Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi
Also known as Bhima Kali Temple, Bhimakali Mandir Mandi, Bhimakali Temple Bhiuli
Shri Bhimakali Temple sits on the Beas riverbank in Mandi, HP, linked by legend to Krishna's slaying of the demon Banasura, said buried near its gate.
Photos of Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi
- Presiding Deity
- Devi
- Established
- Disputed — sources vary between the 13th, 14th and 17th centuries
- Architecture
- Hindu hill-temple pagoda style — wood-and-stone construction with a carved shikhara spire
- Address
- National Highway 20, Bhiuli, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175001
- Timings
- 05:00–21:30 daily
History of Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi
The site is traditionally linked to the legendary battle between Krishna and Banasura. Local accounts credit the Mandi Sen rulers, successors of town founder Ban Sen, with constructing or patronizing the shrine, though whether it began as an independently ancient site or reflects the Sen dynasty's ancestral devotion to the Bhimakali of Sarahan and the Bushahr rulers remains unclear from available sources.
Festivals Celebrated at Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi
- Navaratri (Chaitra & Ashvin)
- Maha Shivratri
- Janmashtami
- Makar Sankranti
- Diwali
How to Reach Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi
Nearest airport: Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali) Airport, ~60 km. Nearest railhead: Joginder Nagar narrow-gauge station, ~57 km. On NH-20 in the Bhiuli locality, about 1 km from the Mandi bus stand.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi
Where is Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi located?
- Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi is located at National Highway 20, Bhiuli, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175001, in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi?
- The presiding deity at Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi is Devi (also known as Shakti, Durga), worshipped in the Shakta tradition.
What are the timings of Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi?
- Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi is generally open 05:00–21:30 daily. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi built?
- Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi was established Disputed — sources vary between the 13th, 14th and 17th centuries. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi?
- Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi is built in the Hindu hill-temple pagoda style — wood-and-stone construction with a carved shikhara spire style, characteristic of Devi shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi include Navaratri (Chaitra & Ashvin), Maha Shivratri, Janmashtami, Makar Sankranti, Diwali. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi?
- Nearest airport: Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali) Airport, ~60 km. Nearest railhead: Joginder Nagar narrow-gauge station, ~57 km. On NH-20 in the Bhiuli locality, about 1 km from the Mandi bus stand.
Why is Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi significant?
- Shri Bhimakali Temple sits on the Beas riverbank in Mandi, HP, linked by legend to Krishna's slaying of the demon Banasura, said buried near its gate.
Is there an entry fee at Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi?
- Entry to the main shrine of Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi 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 Bhimakali Temple, Mandi?
- Shri Bhimakali Temple, Mandi 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.