Triloknath Temple, Mandi – The Temple Complex

Triloknath Temple, Mandi – The Temple Complex

Triloknath Temple Complex is one of the oldest temple complex in the Mandi town.

Triloknath Shrine:

Triloknath Shrine is situated inside the Triloknath Temple complex. This Shrine is considered as the prime shrine in the complex. The complex is named after this shrine. This Shrine is facing towards north east. This Shrine is in active worship. This shrine consists of Sanctum, Antrala and Maha Mandapa. The Maha Mandapa follows pidha (pyramidal) style architecture.

The Mandapa is flanked by miniature shrines on all its four corners and has balconies on each side. Nandi can be seen in the Maha Mandapa facing the sanctum. The Sanctum is square on plan. It houses the presiding deity, Triloknatha, three faced stone image of Lord Shiva, riding a bull with Parvati in his lap.

There is also a second image, probably of Lord Shiva, which, however is much worn. The niches on either sides are empty and an image of Kartikeya can be seen in the niche at the backside. This Shrine houses sculptures of Goddess Parvati, Goddess Narda, Goddess Sharda and along with few other Hindu deities.

Shiva Shrine I:

This Shrine is situated inside the Triloknath Temple complex. This Shrine is facing towards south west. This Shrine is no longer in worship. The Shrine consists of Sanctum and entrance porch. It is triratha on plan. The amalaka over shikara is crowned with Akasha Linga instead of Kalasha. A Nandi can be seen facing this shrine. This Shrine is believed to be built during 9^th Century CE.

Shiva Shrine II:

This Shrine is situated inside the Triloknath Temple complex. This Shrine is facing towards south west. This Shrine is no longer in worship. The Shrine consists of Sanctum and entrance porch. The entrance arch is lost completely except the pilasters. It is triratha on plan. The Sanctum is square on plan. Brahma, Chamunda and unidentified idol can be seen in the niches around the walls of the shrine. This Shrine is believed to be built during 11^th Century CE.

Shiva Shrine III:

This Shrine is situated inside the Triloknath Temple complex. This Shrine is facing towards south west. This Shrine is no longer in worship. The Shrine consists of Sanctum and pragriva. It is triratha on plan. The Sanctum is square on plan. This Shrine is believed to be built during 11^th Century CE.