Chamunda also known as Chamundeshwari and Charchika, is a fearsome side of Devi, the Hindu Divine Mother and one of the seven mother goddesses. She is also one of the chief yoginis a group of 64 or 81 tantric goddesses, who are attendants of the fighter goddess Durga. Chamunda Devi Temple is a renowned holy shrine of Hindus. Located in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Chamunda Devi Mandir is at distance of 10 kms from Palampur, on the banks of Baner river. This ancient temple dates back to the 16^th century. The temple is dedicated to Chamunda Devi, who is a form of Durga and Shakti. Chamunda Devi Mandir is believed to be the abode of Shiva and Shakti. Due to this reason, it is known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham.

Chamunda Devi is considered as the wrathful form of Durga, but at the same time, the Goddess is kind to her true devotees. the term Chamunda has been derived from two words, Chanda and Munda. According to the mythology, Durga with the slaughter and blessed the goddess that she would be known and worshipped as Chamunda. Around 400 years ago the king and the Brahmin priest prayed to devi for permission to move the temple to some easily accessible location. Devi appeared to the priest in a dream giving her consent. She directed him to dig in a certain spot and an ancient idol would be fould and that idol should be installed in the tmple and worshipped as per form. She instructed hime to get up early in the morning take bath and go to the place in a respectful manner. He did as he was told and found that he would easily lift what a large group of men could not.   

The main shrine is adored by the images of Lord Bhairav and Lord Hanuman on its sides. Actually, these lords are considered as the guards of the Goddess. The main image of the Goddess is visible draped in rich clothes. Chamunda Devi is worshipped daily while the sermons include Aartis at intervals. Reciting the hymn of Shat Chandi with devoted heart at this temple is considered auspicious. In the corner of the temple, one can see small footsteps of the Goddess on a stone. Besides the main shrine, there is a marble staircase that takes down to the cave of Lord Shiva. This is a cave-like scoop where Shiva Lingam is placed. People visit this cave and worship Lord Shiva with great devotion. 

In the past days, the image of the Goddess was situated on the hill above the present site of the temple. The site was found to be in a remote area, where it was not possible for everyone to reach and moreover, it was quite risky. In the temple complex, there is a huge pond with images of Lords and people can take bath here. There is sculpture of Goddess, in which, she is garlanded with serpents, scorpions, and skulls. During the time of Navratras, the temple is crowded by large number of people. Pilgrims from far and near come to visit this temple of great legacy and religious importance. Chamunda Devi blesses all her true devotees.