A spiritual haven amidst snow-clad hills.
Cocooned amidst the towering deodars of Dhungiri forest, this ancient cave temple dedicated to Goddess Hidimba dates back to 16th century, and is a sight to behold.
Open Hours
Suggested Duration - 1 to 2 hours
Adorned with ancient stone carvings and exquisite engravings of mythological characters, this pagoda-style shrine temple will leave you awestruck with its architectural beauty.
Hidimba Devi Temple is a famous religious site in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, that holds great historical, cultural, and religious importance. It is situated amidst the breathtaking cedar forests of the Himalayas. The temple has links to the epic Mahabharata since it was here that Hidimba Devi, the wife of Pandava prince Bhima, meditated.
A delightful three-tiered pagoda known as "the temple" was erected by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in the sixteenth century. The intricately carved wooden frontage proves this to be an architectural masterpiece enriched with sculptures featuring legendary beings, animals, and flora. Such intricacies heighten its aesthetic charm.
Hidimba Devi Temple is known for | Its unique architectural style combines wooden craftsmanship with stone masonry. |
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Timings | Opens: 8 AM Closes: 6 PM |
Entry Fee | Not applicable |
Tips & Restrictions |
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Facilities | Parking, Restrooms, Shoe Storage, Shops and Stalls, Prasad Counter, Information Centre, Seating Areas, and Surrounding Gardens. |
Required Time | 1 to 2 hours (approx.) |
Although the Hidimba Devi Temple in Manalican be visited at any time of the year, the months of April to June and October to November are frequently regarded as the most ideal. The opportunity to take in the area's natural beauty is available throughout these months, and the weather and crowd levels are agreeable. A tranquil and beautiful mood is produced by the abundant foliage that covers the area's surroundings. Whether you prefer the vibrant summer months or the serene autumn season, both periods offer an excellent opportunity to visit the Hidimba Devi Temple and immerse yourself in its spiritual aura amidst the breathtaking beauty of Manali.
Surrounded by towering deodar trees, the Hidimba Devi Temple exudes an aura of tranquillity and spirituality. The main deity of the temple, Hidimba Devi, is worshipped as a manifestation of Goddess Durga. She is adored as the heavenly mother and guardian. The venerated deity's representation takes shape in a significant rock formation that rises from the earth and embodies the essence of the goddess. Visiting Hidimba Devi Temple promises to be an extraordinary experience, a chance to either receive celestial blessings or lose yourself in the breathtaking beauty of its environs.
Navratri, a nine-night festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, is celebrated with great fervour at the Hidimba Devi Temple. Special prayers and rituals are conducted during this period, including the recitation of Durga Saptashati and the performance of an aarti (devotional song) dedicated to the goddess. Havan, or fire rituals, are performed in the temple to invoke the blessings of the deities and purify the surroundings. Devotees can also request an Akhand Path to be conducted at the temple, where priests recite holy texts for a specific duration, usually 24 or 48 hours.
A notable ceremony that occurs twice daily, in the morning and in the evening, is the aarti at the Hidimba Devi Temple in Manali. Melodic chanting, bell chimes, and the scent of incense all accompany the aarti process. A beautiful and spiritually uplifting event, taking part in the aarti at the Hidimba Devi Temple allows worshippers to show their devotion and get the blessings of Goddess Hidimba.
Some nearby tourist spots near Hidimba Devi Temple include
Exploring the local food scene is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the flavours of the region while visiting the Hidimba Devi Temple. There are several local dhabas and food stalls near the temple where you can try traditional Himachali dishes like Siddu, Dham, Trout Fish, and more. Here are some popular options of several restaurants and eateries near the Hidimba Devi Temple:
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