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About Brijeshwari Devi
Brijeshwari Devi Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site located in the historic town of Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. Also known as the Kangra devi temple, the temple is located in the historic town of Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. The deity Brieshwari devi temple is a powerful manifestation of Goddess Durga, which symbolises the goddess of strength and victory. One of the 51 shakti peethas in hindu mythology many pilgrimages come to the temple to seek blessings, spiritual healing, and relief from suffering.
Geographical Setting
Surrounded by the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range, the temple sits at an altitude of 650 metres in the picturesque Kangra valley. Moderate climate and scenic beauty around add a serene environment to the spiritual ambiance. It’s not just a religious destination but a peaceful retreat for travellers.
Mythological Significance
According to Hindu mythology, the Brijeshwari Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas—sacred sites. It’s the place where it’s believed that Sati’s left breast fell when Lord Shiva carried her lifeless form across the cosmos in grief. Goddess Vajreshwari, another name for Brijeshwari, is worshipped here as the invincible mother who nourishes, protects, and empowers. Devotees believe that worshipping her can free one from physical ailments, fear, and negative energies.
Architecture and Temple Layout
The temple showcases classic North Indian temple architecture. Nagara style is represented well through its beehive-shaped towers or shikharas. The temple is beautiful, with intricate carved stone pillars, arched gateways, and a grand silver-plated door. The main sanctum of the temple houses the sacred pindi (stone) that represents the deity, adorned with flowers, cloth, and silver ornaments.
The temple complex also houses smaller shrines to deities like Bhairav and Lakshmi-Narayan. Additionally, many Tantric practitioners regard the temple as a powerful energy centre and refer to it as “Gupt Kamakhya,” hinting at its esoteric significance.
Historical Background
The Brijeshwari Devi Temple has witnessed the rise and fall of kingdoms and empires. In the 11th century the temple was plundered by Mahmud of Ghazni for its immense wealth. Despite such destruction, the temple has been reconstructed multiple times. Historically, a golden dome was added to the temple by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Especially under the patronage of the Katoch dynasty, whose king, Sansar Chand, played a crucial role in its restoration in the 19th century.
However, the temple faced a major calamity during the devastating Kangra earthquake in 1905. But again it was built and today stands as a resilient symbol of devotion and cultural heritage.
How to Reach
By Road:
Well connected by buses and taxis from:
Dharamshala (20 km)
Pathankot (85 km)
Chandigarh (240 km)
By Train:
Nearest Major Station: Pathankot Junction
Narrow-gauge train: From Pathankot to Kangra Mandir Railway Station (a scenic ride!)
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala/Kangra Airport)—11 km away
Direct flights from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar
Makar Sankranti
One of the most unique rituals of the temple occurs during Makar Sankranti , when the idol of the goddess is smeared with butter for a week. This tradition is rooted in a legend that Goddess Vajreshwari was injured during battle, and butter was used as a healing balm.