Sukrala Mata, Billawar

The Most famous shrine dedicated to mother goddess is Sukrala Devi Shrine located at a distance of 9.60 Kms from Billawar and about 75 Kms from Kathua. The Shrine is located at a height of 3500 ft on a hillock amidst sylevan surroundings. The white line coated impressive edifice of the temple stands erect majestically. The holy shrine is the abode of goddess Mal Devi, the re-incarnation of Sharda Devi. The goddess has manifested herself here in the shape of a Shilla (Stone Slab) seated on a Brass Lion with a silver mounted head. Behind it is also an image of Mahishasur Murdini (re-incarnation of Maha-Luxmi) standing on the body of Mahishasur, the Demon King. The Goddess is four Armed with a sword in one of her hands. Many legends are associated with the Shrine. The Holy Shrine is believed to have been built by Madho Singh and exiled prince of Chamba (Himachal Pardesh). During the Navratras, pilgrims throng in to shrine in thousands to pay their obeisance.