Bajnath Shiv Temple Kangra

Monuments of Himachal

In God’s Own Backyard

The history of Himachal has played a great role in shaping up the monumental heritage of the state. Thanks to the multi cultural influence that has made it possible for Himachal to give the tourists everything that they can seek for. The most dominating as well as the most highlighted monumental attractions are that of the British landmarks. It is an inevitable fact as they were the ones who ruled this state for the maximum stretch of time. But however, you will find significant effect of Mughal and Hindu architecture as well. This week we are taking you to some more temples of Chamba.

Temples of Kangra

Displaying Architectural Excellence of the Region

Kangra is renowned all over the world for its crafts and temples. Handicrafts and artifacts including paintings are world known. Kangra is proud of its rich cultural legacy. There are many rock-cut temples displaying the architectural excellence of the region. Masroor is known for many marvelous rock-cut temples. The town houses shrines of Chamunda Devi, Baijnath and Jawalamukhi. Tourism in Kangra is ideally suited to religious minded people who wish to visit the abode of gods known as Himachal. Baijnath, Jwalamukhi and Chamunda Devi temples attract uncountable number of visitors all from all around India as well as foreigner tourists.

Baijnath Shiv Temple

This particularly beautiful ancient Shiv temple at Baijnath is 16 km from Palampur, on the Pathankot-Mandi national highway. Built of stone in the 9th century AD in the shikhara style, it is a fine blend of sculpture and architecture. The temple is easily accessible from both Palampur and Kangra. The linga enshrined in its sanctum is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in the country. Every year during the Shivratri fair, pilgrims descend on Baijnath for the colourful fair and festivities.

Masroor Rock Temple

Known for its monolithic rock-cut temples, Masroor is 38 km from Kangra Town. There are 15 rock-cut temples in Indo-Aryan style and are richly carved. It is a unique monolithic structure in the sub-Himalayan region and is a protected monument. The main shrine contains three stone images of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita. The temple complex is located on a hill and also  has a large rectangular water pond. The view of snow clad Dhauladhar is amazing from the temple premises.

Chamunda Devi Temple

Just 24 km from Kangra and 15 km from Dharamshala is the famous temple of  goddess Chamunda Devi (Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham). At the back of the  temple is a cave-like scoop where a stone “Lingam” under a boulder represents Nandikeshwar (Shiva). The temple complex is an enchanting spot with  glorious view of Dhauladhar, the Baner Khad and Dadh. A vast  running water pool houses the statues of Lord Shiva and  Saraswati. A trek of about 16 km up in the Dhauladhar  ranges is the ancient temple of Aadi Himani  Chamunda