If you are looking for a spiritual and adventurous experience in Manali, then you should not miss the Bijli Mahadev Temple. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer of evil, and is located on a hilltop at an altitude of 2,460 meters. The temple is famous for its legend, its panoramic views, and its challenging trek. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Bijli Mahadev Temple, including its history, location, how to reach, best time to visit, tips, and nearby attractions.
The Legend of Bijli Mahadev Temple
The Bijli Mahadev Temple derives its name from the Sanskrit words bijli (lightning) and mahadev (another name for Shiva). According to the legend, the temple is the site where Lord Shiva absorbed a powerful lightning bolt that was about to destroy the world.
The impact of the lightning was so strong that it shattered the shivalinga (the symbolic representation of Shiva) inside the temple. The priests then collected the broken pieces and reassembled them using butter and sattoo (a mixture of roasted gram flour and wheat flour). This ritual is repeated every time the shivalinga is struck by lightning, which happens once every few years.
The legend also says that the temple was built by a sage named Vashishta, who was the guru of Lord Rama. He installed the shivalinga at the temple and performed a yajna (a fire sacrifice) to please Lord Shiva. The temple is also believed to be one of the 12 jyotirlingas (the most sacred shrines of Shiva) in India.
The Bijli Mahadev Temple is not only a place of worship, but also a place of scenic beauty. From the temple, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Kullu Valley, the Parvati Valley, and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. You can also witness the confluence of the Beas and Parvati rivers, which is considered to be a holy spot. The temple is surrounded by lush green forests of deodar, pine, and oak trees, which add to its charm and tranquility.
How to Reach Bijli Mahadev Temple
The Bijli Mahadev Temple is located about 22 km from Manali, and can be reached by road or by trekking. The road route is via the Kullu-Manali highway, and then a diversion at Kullu town. You can hire a taxi, a bike, or a bus from Manali or Kullu to reach the temple. The road is narrow and steep, and can be difficult to drive on during the rainy season. The road ends at a village called Chansari, which is about 3 km from the temple. From there, you have to trek uphill for about an hour to reach the temple.
The trek route is more adventurous and rewarding, as you get to experience the natural beauty and the local culture of the region. The trek starts from a village called Naggar, which is about 18 km from Manali. You can hire a taxi or a bike from Manali to reach Naggar, which is also a popular tourist destination for its heritage and art. From Naggar, you have to trek for about 12 km to reach the temple. The trek is moderate to difficult, and takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete. You have to cross several streams, bridges, meadows, and forests along the way. The trek is suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers, but you need to have a good level of fitness and stamina. You also need to carry enough water, snacks, and warm clothes for the trek.
Best Time to Visit Bijli Mahadev Temple
The best time to visit the Bijli Mahadev Temple is from March to June, and from September to November. These are the months when the weather is pleasant and clear, and the views are spectacular. You can also witness the colorful festivals of Shivaratri and Janmashtami, which are celebrated with great fervor and devotion at the temple. Shivaratri is the festival of the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and is celebrated in February or March. Janmashtami is the festival of the birth of Lord Krishna, and is celebrated in August or September.
You should avoid visiting the temple during the monsoon season, which is from July to August. The road and the trek become slippery and risky due to the heavy rainfall and landslides. The temple is also closed during the winter season, which is from December to February. The temperature drops below zero, and the snow makes the road and the trek inaccessible.
Tips for Visiting Bijli Mahadev Temple
Here are some tips and precautions for visiting the Bijli Mahadev Temple:
1. Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes for the trek, as the terrain is uneven and rocky.
2. Carry a backpack with essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera, etc.
3. Dress modestly and respectfully, as the temple is a sacred place. Avoid wearing shorts, skirts, or sleeveless tops.
4. Do not litter or damage the temple premises or the surrounding environment. Dispose of your waste properly or carry it back with you.
5. Do not touch or disturb the shivalinga or the other idols inside the temple. Follow the instructions of the priests and the locals.
6. Do not consume alcohol, tobacco, or non-vegetarian food near the temple, as it is considered to be disrespectful and offensive.
7. Respect the beliefs and customs of the local people, and do not indulge in any arguments or conflicts with them.
8. Seek permission before taking photographs or videos of the temple or the people.
9. Carry some cash with you, as there are no ATMs or card facilities near the temple.
Nearby Attractions
If you have some extra time and energy, you can also explore some other attractions near the Bijli Mahadev Temple, such as:
Naggar Castle:
A historical and architectural marvel, built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu in the 16th century. The castle is made of stone and wood, and has a blend of Himalayan and European styles. The castle also houses a museum, a gallery, a temple, and a restaurant.
Jana Waterfall:
A natural and refreshing waterfall, located in a village called Jana, about 12 km from Naggar. The waterfall is surrounded by apple orchards, pine forests, and snow-capped mountains. You can also enjoy some local delicacies such as siddu, makki ki roti, and sarson ka saag at the nearby stalls.
Manikaran Sahib:
A religious and spiritual destination, located in the Parvati Valley, about 45 km from Manali. Manikaran Sahib is a Sikh gurudwara, which is famous for its hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. You can also visit the nearby Hindu temples of Lord Shiva, Lord Rama, and Goddess Parvati.
The Bijli Mahadev Temple is a must-visit place for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and spirituality. The temple offers a unique and unforgettable experience of witnessing the power and grace of Lord Shiva, and the beauty and serenity of the Himalayas. The temple is also a perfect destination for a day trip from Manali, as it is easily accessible and affordable.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to the Bijli Mahadev Temple today, and get ready to be amazed and inspired.
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FAQs
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the Bijli Mahadev Temple:
What is the history of the temple?
The temple is believed to be more than 1,000 years old, and was built by a sage named Vashishta, who was the guru of Lord Rama. The temple is also believed to be one of the 12 jyotirlingas (the most sacred shrines of Shiva) in India.
How long does it take to reach the temple from Manali?
It takes about an hour to reach the temple by road, and about 4 to 5 hours to reach the temple by trekking.
What are the timings and entry fees of the temple?
The temple is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and there is no entry fee for the temple.
What are the accommodation and food options near the temple?
There are no accommodation or food options near the temple, as it is located in a remote area. You can either stay in Manali or Kullu, which have plenty of hotels, guest houses, and homestays. You can also find some restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls in Manali or Kullu, which serve a variety of cuisines, such as Indian, Tibetan, Chinese, Italian, etc.
What are the benefits of visiting the temple?
Visiting the temple is not only a religious and cultural experience, but also a physical and mental one. The temple is said to have a positive and calming effect on the mind and body of the visitors, as they feel closer to nature and the divine. The temple is also a great place to meditate, pray, and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. Many people also visit the temple to fulfill their wishes and vows, as they believe that Lord Shiva grants the desires of his devotees.
The temple is also a source of inspiration and motivation for the trekkers, as they overcome the challenges and obstacles of the trek, and reach the temple with a sense of achievement and satisfaction.
