Temples in Himachal

• By Road: Manali is well connected by road with frequent buses from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla.

Timings:

• 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Interesting Facts:

• The temple is surrounded by a cedar forest called Dhungiri Van Vihar.
• A large fair is held here annually in May to celebrate the birthday of Hidimba Devi.

3. Baijnath Temple

Significance and History: Located in the town of Baijnath, this 13th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s famous for its Nagara-style architecture and is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Kangra Airport (50 km).
• By Train: The nearest broad gauge railway station is Pathankot (112 km).
• By Road: Well connected by roads with regular bus and taxi services.

Timings:

• 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Interesting Facts:

• The temple complex offers a tranquil environment, making it ideal for meditation.
• During Maha Shivratri, the temple witnesses a massive influx of devotees.

4. Chintpurni Temple

Significance and History: Situated in Una district, Chintpurni Temple is one of the major Shakti Peethas where the head of Sati is believed to have fallen. The temple is a place for devotees to relieve their worries (Chinta).

How to Reach:

• By Air: Gaggal Airport (60 km) is the nearest airport.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Amb Andaura (20 km).
• By Road: Well connected by road with frequent buses and taxis.

Timings:

• Summer: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Winter: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Interesting Facts:

• Pilgrims often perform rituals to resolve personal issues and seek blessings.
• Navratri festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm here.

5. Naina Devi Temple

Significance and History: Perched on a hill in Bilaspur district, Naina Devi Temple is another revered Shakti Peetha where Sati’s eyes are said to have fallen. The temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Gobind Sagar Lake.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Chandigarh Airport (100 km) is the closest airport.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Anandpur Sahib (30 km).
• By Road: Buses and taxis are available from major towns like Chandigarh and Bilaspur.

Timings:

• 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Interesting Facts:

• The temple can be reached by a cable car ride, adding an element of adventure.
• The temple is especially crowded during the Shravan Ashtami fair.

6. Chamunda Devi Temple

Significance and History: Located in the Kangra district, Chamunda Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, a form of Durga. The temple is situated on the banks of the Baner River, offering a serene and picturesque setting.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Gaggal Airport (28 km) is the nearest airport.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kangra Mandir (15 km).
• By Road: Buses and taxis are available from nearby towns like Dharamshala and Palampur.

Timings:

• 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Interesting Facts:

• The temple complex includes a beautiful park and a library with religious texts.
• The deity is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees.

7. Jakhoo Temple

Significance and History: Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is located in Shimla. It is situated on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla, and offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Shimla Airport (22 km) is the nearest airport.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station (5 km).
• By Road: Easily accessible by road; one can either trek to the temple or take a cab.

Timings:

• 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Interesting Facts:

• A giant 108-foot statue of Lord Hanuman stands at the temple, visible from many parts of Shimla.
• The temple is believed to be the spot where Lord Hanuman rested while searching for the Sanjeevani Booti.

8. Tara Devi Temple

Significance and History: Located near Shimla, Tara Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is situated on Tara Parvat, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges and the town of Shimla.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Shimla Airport (18 km) is the nearest airport.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station (11 km).
• By Road: Accessible by road with regular bus and taxi services.

Timings:

• 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM

Interesting Facts:

• The temple’s serene environment makes it a perfect spot for meditation.
• The annual fair during Navratri attracts a large number of devotees.

9. Laxmi Narayan Temple

Significance and History: Situated in Chamba, Laxmi Narayan Temple is one of the oldest and largest temples in the region, built in the 10th century. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its exquisite Shikhara style architecture.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Pathankot Airport (120 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Pathankot (120 km).
• By Road: Well connected by road with regular bus and taxi services from Dalhousie and Pathankot.

Timings:

• 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Interesting Facts:

• The temple complex includes six shrines dedicated to various deities.
• It features beautiful stone carvings and intricate sculptures.

10. Sankat Mochan Temple

Significance and History: Located in Shimla, Sankat Mochan Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It was established by Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj in 1950. The temple is situated amidst lush greenery, offering a peaceful retreat for devotees.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Shimla Airport (14 km) is the nearest airport.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station (7 km).
• By Road: Well connected by road with regular bus and taxi services.

Timings:

• 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM

Interesting Facts:

• The temple is known for its langar (community kitchen) which serves food to devotees.
• It offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit these temples is during the cooler months (March to June and September to November). Festivals are also an excellent time for a visit, though they may be crowded.
• Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended out of respect for the sanctity of these places.

Accommodation: Plenty of lodging options are available near these temples, ranging from.