior spirit amongst the Sikhs. This prayer brings physical power and keeps us motivated. Chandi Di Vaar can be recited anytime during the day.
Chandi di vaar.
Part 1 - Line By Line.
Credits @Gur Prasad Channel
Chandi di vaar.
Part 2 - Line By Line.
Credits @Gur Prasad Channel
💕・⚛Every care has been taken to provide accurate meaning of Chandi Di Vaar in Hindi, so that it would make everyone understand the real and in-depth meaning of this bani. This is the 2nd and the last part.💕・⚛
It's a common and recommended practice to visit at the main Chamunda Devi Temple for blessings 🌸before embarking on the trek to Himani Chamunda.
The phrase "Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham" often refers to the popular Chamunda Devi Temple in Kangra, a well-known Shakti Peeth accessible by road.
The temple complex is a beautiful spot with scenic views of Dhauladhar, Baner Khad and Dadh. This place also has a beautiful bathing ghat and a small temple across the bridge joining the ghat. While both temples are dedicated to Chamunda Devi in the same region (Kangra), "Himani Chamunda" specifically refers to the high-altitude, trek-based ancient temple in the mountains (Aadi Himani). The "Dham" often implies the more easily accessible, developed temple complex where a king 👑sought to relocate the idol.
Both are part of the broader Chamunda Devi worship in the area, with Himani being the "original" or "ancient" form (Aadi), and the lower temple being a popular, accessible pilgrimage spot.
In essence, Himani Chamunda is the ancient, high-altitude temple, while Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham is the more accessible, often cited "mother temple" or major pilgrimage site for the deity in the valley below.
Lower Temple (Chamunda Devi Temple).
Higher Temple (Aadi Himani Chamunda) A trek of about 16 km up in the Dhauladhar ranges is the location of original site of ancient Adi Himani Chamunda Temple.
Chamunda Devi temple comprises of a big complex with a 'Kund' (pond) in it. The devotees take a holy dip in this pond. Due to its utterly sacred importance, the main deity of the temple is not accessible to the visitors, being kept under cover.
A cave like scoop at the back of the temple represents an embodiment of Shiva, the stone lingam.
Besides the main shrine, there is a marble staircase leading down to the cave of Lord Shiva with a Shiva Linga. Chamunda Devi Mandir is believed to be the abode of Shiva and Shakti💥. Due to this reason, it is also known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham.
The goddess is known and worshipped as Chamunda. Whose description is available in 27th Shaloka of 7th chapter of Durgasaptshati under Markendey Purana-
यस्माच्चण्डं च मुण्डं च गृहीत्वा त्वमुपागता |
चामुण्डेति ततो लोके ख्याता देवि भविष्यसि ||
The temple houses sacred image of Chamunda Devi. In the corner of the temple, one can see small stone with footsteps of Goddess Chamunda.
Historical Context :
The Chamunda Devi Temple in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, represents a profound layer within India's millennia-spanning cultural continuum, with its origins tracing back to ancient indigenous reverence for divine feminine power ⚡️.
While the current structure is generally dated to the 16th-17th century CE, the site's spiritual significance is believed to be much older, with an original shrine, Aadi Himani Chamunda, located on a difficult to access hilltop.
The construction of the present temple around 400 to 700 years ago was undertaken to provide easier access for devotees, reflecting a continuous tradition of adapting sacred spaces to serve the community.
Divine Mother In Dreams ⋆☾ ゚⋆
Earlier the temple was located at a remote place which was difficult to access so it was relocated to the current location. The King and a Brahmin priest prayed to Devi for permission to move the temple to easily accessible location in 17th century.
In a dream, Devi appeared🪐 to the priest giving her consent. She directed him to dig at the current temple spot to retrieve the idol and build a temple. The priest told the King about his dream who thereafter sent his men to bring the idol. The men found the idol, but they could not lift it.
Again, the Goddess appeared and asked the priest that the men could not lift the idol because they took it as an ordinary stone. She told the priest to get up early in the morning and take a bath. After wearing fresh clothes, the priest should go to the place in a devoted manner. The priest did the same and he could lift the idol easily. He placed the idol in its present location and from that time, the Goddess is 🙏🏼worshipped here.
Location Of The Shrine Nandikeshwar Dham :
A marble staircase leads down from the main shrine to a cave-like scoop where the Shiva Linga is placed. The location is a significant pilgrimage site where devotees also perform ancestral worship near the nearby Ban Ganga River.
"Linga" meaning: In Sanskrit, "linga" means "mark," "sign," or "emblem," signifying Shiva's presence and power.
It embodies creation, preservation, and dissolution, showing the universe's cyclical nature, representing Shiva as the ultimate reality and source of life, not merely a phallic symbol.
In essence, the Shivling serves as a focal point for devotees to worship Shiva in his abstract, all-pervasive form, recognizing the divine within all creation.
"Highly recommended"
Don't forget to visit the Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham, while you're in Chamunda!".
Chamunda Devi link to Cremation Grounds ?
🔥 One Dead Body Everyday. ?
Some temples, like the notable Chamunda Devi Temple in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, are located near cremation grounds, which serves to reinforce the ancient symbolism of her control over death and the cycle of existence. 🌀
She represents liberation (moksha)☮︎ by destroying ignorance and fear, not by causing death. Chamunda Devi symbolizes protection, strength, and the victory of good over evil, not violence against humans. Chamunda Matrika is a motherly goddess who not only destroys the Chanda and Munda vritti but also protects the sadhaka from negative energies.🌌
Rumor : There are local legends or beliefs that a body is cremated there daily as part of an ancient tradition, but this refers to the presence of a crematorium and the natural cycle of life and death, not a forced or ritualistic demand for a corpse.
The conveyance (a means of transport) of Shri Chamunda Ji is corpse (dead human body), that is why She is called Hearse of Corpse . As per ancient tradition every day one dead body is burnt in great cremation rites of deceased for the salvation of the dead here . Any claim linking actual corpses to daily worship, sacrifice, or conveyance of Chamunda Devi is false✘ and based on misunderstanding or rumor.
Cremation ground → truth, impermanence, liberation.
Ashes → ego reduced to nothing.
Corpse imagery → conquered fear of death.
Chamunda Devi does not belong to death - death belongs to her. Due to this divine intervention, The earlier practice of sacrificial offerings was transformed into cremation rites, If no body was available for ritual purposes on a particular day, a straw effigy was ceremonially burned at the Mokshadham. This change symbolized the transcendence of violence into liberation (moksha)☯🌸.
Transformation And The Destruction Of Negativity For Cosmic Balance. ꕤ
After Mata Chamunda slew the demons Chand and Mund, her divine rage knew no bounds. The fierce energy of destruction spread across the region, threatening cosmic balance. To pacify her uncontrollable anger, Lord Shiva himself intervened.
Lord Shiva appeared before Mata Chamunda in the form of a small child 👶 and stood in her path. Mistaking him for an obstacle and still overwhelmed by rage, Mata Chamunda threw five stones at the child. Lord Shiva calmly picked up one of the stones, revealing his divine presence.
At that very moment, Mata Chamunda realized that the child was none other than Lord Shiva himself. Filled with remorse, she immediately 🙏apologized for her anger and actions.
Pleased by her devotion and repentance, Lord Shiva promised to remain at that very spot forever and instructed Mata Chamunda to also reside there with him. Thus, the place became sanctified as the eternal abode of Shiva–Shakti.ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗
"When I am here have no fear" - Bholenath
The Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham –
The Sacred Stone Story:
Devotees believe that Chamunda Mata (a fierce form of Devi) and Nandikeshwar (Lord Shiva) manifested naturally in stone (svayambhū) at this Dham.
Long ago, the place where the Dham now stands was dense forest or barren land. Shepherds or villagers noticed something unusual: Animals would refuse to step on a particular stone, 🐄Milk from cows would mysteriously flow onto the stone, At night, people experienced divine dreams, sounds, or light 🔥, When villagers tried to move or break the stone, they failed. The stone became heavier, Tools broke, Blood-like red marks appeared on the stone, Frightened, the villagers prayed. That night, Maa Chamunda Mata appeared in a dream to a devotee and declared:
“ I reside here with Nandikeshwar. Do not disturb this stone. Worship it.”
The stone associated with this event is worshipped as a sacred reminder of Shiva’s intervention and the moment when divine fury was transformed into cosmic harmony.
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