Jawala Ji Temple, Kangra
Jawala Ji Temple is a highly revered Shakti Temple located in the lap of the Shivalik range of Kangra valley in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths of India and is believed to be the first temple built by the Pandavas.
According to Hindu mythology, the temple is situated at the spot where Sati’s tongue fell when Lord Shiva was carrying her burnt body. The temple is unique in that there is no idol or deity that is worshiped. Instead, it has a series of natural flames, or Jyotish, which have been burning continuously for centuries and are believed to represent the power of the goddess.
The temple’s peaceful and serene atmosphere is enhanced by its traditional Himachali-style architecture and its location amidst beautiful hills and forests. The temple’s views from the top are breathtaking, and it is an ideal destination for spiritual seekers and nature lovers.
The temple is a great heritage center for not only the people of Jawala Mukhi, Kangra, or Himachal Pradesh but for the whole world. During the Navaratri celebrations, which are held twice a year in March-April and September-October, the temple hosts colorful fairs, which are a major attraction for visitors.
Jawala Ji Temple is a symbol of the divine feminine and represents the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the spiritual side of India and experience its beauty and diversity.
Fairs and Festivals at Jawala Ji Temple
Jawala Ji Temple hosts several fairs and festivals throughout the year, the most famous of which are the Navaratri celebrations held twice a year during March-April and September-October.
During the Navaratri festival, the temple is beautifully decorated with lights and flowers, and devotees from all over India gather to seek the blessings of the goddess. The fair is a major attraction for tourists, and it showcases the rich culture and traditions of Himachal Pradesh.
The fair features a wide range of stalls selling handicrafts, food, and other items. It is also an excellent opportunity for local farmers to sell their produce. Cultural programs, including traditional dance and music performances, are organized at the fair, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Another important festival celebrated at Jawala Ji Temple is the Makar Sankranti Mela, held in January. The festival marks the arrival of the spring season and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The fair features several stalls selling local produce and handicrafts, and devotees gather to take a dip in the nearby river and seek the blessings of the goddess.
Other festivals celebrated at Jawala Ji Temple include Diwali, Holi, and Shivratri. During these festivals, the temple is decorated with lights, and devotees gather to offer prayers and seek blessings from the goddess.
Overall, the fairs and festivals at Jawala Ji Temple are a celebration of the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India. They offer an excellent opportunity for tourists and devotees to experience the traditional lifestyle of Himachal Pradesh and witness the devotion of the locals towards the goddess.
Things To Do In Jawala Ji
Jawala Ji is a popular pilgrimage destination and offers several activities and things to do for tourists and devotees. Here are some of the things to do in Jawala Ji:
- Visit the Jawala Ji Temple: The main attraction of Jawala Ji is the Jwala Devi Temple, which is dedicated to the Goddess of Light. The temple is famous for the natural flames or Jyotish that have been burning continuously for centuries. Visiting the temple and seeking the blessings of the goddess is a must-do activity.
- Take a Dip in the River Beas: The river Beas is a short distance away from Jawala Ji and is considered holy. Taking a dip in the river and seeking the blessings of the goddess is a popular activity among devotees.
- Attend the Fairs and Festivals: Jawala Ji hosts several fairs and festivals throughout the year, including the Navaratri celebrations, Makar Sankranti Mela, and Diwali. Attending these festivals is a great way to experience the local culture and traditions.
- Visit the Kangra Fort: The Kangra Fort is a historic fort located in the Kangra district, a short distance away from Jawala Ji. The fort is over 1000 years old and is a popular tourist destination.
- Explore the Local Markets: Jawala Ji has several local markets that sell handicrafts, clothes, and other items. Exploring the local markets and shopping for souvenirs is a great way to experience the local culture and traditions.
- Trekking: The Shivalik range of Kangra valley called “Kalidhar” is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts. The picturesque landscape and natural beauty of the area offer an ideal setting for trekking and hiking.
Overall, Jawala Ji is a great destination for tourists and devotees alike. It offers a perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and adventure and provides an opportunity to experience the rich heritage of India.
Best Time To Visit Jawala Ji
The best time to visit Jawala Ji is from March to June and September to November, which is the spring and autumn season in Himachal Pradesh. The weather during these months is pleasant, and the temperature ranges between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
During the summer months of May and June, the temperature may rise to a maximum of 30 degrees Celsius, but the weather remains comfortable for most of the day. This is the peak tourist season in Jawala Ji, and the temple receives a large number of devotees and tourists during this time.
The monsoon season in Jawala Ji lasts from July to August and can be a bit unpredictable, with occasional landslides and road closures. It is not recommended to visit Jawala Ji during this season.
The winter season in Jawala Ji lasts from December to February and can be quite chilly, with temperatures dropping below freezing point. While the temple remains open throughout the year, it is not recommended to visit Jawala Ji during the winter season, especially for those who are not used to extreme cold weather conditions.
Overall, the best time to visit Jawala Ji is during the spring and autumn season, when the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty of the area is at its peak.
Gorakh Dibbi
Gorakh Dibbi is a highly revered holy place located above the Jwala Ji temple. It holds significant spiritual importance and is considered to have some unique properties.
One of the distinguishing features of Gorakh Dibbi is the small kund or pool of water that always appears to be boiling, but it remains cool by the grace of the Mother. Additionally, there is a small flame burning on the kund known as Rudra Kunda, which appears to be larger than its actual size when viewed through the water.
According to local beliefs, Guru Gorakhnath, a well-known saint and yogi, did penance at this place. He left his dibbi or earthen pot with his disciple Siddha Nagarjun and went to fetch some khichdi, but he did not return. To the amazement of everyone, the water in the dibbi did not become hot despite being left unattended, which is considered a miracle.
Gorakh Dibbi is a spiritually significant place that adds to the overall spiritual aura of Jawala Ji temple. Visitors can experience the unique properties of the kund and flame while exploring the serene surroundings of this holy place.a
Attractions to Explore Near Jawala Ji Temple
There are several attractions to explore near Jwala Ji temple that offer visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region. Here are some of the top attractions to explore:
- Kangra Fort: Located about 30 km from Jwala Ji temple, the Kangra Fort is a historic fort that dates back to the 4th century BC. The fort is known for its impressive architecture and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Chamunda Devi Temple: About 18 km from Jawala Ji temple, Chamunda Devi temple is a popular pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is located atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
- Chintpurni Temple: Located about 35 km from Jwala Ji temple, Chintpurni Temple is another popular pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Chinnamastika Devi. The temple is located on a hill and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Masroor Rock Cut Temple: About 60 km from Jwala Ji temple, Masroor Rock Cut Temple is a group of ancient temples carved out of rock that dates back to the 8th century AD. The temple is known for its unique architecture and is a popular tourist attraction.
- Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake: Located about 40 km from Jawala Ji temple, Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake is a large reservoir that offers boating, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities. The lake is surrounded by picturesque hills and is a great place to unwind and relax.
These are just a few of the many attractions to explore near Jwala Ji temple, making it an ideal destination for those interested in history, spirituality, nature, and adventure.
At a Glance
- 31.8756100°N 76.3243500°E
- India
- Himachal Pradesh
- 557.66 m (1,829.59 ft)
How To Get There
Jawala Ji temple is located in Jawalamukhi town in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Here are the different ways to get there:
Jawala Ji temple is well-connected by road, and several buses and taxis operate from nearby cities and towns. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Dharamshala, Kangra, or Palampur to reach the temple. The nearest major city is Pathankot, which is about 110 km away.
The nearest railway station is located in Kangra, which is about 22 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
The nearest airport to Jawala Ji temple is Gaggal Airport, located about 50 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
Once you reach Jawala Ji town, the temple is located in the heart of the town and is easily accessible on foot. You can also hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the temple. It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear as the temple premises have steep stairs and uneven terrain.