A sacred destination positioned in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, Purmandal is also known as Chhota Kashi and serves as preeminent site for learning and studying ancient history. The main appeal is the Purmandal shrine devoted to Goddess Parvati. There are many other ancient shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Thousands of devotees from across the world pay a visit here every year. Regular bus services are also available from the cities situated in and around Jammu. The closest airport to reach here is Jammu Airport and the nearest railhead is Jammu Tawi Railway Station.
"Purmandal" is a holy place located in Jammu District, Jammu and Kashmir. It is about 30 km to the east of Jammu. It is also referred as 'Chhota Kashi'. Purmandal is situated on the banks of the Devika River, was an ancient center of trade and learning.
The prime attraction is the Purmandal Temple which is dedicated to 'Umapati' (Goddess Parvati). There are a number of temples built on rocks dedicated to Lord Shiva which presents an imposing sight. The significance of these temples and dharamshalas lies in the frescoes on their walls. Regular bus service connects the town with Jammu. The nearest railhead is Jammu Tawi Railway Station and the airport is Jammu Airport.
Purmandal is a historical temple famous for its stone made structure. The temple is also famed because saint Kabir and Ustad Bismla Khan were born in Purmandal village. It is also said that Veni Dutt ruled here in ancient times when Purmandal Temple was part of his kingdom. He visited this temple between 8th and 9th century. Guru Nanak and Maharaja Ranjit Singh from Punjab also visited Purmandal Yemple in ancient period.
Purmandal Mela in Jammu
The devotees of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati gather here for three days in the month of February every year to celebrate the marriage between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Purmandal Mela is an extravagant occasion undertaken every year in Jammu with remarkable passion and interest. It is a public holiday in the state.
This festival lasts for three days and Jammu is decorated on all days like a bride. It is said that according to Hindu marriage, to tie a couple in complete marital bonds requires three days.
Purmandal Mela is a fabulous occurrence in Jammu. As per legends, after meditation Lord Shiva had been a homeless person who went to Himalayas and begged from door to door. Parvati was born and brought up in amidst of comfort and prosperity.
Therefore, King Himalaya had no objective to marry his daughter to a beggar. He was not aware of the fact that Lord Shiva has gone beyond a materialistic world.
At that time Parvati was rigid to her decision of marring Shiva and at the end her father agreed. Since then Purmandal Mela is celebrated and people wear their best clothes on these days to take full pleasure of this fair. In this fair winter garments, accessories, costumes, antique pieces are available.