Rain-soaked Journey to Mandi
Nestled in the picturesque state of Himachal Pradesh, Mandi, also known as the "Varanasi of Hills" or "Choti Kashi" (Little Kashi), is a vibrant centre of Hindu worship and pilgrimage activities.
A Rich History and Cultural Legacy
Mandi, founded in 1527 AD by Raja Ajbar Sen, boasts a rich history and cultural legacy. The city was historically a significant trade center along the Yarkant and Ladakh to Hoshiarpur trade route. It developed as a cultural and religious center, with temples built in traditional Himachali architectural styles, earning it the nickname "Choti Kashi."
Notable Temples
Some of the most notable temples in Mandi include the Panchvaktra Temple, a classical temple built in the traditional shikara architectural style, recognized as a national heritage monument. Another notable temple is the Bijli Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its striking location and the historic story associated with lightning strikes.
The Archaeological Survey of India has declared several temples in Mandi as protected monuments, including the Triloknath Temple, Gauri Shankar Temple, Panchvaktra Temple, Ardhnareshwar Temple, Bhim Kali, Mata Kuan Rani Temple, among others. Most of Mandi's temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali.
A Pilgrimage Destination
Mandi's temples, among others in the area, establish it as an important pilgrimage destination. The city celebrates festivals such as Maha Shivaratri with great enthusiasm, during which the temples become the focal point of religious festivities and community gatherings.
The Adventurous Explorer
Suraj 'Sufi Traveler' Dutta, an avid traveller and a lawyer, has a sweet tooth for trekking to less explored trails. After visiting Mandi, he traveled to the Barot valley, which is approximately 80 kms away. Solo biking is Mr. Dutta's preferred means of travel, and the Enfield Thunderbird is his most prized possession. Trekking to the Everest Base Camp is at the top of his to-do list.
[1] Archaeological Survey of India [2] Himachal Pradesh Tourism [3] Mandi District Administration [4] Mahashivratri Celebrations in Mandi
In the vibrant city of Mandi, known for its rich history and cultural legacy, travelers may spend time exploring notable temples such as the Panchvaktra Temple and the Bijli Mahadev Temple, both significant landmarks in the region. For the adventurous explorer, Mandi serves as a starting point before embarking on less explored trails, as exhibited by avid traveler Suraj 'Sufi Traveler' Dutta, who used solo biking as his means of travel to the nearby Barot Valley.
