Also known as dev bhumi or “Land of Gods”, Himachal Pradesh is possibly the favourite summer destination in India. Home to ancient temples, gurudwaras, and monasteries, Himachal Pradesh offers immense scope to fulfil our quest for spiritual awakening. Here are some of the most-revered spiritual destinations in Himachal Pradesh. By Karan Kaushik
Experience divinity at these spiritual destinations in Himachal Pradesh
Manikaran Sahib
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Famous for its hot water spring, Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara is one of the most popular Sikh shrines in India. It is believed that Guru Nanak visited the place. The Gurudwara runs a free langar service round the clock. When here, seek blessings, take a dip in the hot spring, and devour a wholesome meal. Manikaran is also home to several Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Rama, among others.
Jakhoo Temple
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Home to the iconic Hanuman statue every tourist visiting Shimla can’t help but take note of, Jakhoo Temple is perched atop the Jakhu Hill. Legend has it that Lord Hanuman had taken a break here on his way to collect sanjivani herb to revive Lakshmana. The giant statue of Lord Hanuman here is 108 feet tall. The best way to reach the temple is by taking a thrilling ropeway ride. Fair warning: beware of the notorious monkeys at the temple.
Chamunda Devi Temple
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Also known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham, the Chamunda Temple is located in the Kangra district. The temple features a large pond with an imposing statue of Lord Shiva. The temple complex also houses a photo studio, which offers an instant printout of pictures for tourists. It is best visited from Dharamshala. The temple features a shiva lingam under a boulder. You also get great views of the Dhauladhar range from here.
Baijnath Temple
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A fine specimen of the Nagara style of temple architecture, the Baijnath Temple is nestled in the Kangra district. It was constructed in the 8th century by two local merchants. Here, Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Vaidyanath or the lord of physicians. Set against the backdrop of snow-clad Dhauladhars, the temple features impressive carvings and sculptures on its outer walls. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses a shivalinga.
Hadimba Temple
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One of the most popular tourist attractions in Manali, Hadimba Temple is set amidst a dense cedar forest. Constructed by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553, the four-storey structure is embellished with sacrificial remains of animals like antelope horns on its exterior walls. The temple is dedicated to Hadimba, wife of one of the Pandava brothers, Bhim. The courtyard around the temple is dotted with street vendors selling everything from artefacts to yak cheese.
Paonta Sahib
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Another popular Gurudwara in Himachal Pradesh, Paonta Sahib is located 45km from Nahan on the banks of Yamuna. The Gurudwara is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh, who is said to have stayed here for three years. The prime attractions at the shrine include Shri Talab Asthan and Shri Dastar Asthan. The Kavi Darbar near the Gurudwara hosts poetry recitals. There’s a museum too, which showcases the weapons used by Guru Gobind Singh.
Tara Devi Temple
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Located in western Shimla, the Tara Devi Temple is a popular tourist attraction. Designed in the typical Pahari style of architecture, the temple offers splendid views of the valley, pine forests, and lofty mountains. The doors of the temple feature intricately carved miniatures of Goddess Tara, the main deity of the temple. The temple has undergone a renovation recently and continues to draw thousands of devotees every day.
Dalai Lama Temple
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Located in Mcleodganj, this temple is also referred to as Namgyal Monastery. It is one of the key attractions there, one that shouldn’t be missed at any cost. It is the current residence of the 14th Dalai Lama. Keep an eye out for the red-robed monks either in prayer or meditation, various hand-made paintings of the Buddha, and a life-size statue of him inside the temple. You can also check out the Tibet Museum adjacent to the temple for some added insight into Buddhism.
Jwala Ji Temple
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The ancient Jwala Devi Temple is located 20 kilometres off the Dharamsala-Shimla road and is devoted to Goddess Durga in her form of the deity with a flaming face. The shrine is counted among the Maha Shakti Peetham. The gorgeous site lies amid the Dhauladhar mountain range, known far and wide for its worship of the Goddess in the form of flames burning a flawless blue coming out from the crevices of a rock, believed to be as old as time by the locals. There is no idol in the temple, instead a havan is conducted every day accompanied by chanting.
Bijli Mahadev
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Perched at a height of 2460 meters, the Bijli Mahadev temple is located in the Kullu district. The temple stands in a gorgeous meadow and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple offers panoramic views of Kullu and the gorgeous Manikaran valley. Most people club their visit with the enchanting Palani waterfalls, which is located 6km from here. The temple also hosts a grand fair in March every year.
