Muralidhar Temple, Naggar, Himachal Pradesh

Muralidhar Temple, Naggar, Himachal Pradesh

Muralidhar Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Nagar Village in Kullu Tehsil in Kullu District in Himachal Pradesh, India. The temple is situated on the banks of Beas river. This temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley.

History

The temple is believed to be built by the Guptas as evident from the Gupta style carvings seen at the base of the temple. The shikara of the temple was collapsed during the earthquake in 1905 and has been rebuilt after the earthquake. 

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 temple consists of sanctum and mandapa. The sanctum is square in plan. The sanctum enshrines the image of Lord Krishna.

Idols of Radha, Garuda and Lakshmi Narayan can be seen in the temple premises. It is believed that the idol of Lord Krishna stayed here only after installing the idol of Goddess Radha. The sikhara over the sanctum is of seven tiers. It is topped by an amalaka. There is a small rath situated on the southern side of the temple. It is used as chariot for Lord Krishna in processions during Dussehra festival.

Festivals

Kullu Dussehra festival is the famous festival celebrated here with much fanfare.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 1 Km from Naggar Bus Stop, 23 Kms from Manali, 23 Kms from Manali Bus Stand, 23 Kms from Kullu Bus Stand, 24 Kms from Kullu, 34 Kms from Kullu Manali Airport, 147 Kms from Joginder Nagar Railway Station and 222 Kms from Shimla. The temple is situated on Kullu to Manali route.

Location