Kheer Bhawani Temple Tulmulla
A revered Hindu temple in Kashmir, famous for its sacred spring that changes color and the tradition of offering kheer.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Kheer Bhawani Temple Tulmulla
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revered Hindu temple in Kashmir, famous for its sacred spring that changes color and the tradition of offering kheer.
"Experience divine serenity at the Kheer Bhawani Temple, a spiritual heart of Kashmir."
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect. Cover shoulders and knees.
🅿️ Parking Availability
Parking is available near the entrance but can be limited during peak times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sacred Spring
Witness the mystical spring whose colors are said to predict Kashmir's future. A truly unique spiritual experience.
Kheer Offering
Participate in or observe the tradition of offering 'kheer' (rice pudding) to the goddess.
Kashmiri Architecture
Admire the traditional Kashmiri-style tin-roofed architecture of the main temple structure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Understanding the Sacred Spring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect. Cover shoulders and knees.
🅿️ Parking Availability
Parking is available near the entrance but can be limited during peak times.
🙏 Prasad & Puja Items
Shops outside sell puja items and local food at reasonable prices.
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The temple complex is accessible for wheelchairs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect. Cover shoulders and knees.
🅿️ Parking Availability
Parking is available near the entrance but can be limited during peak times.
🙏 Prasad & Puja Items
Shops outside sell puja items and local food at reasonable prices.
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The temple complex is accessible for wheelchairs.
💧 Sacred Spring Observation
Observe the spring's colors; a black or red hue is considered inauspicious.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Kheer Bhawani Temple to be a deeply spiritual and historically significant site, particularly for Kashmiri Pandits. The unique sacred spring and the tradition of offering kheer are highlights, creating a serene and divine atmosphere. While security is present, the complex is well-maintained and accessible, offering a peaceful experience for all. +1
"Maa Kheer Bhawani Temple is a very special and holy temple for Hindus, especially for Kashmiri Pandits. It is close to Srinagar in Kashmir. People pray to Goddess Kheer Bhawani here, who they believe is an avtar of Goddess Durga. The temple gets its name because people offer sweet rice pudding (kheer) and milk to a holy spring inside. It is interesting because people think the color of the water in the spring can tell what might happen in Kashmir. Security is provided by the Central Reserve Police Force, and devotees register at the traditional Kashmiri-style tin-roofed main entrance. The spacious and well-maintained temple complex features steel railings around the main temple and the sacred spring, with concrete-tiled flooring preserving the natural greenery. The main temple, a large structure with a tin roof reflecting Kashmiri architecture, was undergoing ceiling renovations during our visit in May 2024, yet devotees could still have darshan (viewing) of the Goddess. Priests share the temple's stories and offer prasad. A small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman also resides within the premises. Visiting this temple feels very peaceful and holy. The temple offers a profound spiritual experience. Nearby shops sell typical Kashmiri food and puja items at reasonable prices. Clean toilets are conveniently located. Parking is available near the entrance, and the temple is wheelchair accessible, making it a significant and welcoming place to visit in Kashmir."
Navin Kumar Sharma
"Sri Kheer Bhawani Durga Temple in Tulmulla, near Srinagar, is a sacred sanctuary revered by Kashmiri Pandits and devotees of Goddess Ragnya Devi. The spring's waters are believed to change color, reflecting the divine presence of the Goddess.
The temple's offering kheer, the traditional rice pudding, as prasad adds to the temple's unique charm. Visiting during festivals like Navratri or Jyeshtha Ashtami enhances the spiritual ambiance, as the temple resonates with hymns and rituals.
The Kheer Bhawani mela or festival is during Jyeshtha Ashtami, also spelt as 'Zyeshta Astami'.The mela was threatened during terrorism and Hindu exodus of 1990. It was restored with dedicated efforts of Indian Army contingent placed at Ganderbal.Now CRPF is deployed at temple complex for so many years. Temple has clean washroom. There are some cheap gift item shops outside the temple."
Siddhaarrtha Das
"Sacred hindu shrine in the Ganderbal city Kashmir valley. Located on a lake of tulmula. this Temple is dedicated to raginya mata. Kashmiri pandits visit this temple and worship devi raginya mata. The colour of this lake changes mostly to blue green pink it is good sign. But if colour turns black and red then it is not good sign in kashmir. This temple is ancient temple of kashmir. Various tourist also visit this temple."
ROHIT RAZDAN
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kheer Bhawani Temple is located in Tulmulla, Ganderbal district, about 25 kilometers northeast of Srinagar. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Srinagar. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
While direct public buses might be limited, local buses heading towards Ganderbal can be used, followed by a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride to the temple. Hiring a private taxi offers more convenience.
Many visitors opt for taxis from Srinagar for a comfortable and direct journey. Some vlogs suggest pre-booking a taxi for the day to explore nearby areas as well.
Yes, the road leading to the temple is generally well-maintained, making it accessible by car.
The most common route is via the Srinagar-Leh Highway, then taking a diversion towards Ganderbal and Tulmulla. GPS navigation is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to visit the Kheer Bhawani Temple. It is a place of worship, and entry is free for all devotees and visitors.
The temple is generally open from early morning until evening. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours for the best experience. Specific timings can vary slightly.
Yes, it is a religious site, so visitors are expected to dress modestly. Covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
Photography is generally permitted in the temple complex, but it's always respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up shots of devotees or priests.
Yes, security is provided by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) at the temple complex for the safety of devotees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, an incarnation of Durga, and is highly revered by Kashmiri Pandits. It's famous for its sacred spring whose colors are believed to predict Kashmir's future.
'Kheer' is a sweet rice pudding. It's offered to the goddess as 'prasad' (an offering) to propitiate her, giving the temple its name.
The spring's colors can change, but it's not guaranteed to be dramatic during every visit. Observing it is part of the unique experience.
Yes, there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman within the temple premises.
This is a vibrant festival held during Jyeshtha Ashtami, attracting thousands of devotees for a celebration of faith and Kashmiri culture.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are shops outside the temple complex that sell typical Kashmiri food and puja items. Ramji Halwai is a popular spot for prasad and local snacks. +1
You can find local Kashmiri snacks, sweets, and some basic meals. The 'kheer' offered as prasad is a must-try.
No, there are no formal restaurants within the temple complex itself. Food options are primarily from the shops located outside.
Yes, most of the food available, especially the prasad and snacks, is vegetarian.
Reviews suggest that the prices for food and puja items outside the temple are reasonable.
📸 📸 Photography
The sacred spring, the temple architecture, and the general serene atmosphere offer great photo opportunities. Capturing the devotees during festivals can also be impactful.
While general photography is allowed in the complex, it's best to be discreet inside the main shrine and avoid flash photography that might disturb worshippers.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is suitable. A wide-angle lens can capture the temple's expanse.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in sensitive religious or security areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light. During festivals, the vibrant atmosphere provides unique photographic moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Nearby shops offer local snacks and souvenirs, which can be a fun treat for kids. The overall atmosphere is peaceful, providing a good opportunity to introduce children to different cultural and religious practices in a calm environment.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
Visiting during the Mela Kheer Bhawani on Jyeshtha Ashtami amplifies the spiritual ambiance, with the air filled with devotional songs and rituals. The presence of the CRPF signifies the importance and security of this revered site.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The sacred spring, with its potential for color changes, is a particularly intriguing element to capture. For the best shots, aim for the soft light of early mornings or late afternoons. Capturing the details of the Kashmiri craftsmanship and the devotional atmosphere during festivals can yield stunning images. Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical Sacred Spring
While the exact scientific reason for the color changes is debated, it's often attributed to variations in algae growth or mineral content in the water, influenced by seasonal and environmental factors. Regardless of the scientific explanation, the phenomenon adds a layer of profound mystery and spiritual significance to the temple, drawing pilgrims and curious visitors alike to witness this unique natural wonder.
Visitors are encouraged to observe the spring respectfully. The area around the spring is well-maintained with steel railings and concrete tiling, preserving the natural greenery and ensuring a safe viewing experience.
Tradition of Kheer Offering
+1This practice is deeply rooted in Kashmiri Pandit culture and symbolizes prosperity and auspiciousness. The act of preparing and offering kheer is a way for devotees to connect with the divine and express their faith. Priests often facilitate these offerings and share the blessed kheer as prasad with the devotees.
Outside the temple complex, you can find shops selling ready-made kheer and other puja items, making it convenient for visitors to participate in this tradition.
+1Mela Kheer Bhawani: A Festival of Faith
The Mela is not just a religious gathering but also a vibrant celebration of Kashmiri culture and heritage. It symbolizes unity, faith, and the enduring spirit of the Kashmiri Pandit community. The restoration and celebration of this Mela have been significant in preserving the cultural identity of the community.
During the Mela, the atmosphere is electric, with devotees performing rituals and seeking blessings from Goddess Ragnya Devi. The event highlights the resilience and deep-rooted faith of the people.
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