The slayer of demons
According to Hindu mythology, the kingdom of heaven, ruled by Lord Indra, faced a dire threat from the demon kings Shumbh and Nishumbh, who sought to seize control of the heavens. The demon duo started terrorizing the gods and to confront them, goddess Chandika Devi emerged from the essence of goddess Parvati. Mesmerized by her beauty, the demon king Shumbh demanded her hand in marriage, only to be met with fierce rejection. This led to an epic battle, culminating in the triumph of good over evil. Chandika Devi vanquished the demon army's chief, Chand Munda, before ultimately defeating Shumbh and Nishumbh themselves. It is said that this divine confrontation took place on Neel Parvat, and thus, the Chandi Devi Temple stands there as a testament to this legendary saga.
Feel the thrill of the Udan Khatola
The Chandi Devi Temple is not only a spiritual site, it is also a place that has a flair of adventure attached to it. The scenic surroundings of Neel Parvat make it an ideal destination for trekking. Your journey begins at Chandighat and spans approximately three kilometres, offering a mildly steep path dotted with occasional obstacles. However, the vistas along the way make every step worthwhile. With a moderate level of difficulty, the trek appeals to both novice and experienced hikers alike.
On the other hand, if you think trekking isn't your cup of tea, there's another option to reach the temple. Skip the uphill climb and opt for an exhilarating ropeway ride, or as locals call it, ‘Udan Khatola’. In just a few minutes, the ropeway transports you to the temple summit, treating you to stunning views of the landscape below. Whether you choose to trek or soar above, the journey to the Chandi Devi Temple promises an unforgettable adventure amidst nature's splendour.
