Panchvaktra Temple
Also known as Panchvaktra Mahadev Temple, Panch Vaktra Temple, Panchmukhi Mahadev Mandir
Panchvaktra Temple in Mandi, HP, enshrines a rare five-faced stone image of Shiva, one of only a handful of such Panchvaktra icons in India.
Photos of Panchvaktra Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- Early 16th century CE; rebuilt under Raja Siddh Sen (1684-1727 CE)
- Architecture
- Nagara (raised stone platform on four carved pillars)
- Address
- Kartarpur, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175001
- Timings
- 05:30–20:30 daily
History of Panchvaktra Temple
Traditionally attributed to Raja Ajbar Sen in the early 16th century, the temple stands at the sacred confluence of the Beas and Suketi rivers, a site long held auspicious in Hindu tradition. Flooding damaged the original structure, and it was substantially rebuilt during the reign of Raja Siddh Sen. Built of finely carved stone, it has withstood centuries of river floods and remains an Archaeological Survey of India-protected monument.
Festivals Celebrated at Panchvaktra Temple
- Mahashivratri
How to Reach Panchvaktra Temple
Nearest airport: Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali) Airport, ~55-60 km. Nearest railhead: Joginder Nagar narrow-gauge station, ~55 km. Mandi town is on NH-3/NH-154; the temple is centrally located at the Beas-Suketi confluence.
Frequently Asked Questions about Panchvaktra Temple
Where is Panchvaktra Temple located?
- Panchvaktra Temple is located at Kartarpur, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175001, in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Panchvaktra Temple?
- The presiding deity at Panchvaktra Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Panchvaktra Temple?
- Panchvaktra Temple is generally open 05:30–20:30 daily. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Panchvaktra Temple built?
- Panchvaktra Temple was established Early 16th century CE; rebuilt under Raja Siddh Sen (1684-1727 CE). Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Panchvaktra Temple?
- Panchvaktra Temple is built in the Nagara (raised stone platform on four carved pillars) style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Panchvaktra Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Panchvaktra Temple include Mahashivratri. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Panchvaktra Temple?
- Nearest airport: Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali) Airport, ~55-60 km. Nearest railhead: Joginder Nagar narrow-gauge station, ~55 km. Mandi town is on NH-3/NH-154; the temple is centrally located at the Beas-Suketi confluence.
Why is Panchvaktra Temple significant?
- Panchvaktra Temple in Mandi, HP, enshrines a rare five-faced stone image of Shiva, one of only a handful of such Panchvaktra icons in India.
Is there an entry fee at Panchvaktra Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Panchvaktra 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 Panchvaktra Temple?
- Panchvaktra 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.