Ambika Devi Temple at Nirmand is located around 19 kms from Rampur in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh. This ancient temple was built by Parshuram Avatar of Bhagwan Vishnu.
Nirmand Ambika Devi Temple Story
Parasuram had killed his mother Renuka Devi on the orders of his father. The temple was built by Parashuram in atonement or the matricide he committed.
According to one belief is that Devi Ambika of Nirmand is Ambika of Mahabharata.
Another legend is that in the Satyug when the demons created an atmosphere of terror in the Himalayas, Parshuram came to Nirmand. Here a Naga attacked him and Parshuram cut the Naga into pieces. Parshuram, then in his rage, eradicated many demons with his axe. But he could not overcome them all.
When Devas saw that even Parshuram was unable to kill all the demons they asked Vishnu for a solution. They meditated upon Mahakali (Ambika) on the advice of Vishnu. Then Devi Ambika fought the demons using her weapons like khapar (bowl), trishul (trident) and sword and killed all of them. After this event a temple was constructed for Devi Ambika at Nirmand.
Nirmand Ambika Devi Temple Murti – Architecture
The main murti of Ambika Devi in the temple is black in color and measures a little less than 1 meter in height. She may have been brought here from the plains. Once ornamented with magnificent gold jewelry, the Goddess now wears golden attire.
The Devi has eight mohras and the main mohra is called Bhadrakali.
The temple is approached by a series of uneven, grassy stone steps and has been renovated several times, most notably by Raja Samudra Sen in the 7th century, whose copper plate grant is preserved here.
The roof of the temple is coated with copper sheets, presented by another king.
The present structure of Nirmand Ambita Devi temple is in the pentroof style, built in alternating layers of wood and stone.
The entrance of the temple is decorated with geometric designs, and the courtyard inside has a number of sculptures, variously dated, including a Shivling, numerous images of Hindu gods and goddesses and a pair of tigers facing the main temple.