The Panchvaktra Temple has gained massive popularity and emerged as one of the most popular tourist destinations. Panchvaktra Temple is located at the convergence point of popular Rivers Beas and Suketi. The stunning beauty of the Panchvaktra Temple attracts scores of tourists every year. The location around the temple is so serene that it leaves the tourists mesmerized and fall in love with the sight.
The temple is situated at a vast platform. When it comes to the history of the renowned Panchvaktra Temple, it is said that the temple was built as an offering to Lord Shiva. The architecture of the temple is yet another stunning feature that will leave anyone spellbound.
The popular temple has been designed and constructed in the distinctive Shikhara architecture style. The temple has derived its name from the five faced statue picture of revered god Shiva. Out of these five faces, visitors will be able view only three from faces if they view it from the front side.
The significance and popularity of the Panchvaktra Temple can be accessed from the fact that it falls under the ambit of Archaeological Survey of India or ASI. It has already been declared as a national site. When you step inside the revered temple, you will witness a massive statue of Lord Shiva.
The five faces of the Lord Shiva’s statue highlights the varying character of Lord Shiva-Aghora, Tat Purusha, Vaamdeva, Rudra, Ishana. These faces conveyed that Angora has damaging nature, Ishana happens to omnipotent and omnipresent, Tat Purush is his character, Vaamdeva happens to be the female facet while Rudra emerged his creative and damaging feature. And, Panchvaktra can significantly explain the union of all these five faces.
It is worth noting that the Panhvaktra temple is so old that no one has clear idea of its exact date of creation. According to the facts obtained so far, the temple was reestablished under the rule of Sidh Sen’s kingship (between 1684 and 1727) as it had received some damages to it structure as a result of heavy flooding. Interestingly, the main porch or Mandap of the temple has obtained support from 4 effectively carved pillars.
The place has emerged to be highly peaceful. You will feel a unique and peaceful calmness prevailing in the environment of the Panhvaktra temple. There is so much silence and peace here that if you decide to perform a meditation, you will get great mental health. You also get a golden opportunity of purifying your sole. Over the years, Panhvaktra temple has emerged to be a highly popular and respected heritage.
Traveller Tips:
If you are visiting the temple in winters, make sure you carry some woolen clothes with you. The lowest temperatures dip quite low and may leave you shivering. Meanwhile, if you plan to visit the place in summer, you can carry your casual summer clothing.
Things to Do:
You may indulge in some photography as the architecture of the temple is quite breathtaking. You can also visit the shops to buy some localized stuff.
Best Time to Visit:
If you visit the place between October and March, you will be able to enjoy the climate to a greater extent. The temperature during the February month revolves around 22 degrees Celsius (Highest) to 10 degree Celsius (minimum). Meanwhile, the temperature during summers remains 35 degrees Celsius( highest) and 21 degrees (Lowest) Celsius.
How to Reach?
Reaching the Panchvaktra Temple is no big task as the place is highly accessible. You can reach the popular tourist destination either by renting a cab or a bus. You may also opt for some mode of local transportation. However, travelling by car has emerged an ideal alternative. The place offers good connectivity to the surrounding states and cities. It has become a must-visit venue for people fond of travelling and exploring India.
Nearby Attractions:
There have been several popular attractions nearby the temple. You must pay a visit to these places to make your time memorable and full of fun.
• Barot valley: The valley is absolutely stunning and a treat for the sore eyes. It offers a vast range of outdoor activities for tourists. The reservoir of Joginder Nagar Hydel Power Project has been located at Barot valley. You can also visit the Wildlife Sanctuary that houses Himalayan black bear, ghoral etc. You will find a trek route via thick forests that links Barot to Kullu.
• Jhatingri: it is located on Ghogar Dhar at a massive height of 6,600 feet. It happens to be 12 km from Joginder Nagar. You will get to see stunning deodar trees and blue pine forests among others.
• Kasorg valley: The place has gained popularity for several renowned temples that may include Mamleshwar Mahadev, Kamksha Devi and Mahunag temples.
Therefore, we can conclude here that Panchvaktra Temple, Mandi has emerged a famous tourist destination. It attracts scores of viewers every year. You must plan your visit soon to explore the beauty of the place.