The 120-year-old Lakshmi Narayan Temple of Jwalamukhi
The Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Jwalamukhi town of Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, was established around 120 years ago. The temple enshrines Lord Vishnu, the sustainer of the universe, and Mahamaya Lakshmi.
The temple was constructed by Baba Dwaraka Das Bairagi in 1895. The life-sized idols installed here are made of white marble, brought from Jodhpur of Rajasthan.
Upon entering the temple, one is reminded of the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, which also houses similar Radha-Krishna idols. However, this temple is dedicated to Deity Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu.
Baba Dwaraka Das Bairagi hailed from Garli near Jawalamukhi. He arrived in Jwalamukhi in the late 18th century and settled there permanently. With the support of the Sood community of Garli, he not only built this grand temple but also established the Baba Dwaraka Das Dharamshala adjacent to it in his memory. This dharamshala serves as an excellent accommodation for pilgrims visiting Jwalamukhi.
Travel Information
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Location: Jawalamukhi is in the Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, about 35 km from Kangra town.
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How to Reach:
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Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport (Kangra, ~35 km).
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Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot (~90 km) or Kangra Mandir (~30 km).
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By Road: Well-connected via buses/taxis from Delhi (450 km), Chandigarh (200 km), and Dharamshala (55 km).
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Best Time to Visit: March–June (pleasant weather) or September–October (post-monsoon).