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Manali is known as a paradise for nature lovers but it is also a spiritual heaven with the most iconic temples and ancient monasteries. Each temple in Manali provides a unique experience of the rich cultural heritage, blending spirituality, history, and stunning architecture. Whether you are looking for peace or spiritual escape Manali is the perfect location that should be added to your bucket list. Here is everything you need to know about Manali temple before you plan your next visit to Manali.
10 Best Manali Temples To Discover
Explore the spiritual core of Manali temples by visiting these ten must-see temples. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayan highlands, these sites combine history, culture, and devotion.
1. Hidimba Temple
Named for and devoted to Hidimba, the Mahabharata character who was Bhima’s wife, is this famous shrine. This one is among the most recognizable temples in Manali. Constructed in 1553, verdant trees encircle this historic wooden temple, which is well-known for its striking architecture that resembles a pagoda. The temple is decorated with elaborate wooden carvings that represent symbols and characters from mythology, fusing spirituality and nature.
Major Attraction: Historic Wooden Architecture resembling a pagoda
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120 km
2. Maharaj Manu Temple
Photo: Britt Reints / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located in the scenic beauty of old Manali the Manu Temple is dedicated to the Famous Sage Manu, who is known as the creator of the Hindu race as per the ancient Hindu Mythology. This temple is of immense spiritual significance, as it is believed to be the only one in India dedicated to Sage Manu, making it a unique pilgrimage site. The temple’s architecture is a blend of traditional Himachali style with its stone and wood structure, which complements the natural surroundings beautifully.
Major Attraction: Unique temple dedicated to sage Manu, traditional Himachali stone and wood architecture.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km.
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120
3. Vashisht Temple
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
The Vashisht Temple honours Sage Vashisht, the kula Guru of Lord Rama, and is located only 3 km from Manali. This temple is well-known for its wellness center in addition to its religious sites. The wooden carvings and stone masonry of the temple building are a true representation of traditional Himalayan design. Many people come to the temple complex’s hot springs, which are thought to offer therapeutic benefits, to dip in the sacred waters.
Major Attraction: Hot Springs that offer peace, and traditional Himalayan Wooden cravings.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km.
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120 km
4. Jagatsukh Temple
Photo: Gaurav Rehal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Jagatsukh Temple is a hidden gem that provides visitors with a sense of tranquillity. It is situated in the picturesque town of Jagatsukh, just 6 miles from Manali. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this historic temple is renowned for its exquisite fusion of Shikhara and Pagoda architectural styles. This location is ideal for reflection and meditation because it is surroundedby verdant vegetation and stunning Himalayan peaks. Travellers frequently come here for the tranquillity this enchanted village offers, which offers an insight into the customs of the Himachali people.
Major Attraction: Fusion of Shikhara and Pagoda architectural styles.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km.
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120 km
5. Gauri Shankar Temple
Photo: Amohan41 / Wikimedia Commons
Situated approximately 20 miles from Manali in the charming village of Naggar, the Gauri Shankar Temple is a spectacular example of a prehistoric stone building. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, this temple dates back to the 12th century and is highly recognized as a place of great spiritual significance. The historic temple is the ideal location for anyone looking for serenity and heavenly blessings owing to its peaceful area with gorgeous mountains.
Major Attraction: Ancient stone architecture and spiritual significance.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km.
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120 km
6. Jamula Temple
Photo: Rakeshkdogra / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
In the Malana village resides the beautiful temple of Jamula which holds immense cultural significance. According to the locals, it is believed that the Jamlu Devta is a holy reincarnation of Lord Shiva. This place offers a sacred vibe and tourists often come to this temple to escape the chaos and find some peace. This temple has a positive vibe that attracts the tourists whether you just want to sit in tranquillity or just explore Jamula Temple in Manali is the perfect destination that you should include in your itinerary.
Major Attraction: Cultural Significance and spiritual vibes
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km.
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120 km
7. Siyali Temple
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the oldest temples in Manali. Known for its exquisite wooden architecture, the temple typically depicts intricate carvings that reflect the typical Himachali style. The mesmerising beauty of the temple and the positive aura will leave the people visiting in awe. Tourists often visit this temple to calm their mind and body. A visit to this temple not only provides spiritual solace but also a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage making it a must-visit destination for travellers.
Major Attraction: Eye-catching wooden architecture and spiritual solace.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km.
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120 km
8. Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Tibetan Manali Monastery, the Himalaya Nyingmapa offers a serene tranquillity. Situated amidst the Himalayas this temple offers a peaceful retreat for those who love meditation and looking for some peace. This beautiful monastery reflects the deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Adorned with vibrant murals, prayer wheels, and a large golden statue of Buddha. Often considered a symbol of compassion, this temple provides the visitors with an experience like no other. So make sure you add this temple to your itinerary.
Major Attraction: Tibetan Buddhist traditions and a large golden statue of Buddha.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km.
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120 km
9. Bijli Mahadev Temple
Photo: Akshat Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
Situated at an altitude of 2460 metres in the Kullu Valley dedicated to lord Shiva, this temple in Manali provides a unique experience to visitors. This temple is famous for its unique phenomenon where it is believed that the Shiva Lingam was struck by lightning and shattered only to be restored by the priest using butter and sattu. It offers beautiful panoramic views surrounding the Kullu and Parvati valleys.
Major Attraction: Unique phenomenon of lightning striking panoramic views.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km.
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120 km
10. Gayatri Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the most iconic and beautiful temples located 7 km away from Manali Gayatri temple is beautifully designed with wooden carvings dedicated to Goddess Gayatri. This temple was built in 1962 and its simple architecture attracts tourists, provides peace and blends perfectly with the natural beauty of the area. Visitors often come here to seek blessings and enjoy the calm, spiritual atmosphere that makes it a special place to visit in Manali.
Major Attraction: Beautiful wooden carvings, peaceful atmosphere.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km.
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, approximately 120 km
Manali temples are more than just a place of worship. They offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and ancient heritage that this destination has to offer. Visiting this temple is not just about architecture & history but it’s about connecting with the spiritual essence of the place, making this a perfect location for your itinerary. Plan your visit today with Trip XL and immerse yourself in the incredible Himalayas!
Cover Photo: Sakshi Sharma / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
