For more than 400 years, Chamunda Devi Temple has overlooked the colossal Dhauldhar ranges of the Himalayan mountains. Situated along the river Ban Ganga banks, roughly 15 kms from Dharamsala, you’ll find one of the most beloved and visited temples dedicated to goddess Durga A.K.A. Chamunda.

The sacred temple enjoys brisk daily traffic, heavier on the weekends, and crushing throngs of devotees on Durga Puja, eager for a chance to view the spiritual rock below the main entrance. Local legends speak of healing powers from this cave structure representing the stone lingam, an embodiment of the Hindu god Shiva. The temple is constructed on two floors accessed through a large covered pathway adorned with beautifully sculpted figures of Hinduism’s most recognizable idols, painted in vibrant colors. It isn’t until reaching the outer area of Chamunda Devi Temple that you suddenly realize the scope of it’s presence along the river.

Lions, snakes and monkeys, oh my! Over-size statues of revered Hindu deities and their respective symbols watch over the large pond lying adjacent the temple and Banganga River. Nooks and crannies filled with religious figures are colorfully displayed behind annoying metal fences. And as if that wasn’t enough to deter anyone looking for a picture or to deface property, shards of glass have been embedded into the cement bases. Local villagers and visiting families wade in the river’s rushing waters. You’ll find some even doing laundry or more appropriately relaxing over a picnic lunch. An arched walkway takes the less adventurous over the river to the awaiting handicrafts center. Shopping, paddle boat rides in the holy pond, lunch by the river, all under the watchful eyes of colorfully painted mythological figures, blends itself into a theme-park atmosphere not to be missed.

India travel guides give nary a mention to this unique find. That isn’t to say it’s hard to locate, and don’t confuse Chamunda Devi Temple, located in the North India state of Himachal Pradesh, with the multitude of temples by the same name in other Indian states. Buses or taxis from neighboring Dharamsala, Baijnath or Kangra will instantly know of it’s whereabouts.

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