Bathu Temples, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

Bathu Temples, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

Bathu Temples are cluster of Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Sakthi, located in Maharana Pratap Sagar in the Kangra district of Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Bathu temples are known locally as Bathu ki ladi. This cluster of temples remains submerged in Maharana Pratap Sagar for ten months and can be accessed from May to June when the water level decreases.

Legends

As per legend, the temples were believed to be built by Pandavas. It is also believed that they tried to build the staircase to heaven from here only.

History

The temples were believed to be built by a local King in the past. These temples were submerged in Maharana Pratap Sagar, a reservoir created by Pong dam in the early 1970s.

The Temple Complex

This temple cluster consists of eight temples. The walls once enclosed the cluster of temples have fallen and crumbled due to the strong water current in Beas River. The temples are dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Sakthi. Idols of Sheshnag, Vinayaga, Kali and Hanuman can also be found in the temple premises. These temples were submerged in Maharana Pratap Sagar, a reservoir created by Pong dam in the early 1970s. Since then, these temples are only accessible from May to June when the water level decreases. Despite being in water for ten months, these temples retains its originality due to the quality of Bathu stones.

Connectivity

The Temple Complex is located at about 13 Kms from Jawali, 31 Kms from Dhameta, 35 Kms from Nagrota Suriyan Railway Station, 53 Kms from Kangra Airport, 59 Kms from Pathankot Airport, 64 Kms from Kangra and 251 Kms from Shimla. The temples are accessible by boat from Dhameta and Nagrota Suriyan and accessible by road from Jawali.

Location | Photos