Basheshar Mahadev Temple, Bajaura, Himachal Pradesh

Basheshar Mahadev Temple, Bajaura, Himachal Pradesh

Basheshar Mahadev Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Bajaura Village near Kullu in Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, India. The temple is situated on the banks of Beas River. This temple is considered to be the largest stone temple in Kullu region.

History

The Temple is believed to be built in 9^th Century CE under the patronage of Gurjara Pratiharas. It is believed that Nagabhatta II or Mihir Bhoja might have built this temple. This temple was declared protected as a monument of national importance and is being maintained by Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east. The temple follows Sarvatobhadra Style of architecture (having four functional doors on cardinal directions). However, only one entrance door can be seen on the eastern side. All the other three sides were made into niches. The western niche houses Lord Vishnu, southern niche houses Ganesha and northern niche houses Mahishasura Mardhini. The temple has an elaborate Sukanasa on all sides with a bust of Lord Shiva in the medallion on each side of the shikara. River Goddesses Ganga and Yamuna can be found at the door jamb.

Presiding Deity is called as Basheshar / Vishweshwar and is facing east. He is housed in the sanctum in the form of Linga. The sanctum is square in plan. The sikhara over the sanctum is of seven tiers. It is topped by an amalaka. The entire surface of the sikhara has been decorated with chaitya dormers. The exteriors are decorated with carvings of celestial beings, scroll motifs, birds, elephants etc. There is a natural formation of Vinayaga in the sacred tree located in the temple premises.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 500 meters from Bajaura Bus Stop, 4 Kms from Kullu Manali Airport, 15 Kms from Kullu, 16 Kms from Kullu Bus Stand, 36 Kms from Naggar, 53 Kms from Mandi, 55 Kms from Manali, 91 Kms from Joginder Nagar Railway Station and 184 Kms from Shimla. The temple is situated on the Mandi – Kullu highway.

Location | Photos