Behind the bustling market stalls in the tranquil town of Kangra lies one of the most magnificent temples of North India. Behind the cricket field, behind the innumerable stalls selling everything from fresh chicken to puja offerings, Bajreshwari Devi Temple stands tall among its surroundings. Yet reaching the popular Hindu temple devoted to goddess Bajreshwari presents a bit of a challenge requiring patience, and a good guide.
It is not known when Bajreshwari Devi (A.K.A. Vajreshwari) was built. History reports that the temple was attacked in 1009, by Mohammed Ghazni, a Muslim ruler who amassed a vast wealth from repeated raids of India. In 1905, a devastating earthquake flattened the original temple along with much of Kangra and the nearby Kangra Fort. Fifteen years after the horrific quake, Bajreshwari Devi Temple was reopened in 1920, one of only a few remaining temples of Kangra’s glorious past.
The annual festival of Makar Sankranti is famously celebrated at Vajreshwari Devi. The holy tradition of applying ghee to the goddess idol, followed by a washing of cold water 100 times is still performed. Afterward the idol is decorated by flowers. This practice continues for a week.
Visitors arriving to Kangra town by car must park at a central parking lot teaming with tourist buses and private cars. Cross the street to find a cobbled pathway meandering through the brimming Kangra bazaar. Twists and turns, steps and steep inclines mark the path toward the noteworthy temple. Stalls lining the market sell everything visitors and pilgrims may need including ready made puja offerings. Lost? Simply ask, “temple?”, from any merchant and you’ll be sure to receive a wave of their hand in the right direction. The ever clanging bell used to wake the gods will guide you the rest of the way.
Expect the lines to be long to reach the inner sanctum. Bajreshwari Devi Temple is a busy pilgrimage site for traveling Hindus and of course, tourists. Relax afterward in the marble courtyard as many families do, shop in the market, watch the local kids play cricket, or visit the ruins of Kangra Fort just 3.5 kms away.
Entry is free. Removal of shoes in mandatory. Be prepared for large groups of tourists and locals.
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