Kelang Wajir(kartik swami) Temple, Kugti, Bharmoaur
The Swami Kartikeya temple, also known as Kelang temple, is situated at the right side of the entrance to Lakshana devi in the Chaurasi (84) temple complex. This small village shrine is built on a small platform with a unique roof. The temple houses an upright stone symbolizing Kelang, the Kartikeya, who is the god of war. Inside the shrine, there is a small piece of wood carved with a figure representing Kelang, which was offered by a devotee. The local peasantry reveres this god as Kelang wazeer or Kelanga-swami or devta. The shrine also has a metal idol that is six inches high and represents the god Kelang holding a staff and a ring. Locals have great faith in the miraculous powers of Kartik-swami, as he is also known. His disciples wear a red cap, and they are in great demand for performing divine or ritual dances. Recently, a marble image of Kartikeya Kelang has been placed along with other votive projects in the temple. Lord Kelang is widely worshipped in Bharmour, and there are many temples of Lord Kelang in and around Bharmour, with the most famous one being the Kartikeya temple near Kugti. Many people also have small temples of Lord Kelang built in their homes.
Who is Kelang Wazir ji?
Kelang Wajir, the elder son of Lord Shiva Shankar, is the revered deity of the Gad community, as well as the people of Kangra-Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. The famous historical temple of Kelang Bajir and Murli is located in the Bharmour-Kugti region of the Chamba district. Furthermore, a renowned temple of Kelang Bajir and Murli is situated in the Thathari village of Khaniyara, just 10 kilometers away from Dharamshala in Kangra district. This temple attracts devotees from all communities and states, including those from other countries, due to their religious beliefs. Kelang Bajir is also worshipped as Kartikeya Swami, Murugan, Dandapani, Kumara-han, and Shri Subrahmanya in South India. As a result, there are many famous Kartikeya Swami temples across the country and abroad. The temple in Khaniyara Thathari is also enhancing the glory of Devbhoomi. Kelang Bajir is considered the deity of war, and his birth occurred to slay the demon Tadkasur. In the mountainous regions of Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti districts, along with the famous lake of Lord Shiva Shankar, Manimahesh, Kartikeya Swami also resides. Kelang Bajir is enshrined in the main temple of Kugti in Bharmour, where a large number of devotees, especially during the rainy season, come to offer prayers. Moreover, it is interesting to note that in Kugti village, chickens are neither eaten nor reared, as it is believed to be the abode of Kelang Bajir, the revered deity.
Mata Marali Temple, Kugti
Marali Mata is a Hindu temple in Chamba. Marali Mata is situated nearby to the Hindu temples Kelang Wazir and Sidh Baba.
Fairs and Festivals at Kelang Wazir Temple
Kelang Wazir Temple hosts several fairs and festivals throughout the year that attract a large number of devotees from nearby areas. The major festival celebrated here is the Kelang Wazir Mela, which takes place in the month of August or September. During the fair, devotees offer prayers and perform rituals to seek blessings from the deity.
Another significant festival celebrated here is the Kartik Swami Mela, which is held in the month of November. This festival is marked by the performance of traditional dance and music by the devotees.
Apart from these festivals, several other local fairs are also held at the temple. These fairs provide an opportunity for the locals to showcase their culture and traditions through various activities such as folk dance, music, and handicraft exhibitions.
The fairs and festivals at Kelang Wazir Temple are an important part of the local cultural heritage and attract a large number of devotees and tourists every year.
Best Time To Visit Kelang Wazir Temple
The best time to visit Kelang Bajir Temple is during the summer months of April to June and the autumn months of September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the temple is easily accessible. The monsoon months of July to August should be avoided as the region receives heavy rainfall which may cause landslides and disrupt travel. The winter months of December to March are also not recommended as the temple may be covered in snow and the roads may be blocked due to snowfall.
Attractions to Explore Near Kelang Wazir Temple, Kugti
There are several attractions to explore near Kelang Wazir Temple in Kugti. Some of them are:
- Kugti Pass Trek: The Kugti Pass Trek is a popular trek that starts from Kugti village and takes you through the Pir Panjal Range to Lahaul Valley. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary: The Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the Kugti Pass and is home to several species of animals, including the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and musk deer.
- Manimahesh Lake: Manimahesh Lake is located near Bharmour and is considered to be one of the holiest lakes in India. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular destination for pilgrims.
- Bharmour: Bharmour is a small town located near Kugti and is known for its ancient temples, including the Chaurasi Temple Complex, which has 84 ancient temples dedicated to different deities.
- Chamba: Chamba is a scenic town located about 100 km from Kugti and is known for its ancient temples, palaces, and museums. The town is also famous for its handicrafts, including textiles, pottery, and woodcarving.
- Sach Pass: Sach Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located in the Pir Panjal Range and connects Chamba Valley to Pangi Valley. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.
Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary, Chamba
Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It was established in 1962 and covers an area of about 362 square kilometers. The sanctuary is named after the Kugti Pass, which is situated within its boundaries and connects the Chamba and Lahaul districts.
The Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Some of the animals found here include Himalayan black bears, brown bears, snow leopards, musk deer, Himalayan tahr, bharal (blue sheep), and many species of birds. The sanctuary is also known for its rich vegetation, which includes alpine, sub-alpine, and temperate forests.
The sanctuary is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and trekkers. Visitors can take guided tours of the sanctuary and participate in activities such as trekking, camping, and bird watching. The best time to visit the Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the animals are easily spotted.
At a Glance
- 32.4761351,76.7145486
- India
- Himachal Pradesh
- Kelang Wazir Temple(kartik swami)
- 3,080 m
How To Get There
To summarize, the best way to reach Lord Kartik Swami temple is as follows:
- Reach Bharmour and spend a night there.
- Hire a taxi the next day and head towards Lahal, which is 22km away from Bharmour. On the way, you can see Hadsar, the
- starting point of Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary, and Hadsar waterfall. You can also see Kaksen & Bhagsen waterfalls near Dharol.
- Once you reach Lahal, you need to start trekking towards Kugti Village.
- From Kugti Village, trek to Lord Kartik Swami temple.
- It is advisable to carry sufficient food, water, and warm clothing during the trek, as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains. Additionally, it is recommended to consult with local tour operators or trekking agencies for any further assistance and guidance.
I hope this information helps in planning your trip to Lord Kartik Swami temple. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!