Kunal Pathri Temple – Himachal Pradesh

The serene landscapes of the Dhauladhar ranges near Dharamshala, Kunal Pathri Temple is a spiritually significant destination in Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh. Revered as a Shakti Peetha, the temple attracts pilgrims and nature lovers alike for its divine atmosphere, religious importance, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Here's a complete guide to help you explore this sacred gem:

Temple About:

Kunal Pathri Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga, located in the Kangra district near Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. It is nestled amidst dense forests and scenic surroundings, offering a tranquil spiritual experience.

Temple Description:

The temple houses a stone idol believed to represent the goddess. The name ‘Kunal Pathri’ is derived from ‘Pathar’ meaning stone, and ‘Kunal’ refers to a local legend about a king whose son died here. The temple is believed to mark the spot where the skull of Sati (consort of Lord Shiva) fell, making it one of the Shakti Peethas. Natural water drips continuously over the shrine, which adds to its mystique.

Temple Specialty:

It is one of the Shakti Peethas linked to the goddess Sati.

Continuous natural water seepage on the idol is considered divine.

The temple offers panoramic views of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges.

Peaceful ambiance ideal for meditation and spiritual rejuvenation.

Temple Address:

Kunal Pathri Temple, Kunal Pathri, Dharamshala, Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh - 176215, India

Temple Location (Latitude, Longitude):

32.2384° N, 76.3450° E

Temple Timings:

Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Evening: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM(Open all days)

Temple Sevas:

Daily Aarti

Durga Puja during Navratri

Special offerings by devotees

Prasadam distribution

Traveling Facilities:

Easily accessible by road from Dharamshala (approx. 6 km)

Local taxis and auto-rickshaws available

HRTC buses ply regularly from Dharamshala and nearby towns

Food Facilities:

Small local eateries and tea stalls nearby

Full-service restaurants available in Dharamshala

Stay Facilities:

Budget hotels and guesthouses in nearby areas

Plenty of lodging options in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj

Nearby Railway Station:

Kangra Mandir Railway Station – 22 km

Pathankot Railway Station (Broad Gauge) – ~90 km

Nearby Airport:

Kangra Airport (Gaggal Airport), Dharamshala – 16 km

Nearby Bus Station:

ISBT Dharamshala – 5 km

Bus Routes to Temple:

Regular HRTC and private buses from:

Delhi → Dharamshala

Chandigarh → Dharamshala

Pathankot → Dharamshala

Train Routes to Temple:

Broad gauge to Pathankot, then narrow-gauge train to Kangra or Dharamshala

Taxi/bus from station to temple

Air Ways to Temple:

Flights to Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala) from:

Delhi

Chandigarh

Kullu (seasonal)

Nearby Cities to Temple:

Dharamshala (6 km)

McLeod Ganj (10 km)

Kangra (22 km)

Palampur (35 km)

Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places:

Bhagsunag Temple & Waterfall

Dalai Lama Temple (Tsuglagkhang Complex)

Chamunda Devi Temple

Norbulingka Institute

War Memorial

Kangra Fort

Preferable Visiting Season:

March to June (pleasant weather)

September to November (post-monsoon, clear views)

Shopping Famous For:

Tibetan handicrafts

Woolen shawls and stoles

Thangka paintings

Local Himachali souvenirs and herbal products

Kunal Pathri Temple is not just a place of worship but also a destination for peace, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery. Whether you're a devotee, a spiritual seeker, or a traveler enchanted by the Himalayas, a visit to this divine temple promises serenity, blessings, and memorable experiences. Plan your trip to feel the divine grace of the goddess and the beauty of Himachal’s spiritual heart.