KRIMCHI TEMPLE

About Krimchi Temple

Opening Hours: Open daily 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Prime Day & Hours: Weekends and weekends 10 AM - 12 PM

Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

Tickets: Offline counter 

Nearest Railway Station: Budgam Railway Station, about 25 kilometers away

Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, approximately 53 kilometres away.

Nearest Bus Stop: New Bus Stand, Budgam, approximately 45 kilometres away

For those who enjoy history, the Krimchi Temples, one of Jammu's oldest temple complexes, are a hidden gem. There are seven temples at this location, which is close to Udhampur, but only five of them are still intact. A visit to this heritage site can be a fascinating addition to Kashmir tour packages, offering travelers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and historical past. 

The shrines have a mandapa, a tower called a shikhara, and a main hall called a garbhagriha. You can observe sculptures in the Greek style, such as a lion with a curling mane. Watch Shivalingas housed in two temples, and other deities kept in a restricted area.

Explore historic ruins, take in carvings in the Gandharan style, and spot a footprint close to the Devika River. Locals think that the Pandavas built these temples while they were in exile, and for the Kul Devta Diwas event every year, they all assemble here.

Must Try Experienes

• Explore Ancient Temple Architecture

Explore the Krimchi temple complex and take in its unique mix of Hellenistic and ancient Indian architecture. Take note of the garbhgriha, the central sanctuary, the shikhara, the tower, and the amalaka, the ornamental crown. The temples' detailed walls with geometric patterns, floral themes, and criss-cross jalli designs reveal early temple construction methods.

• Observe Gandhara-Style Sculptures

Witness the stone statues that are situated next to the temple in an enclosed location. There is a carved Ganesha, a lion with a curly mane, and a lady sitting on a lotus flower. Unlike figures from other temples, these ones have unique Hellenistic traits, like round faces, big noses, and curved hands that look like Gandhara art.

• Spot the Footprint Near Devika River

Go to the Devika River, which is close to the temple complex, to see an old footprint engraved on a stone slab. There are stories in the area linking it to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. This footprint is a fascinating reminder of the area's history and a tourist attraction, even if its origin is still unknown.

• Attend Kul Devta Diwas Celebrations

During the Kul Devta Diwas, which happens every other year, you can see people from the area getting together to worship their clan gods. The occasion takes place within the temple complex and includes regular prayers, offerings, and rituals. At this historical spot, you can see how people have been practising their religion in the same way for generations.

Krimchi Temple Highlights

• Enter Krimchi Temples, where tall stone buildings that date back centuries tell tales of faith, history, and lost architectural genius.
• Explore the exclusive mix of Indo-Greek and Kashmiri architecture, complete with heavy stone walls, elaborate carvings, and tall shikharas.
• Tour the temple complex to see temples honoring Shiva, Vishnu, and Ganesha, all of whom have profound spiritual and cultural significance.
• Witness the natural stream that runs close to the temples, which gives this historic location hidden in the hills an intimate charm.
• Ascend to the nearby ruins of Krimchi Fort for a stunning view of the temples and valley below.

How To Reach Krimchi Temple

Krimchi Temples is about 13.4 kilometres from Udhampur town. Thus, it will take you about 32 minutes via NH 244A/NH 44 whether you drive a car or take a taxi or bike.

Best Time To Visit Krimchi Temple

Peak Season (April to June, September to October)

• Weather Insights: Pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C.
• Things to Do: Explore the temple complex, observe intricate carvings, and attend religious gatherings during Kul Devta Diwas.

Shoulder Season (July to August)

• Weather Insights: Occasional rain showers with humidity and temperatures between 20°C and 28°C.
• Things to Do: Enjoy lush green surroundings after rainfall, and visit the Devika River to see the increased water flow.

Low Season (December to February)

Weather Insights: Cold weather with temperatures dropping to 5°C or lower, and occasional fog.

Things to Do: Experience local winter culture and explore nearby villages with minimal tourist activity.

Krimchi Temple Other Essential Information

Why Visit Krimchi Temples?

• Among the oldest temple buildings in Jammu, the Krimchi Temples were likely built between the 8th and 9th centuries AD.
• According to archaeological evidence, the buildings were built in stages, as some of the structures have been partially damaged over time.
• Raja Kichak, a character from the Mahabharata, is said to have created Krimchi, and the Pandavas are said to have stayed here while they were in exile.
• Inspired by Indo-Greek architecture, the temples have elaborate stonework, ornate doorways, and tall shikharas that look like traditional Kashmiri temples.
• Honoring gods like Shiva, Vishnu, Ganesha, and Parvati, the complex is still an important spiritual, cultural, and historical site in the area.

Know Before You Go

• Wear comfortable shoes as pathways within the temple complex are rough and made of stone.
• Bring enough water and light snacks with you because there aren't many places nearby to get refreshed.
• Avoid wearing exposed clothes like shorts, sleeveless tops, and miniskirts.
• Carry an umbrella or jacket during the monsoons because the weather can change quickly.
• Remain silent and honor the site's religious significance.
• Avoid going on or touching old temple buildings to keep them from getting damaged.