Panchvaktra Temple, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

Panchvaktra Temple, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

Panchvaktra Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Mandi Town in Mandi District in Himachal Pradesh, India. The Temple is situated at the confluence of the Rivers Suketi and Beas. This Temple is considered as one of the oldest temples and among the most visited tourist places in Mandi. Mandi is often referred to as Varanasi of Hills, or Choti Kashi, or Kashi of Himachal as the town hosts 81 temples spread across its area.

History

The temple was believed to be built by Raja Ajbar Sen in 16^th century CE. The temple was destroyed due to the heavy floods in Beas river. The temple was reconstructed during Raja Sidh Sen reign in 17^th century CE. It is one of the protected monuments under the control Archaeological Survey of India.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards north east. The architectural style of this temple is similar to the Triloknath Temple except the superstructure and the decorative patterns. The temple stands on a raised platform. This temple consists of Sanctum, Antrala and Maha Mandapa. The Maha Mandapa is supported on four heavy pillars, the capitals of which are carved in flower pot design and the bases in rosettes or lotuses. Nandi can be seen in the Maha Mandapa facing the sanctum.

The antrala is guarded by dvarapalas. The Sanctum is square on plan. It houses the presiding deity, Panchvaktra Shiva, five faced stone image of Lord Shiva. The five faces of the idol depicts the different character of Lord Shiva namely Aghora, Ishana, Tat Purusha, Vamadeva and Rudra. Only three faces can be seen when viewed from the front. The fourth face is on the reverse side and the fifth face is on the top of the image.

Batuk Bhairava Shrine:

This Shrine is situated inside the Panchvaktra Temple complex. This shrine is facing towards north east. The shrine consists of Sanctum and entrance porch. It is triratha on plan. The sanctum houses an idol of Batuk Bhairava. He is found seated cross legged on square plinth.

Festivals

Maha Shivrathri is the most famous festival celebrated here.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 750 metres from Mandi Bus Stand, 56 Kms from Joginder Nagar Railway Station, 59 Kms from Kullu Manali Airport, 69 Kms from Kullu, 76 Kms from Baijnath, 93 Kms from Palampur and 131 Kms from Shimla. The Temple is located in area of New Mandi on Mandi Pathankot National Highway.

Location