Mandi is a town in Himachal Pradesh famous for its natural beauty amongt tourists. Mandi has more than 300 temples which makes it one the religious tourism sites in India. Thousands of toursits travel to Mandi to see its beautiful temples of Lord Shiva.
This historic town is built along the banks of the Beas river. Sage Mandvya is said to have meditated here, hence the name. The town is known for is old stone temples and the fine carvings and is called the Varanasi of the Hills.
Mandi is also famous for the Shivratri, an International fair held for seven days in the month of March every year. Mandi hosts a half marathon every year.
PLACE TO VISIT
Mandi has more than 300 old and new temples. Because of the large number of temples and its location along River Beas, Mandi is also known as 'Chhoti (Small) Kashi'.
Most of the temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Goddess Kali. There are many classical temples which the Archaeological Survey of India has declared 'protected monuments' due to their historical significance, the primary ones being.
The Panchvaktra Temple - situated at the confluence of River Bea] and Suketi khad.
Ardhnareshwar Temple - which is one of very few temples of its kind in India.
Triloknath Temple - is located on the right bank of river Beas.
Mata Kuan Rani Temple - consisting of a slate roof over a deep well which is dedicated to the 'Princess of the Well' and celebrates the time when, according to legend, Mandarava, the Princess of Sahor (Mandi), became a consort of Padmasambhava
Bhutnath temple - The temple was built by Raja Ajber Sen in 1527 AD and is dedicated to Lord Shiva
Triloknath temple - The temple was built by the queen of Raja Ajber Sen in 1520 AD. It has the three-faced Lord Shiva.
Trekking - For those who seek adventure a not so popular trekking destination janjehli is 67 kms away. It offers trekking up to 3300 metres to shikari mata peak. it has several others trek routes but the place suffers due to apathy of government. Nonetheless the whole valley offers you some exhilarating views of unspoilt nature and sprawlng apple orchards. Dense forests of Himalayan cedar and blue pines really present a treat to eyes as well as health. Shikari mata sanctury has myriad varieties of flora and fauna. Alpine oaks, spruce, fur and several other medicinal plants are found in plenty there. Wild animals like black bear, musk deer and leopard live here in their natural habitat. Various types of birds including the rare monal are at galore in protected sanctury of Shikari mata.
HOW TO REACH
The nearest railway stations are Joginder nagar and Shimla. It is also connected to Chandigarh and Kalka by rail.
There are regular buses that run between Mandi and all other major towns in Himachal as well as to Chandigarh. The drive to Chandigarh is about 5-6 hours.
