This historic temple from the fifteenth century is among the most well-known tourist destinations in Manali. Goddess Hidimba, the wife of Bheem, one of the Pandavas, is the subject of the temple.

The locals adore this pagoda-style temple built into a rock. It features amazing architecture with a cone-shaped roof and finely carved wooden walls and doors.

It is a haven of peace and tranquilly in the midst of lovely nature, surrounded by a thicket of lush cedar trees and with views of tall snow-capped mountains in the backdrop.

Location: Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131, Hadimba Temple Rd.

3.5 km from the Manali Bus Stand

When to visit: During the lovely summer months of March–June or after the monsoon season (mid–September).

Entry Fee: There isn’t a fee to enter.

History:

Maharaja Bahadur Singh erected the Hidimba Devi shrine in 1553. A meditation cave used by Devi Hidimba is the centre of the temple. Since little is known about their parents, it is assumed that Hidimbi and her brother Hidimb resided there. Hidimba, a Rakshasa by birth, swore to wed a man who would conquer her brother Hidimb, who was reputed to be a highly brave and fearless man. One of the five Pandavas, Bhima, assassinated Hidimb while the Pandavas were in exile and travelling through Manali. After getting hitched to Bhima, Hidimba gave birth to their son Ghatotkacha.

Top attractions of Hadimba Temple

Hadimba’s rock seat

You will notice a rock in the main sanctorum of the temple as you wander around and take in each of its creations. People think that rock is more than just a simple piece of rock; it’s Hidimba’s former meditation spot.

Forming a Dedar Top

Aside from the entertaining facts that encourage exploration, the intricate architectural elements captivate you and make you fall in love with the work. You can see how folks are involved with Himachal’s natural environment by looking at the deodar-shaped top.

Navaratri. All Hindus in the country worship the goddess Durga during Navaratri, but those in Manali honour Hidimba Devi. Outside the temple, there are long lines of people, but Navaratri brings out a bigger crowd.

Things to do in Hadimba Temple

Shrine of Ghatotkacha

There is a shrine to the mythical character Ghatotkacha, who is the son of Hadimba, after only a short distance of trekking. The shrine offers a captivating vista to hold the eyes amid a lovely environment.

Best time to visit Hadimba Temple

The temple is, of course, open all year long, but you want to see everything, right? Next, pick a festival season. The festival of Dussehra is observed in the months of October and November. The conviction is felt in this situation “from the floor to the core.” You will also be able to witness the customary “Ghor Puja.”

How to reach Hadimba Temple

The Hadimba Temple is located in Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, and is easily accessible from other areas of the country.

Air

If you decide to go by air, the closest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar.

Rail

Joginder Nagar railway station is the one that is closest. There will be a cluster of buses and taxis waiting for you to transport you to the temple when you disembark at the station.