Bhootnath Templ At Mandi And Palampur

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Mandi is the central district of Himachal Pradesh which is situated at a distance of 62 Km from Dharamshala.This town has developed into an important religious center of Himachal Pradesh. With more than 91 old stone temples present in the surroundings of the town, it is often called as "Varanasi of the hills". The town is famous for the sculpted stone temples of Panchvaktra, Ardhanarishwar, Triloknath and Bhootnath. Bhootnath temple is one such temple in Mandi which is worth visiting. The combination of the modern style and the classical artistry of the various temples of Mandi make the town the place to witness the sheer spiritual magnificence.

Bhootnath temple is located in the heart of the Mandi and was built by Raja Ajber Sen in 1527 AD. This temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and was built when State Capital was shifted from Bhiuli to present place. This is a medieval period temple which is built in Shikhara style of architecture, dates back to 1520. The temple has a Nandi or god Shiva's bull facing the ornamental double arch to the sanctuary. The overhang, cellar, and mandap are garnished with exquisite figures of elephants. In the month of March, the Shivratri is celebrate amid much pomp and splendor, which attracts a large number of people from far and near. The festival of Shivratri is the major event at the Bhootnath temple and the focal point of the seven day festival. For the entire week of Shivratri the town celebrates the arrival of hundred of local deities on elaborately decorated palanquins.

History Of Bhootnath Temple:

It is believed that in 1526, Raja Ajber Sen heard the story of a cow offering milk on its own wish to a particular stone in a forest in Mandi. Lord Shiva is also said to have came in the Raja's dream and directed him to extricate the Shiva Linga that was buried at that spot. Later, the Raja found the Shiva Linga at the specified location. Theking ordered for a temple at that place and later on Mandi market was developed. it is also believed that Sage Manday used to meditate at this location. Once, Lord Shiva along with ghosts appeared and Bhootnath was the name said by the sage Mandav. Since that day Lord Shiva is also known by the name Bhootnath.

Apart from the temples, Mandi also comprise of famous site trekking and angling. The Barot - Kullu trek is one of the beautiful and scenic treks located near this religious city of Himachal Pradesh.