Kheer Bhawani Temple Kashmir -Tulmulla Spring Temple Guide
Kheer Bhawani Photos
Introduction: A Divine Jewel of Kashmir
Tulmulla, a beautiful village at a distance of approximately 25 kilometers from Srinagar is home of some of Kashmir’s most cherished spiritual sites, namely the Kheer Bhawani Temple. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, who is another incarnation of Goddess Durga. Not only is the temple a worshipping site, it is a continuation of Kashmir’s historical cultural and religious legacy.
The temple was built over a natural spring, with water under the shrine, that changes color — a behavioral peculiarity which pilgrims and scholars alike continue to be stumped by. Across the centuries, a mountain of devoted worshippers (Kashmiri Pandits in particular), have regarded the temple as the spiritual center of their lives, and thousands come every year to celebrate festivals, seek blessings, and reconnect with their past.
The experience of visiting the Kheer Bhawani Temple is about much more than any religious observance; it is a full sensory immersion into the past, present, and future of Kashmir — as myths, traditions, nature, and devotion intersect in full view.
Historical Significance of Kheer Bhawani Temple
The Kheer Bhawani Temple is steeped in myth and devotion. According to tradition, while he was in exile, Lord Rama worshipped the Goddess Ragnya Devi. Later on, the idol was brought to Kashmir by Lord Rama’s devotee Hanuman.
The temple first became popular during the reign of Maharaja Pratap Singh, who constructed the marble temple in 1912. It was later extended and renovated by Maharaja Hari Singh.
For Kashmiri Pandits, the Temple is the holiest site, representing more than 1000 years of faith, struggle and pride. It is still an integral part of their religious identity even if they live far away from the valley.
The Legend of Goddess Ragnya Devi
According to legend, Goddess Ragnya Devi had appeared at Tulmulla to safeguard the people of Kashmir. Eventually, the name “Kheer Bhawan” came from the practice of devotees offering kheer (rice pudding) to the deity as a symbol for purity and devotion.
It is believed that the sacred spring at the temple reflects the mood of the Goddess when devotees have an underlying sense of nature and divine nature. Devotees of the temple assume that clear or bluish water invokes peace of mind, while dark water may be considered a forewarning of upcoming unrest. The temple is a supreme site on which to worship because of the intersection of earth and deity.
Location: Tulmulla – The Abode of Tranquility
Village: Tulmulla, Ganderbal district, Jammu & Kashmir
Distance from Srinagar: ~25 km (about 1 hour drive)
Setting: In the lap of tall chinar trees and flowing streams
The natural surroundings of the temple also contributes to the spiritual atmosphere. It allows the devotee to take a step back from the chaos of Srinagar and immerse themselves in spirituality.
Architectural Features of Kheer Bhawani Temple
The temple balances simple and elegant:
- White Marble Shrine- Constructed in 1912, the temple’s simple design reflects the artistry of the Kashmiri people.
- Holy Spring- The temple site is located above a natural spring, which is enclosed by a stone barrier.
- Sacred Courtyard- Pilgrims gather in this space for prayer and rituals, and community meals.
- Sacred trees- The surrounding chinar trees provide shade and help produce a tranquil environment for the mystic beauty of the temple.
The spring is certainly the most interesting aspect of the temple. Changing colors in spring as a function of time are an experience linking science, spirituality, and mystery.
Religious Importance of Kheer Bhawani Temple
The temple is one of the most crucial temples for Kashmiri Hindus. The deity worshipped here, the goddess Ragnya Devi is worshipped as the mother goddess, the protector of Kashmir.
The devotees believe that kheer and only the simplest vegetarian food please the Goddess. Unlike many temples, offerings of meat to an image of the Goddess at this shrine is absolutely prohibited – this prohibition highlights the shrine’s adherence to purity and sattvic offering.
For many Kashmiri Pandits, a visit to Kheer Bhawani is not merely about prayer – it is an identity pilgrimage, as they mark their relationship with their homeland and ancestral traditions.
Annual Festival: Mela Kheer Bhawani
Come Jyeshtha Ashtami (around May–June), the Kheer Bhawani Mela is the largest festival at the temple, attended by thousands of devotees from India who go to:
- Offer kheer, flowers, and their prayers to the goddess Ragnya Devi.
- Observe the spring water and its change of colors based on mysterious factors.
- Participate in collective prayers, bhajans, and rituals.
- Reconnect with Kashmiri Pandit traditions.
The festival creates an energetic hub of devotion and cultural revival at Tulmulla and is indeed one of the major religious spectacles of Kashmir.
Best Time to Visit Kheer Bhawani Temple
Spring & Summer (April–June): During this season, a festival takes place and the weather is pleasant.
Autumn (September–November): The crisp air with golden chinar leaves adds an immense amount of charm.
Winter (December–February): Access to Govindaji Temple can be hard at this time, due to the snow, but the temple is open in winter months.
Morning and evening aartis are the best times for a visit, since both provide a quiet and very spiritual experience.
How to Reach Kheer Bhawani Temple
By Air: The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport (~30 km).
By Road: Taxis and buses frequently run between Srinagar and Tulmulla.
By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Jammu (~270 km), with road and air access to Srinagar.
The actual road trip to Tulmulla is picturesque, taking you through fields, streams, and villages.
Pilgrimage Experience at Tulmulla
Going to the Kheer Bhawani Temple is a journey of the soul:
Offerings: People who come to worship at the temple will bring kheer, sweet, and flowers.
Darshan: You see the idol of Goddess Ragnya Devi, which is shaped like a Shiva lingam, and worship her.
Community Meals: Pilgrims eat together as a community to appreciate their unity and devotion.
Meditation: The peaceful surrounding of the temple encourages successful contemplation and meditation.
For many, the journey to the temple is a spiritual return home that nourishes one’s soul and provides relief from suffering.
Attractions Near Kheer Bhawani Temple
It is a stunning freshwater lake nearby and is called Manasbal Lake.
Sonamarg, the “meadow of gold,” is another destination to stop at.
Naranag is at the base of the trekking point to Gangbal Lake and is also home to the ruins of very ancient temples.
In Srnagar gardens, Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh are on the journey as well.
Hazratbal Shrine is also a significant spiritual attraction that is close to Dal Lake.
Together, these sites with the temple visit would certainly make for a complete journey.
Accommodation Options Near Tulmulla
Ganderbal guesthouses: Inexpensive and very close to the temple.
Srinagar hotels: Luxury and mid-range options and action overlooking Dal Lake.
Houseboats: Traditional stay options on Dal Lake for a truly Kashmiri experience.
During the annual festival special arrangements are made for pilgrims.
Travel Tips for Devotees
Dress appropriately and respectfully.
Photography inside the shrine is prohibited.
Bring cash. Digital payment options could be limited in Tulmulla.
Try to visit in the morning for a peaceful darshan (prayer).
Be aware of the temple rules regarding vegetarian-only practices.
Why Visit Kheer Bhawani Temple?
The Kheer Bhawani Temple is not a shrine; it is a sacred representation of Kashmir’s spiritual essence. Its enigmatic spring, embedded folklore, and time-honored customs make it an enchanting place of reverence, faith, and pride of culture.
For Kashmiri Pandits, it is the holiest temple; for visitors, it is a cultural monument; and for seekers, it is a place of tranquility. Visiting Kheer Bhawani is to experience the living relationship between the divine and the people of Kashmir.
Conclusion: The Eternal Grace of Tulmulla
The Kheer Bhawani Temple is a remarkable part of Kashmir’s history and spiritual heritage. Situated among chinar trees and fed by its sacred spring, the temple has endured the test of time, political upheaval, and human displacements, but it continues to emanate divine grace.
Whether visiting to pray, understand Kashmir’s spiritual ethos, or discovering in its mystical beauty, the temple is an experience like no other.
It serves not only as a window into Kashmir’s history but also as a source of faith for Kashmir’s present and future.
FAQs – Top 10 Questions About Kheer Bhawani Temple
1. Why is Kheer Bhawani Temple famous?
It is the holiest shrine for Kashmiri Pandits, dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, and known for its mystical spring.
2. Where is Kheer Bhawani Temple located?
It is located in Tulmulla village, Ganderbal district, about 25 km from Srinagar.
3. Who built the Kheer Bhawani Temple?
The marble temple was built by Maharaja Pratap Singh in 1912 and renovated by Maharaja Hari Singh.
4. What is the significance of the spring water at the temple?
The water changes colors, believed to reflect the Goddess’s mood and the state of the land.
5. Why is it called Kheer Bhawani?
Because devotees traditionally offer kheer (sweet rice pudding) to the Goddess.
6. When is the Kheer Bhawani festival celebrated?
On Jyeshtha Ashtami (May–June), attracting thousands of devotees.
7. Can non-Hindus visit the temple?
Yes, the temple welcomes all visitors who respect its traditions.
8. What food offerings are allowed at Kheer Bhawani?
Only vegetarian offerings like kheer, fruits, and sweets are allowed; meat is forbidden.
9. What is the best time to visit Kheer Bhawani Temple?
Spring and summer (April–June), especially during the festival.
10. What places can I visit near Kheer Bhawani Temple?
Sonamarg, Manasbal Lake, Naranag ruins, Srinagar’s Mughal gardens, and Hazratbal Shrine.