Kullu is a famous town in Himachal Pradesh that attracts tourists from all over the world for most of the year. It is a place that has enough of everything to attract visitors. Antiques, clothes, authentic food, jewellery, places to sightsee, a place of retreat, thrill-seeking activities – you name it, and they have it. For all the things it is known, one thing Kullu stands out for is its name, “A place of all Gods and Goddesses”.
The Kullu Valley is home to several deities that locals and tourists worship reverently. There are many temples that you must visit in this valley but the most popular one is the Jagannathi Temple. Only if and when you visit this holy shrine will your journey to Kullu be considered complete.
About The Jagannathi Temple
Standing at an impressive height of 1800 meters and a distance of 10 km from Kullu Town stands the auspicious Jagannathi Temple, also known as Bekhli Mata Temple. According to historians and scholars, this beautiful temple is 1500 years old and worships Goddess Bhubaneshwari Devi, sister of Lord Vishnu.
The temple is amidst a gorgeous green environment that enhances the beauty and the charm of the temple even more. The temple is near a small village called Bhakhali, where most residents are Brahmins. The sculptures inside the temples show signs of great influence from Rajasthan and Gaddi Tribe, including the intricate and stunning carvings on the walls. These depict several avatars of the incarnation of Goddess Parvati.
History Of Jagannathi Temple
According to legend, the deity of this temple, Devi Bhwaneshwari, was disguised as a young girl and was dancing with another to the tune of a shepherd boy’s magical flute. Intrigued by them, the boy follows and captures one girl who shows her true identity and becomes the Goddess herself. She decided to stay in the village and protect it. Since then, the temple has been developed to respect the Goddess and seek her blessings. Lord Narayana is also believed to have left the temple so his sister could reside.
Temples To Visit Near The Temple
If you are planning to pay a visit to Jagannathi Temple then make it a point to visit these places near Jagannathi Temple:
1. Manu Temple
One of the most famous temples in Kullu-Manali, it is said that this is the only temple of Manu Rishi that was believed to have created the human race. The temple’s structure is majestic and strong, made of wood, giving a very sophisticated charm to the whole look. This temple is what gave Manali the city its own name. Initially, Manali used to be called “Manu Alaya” which means place of Manu. This temple is the only temple of Manu in all of India. It is located in Old Manali 3 km from Mall road.
Timings: 6 am to 5 pm
Entry Fees: Free of cost
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2. Hidimba Devi Temple
This beautiful temple is surrounded by tall trees in the middle of the Dhungiri Van Vihhar forest. The name of the temple comes from the Indian Epic Mahabharata. It is said that Hidimba was the wife of Bhima, the third eldest brother among the Pandavas. Inside the temples, you can view wooden carvings depicting various mythological characters and several animals and birds. It is a wonderful place to visit and pray.
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Entry Fees: Free of cost
3. Bijli Mahadev Temple
Standing at an impressive altitude of 2460 meters, the Bijli Mahadev Temple is above the village, also known as Bijli Mahadev. This temple is not only for devotees but those who love nature as well. People must first go on a 3 km trek to reach this place. The villagers maintain the temple and have also come up with another neighbouring building providing room for visitors to rest before they trek back down. People believe that when lightning strikes the tall staff at the temple, they seek blessing from Lord Shiva himself.
Timings: 6 am to 8 pm
Entry Fees: Free of cost
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4. Vashisht Temple
The history and holiness of this temple are closely tied to the Hindi epic Ramayana itself. It is believed that Lakshmana, Lord Rama’s brother, visited the great Rishi Vashist. He saw him walk a long path just to reach the bath, feeling concerned. He shot his arrow into the ground, and hot water burst from underneath the surface. This hot spring is considered to have powers that can cure any skin ailments, attracting several tourists. This temple is dedicated to Maharishi Vahsisht himself.
Timings: 6 am to 8 pm
Entry Fees: Free of cost
5. Gayatri Temple
The temple was built in 1962 in Jagat Sukh by Shri Chidambaram Dixit in memory of Goddess Gayatri. It is located 7 km from Manali, making it easy for devotees to travel and pay their respects to the Goddess. The interiors of the temple display beautiful wooden carvings dedicated to the Goddess.
Timings: 7 am to 8 pm
Entry Fees: Free of cost
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6. Siyali Mahadev Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Siyali Mahadev Temple is located only 1 km from Hadimba Devi Temple, which makes it easier for tourists to visit both temples and enjoy the experience. It is probably the oldest Shiva Temple in the vicinity, attracting a constant flow of devotees all year round.
Timings: 6 am to 7 pm
Entry Fees: Free of cost
7. Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple
A simple temple built in 1957 holds significant value to the Buddhists in the vicinity and all the people who come here often to worship. The deity worshipped here is a Tibetan Buddha. There is a garden outside the monastery where visitors can sit and enjoy the silence and serenity they experience here.
Timings: 6 am to 7 pm
Entry Fees: Free of cost
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How To Reach Jagannathi Temple
The Jagannath temple is well connected to the rest of India and Himachal Pradesh by land, rail and air. Many tourists use various routes to reach the Jagannathi temple by road and rail, whereas locals tend to hike to the temple from surrounding villages.
By Air
The closest airport to the Jagannathi Temple is Bhuntar Airport, which is 22.2 km away. Tourists can easily find a bus or a taxi to reach their destination without any problems on the way.
By Rail
The closest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is around 134 km away from the temple. You can make the journey in a bus or a cab, which should take you about 3 to 4 hours to complete.
By Road
Not only are the roads well-connected to all parts of Himachal Pradesh, but the town of Kullu is also connected with cities like Ambala, Delhi, and Chandigarh. If tourists wish to take a road trip to Kullu, starting their journey from any of these places should be ideal. Himachal Pradesh Road Transport and taxi services are available.
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The best time for any tourist to visit this temple is during the Dussehra Fair, which is held every year between April and June. The Jagannathi Temple is a place of great spirituality and peace; those seeking it must visit it. Now that you have a better idea about Kullu, it is time to hurry and book your trip to Manali and enjoy the peace and serenity one experiences in the presence of the beloved Goddess.
Cover Image Credit: Neerajsinghazm for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Jagannathi Temple
Are there any Hindu festivals celebrated in Jagannathi Temple?
Several Hindu festivals are celebrated in this auspicious temple such as Dussheehra and Navaratri, people celebrate with lots of enthusiasm and love.
Is the trek to the temple tough?
The climb is rather moderate so in case you are not used to walking so much, you should let your guide know beforehand. Carry water and snacks, and wear comfortable shoes and clothes for the trek. Pack light so you will not carry any extra weight.
What are the timings for visiting the Jagannathi Temple?
The temple is open from sunrise to sunset. However, it is always advised that people confirm the timings as they could vary due to festivities.
Is there a dress code to follow?
All tourists are requested to dress appropriately as it is a temple. Pants and a T-shirt work as people have to hike before entering the temple.
What is the best time to visit the Jagannathi Temple?
The ideal time to visit this temple would be from March to June and September to November. The weather is neither too cold nor too hot. It is pleasant enough to be outside exploring the town.
