Bhalei Mata Temple, located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, is a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Bhader Kali, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Perched at an altitude of approximately 3,800 feet, the temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. It is one of the most significant religious sites in the region, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists throughout the year.
Historical & Religious Significance
The temple is believed to have been established during the reign of Raja Pratap Singh of Chamba. The idol of Bhalei Mata is said to be self-manifested (Swayambhu) and is highly revered by devotees who believe in her divine powers. It is widely believed that praying at this temple brings prosperity, protection, and fulfillment of wishes. The goddess is worshipped in her Mahishasura Mardini form, signifying the victory of good over evil.
Temple Architecture & Surroundings
The temple follows traditional Himachali architecture with wooden carvings and a peaceful sanctum where the idol of Bhalei Mata resides. A large bell at the entrance echoes throughout the valley when rung by devotees. The temple complex is well-maintained and offers panoramic views of the Chamba region, making it a perfect blend of spirituality and natural beauty.
Festivals & Celebrations
Navratri is the most significant festival celebrated here, drawing a massive crowd of devotees. Special prayers, rituals, and langar (community feasts) are organized during this time.
Other Hindu festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, and Shivratri are also celebrated with great devotion.
Best Time to Visit
The temple is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during Navratri (March-April & September-October) when the temple is beautifully decorated, and the energy of devotion fills the air. The weather is also pleasant, making the journey comfortable.
How to Reach
By Road: The temple is about 35 km from Chamba town and is well connected by road. Regular buses and taxis are available from Chamba.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Pathankot, about 125 km away.
By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, Kangra, around 140 km from the temple.
Key Highlights
Ancient temple dedicated to Bhalei Mata (Bhader Kali)
Located at a scenic hilltop with breathtaking views
Navratri festival is the best time to visit
Believed to fulfill devotees' wishes
Accessible by road with parking facilities
Bhalei Mata Temple is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of deep faith and divine power. A visit to this temple offers spiritual peace, scenic beauty, and an unforgettable...
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Mythology has it that the temple of Bhadar Kali murti found by┬аRaja Pratap Singh┬аduring his reign. He was a religiously disposed king and has to his credit construction, repair and renovation of many temples in the district. The legend is that the deity appeared to Raja Partap Singh in dream and told him that she was lying hidden in a place called Bhran about three kilometers from the present site of temple. The deity asked the Raja to bring her from there and erect a suitable temple for her. The Raja with his officials went to the site and discovered the image. The Raja and his team were very happy they had already decided to construct a temple for the deity in Chamba town. So they started their journey back. On way back they stopped for rest at Bhalei and when they resumed their journey, the bearers could not lift the palanquin of the deity in which she was being taken to Chamba. A Brahman from Kilod village was invited to interpret this peculiar incident. The Brahaman interpreted that the deity did not want to go to Chamba, rather she desired her temple to be erected at the site.
According to another belief, the people of this area were not happy over the idea of the deity being taken to Chamba, so they requested the Raja to construct the temple at Bhalei. Whatever be the reason, the temple was built at Bhalei by Raja Partap Singh and later renovated by┬аRaja Sri Singh. Recently a lot of renovation work has been carried out. Statue of Bhader Kali was unfortunately stolen in the year 1973 by antique thieves but happily recovered at Chohra near the present dam site. It is believed that the image of the deity seems to be perspiring...
┬а┬а┬аRead moreBadarkali Temple the area Called Bhalei and temple is named after the Area name Bhalei Temple.
It is near to home hence we keep visiting here on every auspicious occasion.
Mata Bhalei is a major tourist attraction nearby there is a boating point where you can also have a good choice of food.
The temple is located on a small pinnacle not exactly a hilltop but in enough height.
We keep visiting here on Navratras and even during special occasion at home.
People have a lot of faith. Jai Bhadarkali Bhalei Mata , It is near to home and we keep visiting here more often Temple has vast ancient history About its making and how your wishes comes true when you visit here with all your heart. We keep visiting this Kali Temple because it is near to our House and also Kali Mata keep blessings all. Temple has unique significant of Historical views, During Navratras whoever pray in the temple with their 100% constration the Idol get sweating and Mata Bless with whatever they wish for. I have heard it when Narendra Chanchal came here and sung Bhajans throughout night one of Navratras and then the priest has to come and stop him from singing because the idol started sweating. Such a peaceful Place to be. It was again a religious visit to this beautiful sight, and Sacred Shrine of Kali Mata. Enjoyed my day with My brother and sister.
Blessed with Darshan and Really peaceful environment not felt like Hustle-Bustle like Navratri or any other religious months. It was not busy at all.
Journey from home was too good amid of Greenery all around and Fresh Snowy cold air but fresh. Sunshine was just failed to give warmth, it was adventure trip.
At the end Jai...
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