The scenic state of Himachal Pradesh is located in northern India. The words “Himachal” and “Pradesh” means “snowy slopes” and “state”, respectively. There are several peaks and mountain lakes across the state, some considered sacred by Christians who visit here during an annual pilgrimage.
Himachal Pradesh is a state in northern India. It currently has 591 temples. These Himachal Pradesh temples are devoted to various Hindu gods and goddesses. There are also a number of temples dedicated to local mountain gods called ‘Devtas’. They are worshipped through a variety of festivals and activities.
Below, we have listed the Top 10 Picturesque Temples and Monasteries to Visit in Himachal Pradesh:
1. Monastery of Tabo
Ringchen Zangpo was a Tibetan Buddhist. He founded the Tabo Monastery. The monastery is located in the Spiti Valley’s Tabo settlement. This monastery’s exterior is decorated with Buddhist teachings and many manuscripts, scrolls, and sculptures depicting the Buddhist faith. It is one of Himachal Pradesh’s & India’s oldest and most active monasteries.
Unlike the other valley monasteries, which are located above the valley, the Tabo monastery is below the valley. Monks can meditate in caverns located above the monastery. Buddhist teachings are engraved on several of these cave walls.
Location: Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights: Ancient Buddhist monastery, founded in 996 AD, known for its stunning murals and frescoes.
Best Time to Visit: May to October
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Kaza (47 km)
Experience Tips:
- Acclimatize yourself to the high altitude before visiting.
- Spend time exploring the ancient artworks and meditation caves.
7 Days Spiti Valley Trip Itinerary
2. Vashisht Temple
Vashisht is a very significant temple devoted to Hindu tradition. The Temple is believed to be 4000 years old and is located in Manali. The Temple is dedicated to Vashisht, one of the ancient Vedic saints. It is believed that saints have used this place for meditation.
The hot springs in the Temple are thought to have healing properties, and the people believe this Temple is holy. The locals feel that the water from these hot springs may cure several illnesses. This historic Temple draws visitors and worshippers who bathe in the hot springs. The hot springs are open to the public, and anybody can take a dip in this hot spring.
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Location: Vashisht Village, near Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights: Dedicated to Sage Vashisht, known for its hot water springs and beautiful wooden architecture.
Best Time to Visit: October to June
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw from Manali (3 km)
Experience Tips:
- Enjoy a dip in the hot springs, believed to have medicinal properties.
- Visit the nearby Vashisht Village for local handicrafts and cafes.
Manali 3 Nights 4 Days Package
3. Temple of Champavati
The Temple of Champavati is situated in Chamba. It is home to several temples and medieval palaces. The Minjar Mela and the Suhi Mata Mela are two major local events in the city. Both melas last several days and are celebrated by the locals with dance and song. The mountains of Chamba City are also covered in various wall paintings, and the city is known for its art, craft, and textiles.
The Champavati Temple was constructed for the monarch of Chamba’s daughter. Many individuals are captivated by the Temple’s architecture. Because of its historical significance, the Temple is currently under the Indian archaeological survey.
Location: Chamba, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights: Ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Champavati, known for its intricate stone carvings and Shikhara style architecture.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Dalhousie (55 km)
Experience Tips:
- Hire a local guide to understand the historical significance of the temple.
- Combine your visit with other attractions in Chamba, like the Chamera Lake.
4. The Hanuman Temple
The Hanuman temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus across India. This Temple is located on the Shimla-Kalka route. It is devoted to Lord Hanuman.
The saint Neem Karoli Baba constructed the Sankat Mochan Temple. Neem Karoli Baba is regarded as an enlightened being, and he gained worldwide acclaim after many prominent international personalities became his devotees. Neem Karoli Baba inspired many individuals, including Steve Jobs. Ram Dass and Krishna Das are well-known Americans who have dedicated their lives to Baba Neem Karoli.
Devotees visit this Temple in the hope that they will find healing. Every year, an increasing number of individuals visit this Temple. Read Also: Jakhoo Temple Shimla: History, Location, Timings, & Attractions
Location: Jakhoo Hill, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offers panoramic views of Shimla.
Best Time to Visit: October to June
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or a short hike from Shimla Mall Road (2.5 km)
Experience Tips:
- Beware of the monkeys around the temple; keep your belongings secure.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best views.
3 Nights 4 Days Shimla Package
5. Temple of Hadimba Devi
Hadimba Devi Temple is also known as Hidimba Temple. It is located in the Manali highlands. It’s a cave shrine dedicated to Hadimba Devi, a character from the Hindu epic Mahabharat. Hadimba is worshipped as a deity as a massive rock protruding from the ground.
The Temple is surrounded by a Cedar forest and is known as Dhungiri Van Vihar. Outside the Temple, a small part of Mahabharat has been written & displayed for the public, telling the story of the Pandyas’ stay in Himachal when they were in exile.
Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights: 16th-century temple dedicated to Hadimba Devi, known for its unique pagoda-style architecture.
Best Time to Visit: October to June
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw from Manali town center (2 km)
Experience Tips:
- Explore the surrounding cedar forest for a peaceful walk.
- Visit during local festivals to see traditional rituals and performances.
6. Temple of Baba Balaknath
The Temple is dedicated to the guru Siddh Baba Balak Nath. This Temple is built around a cave. He was a yogi belonging to a particular Hindu sect. He is believed to be an avatar of Lord Shiva. The Temple is located in the Himachal Pradesh district of Hamirpur. The Baba Balak Nath idol has been placed in the shrine for worship.
The distinguishing characteristic of this Temple is that women are not permitted to enter. Numerous people have raised concerns about this practice, but it is hard to understand and explain why. Some say that this Temple is an ancient one and that entering there will harm women.
During the Navratri season, the Temple is crowded with devotees. This Temple is among the most sacred sites for the yogis of the Nath tradition.
Location: Deotsidh, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights: Popular pilgrimage site dedicated to Baba Balaknath, attracts devotees throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Hamirpur (45 km)
Experience Tips:
- Participate in the evening aarti (prayer ceremony).
- Respect the temple customs and dress modestly.
7. Monastery of Kardang
Kardang Monastery is one of the oldest Drukpa Buddhist monasteries in Lahaul Spiti. It is around 900 years old and is located on the banks of the Bhaga River. It is situated about 3500 meters above sea level and draws visitors from all over the world. This monastery’s architecture is unique, and the vistas of the surrounding area are stunning.
The structure also includes historical collections of scriptures, paintings, murals, sculptures, antique weapons, and instruments that exhibit Buddhism’s culture and history. It also celebrates its annual “Chaam Dance” carnival, which includes celebrations and dancing by monks dressed in stunning masks and headgear.
Location: Lahaul Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights: 900-year-old monastery, known for its beautiful murals, scriptures, and scenic location.
Best Time to Visit: June to September
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Keylong (8 km)
Experience Tips:
- Visit during the summer months when the roads are open.
- Spend time interacting with the monks to learn about Buddhist practices.
Also read: Important Things to Know Before Visiting Guruvayur Temple
8. Monastery of Gemur
Gemur is one of the most peaceful monasteries in Lahaul, Himachal Pradesh. It is an excellent example of 14th-century Buddhism. It was constructed around 1330. The architecture of this monastery shows Tibetan treasures and art, as well as the magnificent constructions of the goddesses Marichi’ and ‘Vajravarahi’. The structure is decorated with exquisite paintings, artifacts, murals, stuccos, and intricate thangkas.
The main structure comprises several stupas and prayer chambers, with gorgeous hills and beautiful gardens in the background. Tourists come here to experience the quiet tranquility and the yearly event ‘Devil dance-drama’, which is held in July each year.
Location: Lahaul Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights: Famous for its ancient murals and Thangka paintings.
Best Time to Visit: June to September
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Keylong (18 km)
Experience Tips:
- Explore the monastery grounds and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
- Carry warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly.
9. The Chaurasi Temple
This Temple is situated in the lovely village of Bharmour in the Himachal Pradesh district of Chamba. This temple complex is said to be around 1400 years old. The whole population of Bharmour reveres this shrine.
The Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva, and the temple complex contains 84 shrines built around the periphery. In India, the word ‘Chaurasi’ means 84. According to beliefs, the soul’s journey passes through 84 lakh (8.4 million) distinct species. The locals think that devotion to this Temple will help their spiritual development and escape from the cycle of birth and death. This is referred to as ‘Moksha’, or enlightenment.
Bharmour is a breathtakingly beautiful spot to visit. Each of the temple complex’s 84 shrines is devoted to one of the 84 Mahasiddhas. These yogis have mastered the practice of Yoga to achieve enlightenment.
Location: Bharmour, Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights: Complex of 84 ancient temples, dedicated to various Hindu deities.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Chamba (65 km)
Experience Tips:
- Spend a full day exploring the various temples in the complex.
- Hire a guide for detailed historical and mythological insights.
10. The Prashar Rishi Temple
The Prashar Rishi temple is located in Himachal Pradesh beside Prashar Lake.
Numerous fascinating stories exist regarding the creation of this Temple. The Temple was inspired by the renowned book Mahabharat. The famous rishi Prashar, according to the epic Mahabharata, meditated on the banks of this river. A floating island floats in the middle of the river.
No diver has ever measured the depth of this river. The shrine is an attraction to many Hindus around the country and the world.
Location: Prashar Lake, Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights: a 13th-century temple dedicated to sage Prashar, known for its unique pagoda-style architecture and scenic lake.
Best Time to Visit: April to July and September to November
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Mandi (49 km)
Experience Tips:
- Combine your visit with a trek around Prashar Lake for stunning views.
- Spend a night camping by the lake for an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
Himachal Pradesh is a country of temples and monasteries, which are not only sacred sites but also special symbols of the state’s rich cultural legacy and architectural brilliance. The scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance of these sacred sites draw visitors from all over the world. The intricate designs, paintings, & stunning sculptures of these religious buildings are a visual feast. A visit to these holy locations is not only a spiritual experience but also a voyage into the past and a glimpse into Himachal Pradesh’s customs and culture.
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FAQs
1. Where can I find Buddha temples in Himachal Pradesh?
- Rewalsar Monastery (Tso Pema), Mandi: Known for its sacred lake and Buddhist monastery.
- Key Monastery, Spiti Valley: One of the region’s oldest and most famous monasteries.
2. What are some famous monasteries in Himachal Pradesh?
- Key Monastery, Spiti Valley: A major center of Buddhist learning.
- Tabo Monastery, Spiti Valley: Known for its ancient murals and statues.
- Namgyal Monastery, Dharamshala: The personal monastery of the Dalai Lama.
3. What can I see at the Rewalsar Monastery?
Rewalsar Monastery (Tso Pema): Features a large statue of Guru Rinpoche, several shrines, and a sacred lake.
4. Are there any monasteries in Dalhousie?
Dhainkund Monastery: Located near Dalhousie, it is known for its peaceful environment and beautiful views.
5. What famous temples are located in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh?
- Lakshmi Narayan Temple: Known for its six ancient temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Shiva.
- Chamunda Devi Temple: Offers stunning views of the Chamba Valley.
6. What monasteries can I visit in Manali?
- Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa: A small Tibetan monastery in Manali.
- Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa: Known for its large statue of Buddha and peaceful surroundings.
7. Which is the most famous Buddhist monastery in Manali?
Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa: Located in the heart of Manali, famous for its architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
8. What are some must-visit temples in Himachal Pradesh for religious travelers?
- Jwala Ji Temple: Known for its eternal flame.
- Naina Devi Temple: Offers spiritual solace and scenic beauty.
- Baijnath Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
9. How can I reach Key Monastery in Spiti Valley?
- By Road: The most common way to reach Key Monastery is from Manali or Shimla. The journey involves traveling through the scenic Spiti Valley.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport near Kullu, from where you can hire a taxi to Spiti Valley.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, but it’s quite far. Traveling by road from the station is necessary.
10. What is the best time to visit the temples and monasteries in Himachal Pradesh?
The best time to visit the temples and monasteries in Himachal Pradesh is from March to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and most routes to high-altitude monasteries like those in Spiti Valley are accessible. Monsoon season (July to August) can cause landslides, and winter (December to February) can be very cold and snowy, making travel difficult.
