Baba Bhootnath Temple
Also known as Bhootnath Mandir, Bhoot Nath Temple, Bhootnath Mahadev Temple
Baba Bhootnath Temple in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, is the town's spiritual anchor for Shiva worship and hosts the annual Mandi International Shivratri Fair.
Photos of Baba Bhootnath Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- 1526-1527 CE
- Architecture
- Nagara (Shikhara-style stone temple)
- Address
- Bhoot Nath Road, Samkhetar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175001
- Timings
- 05:00–21:45 daily
History of Baba Bhootnath Temple
Legend holds that in 1526 Raja Ajbar Sen, founder of Mandi state, learned of a cow spontaneously offering milk to a stone in a forest. Shiva then appeared in his dream directing him to unearth a buried lingam at that spot. The Raja enshrined it in a temple completed by 1527, naming it Bhootnath. Under later ruler Raja Ishwari Sen, the Shivratri festival held here grew into the grand week-long Mandi Shivratri Fair still celebrated today.
Festivals Celebrated at Baba Bhootnath Temple
- Mandi International Shivratri Fair
- Maha Shivratri
How to Reach Baba Bhootnath Temple
Nearest airport: Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali) Airport, ~55-60 km; Gaggal Airport, Dharamshala, ~130 km. Nearest railhead: Joginder Nagar narrow-gauge station, ~55 km. Mandi sits on NH-3/NH-21, well connected by bus and taxi; the temple is walkable from the town bus stand.
Frequently Asked Questions about Baba Bhootnath Temple
Where is Baba Bhootnath Temple located?
- Baba Bhootnath Temple is located at Bhoot Nath Road, Samkhetar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175001, in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Baba Bhootnath Temple?
- The presiding deity at Baba Bhootnath Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Baba Bhootnath Temple?
- Baba Bhootnath Temple is generally open 05:00–21:45 daily. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Baba Bhootnath Temple built?
- Baba Bhootnath Temple was established 1526-1527 CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Baba Bhootnath Temple?
- Baba Bhootnath Temple is built in the Nagara (Shikhara-style stone temple) style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Baba Bhootnath Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Baba Bhootnath Temple include Mandi International Shivratri Fair, Maha Shivratri. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Baba Bhootnath Temple?
- Nearest airport: Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali) Airport, ~55-60 km; Gaggal Airport, Dharamshala, ~130 km. Nearest railhead: Joginder Nagar narrow-gauge station, ~55 km. Mandi sits on NH-3/NH-21, well connected by bus and taxi; the temple is walkable from the town bus stand.
Why is Baba Bhootnath Temple significant?
- Baba Bhootnath Temple in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, is the town's spiritual anchor for Shiva worship and hosts the annual Mandi International Shivratri Fair.
Is there an entry fee at Baba Bhootnath Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Baba Bhootnath Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Baba Bhootnath Temple?
- Baba Bhootnath Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Himachal Pradesh temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.