Chamunda Mataji Temple is located at the southern end of the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur. The idol of Devi Chamunda Mataji was brought to the fort in the year 1460 by Rao Jodha as the goddess was his favourite. The idol was earlier based at Mandore. Soon after the idol was installed in the famous temple in Mehrangarh Fort, that was dedicated to Devi Chamunda Mataji. Even in the current times the royal families of Rajas and the Maharajas considers Devi Chamunda Mataji as the ‘Isht Devi” or the adopted goddess of their families. Devi Chamunda Mataji is a deity who is popularly worshiped even by the common people of Jodhpur. The occasion of Dussehra sees a huge mass of devotees who visits this fort and the temple offering prayers and devotion to the Indian goddess who is also considered one of the many forms of Mata Shakti or more popularly Durga.
History of the Attraction
The temple was created in the year 1460 when the idol was installed in the temple by Rao Jodha who was a Parihar ruler of Mandore. He had brought the idol from Mandore itself. The temple is based away from the hustle and bustle of the main fort. It is surrounded by Lush green lawns. The temple speak of the royal patronage given not just to the aspect of religion but also to that of art and architecture.
Getting There
The temple is in Jodhpur one of the prime connected cities of the country. Jodhpur is connected with most of the other cities of India through the network of railways and also by the flight routes. Hence people come down to visit the temple from various parts of the country. You can avail a flight or can even come down by the railway. Jodhpur has a well established railway station and also an airport. Once a tourist is inside the city, he or she can avail the local transport system. You can take a bus or can also hire a personal taxi or auto rickshaw. There is also a system of share auto rickshaws.
Things to Do in and around
The Chamunda Mataji Temple is one of the remarkable specimens of the architectural grandeur that was practised and patronised during the days of the ancient Hindu Rajputs. This is a place that has both historical and religious eminence. Apart from devotees of Maa Durga, even history and experience buffs throng the temple. Visitors can also take a detailed look at the beautiful Mehrangarh Fort.
Opening/Closing Timings and days
The temple is open on all days. The festival of Dussehra is one of the peak seasons when one can see a huge traffic at the temple and also the Fort of Mehrangarh
Entry Fees
There is no entry fee for this temple.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the temple is between October and March. This is the time when the climatic condition is favourable and also the festival of Dussehra sets in during this time, month of October generally. However budget travellers can consider visiting the place during the month of March to June when the temperature is hot and humid and the hotels offer attractive prices. The temple also sees a much lesser rush.