Hinduism is a diverse and vibrant religion in India. Down in the south, we’ve got the rich temples whereas in the North we’ve got the most sacred places hidden somewhere in the mountains with different beliefs and traditions.
Let’s throw some light on the hidden ones. Welcome to DEV BHOOMI HIMACHAL!
In Himachal, each village has its own Deity. And these deities are like the local superheroes, they protect them from natural calamities and other troubles. They’re the supreme leader and higher authority of that region. The locals lovingly call them Devtas.
What’s interesting here is that you can invite these Deities to your place. If you’re a Pahadi you probably know this. It is typically done to express gratitude to the deity when something you’ve wished for has come true, kind of like ‘ jab mannat puri ho jaye’. The village folks get together, hoist the Deities on Palanquins, and take the deity to the decided place while grooving to the beats of traditional Himachali music. Trust us, that vibe is something else! Goosebumps are for sure.
So this was a glimpse of what we Himachalis worship as part of our culture. Now let us take you to a beautiful petite village in Himachal which is none other than Jibhi and know all about Devtas/Deities in Jibhi.
Jibhi is a breathtaking destination in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It is a tourist spot so many of you might have already heard about this place. And the lucky ones might have visited it.
There are many beautiful places to visit in Jibhi and guess what the sacred temples top the list. Temples in Jibhi are the windows into the culture and society of Jibhi. Come let’s explore the temples of Jibhi together!
Temples in and around Jibhi
1. Shringa Rishi Temple
2. Bhuddhi Nagin Temple
3. SheshNag Temple
4. Balu Nag Temple
5. Tower Temples of Chehni Kothi
1. Shringa Rishi Temple
Photo By – Yamini
Temple Location: Shringa Rishi temple is situated in the Baggi village of the Baanjar valley which is about 8 km from Jibhi towards Kullu. On the way there is a gate that reads “Shri Shringa Rishiji Maharaj: Baghi Mandir jaane ke liye raastaa.”
Temple History: The temple is dedicated to Rishi Shringa, who was a saint of Kashyapa’s lineage and is one of the eighteen primary deities of Kullu. It’s widely believed that this is the birthplace of Lord Rama. Rishi Shringa was the sage of Putreshtiyajna for Raja Dasharatha of Ayodhya during Sat Yug.
Did Rishi Shringa grow up in Bagi? In the negative. Early on, he grew up in a highland area of Nepal known as Resunga in the Lumbini zone. So what is the Baghi temple then? Well, according to the priests, Shringa Rishi is said to have done thousands of japas here in honour of Goddess Saraswati.
How was the temple made?: There many fabled stories related to it. One is that there was a pindi, a sacred stone in the forest of Skeeran and it was urging to place itself in a temple. So the people made one in the forest. However later, locals found it very difficult to go and worship there. Therefore, the folks decided to build one in the Bagi village.
Temple Architecture: The temple architecture is something that’ll attract you. The main shrine of the temple was built over 500 years ago. It is entirely made of wood and has some intricate carvings and paintings.
Why Visit?: If you always wanted a place where you can just sit not just to connect with nature but with god, this is your go-to place. There is a garden area near the temple where you can experience the same. After all, Rishi Shringa did the same here. He meditated here for a good while. It’s all in the place itself. You have to visit the temple by yourself.
Read More: Explore Jibhi’s Jaw-Dropping Treks and Trails Like a Local!
2. Buddhi Nagin Temple
Temple Location: Buddhi Nagin Temple is situated in Serolsar Lake which sits at an altitude of 10,496 feet above sea level. It’s a trek of 3 km that starts from Jalori pass which is 12 km away from Jibhi towards Anni.
Temple History: The temple is the residence of Buddhi Nagin, the mother of all Nag Devtas. We’ve got some big names here like SheshNag, KamruNag, GhundaNag, MahuNag. So here goes the story. Once a Brahmin was strolling around the lake and ended up drowning in the water. Seeing him in trouble, the Goddess came to rescue him and saved his life. Later the goddess offered him to stay in her golden place for three years but with a catch; he was not supposed to spill the beans to anyone about what happened. His family assumed him to be dead. Years passed and he then returned to his home. His family was surprised upon his arrival and were curious to know where he was in the past three years. At first, he didn’t tell anyone. However, later he spilt the beans, after all, he was a human. And guess what? He died. Family members were in deep shock and to know the whole truth they went to the lake but sadly whoever did this met with an accident.
Even today no one has dived deep into the lake. Therefore, there is no geological study on the depth of the lake. It seems that the Goddess wants to live peacefully in her place.
Temple Architecture: The wooden temple is built in the traditional Himachali style by the Pandavas on their way to heaven. While they were growing rice around the lake, the Goddesses emerged in front of them and then they decided to bring the murti of the goddess from the lake and then establish a temple near the lake. Since then it has been renovated many times.
Why Visit?: While you’ll start trekking to the lake you’ll get your answer. Every season’s path is different. In summers it’s vibrant, in spring it’s flowery, in winters it’s faded. The path is covered by the trees and is so beautiful that you’ll not even know when and how you reached the lake. And once you reach the lake, you’ll only say ‘KHOOBSURAT’.
The best time to do the trek is in spring and summer.
Read More: Best Homestays in Jibhi
3. SheshNag Temple
Temple location: Located in the middle of a scenic meadow within Jibhi, the Sheshnag temple is easily accessible by a short trail. You can ask anyone for directions.
Temple History: The temple is dedicated to Lord Sheshnag, the king of serpents and a devotee of Lord Vishnu.
Temple Architecture: The temple’s wooden architecture is pretty ancient. However, its actual age is unclear. It is estimated that the temple is more than 500 years old. The structure is entirely made of wood, or we can say a combination of wooden beams and stone blocks.
Why Visit?: Enjoy the trail and meadows while you’re there. Taking a few moments to relax at this place will surely calm your mind.
Read More: Best Hostels in and around Jibhi
4. Balu Nag Temple
Temple location: A 30-minute drive from Jibhi waterfall will take you to Balu village. However, you’ll not find Balu Nag Temple there, you’ve to hike at least 45 minutes from Bahu Pond to reach the temple. The path is beautiful with trees on both sides.
Temple History: Locals must have been worshipping here for centuries but the exact history is not known.
Temple Architecture: This temple is just like most other temples in Himachal. With no birth certificate, this temple is very ancient and is made in traditional kath-khuni style. Some of the woodwork has been done recently, mimicking the old sculptures. And the stone slabs. Ahh! They are the masterpiece. With deities chiseled into them, they’re a sight for sore eyes. You gotta see them.
Why Visit?: The temple is located on a beautiful serene mountain. It’s all green around. You’ll surely love to spend some time here. You’ll see those mountain goats gazing near the temple. Photographers! You’re going to click some pictures. And if you walk a little up you’ll see another shrine which is pretty much isolated. Overall, it’s a pretty place to hang out with nature.
Read More: Best Cafes in and around Jibhi
5. Tower Temples of Chehni Kothi
Photo By – Sahil
Temple Location: The temple is located in Chehni Kothi village which is a short hike from the Shringa Rishi temple at Bagi village. Just follow the electric wires. Strange right? Trust us you’ll be on the right track.
Temple History: Perched at a height of around 2300 metres a 400-year-old fortress is turned into a temple dedicated to Goddess Jogini. It was originally built as a defence structure in the 17th and 18th centuries. The temple is more than 1500 years old. It was built around the 17th century by a local King Dhadhu. The locals call it Dhadhiya Kothi.
Temple Architecture: The temple is built in the local traditional style of the Himalayan region. And the big ladder which will take you to the top floor is made up of one huge deodar log! The ladder is pretty narrow so be careful while climbing it. What’s amazing here is that the temple has survived many earthquakes over the centuries. However, the massive Kangra earthquake in 1905 took out the top two floors. But even today it stands still! After all, the old structures are like paladins, they stand strong through it all.
Why Visit?: At this place, you’ll not find one but two similar architectural-style temples. Right next to the first one, there is another gem. Both are similar in structure. Way back it used to be the residence of the ruling Thakurs but later it was turned into a Krishna temple. See, that’s an extra scoop of ice cream if you visit this place! Chehni Kothi in Jibhi is a sight to behold, don’t miss it!
Read More: 11 Most Famous Temples in and Around Dharamshala
So these were the nearby temples in and around Jibhi. The abundant wood in the region has been used very innovatively. So, when you visit these temples, you’re definitely in for an architectural treat. In Himachal, we believe that a religious event isn’t complete unless our “Devta” – that special deity of us – makes an appearance. And you can’t argue with that! Trust us.
And if you’ve any queries regarding any of this. You can get in touch with us anytime at: instahimachal@gmail.com
