Hadimba Devi Temple

Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131

Deriving its name from the forest, Dhungri Van Vihar, Hidimba Temple is popularly known as the Dhungri Temple. It is one of the most popular, hence, crowded attractions in Manali due to its Indian mythological significance. Hidimba, the wife of Bhima, a Pandava in the Indian epic, Mahabharata, is worshipped by the locals, as important a Goddess as Durga. This ancient temple was commissioned to be built by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1550 AD.

Enveloped by the Cedar forest, the temple stands 24-meters tall with three square-shaped roofs, crafted with timber tiles, and the fourth made up of brass cone top. The wooden doors to the temple are themed with the earth Goddess, Durga, leading the pilgrims to a temple without a statue. A 3-inch brass image of Hidimba Devi, placed on top of an enormous rock and the imprint of the Goddess' feet, carved on a stone block, is worshipped in this temple. About 70-metres from the temple is a shrine of Hidimba and Bhima's son, Ghatotkach.

The best time to visit Hidimba Temple is during the Dhungri Fair - a 3-day festival, celebrating the birthday of Hidimba Devi on 14th May, where locals and tourists, alike, participate in artistic and cultural activities.

While at the temple, one can also shop for Himachali shawls and souvenirs from the nearby market.