Top 6 Shiva Temples In Manali For Amazing Spiritual Retreat

Plan a visit to the popular Shiva temples in Manali and enjoy your next vacation.

The Shiva temples in Manali, situated amidst magnificent landscapes of the Himalayas, provide a haven of peace and spiritual rejuvenation. Manali is a magical place where adventure, nature, and spirituality unite. Ancient shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, like the grand Siyali Mahadev Temple and the mysterious Bijli Mahadev Temple, are located here. Each temple has its call for immersing one in the divine energy. With views all around that take your breath away, these are places for serene retreat and seeking blessings for peace of mind.

Famous Lord Shiva Temples In Manali

Manali is blessed with several temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering a serene escape for devotees. Here is a list of Shiva temples in Manali:

1. Siyali Mahadev Temple

The Siyali Mahadev Temple is known to be one of the most popular Shiva temples in Manali.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

One of the most famous Shiva temples in Manali is the Siyali Mahadev Temple, which is popular for its very peaceful and spiritually enriching atmosphere. This famous Shiva temple, located centrally in Manali, offers a quiet retreat amidst breathtakingly beautiful natural surroundings. The traditional architecture, along with the serene environment, makes it an ideal setting to pray and meditate. This famous Manali temple boasts stunning views and a rich history. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists seeking spiritual peace and divine blessings.

Best Time To Visit: April to October
Nearest Airport: Kullu – Manali Airport (about 55 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (about 95 km)

2. Bijli Mahadev Temple

Bijli Mahadev Temple is one of the mystical Shiva temples in Manali, Himachal Pradesh.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Bijli Mahadev is among the most mystic and popular Shiva temples in Manali. The temple is famous for its unique and full-of-drama lighting ritual. Perched at a breathtaking height of 2,460 metres, this Shiva temple offers heart-stopping views of the surrounding Himalayas. The name “Lightning God” literally means that light flashes from the temple during the spectacular natural phenomenon when lightning strikes the central Shiva idol in the temple, which people believe is a sign of divine blessings. This unique ritual, along with the stunning setting of the temple, makes it one of the must-visit spiritual spots.

Best Time To Visit: May to October
Nearest Airport: Kullu – Manali Airport (about 85 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (about 65 km)

3. Anjani Mahadev Temple

The holy shrine of Anjani Mahadev is a major tourist attraction in Himachal Pradesh.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Anjani Mahadev Temple is one of the prime Manali’s Shiva temples, notable for its calm and pictorial location. This well-known temple of Shiva is devoted to Lord Shiva in the form of Anjani Mahadev. The temple provides a tranquil and spiritually rejuvenating experience to all devotees visiting this temple. Its serene surroundings and atmosphere, evoking feelings of devotion, are perfect for reflection and forming a bond with the self. This temple is infused with natural beauty and an exquisitely serene atmosphere that would attract souls searching for peace.

Best Time To Visit: April to October
Nearest Airport: Kullu – Manali Airport (about 80 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (about 70 km)

4. Gauri Shankar Temple

A beautiful picture of one of the best holy shrines located in Naggar, Himachal Pradesh.

Photo: Amohan41 / Wikimedia Commons

The Gauri Shankar Temple is a historical and one of the best Shiva temples in Manali. It is rich in cultural heritage and rich architectural details are intermingled. This popular Shiva temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and his consort, Parvati. What is beautiful about it is that it has significant carvings and a conventional design of deep, spiritual, and artistic values. The place is almost quiet and distracted, peaceful for religious worship and spiritual reflection. The Gauri Shankar Temple, a beloved Manali landmark, draws visitors seeking spiritual enlightenment and historical insight. Its profound religious significance and captivating architecture make it a must-see.

Best Time To Visit: April to October
Nearest Airport: Kullu – Manali Airport (about 70 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (about 55 km)

5. Jamula Temple

A mesmerising view of a famous holy place located amidst the hills of Himachal Pradesh.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Jamula Temple lies embedded in tranquil landscapes near Manali. This iconic Shiva temple is a beloved retreat for those seeking spiritual solace. The enchanting natural beauty with greenery all around and a serene atmosphere augments the spiritual experience of the visitors. Though this temple is relatively quiet compared to other temples in the area, this temple has an ultimate feel of devotion and a tranquil spirit. Being a famous temple in Manali, it presents different and peaceful retreats for the ones looking to find solace and indulge in introspection away from more crowded points.

Best Time To Visit: April to October
Nearest Airport: Kullu – Manali Airport (about 95 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (about 80 km)

6. Vashisht Temple

A picture of women standing outside an ancient holy shrine located in Himachal Pradesh.

Photo: Ashish Gupta / Wikimedia Commons

Being one of the oldest Shiva temples in Manali, the Vashisht Temple is also known for its natural hot springs. Rooted in the ancient village of Vashisht, this revered Shiva temple is deeply connected to the sage of the same name. A highlight of this sacred site is its healing hot springs, which offer spiritual tranquillity and physical restoration. The combination of heritage value, traditional architecture, and natural beauty makes Vashisht Temple one of the most visited places in Manali, famous among visitors seeking spiritual growth and rejuvenation.

Best Time To Visit: May to October
Nearest Airport: Kullu – Manali Airport (about 30 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (about 50 km)

Other Factors To Consider

View of three diaries, a yellow pencil & a black pen stand kept on a grey-coloured table.

Photo: NORTHFOLK / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Average Cost of Trip
The cost of a trip varies based on factors such as transportation, accommodation, park entry fees, guides, food, and miscellaneous expenses.

Tips for Travellers

  • To visit temples in Manali, dress modestly, check temple timings, bring cash, respect local customs, and stay hydrated.
  • Consult with a doctor if you have health issues or are sensitive to high altitudes.
  • Remember to respect the environment, maintain cleanliness, and engage with locals for valuable insights and stories.
  • Remember to wear comfortable shoes.

These Shiva temples in Manali are a perfect blend of getting closer to divinity amidst nature’s beauty. Whether you’re deeply spiritual or looking to unwind, visiting these temples is a must-visit. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and enriched. Experience hassle-free travel to Manali this time around; get your flights, hotels, and tour packages booked from TripXL—a trusted companion to your travels.

Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

While all temples in Manali hold great significance, the Siyali Mahadev Temple is often considered the most famous due to its intricate woodwork and serene ambience.
The temples in Manali can be visited throughout the year, although the experience may vary due to weather conditions.
Photography is generally allowed inside the temple premises, but it's advisable to check for any restrictions before clicking pictures.
While there might not be dedicated guided tours for Shiva temples, you can hire local guides or join group tours that include temple visits.
Yes, some temples in Manali, like Bijli Mahadev Temple, are located in trekking areas, offering a unique experience.

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