Temple of Dharmaraj or Yamraj - Himachal Pradesh | Yamraj Temple

Important information

Address: Temple of Dharmaraj or Yamraj, Bharmour, Himachal Pradesh 176315.
Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot cantt railway at a distance of nearly 182 kilometres from Temple of Dharmaraj or Yamraj.
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport, Gaggal at a distance of nearly 176 kilometres from Temple of Dharmaraj or Yamraj.

Bharmour is an ancient and religious place in Chamba district, which is famous for its historical and cultural heritage. This temple is located in Bharmour city of Chamba district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. This temple is one of the 84 temple complexes of Bharmour. In the 84 temple complexes of Bharmour, Dharmaraj or Yamraj temple is also known as Dharmeshwar Mahadev. This is the only temple in India where the fate of souls is decided. The most prominent and unique temple of this religious city Bharmour is the temple of Dharmaraj or Yamraj, also known as Dharmeshwar Mahadev. This temple is not only important from a religious point of view, but also holds a special place due to its uniqueness. It is considered to be the only temple of Lord Dharmaraj or Yamraj in the world. Therefore, many devotees are afraid to go to this temple and it also becomes a reason for attraction for many devotees. This temple attracts thousands of devotees every year.

Historical and religious importance of the temple

According to Hindu mythology, Dharmaraj decides the fate of souls whether they should go to heaven or hell. This temple of Bharmour is known as the court of Dharamraj. In front of the temple is the seat of Chitragupta and there is an empty room which is considered to be the room of Chitragupta. Chitragupta keeps the account of the deeds of humans and helps Dharamraj to decide who will go to heaven and who to hell.

Architecture and Structure

This temple known as Dharmeshwar Mahadev is located at the northern corner of the Chaarasi temple complex. It was built by Maru Varman. Now the temple is made of stone and wood, and its roof is covered with slate. It is locally called 'Dhai-Podi' which means two and a half stairs. These stairs can now be located below the temple.

Cave and Religious Beliefs

There is a large cave below the temple, which is no longer open. Locals believe that the soul of every human being passes through that cave after the fate of the soul is decided by Lord Dharamraj. It is believed that every departed soul stands here to seek final permission from Dharmaraj to move on. This belief makes it extremely sacred and important.

Stories associated with the Temple

Many stories and folklores are associated with the Dharmaraj Temple. It is said that when the King of Chamba was seen standing in front of the temple of Dharmeshwar Mahadev, doing parikrama around the Chaurasi and riding his horse towards Kailash, it was considered a sign of the death of the king in his palace in the city of Chamba. These kinds of stories further add to the sanctity and importance of this temple.