Jwalamukhi Temple, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh
Location:
Jwalamukhi Temple is located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, about 35 km from Kangra town and 55 km from Dharamshala. It sits atop a cliff in the Shivalik Range and is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in India.
Significance & Mythology
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The temple is dedicated to Goddess Jwalamukhi (the “Flaming Mouth”), a manifestation of Maa Sati (an incarnation of Goddess Parvati).
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According to Hindu mythology, when Lord Vishnu cut Sati’s body into 51 parts to stop Lord Shiva’s grief, her tongue fell here, making it a sacred Shakti Peetha.
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Unlike other temples, there is no idol—instead, eternal blue flames (emanating from natural volcanic gases) are worshipped as the goddess.
The Eternal Flames
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The temple has nine continuous flames (called “Jwala”) burning from rock fissures.
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The main flames are named after deities: Maha Kali, Maa Annapurna, Maa Chandi, Maa Hinglaj, Maa Vindhyavasini, Maa Mahalakshmi, Maa Saraswati, Maa Ambika, and Maa Anjana.
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Despite efforts, no one has been able to extinguish these flames, which adds to the temple’s mystical aura.
Architecture
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Built in Indo-Sikh style, the temple has a gold-plated dome and silver-plated doors.
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The sanctum sanctorum is a small pit where the sacred flames burn.
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A giant brass bell, gifted by Emperor Akbar, hangs in the temple.
Festivals & Rituals
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Navratri (especially Chaitra & Ashwin) sees massive pilgrim gatherings.
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Shravan Ashtami (July-August) is another major festival.
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Aarti Timings:
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Morning: 5:00 AM – 7:00 AM
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Evening: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
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Devotees offer coconuts, sweets, and red chunri (cloth) to the goddess.
How to Reach
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By Air: Nearest airport is Gaggal (Dharamshala) – 50 km.
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By Train: Nearest railhead is Pathankot (120 km) or Kangra (35 km).
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By Road: Well-connected via Kangra, Dharamshala, and Pathankot.
Nearby Attractions
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Kangra Fort (35 km) – Ancient fort with rich history.
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Baijnath Temple (50 km) – Famous for its Shiva temple.
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Chintpurni Temple (100 km) – Another revered Shakti Peetha.
Interesting Fact
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Emperor Akbar once tried to extinguish the flames but failed, after which he offered a gold umbrella to the goddess.
A visit to Jwalamukhi Temple is a unique spiritual experience, blending devotion, mythology, and natural wonder.
