Bhutnath Temple, Mandi
Human-reviewedMandi, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
- Deity
- Shiva (as Bhutnath)
- Origin
- c. 1520s, with the founding of Mandi
- Style
- North-Indian Shikhara, with a Nandi shrine
- Location
- Central Mandi bazaar, near the Beas
About
Bhutnath is said to date to the time Raja Ajbar Sen founded Mandi in the early 16th century, after a cow was seen releasing her milk over a self-manifested Shiva linga at the spot. The stone temple, in the north-Indian Shikhara style with a Nandi pavilion in front, stands in the middle of the bazaar near the Beas. It is the ritual heart of the town: during Shivratri the visiting deities are brought here, and the temple sees daily worship year-round. Several of Mandi's other old temples are within a short walk.
How to reach
- The temple is in the middle of Mandi town, a short walk from the main bus stand and Seri Manch.
- Mandi is on the Chandigarh–Manali highway, about 150 km from Chandigarh.
- Bhuntar airport (Kullu) is about 60 km.
Best time to visit
October to March for pleasant weather; Maha Shivratri (Feb–Mar) for the fair, when it is at its busiest.
Weather in Bhutnath Temple, Mandi
Updated every 30 min27°C
Mainly clear
- Feels like
- Feels 32°
- Today's range
- H 31° · L 19°
- Wed30° 20°
- Thu31° 19°
- Fri31° 20°
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com
Things to know
- The lanes around the temple are congested; approach on foot from the bus stand.
- During Shivratri the temple and surrounding streets are extremely crowded.
- Combine it with the Panchvaktra and Triloknath temples nearby.
FAQ
How old is the Bhutnath temple in Mandi?
It is traditionally dated to the 1520s, around when Raja Ajbar Sen established Mandi as his capital.
What happens at Bhutnath during Shivratri?
It is the main temple of the Mandi Shivratri fair — the visiting village deities are brought here as part of the week's rituals.
Reviews
No reviews yet. Been to Bhutnath Temple, Mandi? Be the first.
Location
Nearby
Individual pages for these are added as they are reviewed.