Image Source: Shivani Singh
About Chintpurni Temple
Chintpurni Temple is located in the Una district of Himachal Pradesh. one of 51 Shakti Peethas in india the sacred shrine is dedicated to Mata Chintpurni, also known as Chhinnamastika Devi, a fierce form of Goddess Durga.
Over time, the temple’s popularity increases. Thousands of devotees across India come to seek relief from “Chinta” (worries)—hence the name of the temple Chintpurni, or “The Goddess Who Removes Worries.”
History and mythology of Chintpurni Temple
The Chintpurni Shakti Peeth is believed to be the spot where Sati’s forehead (or part of her body, depending on the version) fell when Lord Shiva wandered the earth with her burning corpse.
Dating back to the 16th century, the temple was established by Pandit Mai Das, a devotee from the Saraswat Brahmin community. According to records and local belief, He had a divine vision where the goddess ordered him to build her temple at Chintpurni. she would reside in the form of a pindi (sacred stone).
Architecture of Chintpurni Temple
Temple is a perfect example of traditional Himachali style. It has an element of modernity that was added during renovations over time.
Key features include:
Red flags, bells, and floral decorations create an air of devotion and energy. Intricately designed railings and carved silver doors surround the sanctum. Devotees tie red threads and bells to those railings and wish their prayers.
A square sanctum housing the sacred pindi of Mata Chintpurni. There is a sacred fire (Akhand Jyoti) that is believed to have been burning continuously for centuries.
The main priestly duties are still performed by the descendants of Pandit Mai Das, the temple’s founder.
Mythology
Mata Chintpurni as Chhinnamastika Devi is worshipped as a part of ten Mahavidyas (Wisdom Goddesses) in the tantric tradition. She is depicted as headless, which symbolises the self-sacrificing nature of the divine mother, who removes ego, fear, and worldly concerns. According to mythology, Chhinnamasta cut off her own head to feed her devotees and her two attendants.
Devotees visit the temple and pray with a pure heart, which helps to remove worries, fulfil wishes, and bring peace of mind. Many wish for children, marriage, jobs, or removal of personal difficulties. You will see devotees walking up the hill barefoot and often tying threads, offering coconuts, and breaking coconuts at the temple.
How to Reach
Location: Chintpurni, Una district, Himachal Pradesh.
By Road:
From Una: 55 km (1.5 hours).
From Hoshiarpur (Punjab): 40 km.
From Chandigarh: 120 km (3–4 hours).
Regular buses and taxis are available from nearby towns.
By Train:
Nearest major station: Una Railway Station (~55 km).
Alternatively: Amb Andaura Station is just 20 km away.
By Air:
Nearest airport: Gaggal (Kangra Airport) – 60 km.
Alternatively: Chandigarh Airport – 120 km.
Navratri and the Sawan Ashtami fair
During this time the devotees visit the temple in large numbers to pay their offerings and respect.