Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund

According to legend recorded on Wikipedia and local oral tradition, a young woman named Rukmani of the Rundh Rajput family of Barsandh village was buried alive at the site where a well was being dug, after the ruler was told this sacrifice would bring water; the kund formed as a result. The site is grouped with other Sivalik foothill "rani-sacrifice" legends (Rupi Rani, Rani Nayana of Chamba, Bichi of Sirmaur, Kandi Rani of Kishtwar). A small temple has been constructed at the kund where grass hanging from the walls is venerated as Rukmani's hair, and devotees tie ribbons and bangles. An annual Baishakhi Mela is held at the site, which was selected under India's HGKK (Har Gaon Ki Kahani) programme in 2012-2013. As of recent reports the place remains underdeveloped with poor road access despite repeated announcements to develop it as a tourist resort. The "Shakti Peeth / Rukmini-Hriday Treta" claim sometimes attached to this site is NOT supported by the Wikipedia article — the Hriday (heart) Shakti Peeth is Hinglaj Mata in Balochistan, not this kund.

• Baishakhi Mela (Vaisakhi)

Nearest airport: Bhuntar Airport ~95-100 km (Kullu district). Nearest railheads: Kiratpur Sahib (Punjab) ~50-55 km and Anandpur Sahib; Una (HP) is also used. By road: ~28 km from Bilaspur town via Jhanduta/Ghumarwin; well connected by road but the last stretch to the kund is reported as poor.

Where is Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund located?

Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund is located at Shri Rukmini Temple, Salasi village (near Auhar), Jhanduta Tehsil, Bilaspur District, Himachal Pradesh 174034, in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, India.

What are the timings of Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund?

Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund is generally open Approximately 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM daily, with a midday "Bhog" break around 12:00 PM (per local accounts; unverified). Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.

When was Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund built?

Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund was established Legendary / pre-modern; no firm date. A small temple has been constructed at the kund (undated).. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.

What is the architectural style of Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund?

Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund is built in the Vernacular Sivalik hill shrine — small stone/concrete mandir with an adjoining sacred tank (kund) style.

Which festivals are celebrated at Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund?

The principal festivals celebrated at Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund include Baishakhi Mela (Vaisakhi). These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.

How can I reach Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund?

Nearest airport: Bhuntar Airport ~95-100 km (Kullu district). Nearest railheads: Kiratpur Sahib (Punjab) ~50-55 km and Anandpur Sahib; Una (HP) is also used. By road: ~28 km from Bilaspur town via Jhanduta/Ghumarwin; well connected by road but the last stretch to the kund is reported as poor.

Why is Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund significant?

Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund in Bilaspur's Sivalik Hills is a sacred reservoir honoring a legendary queen's sacrifice, hosting the annual Baishakhi Mela.

Is there an entry fee at Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund?

Entry to the main shrine of Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund 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 Rukmini Temple and Kund?

Shri Rukmini Temple and Kund 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.