Bijli Mahadev temple | Rakkh 5 Star Resort in Dharamshala
When you plan a trip, book a nice Resort in Himachal Pradesh which takes complete advanta
ge of the gifts that nature has to offer in this region. There is an abundance of experiences awaiting you in this state ranging from adventure sports to calm camping grounds in the midst of a few of the most beautiful places in the country. But that is not all that Himachal has in its bag, the state is home to many temples that are the epitome of spirituality and mindful prayer for many devotees.
One of the most sacred sites and temples in Himachal Pradesh, the Bijli Mahadev Temple is located on top of a cliff of the Bijli Hill (Mathan Hill) in the valley of Kullu. At an altitude of about 2,460 metres, the ‘Kash’ style temple is very old and significant for the people of Himachal. It has a ravishing legend and the story behind this ancient temple makes many believe in its holy nature. The temple is dedicated to the mighty Lord Shiva and is about 22 kilometres from Kullu. Surrounded by valleys like Kullu, Parbati, Garsa and Bhunter, this temple in Himachal is famous for its serene and tranquil surroundings.
The name “Bijli” comes from an incident that only occurs in the region once a decade. The temple is hit with a lightning strike almost every ten years. The last time it was stricken, the Shiv Linga broke into pieces that were completely mended by the priest of the temple. The priest applied butter and flour of some kind of pulses, which is commonly known as ‘Sattu’ to the pieces and pieced them back together. Miraculously though, the Linga takes its solid form soon. The charring can still be seen on the inner walls of the temple where the lightning had struck causing flames to erupt. A small village sits at the feet of the hill that this temple is on top of, and the village is also named Bijli Mahadev. The residents take care of the temple and maintain it.
This temple is surrounded by a legend about a demon called Kulanta. This demon lived in the Kullu valley. Once he took a snake-like form and arrived in the Mathan village to cause trouble. It is said that this resulted in obstruction of the flow of river Beas. Lord Shiva, after knowing of this, set out to fight the demon. After a rigorous battle between the both, the demon was slain by Lord Shiva and it is said that his body became a huge mountain. Many believe this is how the region got its name, Kullu.
During the festival of Shiv-Ratri, a large number of devotees gather here to pay homage to Lord Shiva and pray. Another interesting fact about this place is a 20-foot pole outside the temple made out of Deodar wood. Every few years, people of the village replace the pole with another one made out of the tallest Deodar tree in the neighbouring forest. This occasion is celebrated like a small festival by the villagers.
One can reach the Bijli Mahadev temple via two routes: trekking and driving. The trek to the temple starts from the Khangabat Base Camp and takes about 3 hours to reach the temple. It is recommended to have a basic knowledge of trekking before making the trek to the temple. The uphill trek takes you to Bijli hill, which is approximately 2,500 feet above sea level and is about 3 kilometres long. The trek is very strenuous, so it is recommended to have adequate fitness and strength in your body before taking this trek. While walking, it is very important to have respect for the surroundings. You can have lunch on the way before the return journey. Here you can have a great view of the beautiful valley.
A picturesque panoramic view is available from the temple which covers the Parvati valley and Kullu valley. The scene is a feast for the eyes and not even a camera can capture the complete beauty of this place. Though photographers are always going to be pleased to capture this view. No restrictions on photography are put anywhere in and around this temple. The area surrounding the temple is quite windy with a cool breeze flowing almost all the time and green landscapes make it even more pleasing to the eye. Make sure to visit this amazing site of prayer and quiet when you visit the region, it will bring you peace and tranquillity.