Hidimba Devi Temple, Himachal Pradesh

📍 Location: Dhungri Village, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
🌐 Distance from major cities:
- Manali: 2 km
- Kullu: 42 km
- Bhuntar Airport: 50 km
- Delhi: 540 km
🚗 How to Reach:
- By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Manali and nearby cities.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Joginder Nagar (146 km away).
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (50 km from Manali).

The Hidimba Devi Temple is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly the Mahabharata epic:

According to legend, Hidimba was a demoness (rakshasi) who lived in the forests of Manali with her brother Hidimb.
During the Pandavas’ exile, Bhima encountered Hidimb and killed him in a fierce battle.
After the fight, Hidimba fell in love with Bhima and married him.
Their son, Ghatotkacha, was born out of this union and later played a crucial role in the Kurukshetra war.
After Bhima left, Hidimba devoted her life to spirituality and is believed to have meditated at this spot.
The temple is built in her honor, and she is worshipped as a goddess by the locals.

The Hidimba Devi Temple was built in 1553 AD by Raja Bahadur Singh, the ruler of Kullu.
The temple is believed to have been constructed at the exact location where Hidimba meditated.
The Pagoda-style architecture is unique and different from traditional North Indian temples.

The Hidimba Devi Temple is an architectural marvel and stands out due to its distinct style:

Style: It follows a Pagoda-style architecture, influenced by Tibetan and Himachali design.
Temple Structure:
- The temple is made of wood and stone, giving it a rustic appearance.
- It has a four-tiered roof covered with wooden shingles, which resembles a pagoda.
Sanctum: The inner sanctum houses a footprint-shaped stone that is worshipped as a representation of Goddess Hidimba.
Carvings and Decor: The wooden doors and walls are adorned with intricate carvings of animals, floral patterns, and mythological figures.
Surroundings: The temple is surrounded by dense cedar forests, creating a tranquil and mystical ambiance.

Deity: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Hidimba, who is worshipped as a local deity and protector.
Daily Aarti:
- Morning: 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
- Evening: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Annual Fair:
- The temple hosts a three-day fair in May, known as the Hidimba Devi Festival, celebrating the goddess’s birthday.
- The festival features folk music, dance performances, and local rituals.

⏰ Timings:
- Summer: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Winter: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: Free
📸 Photography: Allowed in the temple premises but restricted inside the sanctum.

While visiting the Hidimba Devi Temple, you can explore several nearby attractions:

Manali Nature Park: Located near the temple, offering beautiful nature trails.
Solang Valley: (14 km) Famous for adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing.
Old Manali: Known for its cafes, local markets, and scenic beauty.
Vashisht Hot Water Springs: (5 km) Famous for its natural hot water springs and temples.
Rohtang Pass: (51 km) A popular spot for snow activities and scenic views.

Hidimba Devi Festival:
- Celebrated in May, marking the birthday of Goddess Hidimba.
- The festival features folk dances, music, and rituals.
Dussehra Festival:
- During Dussehra, Ghatotkacha’s idol is also worshipped along with Hidimba Devi.
- The temple becomes a major attraction during this time.

The best time to visit the Hidimba Devi Temple is from March to June and September to November.
The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing.
Avoid visiting during heavy snowfall in winter (December to February), as the roads may be blocked.

Dress Modestly: It is recommended to wear traditional or modest attire.
Photography: While allowed outside, avoid taking pictures inside the sanctum.
Footwear: Footwear is not allowed inside the temple.
Facilities:
- Restrooms and small eateries are available near the temple.
- Local shops sell prasad, souvenirs, and woolen items.