The Jwala Devi Temple is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Himachal Pradesh. It is located in the Kangra district. This temple is devoted to Jwala Devi, the goddess of flames. This is a religious site for Hindus, and the place is also quite famous for the eternal flame, which has been burning for ages. For those planning to visit, understanding the Jwala Devi Temple Himachal Pradesh distance from key locations can help in better travel planning. Here’s a detailed overview of the temple::
Location
It is situated in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh near the town of Kangra. The place is situated at Jwalamukhi, about 35 km from Dharamshala, about 20 km from Kangra, and 40 km from Palampur.
History and Mythology
The temple has history dating back into ancient times, and is associated directly with Mahabharata and Shiva Purana. There is a saying that when Goddess Sati committed self-immolation in the fire of her husband’s pyre, then parts of her body fell on various places while her tongue fell in this temple in the arms of Lord Shiva. Hence, it comes into the list of 51 Shakti Peethas in India.
This flame is claimed to be continuously burning within the temple, representing the divine power of Goddess Jwala Devi. Flames are said to be burning inside without any fuel or firewood. This increases the mysticism surrounding the temple
Architecture
The temple is uniquely designed, and it reflects the traditional Himachali temple architecture. The temple complex consists of a central shrine where the flame is worshipped. The main structure is small and simple, but it is surrounded by various smaller shrines and structures dedicated to other deities.
The temple has stone construction along with brass bells and sacred symbols. The typical Shikhara-style roof in the temple is another common feature associated with the temples of this region.
Prayer and Ceremony
Devotees pay their visit to the Jwala Devi Temple to perform prayers, request blessings, and worship the goddess. The Navratri festival is mainly observed by a large number of followers in the temple. The deity in the temple follows traditional Hindu rituals, along with prasad, flowers, and ghee being offered as part of those rituals.
There is a fair conducted annually in the month of Chaitra (March-April) and thousands of devotees and tourists throng this place. The devotees believe that it brings them blessings, removes all sorts of obstacles, and grants all their wishes to visit the temple during Navratri.
Festivals
Navratri: During the Navratri festival, the temple has thousands of devotees as Goddess Durga is worshipped during this period.
Ashvin Navratri: Another festival, which witnesses large numbers of devotees visiting the temple.
Shivaratri: The temple is consecrated to Goddess Jwala Devi-an incarnation of Goddess Parvati-and so, it’s an important shrine also on Shivaratri.
Significance
The temple holds religious and spiritual importance for Hindus. The belief is that the goddess fulfills her devotees’ wishes, particularly in terms of health, prosperity, and well-being. The natural flame burning in the temple is something of a miracle left by divines and a place of great reverence and pilgrimage.
Accessibility
The Jwala Devi Temple is accessible by road. The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, which is 40 km from the temple. The nearest railway station is Jawalamukhi Road (Ranital) Railway Station, which is about 20 km from the temple.
By road: The temple can be reached from Kangra, Dharamshala, and Palampur by buses and taxis.
By train: Kangra has a narrow-gauge railway that connects it to the nearby areas.
Nearby Places from Jwala Devi Temple
The region around the Jwala Devi Temple offers several other tourist attractions, making it a popular destination for spiritual and nature-loving visitors:
- Kangra Fort: A historic fort located near the temple.
- Baijnath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, located around 15 km from the temple.
- Mcleodganj: A popular tourist destination, especially among foreign travelers.
- Kareri Lake: A beautiful high-altitude lake nearby.
Distance to Jwala Devi Temple from Major Cities and Locations
Approximate Distance from Jwala Devi Temple is:
| Destination | Distance to Jwala Devi Temple | Travel Time (by road) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 444 km | 9-10 hours |
| Chandigarh | 188 km | 4-5 hours |
| Manali | 239 km | 5-6 hours |
| Pathankot | 110 km | 2-3 hours |
| Shimla | 190 km | 6-7 hours |
| Dharamshala | 52 km | 1 hour |
| Hoshiarpur | 160 km | 5-6 hours |
| Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala) | 40 km | 1 hour |
| Jammu | 406 km | 10-11 hours |
Also Read: Jibhi Himachal Pradesh: Hidden Waterfalls, Dreamy Weather & Top Hotels
Conclusion
The Jwala Devi Temple is a religious site that holds great importance for the state of Himachal Pradesh in terms of its architecture and culture. The eternal flame, its historical value, and its deep connection to the mythology of Hinduism make it a place that pilgrims and tourists should not miss. The temple attracts a steady stream of visitors whether for spiritual aura or for natural beauty throughout the year.
