The temple of Mata Hadimba is located in the heart of Manali amidst a lush green forest. Hadimba Temple is an idyllic and serene spot and tourists who come to Manali make it a point to visit this temple and seek her blessings. Hidimba Mata Temple was built in the 16th century. In this article, we will look into the architecture, mythology and history of Hadimba Temple Manali and discover the reasons that makes it such a special place.
Hidimba Devi Temple History
Hadimba Temple Manali is one of the most well-known temples in Himachal Pradesh, India. It is said that the temple was constructed by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in the year 1553. The temple is dedicated to Hadimba Devi, wife of Bhima, one of the five Pandava brothers from the Mahabharatha epic. Hadimba Devi is worshipped by the locals as a god of courage, strength and protection.
The Architecture of Hadimba Temple
Hadimba Temple Manali is an architectural wonder displaying the rich culturural heritage of India. The temple was built in the pagoda style and has an elongated roof constructed from stone and wood. The temple is decorated with intricate carvings and statues of Hindu gods, animal horns, and geometric designs. It also has an attractive courtyard in which people gather in large numbers to celebrate festivals.
Mythology of Hadimba Temple Manali
According to mythology, Hadimba Devi was a powerful demoness who lived in the forests of Manali. The story in Mahabharatha goes that Pandavas during their exile were passing through a dense forest. These were the forests of Manali. Exhausted from their travel they all fell asleep except Bhima who kept watch. Now, in the same forest lived a demon (Rakshasa) called Hidimb and his sister Hidimba. He sent his sister Hidimba to to lure Bhīma into a trap so that he could kill him. Hidimba instead fell in love with him. She assumed the form of a very beautiful maiden and approached Bhīma, expressing her desire to marry him. She revealed her true identity and told him of her brother’s intentions to kill him. Bhīma fought Hidimb and killed the demon. Bhima’s mother and his brothers watched the duel from a distance. Afterwards Bhima married Hadimba. She bore him a son Gatotkatkcha who was a great warrior. The Hidimba Temple was built in honour of Devi Hadimba who is the most revered deity of the locals.
How to Reach Hadimba Temple Manali
Hadimba Temple Manali is located at a distance of only 5 km from Mall Road and Bus Stand Manali. It is easily accessible by road and visitors can hire an auto rickshaw or a taxi to reach the temple. The temple is open to visitors from 8 am to 6 pm.
Hotels in Hadimba Road Manali
There are many accommodation options available to visitors. You can stay at the hotel of your choice in Manali and then visit Hadimba Temple or stay in close vicinity of the temple, away from the hustle and bustle of the busy town of Manali. The most popular hotels in the Hadimba Road Manali are listed below :
Hotels
Mayflower
Hotel Solitaire
Hadimba Hill View Hotel
Sagar Resort
Hadimba Valley
Manu Retreat
Hadimba Retreat Hotel
Guest Houses
Hotel Daulat
Purnima Guest House
Hadimba Lodge manali
Sunshine heritage
Shanu Homestay
Hadimba Cottage Manali
Raj Guest House
Himalaya Cottage
Homestays
Cottage and Cheese
Safar Hostel
Village House
Hadimba Homes Manali
Safarnama
Krisscross
Getaways
Backpackers
Dungri Mela Manali: A Cultural Celebration
Dungri Mela is a festival for celebration of the rich culture and traditions of the Kullu Valley. It is held annually during the Month of May in village of Dungri. The Hidimba Mata Temple is located here. The festival starts with ceremony and puja by blowing of trumpets and drums to start the festival.
History of Dungri Mela Manali
Dungri Mela has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. The festival was initially celebrated to honor the local deity, Hadimba Devi, and to seek her blessings for a good harvest. Over the years, the festival has evolved into a grand celebration of the culture and traditions of the Kullu Valley. Today, the festival attracts thousands of visitors from all around the world who come to witness the vibrant colors, music, and dance of the region.
Major Attractions Of Doongri Festival
Dungri Mela is a vibrant and colorful festival that showcases the rich culture and traditions of the Kullu Valley. The festival is celebrated over three days, and each day has its unique significance. Some attractions of the fair are as follows :
Procession of Local Deities (Devtas)
Each and every village in Kullu and for that matter in Himachal Pradesh has its own deity. During the fair, villagers from nearby village come here carrying the Devta of their respective village in a procession accompanied by music and dance. The idols of the Devtas are dressed up beautifully and are caried in a palanquin by foru people. All the devtas assemble in the courtyard of devi Hadimba.
Dance and Music
Giving a tribute to the Demon Goddess Hadimba, local people can be seen performing traditional dances to the beats of drums and trumpets as well as performing various rituals in honor of Devi Hadimba. You can also enjoy traditional Himachali music and dance during the mela.
Shopping and Food
The fair is colorful and vibrant with various stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs and clothing items. There are many food stalls as well where you can enjoy varieties of delicacies including local dishes. Dungri Mela Manali is a vibrant and colorful festival that showcases the rich culture and traditions of the Kullu Valley. The festival is celebrated over three days, and each day has its unique significance.
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
Hadimba Temple Manali is famous because it is a unique temple dedicated to Mata Hadimba Devi the powerful Goddess who is believed to be the protector of the locals and anyone who comes and prays here. She is the most revered diety of Manali.
Hadimba Temple or for that matter Manali can be visited throughout the year around. However, the best time to visit Hadimba Temple Manali is between April to June and September end to November end. The weather during this time is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.
No, there is no entry fee for visiting Hadimba Temple Manali. However, visitors are required to dress modestly, stand in the queue, cover their head and remove their shoes before entering the temple.
Dungri Mela Manali is an occasion to celebrate the rich culture and tradition of Kullu. It is celebrated every year to honour the local god, Hadimba Devi, and to ask her blessings for a good rains and harvest.
Dungri Mela Manali is typically held during the month of May. It is recommended that visitors check the exact dates prior to coming from far, especially to see this fair.
The Dungri Mela is normally held in the month of May. Te Dungri Mela 2023 is likely to be held from 14 to 16 May 2023. Please check the exact dates before coming to the mela (fair).