The Sacred Shakti Peeths of Himachal Pradesh

Story Behind Shakti Peeths

Sati, Daughter of Raja Daksha and first wife of Lord Shiva. The Raja Daksha performed a yagna, in the yagna he invited all the gods and goddesses except Shiva and Sati. She expressed her wish to attend the yagna to Shiva, who tried his best to dissuade her from going.

Shiva eventually relented and Sati went to the yagna. Sati being an uninvited guest was not given any respect at the yagna. Daksha disrespects Shiva and Sati. Sati was unable to bear her father’s insults toward her husband, so she immolated herself in that yagna.
Knowing this, Lord Shiva destroys Daksha yagna. and Shiva carries the burnt body of Sati on his shoulders and wanders around the world.
To control Lord Shiva’s anger Lord Vishnu, followed him and made the body of Sati into pieces with his Chakrayudha. After the whole body disappeared from his shoulders Lord Shiva was back to a normal state and blessed the world.
He said “The places where the body parts of Sati had fallen will become Shakti peeths”

Five Shakti Peeths in Himachal Pradesh

Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is a haven for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. This enchanting region seamlessly combines the allure of pilgrimage sites with the breathtaking beauty of its landscapes, making it a unique destination for those seeking a divine connection amidst nature’s grandeur. Himachal Pradesh is one place where pilgrimage and nature blend in perfect combination.

Check out this blog – https://himachal.blog/shri-ram-mandir/

1. Chintpurni Devi in the state of Himachal Pradesh is a major pilgrimage center. It is one of the Shakti Peethas in India. Dedicated to Chinnamastika Devi or Chinnamasta Devi, the temple is situated in the Una District of Himachal Pradesh around 50 km from Kangra.

• Location: Una district, Himachal Pradesh.
• Significance: Abode of Mata Chintpurni, providing solace from worries.
• Story: Associated with Sati’s feet; symbolizes mental peace.
• How to Reach: Nearest airport – Gaggal; Nearest railway station – Chintpurni.
  Private vehicles are not allowed beyond the temple.

2. Brijeshwari Devi Temple Located in the old township of Kangra, the Brijeshwari Temple was once renowned for its immense wealth that drew rulers and plunderers from far and wide. Dedicated to Goddess Vajreshwari, a form of Durga, the temple is revered as one of the 51 shaktipeethas in the country. It is believed to have been constructed over the spot where the breast of Goddess Sati fell.

• Location: Kangra Town, Himachal Pradesh.
• Dedication: Goddess Vajreshvari, a form of Durga.
• Story: Marks where Sati’s breasts fell; embodies feminine strength.
• How to Reach: 32 km from Jwala Ji; accessible by road and rail
  (Nearest station – Pathankot).

3. Jwalamukhi Temple Located in Kangra, this temple is renowned for the eternal flames that burn without any apparent source. It is believed to be the site where the tongue of Goddess Sati fell.

• Location: 34 km south of Kangra.
• Uniqueness: The Temple lacks an idol; a goddess believed to reside in eternal flames.
• Story: Linked to Sati’s tongue; flames burn naturally due to combustible gas.
• How to Reach: Connected to Chintpurni by road; buses available; 35 km from Chintpurni to Jwala Ji.

4. Chamunda Devi Temple Situated near Dharamshala, this temple is dedicated to Chamunda, a fearsome form of Goddess Durga. It is believed to be the site where the hair of Goddess Sati fell.

• Location: 10 km west of Palampur, Kangra district.
•  Abode: ‘Shiva and Shakti’; known as ‘Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham.’
• Story: Associated with Sati’s hair; ancient temple amidst lush green mountains.
• How to Reach: Accessible by road from Dharamshala, Palampur, and Kangra; 23 km from Bajreshwari temple.

5. Naina Devi Temple Perched atop a hill in Bilaspur, this temple is associated with the eyes of Goddess Sati. Pilgrims flock here to seek the divine blessing of Naina Devi.

• Location: Bilaspur district, Himachal Pradesh.
• Scenic Views: Overlooking Gobind Sagar lake; special fairs during Navratri.
• Story: Sati’s eyes are believed to have fallen here; temple atop the hill.
• How to Reach: 179.1 km from Chamunda Devi via NH503; connected by National Highway no. 21; nearest airport – Chandigarh.