Jwala Devi Temple
Mythological Story and Significance in Hindu Religion
Jwala Devi Temple, located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and is unique among all Hindu temples due to the eternal flames (Akhand Jyotis) that emerge naturally from the rock fissures.
📜 Mythological Origin:
- According to Hindu mythology, when Sati’s body was dismembered by Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra, her tongue fell at this spot, making it a Shakti Peeth.
- The tongue is symbolically represented by the flame that burns eternally.
- The goddess here is worshipped as Jwala Ji – the Goddess of Light or Flame.
It is believed that the flames represent nine forms of the goddess Durga and burn without any fuel or assistance.
Spiritual Significance
- The temple is revered by Hindus, Sikhs, and even some Buddhists.
- The flames are considered a manifestation of divine energy, a symbol of power and purity.
- Akbar, the Mughal emperor, once tried to extinguish the flames but failed. Impressed, he donated a golden umbrella to the temple (which mysteriously turned to a different metal later).
- The flames represent the eternal power of the Goddess, who resides here not in a physical idol but as light (Jyoti).
History of the Temple
- The exact date of origin is unknown, but it is mentioned in ancient scriptures and was likely worshipped since the Satya Yuga.
- The temple was renovated and expanded by Raja Bhumi Chand Katoch, a ruler of the Kangra region, who had a divine vision of the Goddess.
- Several additions have been made over centuries, especially by the Katoch kings, who considered Jwala Ji their family deity.
Natural Beauty & Surroundings
The temple sits in the foothills of the Shivalik range, surrounded by thick deodar forests and rolling hills.
- The natural flames rising from rocky crevices within the temple complex mesmerize visitors.
- The surrounding hills, dotted with quaint villages and lush meadows, offer a peaceful retreat.
- The sound of temple bells, chants, and occasional river streams combine to create a spiritually charged atmosphere.
The air is filled with the divine aura, and the landscape complements the mystical feel of the sacred flames.
The Beautiful Road Journey to Jwala Ji
- The drive to Jwala Ji Temple is a scenic blend of hill terrains, forests, and rural Himachal charm.
- If coming from Dharamshala or Kangra, the route takes you through tea gardens, pine forests, winding roads, and Himachali hamlets.
- During spring and post-monsoon, the roads are lined with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making the journey serene and photogenic.
- Pilgrims often chant bhajans or play devotional music, making it a spiritual caravan through nature.
Best Time to Visit
Season | Highlights |
March – June | Ideal climate, cool and pleasant |
September – November | Clear skies, green surroundings |
Avoid July – August | Heavy monsoons can cause landslides |
Winters (Dec – Feb) | Cold but suitable if you’re comfortable in chilly temperatures |
Navratri (both Chaitra and Ashwin) is the most celebrated time when thousands gather here for grand festivities.
Season | Highlights |
March – June | Ideal climate, cool and pleasant |
September – November | Clear skies, green surroundings |
Avoid July – August | Heavy monsoons can cause landslides |
Winters (Dec – Feb) | Cold but suitable if you’re comfortable in chilly temperatures |
Navratri (both Chaitra and Ashwin) is the most celebrated time when thousands gather here for grand festivities.
How to Reach Jwala Devi Temple
Mode | Details |
By Air | Nearest airport: Gaggal (Kangra) Airport, 46 km |
By Train | Nearest broad-gauge station: Pathankot (123 km) |
By Road | Regular buses and taxis from Dharamshala (55 km), Kangra (35 km), and Palampur; well-connected by Himachal Road Transport |
Mode | Details |
By Air | Nearest airport: Gaggal (Kangra) Airport, 46 km |
By Train | Nearest broad-gauge station: Pathankot (123 km) |
By Road | Regular buses and taxis from Dharamshala (55 km), Kangra (35 km), and Palampur; well-connected by Himachal Road Transport |
Famous Local Food & Eateries
Eatery | Specialty |
Jwala Devi Bhojanalaya | Simple thali meals, puri-sabzi |
Satvik Bhojanalayas near Temple | Free/low-cost food for pilgrims |
Nearby Dhabas on the Road | Rajma chawal, parathas, kadhi chawal, sweet lassi |
Dharamshala eateries (if staying overnight) | Tibetan food, momos, Himachali Dham |
Eatery | Specialty |
Jwala Devi Bhojanalaya | Simple thali meals, puri-sabzi |
Satvik Bhojanalayas near Temple | Free/low-cost food for pilgrims |
Nearby Dhabas on the Road | Rajma chawal, parathas, kadhi chawal, sweet lassi |
Dharamshala eateries (if staying overnight) | Tibetan food, momos, Himachali Dham |
Accommodation Options Near Temple
Category | Options |
Budget | Dharamshalas managed by the Jwala Ji Temple Trust, basic and clean |
Mid-range | Hotels in Jwalamukhi town, like Hotel Sheetal and Hotel Mamta |
Luxury | Stay in nearby Dharamshala or Palampur, with resorts and hotels offering spa and luxury stays |
Category | Options |
Budget | Dharamshalas managed by the Jwala Ji Temple Trust, basic and clean |
Mid-range | Hotels in Jwalamukhi town, like Hotel Sheetal and Hotel Mamta |
Luxury | Stay in nearby Dharamshala or Palampur, with resorts and hotels offering spa and luxury stays |
Nearby Popular Tourist Places
Place | Distance | Highlights |
Kangra Fort | 35 km | Historic fort, panoramic valley views |
Chamunda Devi Temple | 40 km | Sacred temple near Palampur |
Dharamshala | 55 km | Monasteries, cricket stadium, Tibetan culture |
Masroor Rock Temples | 60 km | Ancient rock-cut temples similar to Ellora |
Palampur | 60 km | Tea gardens, serene landscapes |
Place | Distance | Highlights |
Kangra Fort | 35 km | Historic fort, panoramic valley views |
Chamunda Devi Temple | 40 km | Sacred temple near Palampur |
Dharamshala | 55 km | Monasteries, cricket stadium, Tibetan culture |
Masroor Rock Temples | 60 km | Ancient rock-cut temples similar to Ellora |
Palampur | 60 km | Tea gardens, serene landscapes |