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Himachal Pradesh

Hidimba Temple

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map

January

-6.3 - 16.2 °C

February

-4.0 - 18.2 °C

March

-1.2 - 23.3 °C

April

2.5 - 26.2 °C

May

5.2 - 29.9 °C

June

8.5 - 30.6 °C

July

12.0 - 29.6 °C

August

11.9 - 28.5 °C

September

7.7 - 27.3 °C

October

2.8 - 25.7 °C

November

-0.4 - 20.7 °C

December

-2.7 - 17.4 °C

Major Airports :

Kullu–Manali Airport (KKU), Kullu (Bhuntar)

Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport (IXC), Chandigarh

Nearest Railway Station :

Joginder Nagar Railway Station (JGNX)

Major Airports :

Kullu–Manali Airport (KKU), Kullu (Bhuntar)

Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport (IXC), Chandigarh

Manali’s unique and majestic temple

The Hidimba Temple in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, locally known as Dhungari Temple, is surrounded by a cedar forest called Dhungiri Van Vihar at the foot of the Himalayas. This ancient temple, dedicated to Hidimba Devi, the wife of Bhima from the epic Mahabharata, is not just a religious landmark but a living embodiment of tales woven through centuries.

History and mythology

The roots of the Hidimba Devi Temple delve deep into the annals of history, tracing back to its construction in 1553 CE by Maharaja Bahadur Singh. However, its significance transcends mere architectural magnificence. Legend has it that Hidimba Devi was born as a demoness or a Rakshasi. The powerful demon king of the Kamyaka forest, Hidimb was her brother. Legend has it that after the Pandavas escaped Duryodhana’s attempt to assassinate them, the five brothers headed straight to the Kamyaka forest. Bhima, one of the five Pandavas killed Hidimb in a fight. Thereafter, Hidimba married Bhima and gave birth to their son Ghatotkacha. As agreed between them Bhima along with his brothers went away from there, it was Hidimba who looked after the kingdom, took great care of the people and brought her son up. Ghatotkacha grew up to be as brave a warrior as his parents. When he attained adulthood, Hidimba gave the reins of the kingdom to him and she left for the forest, where she began meditation on a rock seeking penance for her sins. Her prayers were answered by Goddess Durga, who blessed her to become a goddess. Since those times, Hidimba Devi is worshipped as a deity.

Architectural splendour

Stepping into the Hidimba Devi Temple is akin to entering a realm where craftsmanship meets divinity. Its Pagoda-style architecture against the backdrop of tall pine trees gives it a magnificent look. It is 24 metres high, with three square roofs covered with timber tiles and a fourth brass cone-shaped roof at the top. Goddess Durga forms the theme of the main door carvings. Also depicted are animals, foliate designs, dancers, scenes from Lord Krishna's life and Navagrahas. First time visitors get awe struck with the stunning, wooden carved interiors. The temple base is made out of whitewashed, mud-covered stonework. An enormous rock occupies the inside of the temple with the imprint of the feet of the Goddess carved on it which is worshipped along with a 3-inch-tall brass image representing goddess Hidimba Devi.

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Timings

Opening time - 08:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

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Festivals and celebrations

Local people believe that the Goddess still protects the forest and the people here, blessing them abundantly. She is worshipped as the Kuldevi (family deity) and Gram Devi (village deity) as well. While Navaratri elsewhere celebrates Goddess Durga, here, the spotlight shifts to Hidimba Devi, drawing devotees in droves.

Throughout the year, the temple resonates with joyous celebrations. There is a fair that is held annually in the month of May falling on the birthday of Hidimba Devi. This festival is marked by musical celebration and dance performed by the local womenfolk who visit the Dungri forest area.

The temple also hosts an annual festival with great fervour and zest, during the Hindi month of Shravan (July-August), in the memory of Raja Bahadur Singh, who constructed this temple. This fair is called as ‘Bahadur Singh Re Jatar’ by the locals.

Embracing the tranquil mystique of Hidimba Temple

Soaking in the spiritual aura of this place, one cannot help but reflect on the profound solace found within the sacred precincts of Hidimba Temple. Beyond its architectural magnificence and rich history lies a sanctuary of tranquillity, where the whispers of ancient legends blend seamlessly with the rustle of pine trees. The scenic beauty surrounding the temple, with its dense cedar forest and majestic mountains, enhances the mystical aura that envelops this hallowed ground. It's a place where time seems to stand still, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the serenity of the moment. The enchanting allure of this place lingers in the hearts of the visitors, a timeless reminder of the enduring peace and spiritual rejuvenation it offers to all who seek it.