Shri Baijnath Temple
Also known as Baijnath Mandir, Vaidyanath Temple, Shiv Baijnath Temple
Shri Baijnath Temple in Kangra, HP, is among the valley's oldest Shiva shrines, revered as Vaidyanath's seat and noted for rare Shiva-Parvati carvings.
Photos of Shri Baijnath Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- 1204 CE
- Architecture
- Nagara (North Indian Shikhara)
- Address
- Baijnath, Himachal Pradesh 176125
- Timings
- 06:00–20:00 daily
History of Shri Baijnath Temple
Twin Sanskrit (Sharada) and Pahari (Takri) inscriptions in the mandapa record that merchant brothers Ahuka and Manyuka funded the present stone temple in 1204 CE, during the reign of Jaya Chandra, to enshrine a lingam already present at the site. Local legend links the site to Ravana's worship of Shiva here. The spire and roof were renovated in 1786 by the Katoch ruler Sansar Chand II; the temple is now an ASI-protected monument.
Festivals Celebrated at Shri Baijnath Temple
- Maha Shivaratri
- Makar Sankranti
- Vaisakha Sankranti
How to Reach Shri Baijnath Temple
Nearest airport: Kangra (Gaggal) Airport, ~65 km. Nearest railhead: Baijnath Paprola station (~1 km) on the Pathankot–Jogindernagar narrow-gauge line. On NH-154 between Kangra and Mandi, 16 km from Palampur.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shri Baijnath Temple
Where is Shri Baijnath Temple located?
- Shri Baijnath Temple is located at Baijnath, Himachal Pradesh 176125, in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Shri Baijnath Temple?
- The presiding deity at Shri Baijnath Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Shri Baijnath Temple?
- Shri Baijnath Temple is generally open 06:00–20:00 daily. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Shri Baijnath Temple built?
- Shri Baijnath Temple was established 1204 CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Shri Baijnath Temple?
- Shri Baijnath Temple is built in the Nagara (North Indian Shikhara) style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Shri Baijnath Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Shri Baijnath Temple include Maha Shivaratri, Makar Sankranti, Vaisakha Sankranti. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Shri Baijnath Temple?
- Nearest airport: Kangra (Gaggal) Airport, ~65 km. Nearest railhead: Baijnath Paprola station (~1 km) on the Pathankot–Jogindernagar narrow-gauge line. On NH-154 between Kangra and Mandi, 16 km from Palampur.
Why is Shri Baijnath Temple significant?
- Shri Baijnath Temple in Kangra, HP, is among the valley's oldest Shiva shrines, revered as Vaidyanath's seat and noted for rare Shiva-Parvati carvings.
Is there an entry fee at Shri Baijnath Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Shri Baijnath 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 Shri Baijnath Temple?
- Shri Baijnath 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.