Hidimba Temple, Manali, Himachal Pradesh.

Hidimba temple, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Location

Hidimba Devi Temple is located very near to old Manali town and 3 km away from Bus stop. It is an ancient cave temple constructed in 1553 by the, then King Raja Bahadur singh on a huge rock and in the midst of the cedar forest.

[ Hidimba Temple]

The temple is dedicated to Hidimba Devi, who was associated to the period of Mahabharat war. There is no idol inside the temple, only the foot print on the rock is worshipped.

There is a priest in the temple named Hira Nand Shashtri, take care of the temple and guide the devotees.

Architecture of the Temple

It is a four storied temple made of wood and is located in the middle of the forest known as Dhungiri Van Bihar. The temple has 24 m high tower. The three tiers of the squaire roof is wooden flooring, while the conical roof is metallic one. The wooden door is intricately and beautifully carved depicting the Goddess Durga.her attendants, animals and stylised foliation. On the beam above, the doorway appear the Navgrahas, female dancers, an isolated scene from the Krishna stories of Mhabharat period.

The sanctuary is built over a huge rock jutting out of the ground which was worshipped as the deity in side the temple.

Legend/story behind the temple

During the exile period, Pandavas with there mother and brothers was wandering and came in the regime ruled by a demon Hidimb. He was brave and fearless. One of the Pandavas brother Bhim fell in love with Hidimba,the sister of Hidimb. She told Bhima that she would Mary only with whom ,who can defeat her brother. Bhima then defeated her brother and married hidimba.

After some time Bhima departed from this place leaving Hidimba. In due course Hidimba gave birth to a male child and named Ghatotkach. When Ghatotkach was minor in age, Hidimba looked after the regime. Ghatotkach was a great warrior and a good administrater. 

Handing over the regime to Ghatotkach, Hidimba went for meditation and earned, many supernatural power. The people who were the disciple of her, later erected a temple in her honour. The temple is now  known as Hidimba temple.

As per another legend the architect who built the temple had to loose his hands to avoid duplication of such a masterpiece craft.

Fairs and festivals

Dussera festivals of Kullu and Manali is a world famous in which Idols of Gods and Goddesses from the hills are brought at Dhalpur Maidan. From here goddess Hidimba blesses the ceremonial horse which is called as Ghor Puja.

In the memory of the King Raja Bahadur Singh, who built the temple a fair is organized and named as Bahadur Singh Re Jater. This fair is also named as Sharoohni, which is symbolic of the completion of transplanting Paddy crop.

All in all a visit to this sacred temple as well as the place is a very enriching experience. One can feel a kind of devotion, faith, belief and hospitality.

Where to Stay

Manali is a famous hill station. Hotels of every budget is available in Manali.

Places to Visit Nearby

Manu Temple

Manali is believed to be the abode of Sage Manu. The name Manali is derived from the word Manu.This is the only temple of Sage Manu in India

[ Manu Temple ] 

Tibetan Monesteries

One of the most fascinating aspect of Manali is that it has several colorful Monesteries. These Monestries serve not only a place of worship but also as guardian of rich culture and history of the Tibetan people settled in Manali and Kullu.

[ Tibetan Monestry ] 

Rohtang Pass

More than 25 lacs tourist come every year to enjoy this place. In winter Rohtang pass remains fully covered with snow and the entry is prohibited. Generally it opens in May.It is a beautifull and suitable place for nature lover and adventure seekers. The snow covered mountains provide perfect opportunities to go skiing and snow scooter.

                                             [ Snow covered Rohtang Pass ]

Raghunathji Temple

The old Raghunath ji temple is situated on a small hill. It is constructed by the King Jagat Singh in mid of 17 th century. The idol of Raghunath ji was brought by the King from Tretnath temple in Ayodhya.

Beside these temples there are so many places of tourism interst in Manali.

How to Reach

By air

The nearest airport is Bhuntar about 50 km away from Manali. Domestic flights connects Bhuntar with Delhi and Chandigarh. Taxis are available at airport for Manali.

By road

Manalii is well connected to important tourist destination like Shimla, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Delhi and all major cities of Punjab,Himachal and Hariyana by means of a network of state run as well as private buses. Air conditioned Volvo buses are also available from Delhi.

By rail

Kalka and Chandigarh are the nearest rail head. After that only road is the option.

Manimahesh Kailash Temple, Bharmour, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Location

Manimahesh Kailash is basically, not a temple but it a peak in Himalaya in the shape Shivalingm and believed to be the another abode of Lord Shiva. 

The altitude of the Manimahesh peak is 5653 meter (18547 ft) and the Lake named as Dal lake or Manimahesh lake, having an altitude of 4080 m (13390 ft). Manimahesh lake is situated just at the base of the kailash peak.

Lovely picture of Manimahesh kailash and Lake

Bird view of Kailash

It is said, Manimahesh kailash is created by Lord Shiva himself, in the honour of his consort Parvati who meditated here, in past. This place is also considered as the abode of Tridev ( Brahma,Vshnu, Mahesh), the supreme Gods of the Universe.

The peak and the Lake, both are held in deep veneration by the people of Himachal and particularly Gaddi tribes of this region. In the Hindi month Bhadon, on 8 th day of new moon, a fair is organised on the bank of Manimahesh Lake, that attracts thousands of pilgrims.

Literally, the name Manimahesh means Mani (Jewel) and Mahesh (Lord Shiva), ie A Jewel in the crown of Lord Shiva.

It is a virgin peak and cannot be scaled up till today, although tried by mountaineers time to time.

Nature’s Mystery

On the full moon night (which is rare), from the crown of Shivlingam (ie the peak of Kailash), a diamond like Mani (Jewel) glitters, the shadow of which when falls on the transparent water of the Lake, reflects to give an awesome view. Although this happens rare. But local people claim this incident true.

Early morning sun ray, falling on the top of Manimahesh peak reflects from the lake look like a saffron tilak on the head of Lord Shiva. This display enhanced the legendry belief of the Gaddis on the sanctity of Manimahesh Lake.

Manimahesh Yatra

Manimahesh Yatra is a Holy yatra which is supported by the Govt. of Himachal Pradesh and declared as a State Level Pilgrimage.

Manimahesh yatra may be initiated either from Bhamour or Hadsar. From Bharmour to Hudsar the distance is 15 km and is covered by road. From Hadsar the trek route for Manimahesh Lake involves a 13 km distance. Half way up this trek is 6 km of open and flat grass field up to Dancho fall. 

Night halt is preferred here. Tents for stay are made available here during the month of august – September. Free foods are also available to the pilgrims by the Swayamsevi Sansthan.

The journey after Dncho is a steep climb. In the past, to cross Dancho was so tough that the pilgrims required to crawl like a monky to cross the Dancho Nala. That is why this valley is also known as Bandar Ghati in Hindi.

Manimahesh Yatra Route

Now this trek is much improved but some still prefer to opt the old route as an adventure. After Bandar Ghati crossing, a wooden bridge lead the pilgrims to the left bank of Manimahesh river. After 2 km, the river was again crossed to reach the right bank.

From this point, the climb passes through many zigzag ways and Birch trees, which indicates a gain in altitude. Along this stretch of trek route there are a number of community kitchen at about 3600 m height.

From this location, the trail to Manimahesh Lake could be discerned. The water fall created by the water flowing from the lake, can be viewed at this stage.

A further trek of 1.5 km through the grassy ridges leads to Manimahesh Lake.

Manimahesh Lake

Manimahesh Lake

Manimahesh Lake is small in size with shallow depth and on the foothills of Manimahesh Kailash peak.

The dangling glacier around the lake is like snow field. This snowy field is called Shiv Chougan (play field of Lord Shiva). The super natural beauty of the lake forced to believe in God’s power even by the least believer in God.

On the clear day the reflection of Kailash peak can be seen in the lake surface. All the year round this place remains desolate, without any inhabitants because nobody dares to stay here. A few bird or species are seen rarely. The air is fresh, but ice cold. The shape of the lake is like a saucer.

Worshiping at Manimahesh Lake

The silence of this place is broken only in August – September on the 8 th day of Hindi month Bhadon (new moon day) when the Manimahesh Yatra starts. It is believed that Lord Shiva meditated here for a long period and this lake is created by a stream of water coming out from the Jatta (matted hair) of Lord Shiva.

To take bath in the lake is a religious tradition among Hindus. The lake is divided into two parts as larger and smaller one. The larger part which is known as Shiv Karotri is the bathing place for gents. 

The smaller one is known as Gourikund is the bathing place for the female pilgrims. The water of Gurikund is Luke warm.

In the periphery of the lake, a marble idol of Lord Shiva is installed and worshipped. There is also a small temple of Devi Mahishasurmardini in shikhara style is constructed on the bank of the lake in which a brass image of Devi is installed and worshipped.

Legend

There are many mythical legend stated on the sanctity of the peak and lake.

According to a legend Lord Shiva created another abode and named as Manimahesh Kailash and adopted Gaddis as His devotees. Gaddis are the tribal who live in Bharmour valley.

It is believed that Lord Shiva gifted Gaddis a chuhali topi (pointed cap) and a dress Chola (coat) and Dora (a long black chord 10 to 15 m long). Since then Gaddis started calling this place as Shiv Bhumi and themselves, as the devotees of Lord Shiva.

Lord Shiva resides here for six months and then move downward to the netherworld, handing over the regime to Lord Vishnu, on the day of Janmashtami.

As per another legend, a demon named Bhasmasur meditated at this place and succeeded to please Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva then appear before him and asked to bestowed a boon. The demon prayed Lord shiva to deliver a power that if, he put his hand on the head of a some one, he should be burnt in to ashes. Lord Shiva gifted him with this boon in spite of his unwillingness.

The demon tried to apply this boon on the boon giver. After that Lord Shiva any how managed and hide himself in a cave, covered with Dancho water fall near Budnil river. Now Lord Vishnu, the Guardian of the universe, became worry of this incident and appear in guise of a beautiful dancer. The demon came into the grip of her beauty and started doing, as she (Vishnu) directed.

Now, she posed a dance style keeping her one hand on head and second on her waist, and told the demon to do like this. The demon did this pose and turned into ashes, giving relief to Lord Shiva.

It is also believed that, Manimahesh Kailash peak is still invincible as no one so far could be able to scaled it. 

It is said that once Gaddis tribals tried to climb the peak but converted into stone along with their sheep on the way to Kailash.

The series of smaller peaks, around the principal peak are believed to be the remnants of the shepherd and sheep.

History

Journey to Manimahesh Kailash came into practise from the ancient time. As per Gadget available in the record of Chamba district, Bharmour was the capital of the King Maru Verma in 550 CE. 

A group of temples in Bharmour retained its existence from the ancient time and are the examples of high quality art of that time.The original name was Brahmapura, became Bharmour in due course of time.

There is a temple at the peak of a hill at Bharmour and known as the Goddess of wisdom (Buddhi in Hindi) and the valley is known as Budnil valley.

Budnil River

The king Sunil Verma was the discident of Maru Verma in the year 920 CE ruled Bharmour. He.had no child to carry over his generation.

Once a group of 84 saints, came to Bharmour. The king honoured them and managed their food and stay with joy. The saints blessed the king with ten sons and one daughter who was named, Champawati. The king then constructed 84 temples in the Honor of the saints. Manimahesh temple and Laxna temple are among them. These temples are the examples of a high quality of art and sculpture of that time.

According to Chamba Gadgetry there was a saint named Charpatnath, who helped the king Sunil Verma to extend the territory of his kingdom.

According to a holy magazine KALYAN of Gita press Gorakhpur, the discovery of Manimahesh Kailash and its tour initiated by the saint Charpatnath. Since then, the traditional tour for kailash started on Krishna Janmashtami and ends on Radhaashtami, which comes after 15 days.

Where to Stay

There are many hotels of every budget in Chamba and Bharmour. Some of them are Hotel Ashiana Regency, The Iravati (HPTDC), Hotel city heart, Shining star hotel. 

One can stay either at Chamba or Bharmour where every facilities for a comfortable stay are made available by the Himachal Tourism Development Corporation at lower cost.

How to Reach

By road

Hadsar is the starting point for trekking to Manimahesh and Hadsar is well connected by road. Buses of HP roadways ply regularly for Chamba and Hadsar from major cities of Himachal.

By rail

Pathankot is the nearest railway station 220 km away from Chamba. From Chamba to Bharmour is 82 km and Bharmour to Hadsar is 17 km. One can reach here by taxi or Bus.

By air

Nearest airport is Kangra. From Kangra to hadsar only road is the option.

                                      

Video:

Brahma Temple, Pushkar, Rajasthan, India.

Location

Brahma temple, Pushkar is located at Pushkar in the state in Rajasthan and just near the Pushkar lake. The temple and lake is religiously attached to each other and have equal importance in Hindus religion.

Entrance Brahma Temple

Idol of Brahma with Savitri

The temple is dedicated to Lord Brahma (the creator God). There are few temples of Lord Brahama in India, but this temple is the most prominent among them. 

That is why Pushkar temple is called GURUTIRTH which literally means senior among all pilgrimage of Hindu religion. As Prayag is called Tirthraj similarly Pushkar is called Pushkar raj.

Lord Brahma is worshipped as Jagatpita (father of the universe) in Hindu religion.

Main Deity

Lord Brahma is the main deity inside the temple. Lord Brahama is a four headed God and creator of all the creatures on the earth.

There are more than 500 temples at Pushkar but only 80 temples are large and of the period (1658 – 1760). Many of them were destroyed by the Mogul Emperor, but were rebuilt subsequently.

According to a legend Brahma was cursed by Devi Savitri (his consort in some happenings described below) that he never be worshipped on the earth but later on relaxed it by permitting him to worship in Pushkar.

Legend/Story behind the Temple

There was a demon Vajranabha. He was killing his children (as Brahama is Jagat pita and we all are his children), harassing and destructing his creation on the earth. Thus being angry he threw his weapon, the lotus flower and killed the demon.

The lotus fower petels fell on the groud and created three lakes. The first one is known as Jyeshtha Lake ( elder one), second the Madhya Lake (middle one), and third as Kanishtha Lake (small one).

Lotus is a flower (pushpa in hindi) kara means hand. As the Pushpa fell down from the Kara of Brahama, the place is named as Pushkara.

People taking bath in Pushkar Lake

Lord Brahma wished to do Yajna at this place. For the protection and for the completion of Yajana peacefully, he created four hills. Ratnagiri, Nilgiri, Sanchoora and Suryagiri in four direction south, north, west and east respectively and positioned different Gods on it, to protect the Yajana from the demons.

Now he started the preparation for the Yajna. Sage Agastya Rishi was the main priest of the Yajna. The auspicious time came but his wife Savitri was absent, as she was waiting for her companion Goddess Luxmi Parvati and Indrani.

According to Hindu religion presence of wife in religious occasion is must. Then Lord Brahama directed Indra to arrange another bride for his marriage. Lord Iindra brought a Gujjar girl who was sanctified by passing her through the body of a cow. Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and other priest certified her purity as she had passed through a cow, it was her second birth and then she was named Gayatri. Lord Brahama then married her and completed the Yajna. 

When Savitri came and saw a Gujjar girl Gayatri was sitting beside Lord Brahama. She became angry and cursed Brahma that he would only be worshiped in Pushkar and no where else. Savitri also cursed other Gods and priest. Lord Indra to be defeated easily in battles, Lord Vishnu to suffer the separation from his consort, fire God Agni to be all devouring and Priest to be poor.

Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Goddess Savitri and Sage Agastya are the main deity over here in Pushkar. Presence of such Gods at one place, made it the most religious place in Hindu mythology. International Business Times has identified Pushkar Lake and Brahma temple as one of the most sacred and religious place in the world and one of the five Hindu pilgrimages in India.

History of the Temple

As per Archological Survey of India, the temple structures date 14 th century. But it is believed that the temple is 2000 yrs old and constructed by Lord Vishwakarma (the architect of God).

The place for the temple was selected by Lord Brahama himself. Adi Shankarcharya renovated this temple in 8 th century.

Later on, Maharaja Jawat raj repaired and did some additional work to beautify the temple keeping the original structure intact. It is amomg the five sacred pilgrimage and known as Pushkar Raj tirth.

The entry from the main gate leads to a pillared outdoor hall and then to Garbhagriha (sanctum). The doors, dom and walls are well decorated. Molten lead is used to join the stones.

The red spire of the temple and symbol of Hansa (swan or goose) on the top are the distinct feature.

Puja and Rituals

People from every corner of the couuntry gathers to worship Jagat Pita (father of universe) Lord Brahma. The process include, first take bath in Pushkar lake after that go to the temple of Mata Gayatri and finaly to the temple of Lord Brahma.

The married men are not allowed to enter the sanctum. It is strictly followed by the Priest there. Only Sanyasi (ascetics) are the priest and belong to the lineage Parasar gotra.

Festivals

Kite Festival

A kite festival is organized on the eve of Maker Sankranti (mostly on 14 th) January. Kites of different beautiful colors can be seen over the sky line. Not only the Indian tourist but foreign tourist celebrate kite festival and they get mixed with local people.

On this day people take holy dip in Puskar lake and pray Sun God. Donating money and eatables (generally Gulgula,Malpua) to the needy are supposed to be a noble work for receiving Punya from deity.

Pushkar Fair (International Fair)

Kartik Sudi Ekadashi to kartik Purnima ( 11 th day and full moon day of bright half) which generally falls in October – November a religious festival is held in the honour of Lord Brahma. Rites (sanskar) celebration is organized on every Purnima and Amawasya (full moon and no moon day of every month).

Camel in ornamental wearing

A large fair is organized in which a large numbers of cattles like camel ,bulls, horse, brought by the traders of UP, Punjab, Haryana. A good trading takes place in the fair.

The fair is started a week before the poonam and ends on the full moon night.

Krishna Janmashtami

Janmashtami celebration is organized here and enjoyed by the devotees and the local people of Pushkar. Handi phorho competition is organized here and enjoyed by the locals.

The Rangnath temple remains open through out the night and birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated at midnight. On the next morning Nandotsava is celebrated in which people distribute Prasad(offerings) and dance with joy.

Places to Visit Nearby

Raghunath Temple
Built in the year 1823, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his two reincarnation Narshimha and Ram.

Raghunath Temple

Dargah of Khwaja Muin - Ud - Chishti

Dargah Shariff

This is the place where the people come from all over the world to make a wish. On getting them them fulfilled by the grace of Garib Nawaz, they offer flower and chadars in his honour

Apteshwar Temple
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and believed to be built in the 12 th century making it one of the oldest temple that exist today. The original temple was destroyed by the Mogul Emperor Aurangzeb.

Durgabag Garden

It is situated to the right of Ana Sagar Lake. You can see a large number of tourists lazing around the garden making it a lively picnic spot.

Timings of Temple

All days of the week

5.00 AM to 1.30 PM 3.00 PM to 9.00PM (summer)

6.30 AM to 1.30 PM 3.00 PM to 8.30 PM (Winter)

Arti Timings

Arti of Lord Brahma is peformed three times in a day.

Mangal Arti - 2 hours before sunrise

Sandhya Arti - after 40 minutes of sunset

Shayan Arti - Five hours past of sunset.

Where to Stay

Hotels of Large, medium and low budgets are available in Pushkar.Some of them are listed below.

Large budget hotels – Hotel Raj Garden, Lohana Village Resort, Pushkar Fort Resort

Medium budget hotels – Chacha’s Garden, Goyal Inn, Amrutham, Farm Villa etc

How to Reach

By air

There are no regular flights for Pushkar from major cities of India. Nearest air port is Sanganer

Sangner to pushkar – 127 km

Jodhpur airport to Pushkar – 161 km

By rail

Pushkar is not connected by railhead. Ajmer is the nearest railway station 10 km away..

By road

Pshkar is well connected by road from all over the country, regular buses ply from all major cities of Rajasthan.

Video:

Mata Nagini Temple, Noorpur, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Location

Mata Nagini Temple is located about 6 km away from Noorpur on Mandi – Pathankot highway near Korhi Tikka village. Mata Nagini (female serpent) is the main deity inside the temple. 

Entrance of Nagini Mata Temple

Nagini Mata Idol

Noorpur is a small city of  kangra district in Himachal Pradesh. It was ruled by Pathania clan of Tomar Rajputs, the capital being at Pathankot in the period 11th century.

Kangra is one of the most religious places of Himachal and supposed to be the abode of many gods and Goddesses.

Importance of the Temple

The person having snakebite, used to come here. The soil of the temple, applied at the spot of snake bite with a glass of holy water to drink, cures the person effected. 

It is unique that water comes from below the temple, where the idol of Mata Nagini is installed. The water flowing at this place is sufficient for use.

Festivals

According to Hindu mythology, Hindi month Shravan and Bhadon are supposed to be the holy month to worship Nag Devta.

On every Saturday of these two months, a traditional Puja is organised here. Worshipping on this day, the devotees are blessed by Mata Nagini. By the blessing, the devotees became free from the fear of snakebite in future.

A fair is also organised during Shravan and Bhadon. which is enjoyed by the locals and the tourist.

Noorpur is a municipal town in Kangra district and is situated in Dhauladhar range of Himalaya. The beauty of snow peaks can be seen from here. 

Noorpur is famous for its silk and silk mills. Many famous showrooms of silk fabrics are in the city. Bhuttico is one of the famous brand of silk in Himachal. Dharamshala, a famous international place of Tibetan Buddhist is only one hour drive.

Legend/story behind the temple

Although, there are so many legend narrated on behalf of the temple. But the famous one is being narrated here.

In the ancient time, this place was a dense forest. An old man living at this place was suffering from Leprosy (kusht Rog). He was in great distress. Even than he used to pray God regularly from the core of his heart, for relief.

His prayer accepted and Mata Nagini, appeared in his dream. In the dream, he saw that milk is flowing through a drain nearby.. 

When he came out of the dream, he found it in real. As per direction of Mata Nagini in the dream, he applied the milk and soil over his body and become cure of the disease and get rid of a painful life.

Since then he started worshipping Mata Nagini and devoted his whole life in her service.

It is said that the dissidents of that fellow are now the priest of the temple. Local people believe that the priest here, have some supernatural power.

The priest says that Mata Nagini in her golden form is seen here, although rarely but gives a stable pleasant feelings which persists for years.

Places to visit Nearby

Brajraj Swami Temple

Idol of Brajraj Swami

The temple is located inside the Nurpur fort, is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is an ancient temple of 16 th century. 

It is the only temple in India where Lord Krishna and Meera Devi idols are worshipped to gather. Must see the temple..

Nurpur Fort

Nurpur Fort 

It is the main attraction of this small city. The fort is constructed by Pathania kings in 10 th century. The earthquake in the year 1905 badly damaged the fort, but in spite of that it is worth visit.

Divkeshwar Temple

Divkeshwar Mahadev

It is called as Dibku temple. From nurpur the distance is only 11 km, the place is blessed by Lord Shiva and has a temple complex in moderate caves, having ever flowing water along Shivalingam and stone Pindis.

Trilokpur Shiva Cave temple

Cave Shiva Temple

It is situated at a distance of 25 km from Nurpur. The natural cave has attractive pillars of lime stone. on the floor of the cave by percolation of water from the roof. There is an ever flowing water stream around the cave temple.

Where to stay

Nurpur is a small city, even then there are so many budget hotels are there for comfortable stay. 

Some of them are namely, Hotel The heights, Mount fort hotel, Grand view hotel, and Hotel Vatika. For high budget hotels, one is advised to stay at Dharamshla or Kangara which are very near to Nurpur.

How to reach

By rail

Nearest railway station is Pathankot, 24 km away and connected to Delhi and other places of India.

By road

Nurpur is well connected by road from the major cities of Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh

By air

Nearest airport is Gaggle – 45 km

Jammu airport – 129 km

Amritsar airport – 134 km

Shrikhand Kailash, Kullu,Himachal Pradesh, India

Location

The shrikhand Mahadev peak is located in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 5227m (17150 ft). Visiting Shrikhand Kailash is a revered pilgrimage among Hindus. Shrikhand Kailash is a holy place and believed as the abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati. On and average 30 thousands Pilgrims do this holy yatra every year.

[ Foot hill and place of worship ] 

[ Shrikhand Kailah Shivlingam ]

Every year, in the month of July, the Holy Yatra starts. The Local people do not consider it a trek or hiking but consider a pilgrimage. The Shrikhand Kailash Seva Dal and District Administration arrange tents at Jaon, BarathiNala, Taachru, Kalighati. Bhimtalai, Bhimdwar,and Parvati Baag.for stay at night. From Parwati Baag the distance to Shrikhand remains only 4 km. 

At Shrikhand a rock form of Shivlingam is 70 ft in height at an altitude of more than 17000 ft. Opposite to the main Lingam, there are two big stone rocks which are believed to be Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesha and on the back the rock is known as Kartikey Parwat. Thus at Shrikhand Kailash, Lord Shiva is present with his whole Family.

On the way, the pilgrims passes through a breathtaking view of  Parvati Valley of Kullu and in the south east of Satluj river. 

The base camp at an altitude of 6397 ft is fixed in the village Jaon. The villages are innocent with always smiling face and have a cooperative attitude for pilgrims.

Seven Kailash on Earth

Mountains have special and religious significance within Himachal Pradesh. It have been regarded as abodes of Gods and Godesses. Mountains are also held sacred due to their association with deities, mythology and legends. 

Shrikhand Kailash is one such revered mountain.

According to Hindu mythology there are Seven Kailash on the earth.

1. A well known and famous is Mansarovar Kailash in Tibet.

2. Adi Kailash in Pithouragarh, Uttarakhand

3. Amarnath in Jammu &Kashmir

4. Kinner Kailash in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh

5. Shrikhand Kailash in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh.

6. Manimahesh Kailash in Chamba, Bhamour, Himachal Pradesh.

7. Boorha Kailash , the place is not known

Legend/story behind Shrikhand Kailash

There was a demon named Bhasmasur. He worshipped Lord Shiva for many years in Himalaya. Lord Shiva became pleased with his dedication and asked about his wish.  

The demon asked to give him the power of burning any creature, just by putting his hand on the head. Lord Shiva told him TATHASTUH,  which means as you wish.

Getting such a boon, the demon became full of proud and tried to make Lord Shiva his first target. Lord Shiva understood it and vanished immediately and hidden himself in a cave, Deodhank, near the village Nirmand.

Being the Guardian of universe, Lord Vishnu appeared to save Lord Shiva. Lord Vishnu went to the demon in guise of a lady Vishwamohini and started dancing before the demon. The demon was mismerised by the beauty of Vishwamohini and started doing dance as directed. In one pose Vishwamohini put her one hand, on waist and second, on head and directed the demon to do it. As the demon was mismerised he act like and turned in to ashes 

Just after the burning of Bhasmasur all Gods of the universe came in Devdhank, to see Lord Shiva. They found Lord Shiva was detained in a cave from where it was very difficult to come out. Then Lord Shiva used his power and became Shakti Swaroopa bursting the cave and appeared in Shrikhand Kailash.  That cave was  Devdhank.

Journey to shrikhand kailash

The journey to shrikhand Kailash starts in the month of July – August and commence only for 15 – 20 days, generally on Guru Purnima. After that, the road to the peak remains closed due to heavy snow fall and storm on the way.

[  Route Map ] 

[ Shrikhand River ]

The journey starts after worshipping in Mata Kali temple of the Jaon village and received blessings from her for happy journey.The total trek to Kailash is 32 km.

Day 1. One have to start journey from Jaon in the morning and walking a distance of 3 km to reach Shingad and stay for some time.

Shingad is a village named after a brave man who dared to live there and established a village. It is the last habitat village on this route. Free meals in Langar are available. After lunch start for a 12 km trek to Thhachru. It is a tough trek with steep inclination of 70 degree angle. Reaching here a night stay is preferred. Tents and free meals are available. Take rest in night and wake up early in the morning.

Day 2.  On the next morning one should start at 05 am. After 2 km journey reach Nain Sarovar. It is a holy lake. Take bath and worship Goddess Parwati and start walking for final destination towards Shrikhand Kailash .

It is a 5 km trek through rocky terrains and feel the experience of walking in clouds. After reaching the top one would have plenty of time to admire the beauty of this place. One should must worship Shrikhand Mahadev and his family. After that, start for the return journey. .

Facilities

Kullu District Administration makes special arrangements to ensure safety, security and convenience of pilgrims. Special police force and medical teams are deployed at many places along the entire route.

Pilgrims are allowed after proper medical check up for the journey. For safety reasons pilgrims have to get registered to the police before and after Yatra. Camps are set up at various places for night stay. Police and medical teams are equipped with oxygen cylinder, strechers, emergency lights etc.

Shrikhand Mahadev Seva Dal also serves the pilgrims with free meals and tents for stay in night.

Important places during Yatra

Deodhank – A holy cave near Nirmand where Lord Shiva stayed after disappearing and chased by Bhasmasur.

Thhachru – This is a resting place in night. It is 15 km away from Jaon village and a temple of Van Devta is situated here. Acoording  to a legend Pandavas stayed here during the journey to Shrikhand Kailash.

Nain Sarovar – A natural reservoir that offers a spectacular and exciting view during winter. The water in the lake is believed to be the tears of Goddess Parvati. Pilgrims take holy dip and collect water from here.

Bhim Shila – Large sized rock in between Nain Sarovar and shrikhand Kailash is belived as the place where Bhim (one of Pandavas) tried to make the staircase for heaven.

Parvati Baag – It is situated at an altitude of 13600 ft and have a waterfall. This place is believed as the abode of Mata Parvati. After Parvati Baag is the final destination SHRIKHAND KAILASH. 

How to Reach

By air

The nearest air port is Jubbarhatti, Shimla. from Shimla road is the only option.

By rail

Kalka is the nearest ralhead on broadgauge line. From Kalka one can take narrow gauge line train for Shimla.

By road

From Shmla to the starting point jaon village is 170 km by road and a  9 hrs drive

Video: