Introduction

An absolute must-do on your Manali holiday is a trip to the iconic Hadimba Temple. After winding your way through forests of whispering deodars, you will be faced with a pagoda-like wooden structure seemingly shrouded in mystery and folklore. In the middle of a forest called Dhungri Van Vihar, the four-tiered Hadimba Temple stands 27 meters tall (90 feet), exuding an air of austerity. Walk through an ornate front gate displaying images of animals, gods and goddesses, legendary figures and symbols. Within the temple there are no idols, but a foot-print on stone. The structure was erected in 1553 by Maharana Bahadur Singh and dedicated to Hadimba Devi (a female demon) who, according to the epic Mahabharat, was the sister of Hadimb rakshash (demon) who ruled some of the sub-mountainous tracts of the Himalayas. Later, Bhima fell in love with Hadimba and they lived together in this valley for sometime. Hadimba, is believed, after the birth of her son resorted to meditation and acquired supernatural powers. She eventually became the patron deity of the Rajas of Kullu. They would seek her blessings in the swearing-in ceremony and sacrifice a buffalo in return. In fact, animal sacrifices are still made here in honor of the goddess. On arrival it is customary to ring the bells hung at the temple door. Explore the rather dark interiors, but what really gives the creeps is the bloodstained wall near which sacrifices are made on auspicious days. From a distance it might give you the impression of an abstract art, but not after you draw closer.

The temple holds a colorful festival every year in May when locals partake in the grand fair and make merry. If you can make it on time for the festivities, you will see this otherwise quiet site burst with color and clamor.

There are various ways of reaching this holy site, either walk from the Manali Tourist Office about 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) northwest of Dhungri hill where Hadimba Temple stands under a cover of deodar forests or hire a taxi that takes the road along Beas River to the temple gate. Pay your regards to the popular local deity, uncover some fascinating legends surrounding the temple, take pictures and simply soak up its stark ambience.

Special Attributes

The most popular attraction of Manali, Hadimba Temple has different facets and a lush backdrop.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

There are various ways of reaching this holy site, either walk from the Manali Tourist Office about 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) northwest of Dhungri hill where Hadimba Temple stands under a cover of deodar forests or hire a taxi that takes the road along Beas River to the temple gate.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpacker

Exposure

You will mostly be in the shade of the towering deodars. Carry a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

November, December, January, February, March, April

Facilities

You can take a nature walk in the deodar forest around the temple.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Begin early in the day as the hills darken by early evening. And you might miss out on some gorgeous views.

Type of site

Temple of the patron deity Hadimba Devi