Hadimba Temple
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Hadimba Temple Manali Story & History
Hadimba Temple, also known as Dhungiri temple, is a wooden temple situated in Manali, a hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The temple is built on a rock face and has four levels with a staircase leading up to the main sanctum. The temple is dedicated to Hadimba Devi, wife of Bhima from the epic Mahabharata.
In Mahabharata, there is a story about Hidimba, the demon ruler of mountains and brother of Hidimbi. It is told that Pandava spent a part of their 14 years exile in Himachal Pradesh, where Bhima, one of the five brothers, killed Hidimba and married his sister. When Bhima decided to leave the town, Hidmbi refused to come with him and chose to stay back, meditate and pray to the gods rather. Impressed by her dedication, the gods relented themselves and bestowed her with the status of a goddess, an incarnation of Shakti!
And that is how the temple came into existence!
The history of Hadimba Temple dates back to the 1553 AD when it was first built. However, the current structure of the temple was rebuilt in 1686 by Raja Bahadur Singh. The temple has undergone several renovations over the years and still stands tall as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Manali.
The temple is a popular destination for both tourists and pilgrims alike. Every year, thousands of people visit the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings from Hadimba Devi. The temple complex also houses a museum which is worth a visit. If you are visiting Manali, do make it a point to visit this ancient temple and learn more about its rich history and culture.
In Mahabharata, there is a story about Hidimba, the demon ruler of mountains and brother of Hidimbi. It is told that Pandava spent a part of their 14 years exile in Himachal Pradesh, where Bhima, one of the five brothers, killed Hidimba and married his sister. When Bhima decided to leave the town, Hidmbi refused to come with him and chose to stay back, meditate and pray to the gods rather. Impressed by her dedication, the gods relented themselves and bestowed her with the status of a goddess, an incarnation of Shakti!
And that is how the temple came into existence!
The history of Hadimba Temple dates back to the 1553 AD when it was first built. However, the current structure of the temple was rebuilt in 1686 by Raja Bahadur Singh. The temple has undergone several renovations over the years and still stands tall as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Manali.
The temple is a popular destination for both tourists and pilgrims alike. Every year, thousands of people visit the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings from Hadimba Devi. The temple complex also houses a museum which is worth a visit. If you are visiting Manali, do make it a point to visit this ancient temple and learn more about its rich history and culture.
Architecture
The Hadimba Temple in Manali is a beautiful example of traditional Himalayan architecture. The temple is built entirely of wood, with intricate carvings adorning the exterior. The roof is supported by wooden columns, and the central shrine contains a statue of the goddess Hadimba. Visitors to the temple can admire the craftsmanship of the architecture, as well as enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The temple has been built in pagoda style of 4 tiered roofs. As you enter the temple a porch with a bench to sit on welcomes you warmly. The windows are made of wood and are carefully carved out of the temple, giving it a look of a rich ancient house. The architecture is marvellous considering how old the temple is and the entire structure still is considered by many localities as a pillar of protection from the ghosts, demons and ghouls. All and all, a visit to Manali is incomplete without the Hidimba devi temple.
The temple has been built in pagoda style of 4 tiered roofs. As you enter the temple a porch with a bench to sit on welcomes you warmly. The windows are made of wood and are carefully carved out of the temple, giving it a look of a rich ancient house. The architecture is marvellous considering how old the temple is and the entire structure still is considered by many localities as a pillar of protection from the ghosts, demons and ghouls. All and all, a visit to Manali is incomplete without the Hidimba devi temple.
Location
The temple is situated at about 3 km. from the bus stand and could even be reached on foot from old Manali. Away from the hustle bustle of the town, the temple is located in the middle of pine trees. The location is quite breathtaking and rejuvenates you not just physically but spiritually as well. From afar, it looks something like a Buddhist monastery. But a closer look tells you how intricately the little details have been done
Timings
Hadimba Temple Visiting timings are - 8 AM to 6 PM Daily
Book a Manali Tour to Visit This lovely sight
Book a Manali Tour to Visit This lovely sight
Entry Fees
The Hadimba Temple is one of the top tourist attractions in Manali. The temple is located in the Old Manali area and is a short walk from the main market. The temple is dedicated to Hadimba, the wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata epic.
There is no entry fee to visit the Hadimba Temple. However, there is a small fee for photography. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs from the temple complex.
There is no entry fee to visit the Hadimba Temple. However, there is a small fee for photography. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs from the temple complex.
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