In the ancient city of Jalandhar in the state of Punjab, India, is the centuries-old temple called Devi Talab Mandir. This temple is estimated to be more than 200 years old and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. Hindus believe that the location of the temple is where the right bosom of the Hindu goddess Sati fell on earth when Vishnu chopped up her immolated body and is, hence, revered by devotees as one of the 51 ‘shakti pithas’ (referring to the erstwhile body part legend) in India. The temple is more like a temple complex consisting of several temples, a gilded pyramid structure at the top of the main temple with a broad causeway surrounding a large tank or pond, a cave-like structure, etc. This temple is situated in the centre of Jalandhar and is an icon of the city. It also hosts an Indian classical music festival each December. Visitors can admire the pond, visit the various temples or partake in religious activities here. Scroll down to know more in our guide to Devi Talab Mandir, Jalandhar.
Things to do / highlights
Admire the two-centuries-old pond
One of the highlights of the temple is the massive pond or tank that is located right in the centre of the temple complex. Part of the name of the temple ‘Talab’ means pond in the local language. Like the temple, the pond is also believed to be about 200 years old and considered sacred by Hindu devotees. A broad causeway runs along the perimeter of the pond and connects to the temples. Visitors can sit by the pond and take in the tranquillity and spiritual fervour of the devotees who are meditating or praying nearby.
Visit the Amarnath Cave-like structure
The temple complex also has a replica of the sacred Hindu pilgrimage site, Amarnath Cave, that is located in the Himalayas in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. This replica is located right next to the temple dedicated to goddess Kali in the Devi Talab Mandir complex and visitors can enter the cave via an inclined path. Inside, there are statues of animals like tigers and lions alongside paintings of Hindu deities, figurines, etc. A huge lion’s head that you can step into is also present inside the cave structure. But the highlight here is the replica of the ‘Shivling’ (highly sacred symbolic figure in Hinduism).
Enjoy melodious music during the Harballabh Sangeet Sammelan
Each December, the temple comes alive with the sounds of classical Indian music as it hosts the annual ‘Harballabh Sangeet Sammelan’. This festival has been celebrated at the temple for about 144 years and sees the most famous names in Indian classical music take to the stage here. Past performers have included Pandit Ravi Shankar, Pandit Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Girija Devi, and Pandit Jasraj among others. It is said to be the oldest Indian classical music festival in the world and sees prominent vocal and instrumental artists delivering live performances that the general public can enjoy for free.
Travelers tips
Time your visit
The best time to visit the temple is during the month of December, when the Indian classical music festival, ‘Harballabh Sangeet Sammelan’ takes place. It is one of the rare opportunities for the common public to enjoy live performances of Indian masters for free. Another great time to visit the temple is during a Hindu festival, especially during the Navratras (a nine-day festival celebrated in autumn), when the temple is lit up in beautiful lights.
Wear respectful clothing
Since this is a place of worship, it is advisable to wear respectful clothing. Ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered. Be mindful of the fact that you will have to remove your footwear before entering the temple. You can deposit your footwear at a shoe rack and a token will be issued to you for it. Thereafter, you can wash your hands at a communal tap and head inside the temple.
Enjoy free meals at the temple
In keeping with the tradition of other religious places in Punjab, this temple offers free meals to visitors by the system of ‘langar’ (a Sikh religious concept of serving a free meal to all visitors, without any distinction). Clean and healthy vegetarian meals are prepared by a group of temple volunteers and served to all visitors free of charge. Visitors can eat at the langar hall at specific timings. Though a canteen is also situated on the temple premises, it is advisable to eat for free at the langar instead.
How to get there
Taxi, e-rickshaw or ride-hailing apps
The best way to reach the temple is by means of a taxi, e-rickshaw, Ola Bike or Rapido bike ride apps. The temple is situated just a kilometre away from Jalandhar Railway Station, from where you can take a taxi or shared e-rickshaw to Doaba Chowk. From there, the temple is just a three-minute walk away. You can also hail a taxi or e-rickshaw from anywhere else in the city.
Alternatively, you can also book a ride via the motorbike-riding apps Rapido or Ola Bike.
Private vehicle
The temple is situated in the heart of Jalandhar city and very close to the popular Doaba Chowk. You can easily drive your own car, motorbike or a rental one to the temple.
Parking information
Plenty of free parking is available for private vehicles at the temple. You can easily park your car or motorbike at the temple complex.
Devi Talab Mandir Information
Devi Talab Mandir
Address: Tanda Rd, Shiv Nagar, Industrial Area, Jalandhar, Punjab 144004, India
Opening hours: 5am - 3pm, 4pm - 10pm (daily)
Official Website: Devi Talab Mandir
Department of tourism: Punjab Tourism
History
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