Dharamshala also written as Dharamsala is a beautiful city and home to Dalai Lama and many Tibetans particularly upper part of Dharamshala that includes McLeodganj, Dharamkot and Bhagsu. It is also home to some of the ancient and beautiful temples that you should definitely visit while exploring this beautiful place. Let’s see some of the ancient and important temples that you should visit here:
1. Bhagsunag Temple
Bhagsunag also known as Bhagsunath temple, is one of the most ancient temples in Dharamshala. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There’s an ancient story that goes like Bhagsu was a Rakchas (Demon) and king of a small village, his kingdom faced a water crisis so his public asked him to arrange water otherwise they will live. So, he himself went in the search of water and came across Dal Lake which was then owned by Nag Devta (snake king). Bhagsu took all the water in the absence of snake king. When snake king found about it, they fought at this place and Bhagsu got killed knowing his pure intention Nag gave him a blessing that this place will be known by your name and in this temple my name will be taken after your name. That’s why this place is known as Bhagsu and this temple is known as Bhagsu-nag temple. There is a very famous and beautiful waterfall nearby Bhagsu waterfall.
2. Durveshvar Mahadev Temple
Durveshvar Mahadev temple is sitting on the banks of Dal Lake, Dharamshala. It is believed to be established by Durvasha Rishi, a sage devoted to Mahadev (Lord Shiva). The location of this temple makes it even more peaceful, spiritual and must go place for everyone. There are some other wonderful temples located nearby this temple even there is a beautiful rock cut cave temple that you should not miss.
3. Chamunda Devi Temple
Chamunda devi mandir is a famous pilgrimage site situated around 15 Km from Dharamshala. This place is also believed to be the abode of Shiva and Shakti and that’s why its full name is Chamunda Nandikeshwar Temple. Chamunda devi was actually located at a different location which was not easily accessible, it was in 17th century when a priest and king prayed to goddess for relocating this temple to a more accessible location so, that other devotee could also prayer. Goddess came in the dream of the priest and show him the way how to move the temple to this location.
4. Kunal Pathri Temple
Located on the foothills of Dhauladhar ranges, Kunal Pathri mandir is around 6 Kms from Dharamshala. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peeth of Mata Sati, where her skull has fallen. Skull in Sanskrit or Hindi is called “Kapal” and that why it also known as Kapaleshwari temple where this shakti peeth is prayed as Kapaleshwari mata. There is a stone in this temple which is always wet and is believed that when it starts to dry, it rains. Reaching this temple will take you through tea gardens and lush green forest.
5. Aghanjar Mahadev Temple
Sitting on the foothills of Dhauladhar ranges, Aghanjar Mahadev temple is an ancient shrine around 5 Kms from Dharamshala. It is the place where lord Shiva appeared in front of the Arjuna, one of the Pandavas and gave him blessings to win the war against Kauravs. It is the must visit temple near Dharamshala.
These are some of the ancient and important temples in and near Dharamshala that you should definitely visit. These ancient shrines are a testament for its ancient architect and culture that it carries.
Until next time, keep travelling and take care of Nature.