Pilot Guides: Hadimba Devi Temple, Manali

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Hadimba Devi Temple, Manali


	Where: Old Manali, Himachal Pradesh, North India When: 16th century Built by: Maharaja Bahadur Singh History: Temple of the mother goddess, set in the heart of nature Go there for: outstanding woodcarvings and scenic wooded location

Where it's at

Hidden deep within the pine forest near old Manali lies the most important temple in the area. Built in 1550AD by Maharaja Bahadur Singh, this temple is dedicated to the goddess Hadimbadevi, considered to be the 'mother Goddess' of the whole valley.

Visiting the Goddess

The Goddess is regularly consulted in times of natural hardship or calamity. Animal sacrifices are still made here in her honour. The temple is four storeyed with a pagoda shaped roof and a front doorway covered with figures and symbols, but the temple is best known for it's intricate woodcarvings that cover the pillars, doorposts and lintels.

Before entering it is customary to announce your arrival to the goddess by ringing the bells. The Hadimba Devi Temple is also known as the Dhungri Temple and it is the site of a major festival, held each year in May.



		MORE INFORMATION Indian Temples Portal Get the lowdown on all of India's major temples



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By Lorna Musgrove