Visitor Information
- Famous for: Pilgrimage, History, Architecture.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee.
- Visiting Time: Open Daily from 6 am to 7 pm
- Visiting Duration: 1 to 2 hours.
Kullu Manali is the most sought after tourist destination in India because of the majestic view of the Himalayas from this region. This place is a true nature’s paradise with the cascading waterfalls, the gushing rivers and streams, the snow-capped mountains and the various fruit orchards. To cover this delicious cake made of the bounty of nature is some of the sacred places that symbolize different religions at the best of their ability. One such magnificent place is the Basheshwar Mahadev Temple situated very close to Kullu Manali. This is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the God of Gods, according to the religion of Hinduism. Thus, this temple is visited by many Hindu pilgrims every year to seek the blessings of the Almighty.
Traveller Tips
- Maintain decency and do not create a chaos while standing in the queue.
- Carry a bottle of water because you will not get an opportunity to leave the premises of the temple once you already stand in the queue.
- If possible, try to buy flowers and incense sticks required for carrying out the rituals from the main market because the shops which sell the same just outside the premises of this temple charge more money.
Things to Do There
- Offer your prayers to the omnipotent and seek His blessings.
- If you are visiting the temple in winter, play with the snow lying all around or visit the Solan Valley where you can try out skating on the ice or building a snowman.
- The lovers of adventure can even go for a trek in the surrounding areas of the temple in a group accompanied by a local guide.
Availibility of Guides
You will not come across a professional guide there. However, the local people are very good and would gladly help you out with the way. The priests at the temple will also narrate the history of the ancient temple if they are free.
Best Time to Visit
Basheshwar Mahadev Temple can be visited any time during the year. However, it is recommended that the pilgrims visit the temple during the festival of Shivratri to take pleasure in performing the rituals that would make them feel pure and holy.
How to Reach the Place
The Basheshwar MahadevTemple is located only 6 km away from the Manali Bus Stop. It can be reached in a hassle-free manner in a hired cab or a private bus.
Interesting Facts About the Basheshwar Mahadev Temple
- Basheshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- The temple was built in the 9th Century A.D. The daily rituals have been performed since then and, this temple is, thus, very sacred among the Hindus.
- Inside the temple, a large idol of the ‘yoni lingam’, that is, the idol of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati together is established.
- Outside the temple, there are three statues representing Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Laxmi.
- The temple is decorated at its best during the festival of Shivratri.
Nearby Attractions
- Hidimba Devi Temple
- Rohtang Pass
- Solan Valley
- Bhrigu Lake
- Pandoh Dam
- Bijli Mahadev
- Great Himalayan National Park
- Manu Temple
- Manali Club House
- Museum of Himalayan Culture, Folk and Art
- River Beas
- Maa Sharvari Temple
Nearby Restaurants
- Il Forno
- Café 1947
- Johnson’s Bar and Restaurant
- Chopsticks
- Drifters’ Café
- The Johnson’s Café
- Renaissance Italian and Mexican
- The Lazy Dog
- Casa Bella Vista
- Mom’s Kitchen
- Fat Plate Café
- The Corner House
The ancient charm and the peeling of the bells of the Basheshwar Mahadev Temple echo in the region even today. The strong architectural background of the ancient temple against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas fills the heart of every pilgrim with a sacredness so divine that the power to fight against all odds is inculcated in their minds. The holiness of the temple and the strong, solemn belief of the local people as well as the Hindu tourists have given this ancient temple it’s worthy respect and recognition. Thus, as a pilgrim or even as a lover of history and architecture, the age-old Basheshwar Mahadev Temple is a must visit for all.
