Bhootnath Temple Mandi

Monuments of Himachal

annithisweek mandi

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 Mandi

Architectural Wonders in Stone

Mandi district has numberless temples of various deities where hill people offer regular prayers. Mandi is renowned for its 81 old stone temples and their enormous range of fine carving. Because of this, it is often called the “Varanasi of the Hills.” Ancient Hindu temples and shrines here are mostly built of stone. Their architecture and surrounding (near the Beas River) are striking features of these temples. The Archaeological Survey of India also lists many of these as protected monuments. They are among the top tourist attractions here apart from being places of worship.

Bhima Kali Temple

Bhima Kali Temple, located on the end of Bhuili Bridge over the Beas River, sits on the slope that was once occupied by the Jogin Shrine. The sanctum surrounded by richly carved wooden enclosure features silver idol of Bhima Kali.  The temple has enough parking slots and lots of maintained open spaces for unwinding. The temple affords views of Mandi and Bhuili towns and the abundance Beas

Ekadash Rudra Temple

Ekadash Rudra Temple, painted in bright colors such as blue, pink, yellow, white and vermillion, is a landmark located near the Victoria Bridge. The temple features ekasdash (eleven) rudras (gods) encircling shivling (Shiva’s phallus in yoni) in sanctum and ten incarnations of Vishnu in the niches. The main temple is surrounded by four small temples dedicated to four gods and goddesses: Durga, Ganesh, Surya and Vishnu. The temple is therefore called Panchdeva Complex.

Bhootnath Temple

Bhootnath Temple, the sixteenth century stone temple near DC Office, is also dedicated to Shiva. The shikhar style temple consists of sanctum and a rectangular hall. The sanctum houses shivling and mahayoni. The sanctum entrance is decorated with elephants, vidyadharas (deities), and gandharvas and kinnaras (musicians). The decorations also include other animals, celestial nymphs and geometrical motifs. Originally the main door was of silver but today a steel door guards the god.