Chintpurni Temple is one of the oldest temples in India which is located in the Una district, Himachal Pradesh, enclosed in the lap of nature with the western Himalayans in its north and the smaller Shivallik Range in its east. This temple is one of the 7 major Shakthi Peethas among 51 Shakthi Peethas of India which is dedicated to Chintpurni Devi, also known as Mata Shri Chinnamasthika Devi, and also considered an Avatar of Goddess Durga. The term Chinna Masthika means ‘The headless one’. The separation of a head from the divinity implies the separation of the body from the mind, representing the freedom of the conscious soul from the physical limits of the worldly body.
This temple attracts devotees with its divine grace, rich history, and finery architecture. Devotees gather to the temple pursuing the blessings of the Goddess to fulfil their wishes and relieve them from worries.
History of Chintpurni Temple:
The Chintpurni shrine was established about 26 generations ago by Pandit Mai Das, a Saraswat Brahmin in the Chhaproh village. After the famed deity of the temple, the place came to be known as Chintpurni. The Chintpurni Temple is considered one of the 51 Shakthi Peethas which emits the story of Sati, the partner of Shiva. When Sati’s father, Daksha planned a yagna, he purposely scolded Shiva as an abstinent and one unworthy of his daughter.
Sati took this as a personal insult and jumped into the sacrificial fire. Shiva was angry and placing Sati’s body on his shoulders, he began the Tandav, or divine dance of destruction. To halt Shiva from abolishing the universe, Lord Vishnu detached the dead body into 51 pieces fell are called ShakthiPeethas. At the place where Goddess Sati’s feet are believed to have fallen, the Chintpurni Temple was built.
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Significance of Chintpurni Temple:
The Goddess Chintpurni indicates great self-sacrifice and celestial selflessness. According to the tale Goddess Chandi defeated the evil spirits after a violent battle, but two of her releases were still thirsty for more blood. To slake their thirst, the Goddess is said to have detached her head and is shown holding her head nourishing the yoginis with the blood jetting from the arteries.
Chintpurni Temples have huge spiritual significance for devotees who are driven to pursue blessings and fulfillment of their desires. Devotees commence difficult journeys to visit the temple as a symbol of their devotion and dedication to the goddess. The tour to Chintpurni Temple is not only a physical journey but also a spiritual pursuit for inner harmony and enlightenment.
Architecture of Chintpurni Temple:
The architecture of Chintpurni Temple emits a merge of traditional Himachali style with complex craftsmanship and artistic subtlety. The temple compound contains various structures, including the main sanctum, prayer halls, pavilions, and administrative buildings, each decorated with rich carvings and adorned patterns.
The main holy place is dedicated to Goddess Chintpurniand includes a sacred idol which is in a palanquin of white marble, adorned with jewels and embossing, inducing a sense of awe and respect among devotees. The temple’s front elevation is adorned with colourful paintings portraying mythological tales and divine manifestations which adds some charm to the temple.
Fairs and Festivals in Chintpurni Temple:
The Chintpurni Temple is a centre for religious gatherings and festivals which attracts visitors in huge numbers throughout the year. The nine-day festival called Navarathri which is dedicated to the worshipping of Goddess Durga, claims special significance at the temple, with intricate rituals, cultural performances, festivities, fairs, and devotional songs marking the occasion. This festival is celebrated in March and April.
The Chintpurni fairs, known as ‘Mata Da Mela’ are held thrice in year during the months of March-April, July-August, and September-October. In March-April, the fair organizes during Navarathri while in July-August it takes place during the first ten days of Shukla Paksha.
Best Time to Visit:
The Himachal Pradesh claims a beautiful weather condition that allows everyone to come and enjoy its view. The Chintpurni Temple can be visited all over the year, but the best time to visit this temple is during the Navarathri festival which is celebrated in March and April. In September or October, the weather is so pleasant and chill. During these times visitors can witness the grand celebrations of festivals in the temple.
Location and How to Reach Chintpurni Temple:
Chintpurni Temple is located on one of the highest peaks of the Sola Singhi range at an altitude of 940 metres and it is about 3 kilometers west of Bharwain on the Hoshiarpur at Dharmashala Road. There is a frequent movement of buses here at the Bhavya Temple of Chintpurni Temple which is only 2-3 miles away from the Bharwai bus stand.
By Air:
There are three airports near the Temple where you can take the public transport. The nearest airports to the Temple are:
- Kangra Airport which is located 60km away from the Chintpurni temple.
- Amritsar Airport which is located 160 kilometres away from the Chintpurni temple.
- Chandigarh Airport which is located 150 kilometres away from the Chintpurni temple.
By Railway:
There are several trains from various cities across the country, which can make you reach the closest railway station to the temple. From there you can take private vehicles like taxis to reach the temple. The following are the nearest railway stations:
- AmbAndaurarailway station which is located 20 kilometres away from the Temple.
- Hoshiarpur Railway Station which is located 42 kilometres away from the Temple:
- Una Himachal Railway Station which is located 50 kilometres away from the Temple.
By Road:
The Chintpurni Temple is well connected to all major cities of the country. You can use several kinds of tourist vehicles and buses. Cabs and Taxi services are also available to reach the temple. Distance from various cities to Chintpurni Temple:
- From Hosiarour- 42 kilometers
- From Kangra- 55 kilometres
- From Jalandhar- 90 kilometres
- From Chandigarh- 150 kilometers
Places to Visit Near Chintpurni Temple:
Chintpurni Temple is surrounded by beautiful picturesque hills and valleys which offer scenic views and a chill environment to relax. Visitors can also explore several temples like Chamunda Devi Temple, Masur Temples, Dera Baba Barbhang Singh, Shiva Bari Temple, and Baba Balak Nath Temple nearby. With these temples, there are some other tourist locations like Bhakra Dam that offers scenic views and activities like trekking and boating, Damsal Dam, Bhangsuang Waterfall, Tibet Museum, and several others. Don’t miss the sunset in the valleys.
Conclusion:
Chintpurni Temple is settled in the core of Himachal Pradesh, among the serene valleys and peaks where the faith meets spirituality and prayers find consolation. Chintpurni temple stands as a witness to the lasting power of faith, prompting us that amidst life’s trials and harms, there is always a haven of peace and blessings to be found. With its grand history, spiritual significance, and natural splendour, the temple summons visitors and travellers alike to embark on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
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