Situated at an altitude of 2,050 m at the northern end of the Kullu Valley, Manali is one of the fascinating hill stations in India and among the popular places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. This pristine hill station is known for its pleasant weather, jaw-dropping views, lush forests, gushing streams, and sprawling meadows carpeted with flowers. Besides, this enchanting hill station of Himachal is believed to be the abode of spirituality for many centuries. Fondly called the Valley of Gods, there are many sacred temples reflecting the bliss of ancient gods and goddesses. If you are a spiritual person and love to explore these sacred abodes of the gods and goddesses as part of Manali Tour Packages, check below our list of some of the most popular temples in Manali.
Hidimbi Devi Temple
Hidimba Devi Temple also known as the Dhungri Temple is an ancient cave temple located in the middle of the dense forest called Dhungri Van Vihar in Manali, among te popular weekend getaways from Delhi. Built in 1553 by Raja Bahadur Singh, the temple is dedicated to Hidimba Devi, who was the wife of Bhima and the mother of Ghatothkach. It is one of the most popular temples in the region, and among the top places to visit in Manali. The Hidimbi Devi temple is 24 meters tall and consists of three square roofs with timber tiles, surmounted by a cone-shaped fourth roof that is covered in brass. This pagoda-style temple comprises no idol within, and some footprints are engraved that is worshiped by devotees. The temple is also known for a fair called Bahadur Singh Re Jatar which is held every year in the month of Sravan (Jul / Aug) in the memory of Raja Bahadur Singh. There is another fair too which is held on 14th May each year in the celebration of the birthday of Hidimbi Devi.
Manu Temple
Manu Temple is another sacred temple that one must visit for a spiritual sojourn in Himachal. Located at old Manali, the temple is dedicated to sage Manu, who was the creator of the human race on earth, and it is believed that he meditated here. This is supposed to be the only temple of Manu in India and among the best places to visit as part of the Manali tour. Built-in the pagoda style of architecture, one can find various artifacts along with the idols of gods and goddesses in different postures in this temple of Manali, among the top places to visit near Delhi. Sits quietly in the lap of Beas River Valley, this temple is perfect for people who are seeking spiritual enlightenment and eternal peace of the Almighty as the pristine surrounding of the temple offers nothing but solitude at its best. Manali is one of the popular hill stations near Delhi.
Vashisht Temple
Situated in the Vashisht village across the River Beas, Vashist Temple is dedicated to sage Vashisht, the Kula guru of Lord Rama, and one of the seven sages of Hindu Mythology. According to the legend, Rishi Vashisht was left depressed after finding out that his children had been killed by Vishwamitra. He tried to commit suicide by jumping into a river but the river refused to kill him. He then started a new life in the village near Manali, among the most popular hill stations in India. Believed to be more than 4000 years old, the temple is built in the traditional Himachal style and is adorned with intricate wood carvings, and paintings depicting many tales of Hindu mythology. Inside the temple, there is a black stone image of the Rishi. Besides, this place is popular for the sulphurous hot springs that are known for their remedial aspects, particularly to cure skin diseases. Manali is one o the most scenic places to visit near Chandigarh.
Siyali Mahadev Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Siyali Mahadev Temple is one of the oldest temples in Manali, and among the popular places of pilgrimage in Himachal Pradesh. Well-known for its architectural beauty, the quaint place of worship is frequently visited by devotees of Lord Shiva. The rich brown color of the wooden structure and the flourishing natural vegetation with mesmerizing streams in the background is a magnificent sight that lures several tourists and devotees. The Shivalinga i is said to have existed since ancient times. There is another smaller temple built behind the Siyali Mahadev Temple. The temple has immense religious importance to the followers of Hinduism. However, people belonging to any caste and creed are welcome to explore the architecture and offer their prayers to Lord Shiva.
Gauri Shankar Temple – Naggar
Surrounded by lush greenery overlooking the Beas River, Gauri Shankar Temple is located in the peaceful Naggar village in Manali, one of the top hill stations in Himachal. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is believed to be constructed during the 12th Century, and it was probably the last monument depicting the Gurjara-Pratihara traditions. Known for its splendid Shikhara Style architecture, the temple features a dome-shaped top while the base is present in a square shape. Inside the sanctum sanctorum are the idols of Gauri and Shankar. The sanctum sanctorum is decorated with beautiful carvings of images of Lord Ganesh, various people playing different musical instruments, and also with carvings of dancing girls.