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Baijnath Temple
Built by
Raja Sansar Chand in 1204 AD, the Baijnath temple is situated at a
distance of 36 km east of Kangra. Located on the stretch of Mandi -
Palampur road, the temple of Lord Shiva is famous for the Linga
(embodiment of Shiva). Every year large number of devotees flock to
Baijnath temple to get blessings from Lord Shiva, especially during the
month of March tourist visit to this holy destination of Kangra to enjoy
the colorful 'Shivratri' festival.
Baijnath Temple - Lord Shiva as a Holy Deity
The Baijnath temple was originally named as Kirangama and changed to
Baijnath after dedicating the temple to Lord Shiva (Hindu Deity). Apart
from the main deity, the temple houses the images of Goddess Chamunda,
Surya (the Sun God), Kartikeya (son of Lord Shiva) and a massive
structure of Nandi (Carrier of Lord Shiva). One of the 12 Jyotirlingas
are also located in the sanctum of the temple. The temple holds many
faith and belief in it. It is believed that, the 'Lord of Physicians'
Shiva frees people from all kinds of ailments and diseases. Another
interesting fact of the temple lies in its water, the water of the
temple premises is considered to have curative and medicinal properties.
Due to these factual reasons, the temple still witness huge number of
devotees every year. The famous 'Shivratri' festival is also celebrated
during the month of March and tourists throng to this place to get
blessings from Lord Shiva (Hindu Deity)
Architecture
The temple is constructed in the Nagri style of architecture. The roof
of the temple is in the shape of pyramid with 2.5 sq meter from inside
and almost covering the area of 5.5 sq meter from outside the temple
premises. The conical shaped dome (Mandap) of the temple gets support
from the four artistic big pillars. The temple is a unique example of
Kangra architect.
Shivratri Festival at Baijnath Temple
Apart from the mythological and artistic significance of the temple,
Baijnath temple is also known for its famous 'Shivratri Festival'. The
festival is celebrated in the month of March to mark the marriage
ceremony of Lord Shiva. A huge number of pilgrims turned up during this
festival. On this auspicious day of the year, it is said that the Lord
Shiva married to Goddess Parvati (associate of Shiva). The festival is
celebrated throughout the night, that comprises of many rituals and
ceremonies.
How To Reach
The temple is easily accessible via road from Dharamsala, Palampur,
Kangra and all the major cities of Himachal Pradesh. Tourist can hire
private taxis or take state transport buses to reach this holy
destination of Himachal Pradesh. |
