Paudiwala Shiv Temple

According to local tradition, the demon-king Ravana performed severe penance at this site to become immortal. Lord Shiva appeared and challenged him to construct five miraculous stairways to heaven in a single day — Haridwar was the first, Paudiwala was the second, with the others at Chudeshwar Mahadev and Kinnar Kailash. The shivling on the sheela (stone slab) is said to grow in size by a grain of rice each year, per the devotees. The temple is maintained by the local community. A large mela is held on Maha Shivratri, drawing pilgrims from across Sirmaur and adjoining districts.

• Maha Shivratri (large mela)
• Sawan Mondays
• Navratri
• Ravanasur fair (autumn)

Nearest airport: Chandigarh (~110 km). Nearest railhead: Kalka (~70 km). By road: ~15-20 minutes drive from Nahan city on the Nahan-Kala-Amb road; the last 1.5 km is a dirt track climb through pine forest. The road is motorable but narrow — drive with caution. Free parking at the base. Approach from Paonta Sahib (~50 km) or Ambala (~100 km).

Where is Paudiwala Shiv Temple located?

Paudiwala Shiv Temple is located at Khajurna, Nahan, Sirmaur District, Himachal Pradesh 173030, in Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Who is the presiding deity at Paudiwala Shiv Temple?

The presiding deity at Paudiwala Shiv Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.

What are the timings of Paudiwala Shiv Temple?

Paudiwala Shiv Temple is generally open Open daily, 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM (aarti at sunrise and sunset). Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.

When was Paudiwala Shiv Temple built?

Paudiwala Shiv Temple was established Ancient (legendary Ravana-era foundation per local tradition). Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.

What is the architectural style of Paudiwala Shiv Temple?

Paudiwala Shiv Temple is built in the Vernacular Pahari hilltop shrine with stone steps and a naturally formed shivling on a sheela (stone slab) style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.

Which festivals are celebrated at Paudiwala Shiv Temple?

The principal festivals celebrated at Paudiwala Shiv Temple include Maha Shivratri (large mela), Sawan Mondays, Navratri, Ravanasur fair (autumn). These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.

How can I reach Paudiwala Shiv Temple?

Nearest airport: Chandigarh (~110 km). Nearest railhead: Kalka (~70 km). By road: ~15-20 minutes drive from Nahan city on the Nahan-Kala-Amb road; the last 1.5 km is a dirt track climb through pine forest. The road is motorable but narrow — drive with caution. Free parking at the base. Approach from Paonta Sahib (~50 km) or Ambala (~100 km).

Why is Paudiwala Shiv Temple significant?

Paudiwala Shiv Temple near Khajurna, Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh, is known as "Swarg Ki Dusri Seedhi," with a shivling said to grow yearly.

Is there an entry fee at Paudiwala Shiv Temple?

Entry to the main shrine of Paudiwala Shiv 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 Paudiwala Shiv Temple?

Paudiwala Shiv 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.