Himani Chamunda- A heavenly trek

One of the many religious and worshiped places in Kangra,(HP) Aadi Himani Chamunda temple in lower reaches of the Dauladhar ranges, situated at around 2920 m height, is a heavenly place to visit. The whole trek is a steep incline and full of gravel and few good patches to walk and is around 8-10 kms a side. It starts from Jia village near the Chamunda mata temple. There is also a Shiva temple and a small Hanuman temple at the top.There is only one tent shop on the way to top around midway where one can relax and enjoy meals. At the top there is only one Sraye to stay in nights, where blankets and utensils can be borrowed for sleeping and preparing food as there is no facility of staying and cooking at the top . Temple remains closed for 4 months from 15th Nov to march 15th due to heavy snowfall on the ranges.Aarti is performed 2 times a day in the morning and evening. A feeling of nirvana is and the whole atmosphere becomes so divine, sounds of bells, Dholki, Chimta, and Mantras took me to another level, into a high trance, Cant forget that feeling in years to come.

Chamunda means fearsome aspect of the devi. The Hindu legends say that Devi Mahatmya, Chamunda emerged as Chandika Jayasundara from the eyebrow of goddess Kaushiki, a goddess created from “sheath” of Durga and was assigned the task of eliminating the demons Chanda and Munda, generals of demon kings Shumbha-Nishumbha. She fought a fierce battle with the demons, ultimately killing them. Goddess Chandika Jayasundara took the slain heads of the two demons to goddess Kaushiki, who became immensely pleased. Kaushiki blessed Chandika Jayasundara and bestowed upon her the title of “Chamunda”, to commemorate the latter’s victory over the demons.

One should go fully prepared while going to the trek as this place don’t have any water stream or source of water except in half way tent dhaba.

FEW CLICKS WHILE CLIMBING TO THE TOP

View from the top is too mesmerizing as one can see Dharamshala on one side, Palampur on other side and huge snow clad mountains of Dauladhar ranges, and as per Pujari of the temple, there lies a jot (name not sure) and Gaddis are known to cross this pass to reach Bharmaur,Chamba. few kms ahead of Himani Chamunda temple, another temple of mata Khargoshni devi is there and many locals go there for prayers.

FEW NIGHT SHOTS AT TOP

VIEWS AROUND TEMPLE