TEMPLES IN HP

Major Temples in Himachal Pradesh: The 7 Architectural Styles

1. Flat Roof Style : burn

Key Characteristics: Temples with plain flat roofs. These are often famous for the wall paintings (frescoes) inside rather than the exterior structure.

• 1.1 brajraj : nurpur
• 1.2 Ramgopal Temple — Damtal, Indora (Distt. Kangra)
• Narbadeshwar Temple — Sujanpur Tihra (Distt. Hamirpur)

2. Pent Roof Style : l mcb

Key Characteristics: The most ancient style, featuring slanting roofs (gable roofs) usually made of slate or wood.

• 2.1 Lakshana Devi Temple — Bharmour (Distt. Chamba)
• 2.3 Mrikula (Markula) Devi Temple — Udaipur (Distt. Lahaul & Spiti)
• 2.2 CHATTRARI Shakti Devi Temple — Chattrari (Distt. Chamba)
• 2.4 Bijli Mahadev Temple — Kullu (Distt. Kullu)

3. Pagoda Style : mam pic shtt up

Key Characteristics: Characterized by tiers of roofs diminishing in size as they go up, often looking like a mushroom.

• 3.5 Manu Temple — Shanshar (Distt. Kullu)
• 3.4 Adi Brahma Temple — Khokhan (Distt. Kullu)
• 3.7 Maheshwar Temple — Sungra (Distt. Kinnaur)
• 3.2 Parashar Rishi Temple — Mandi (Distt. Mandi)
• 3.8 Chagaon Temple — Chagaon (Distt. Kinnaur)
• 3.6 Sukhdev Rishi Temple — Thata, Seraj (Distt. Mandi)
• 3.1 Hidimba Devi Temple — Manali (Distt. Kullu)
• 3.3 Tripura Sundari Temple — Naggar (Distt. Kullu)

4. Nagara (Shikhara) Style : lb tb hsp

Key Characteristics: Classic North Indian style characterized by a beehive-shaped tower (Shikhara) adorned with intricate stone carvings.

• 4.2 Laxmi Narayan Temple — Chamba Town (Distt. Chamba)
• 4.1 Baijnath Temple — Baijnath (Distt. Kangra)
• 4.4 Thakurdwara: Masroor Rock Cut Temple — Masroor (Distt. Kangra)
• 4.3 Basheshwar Mahadev Temple — Bajaura (Distt. Kullu)
• 4.4 hari rai temple
• 4.5 Sandhya devi : kullu
• 4.5 Panchvaktra Temple — Mandi Town (Distt. Mandi)

5. Domed Style: jcb katana

Key Characteristics: Influenced by Mughal and Sikh architecture, featuring a rounded dome rather than a tall shikhara or slate roof.

• 5.1 Jwalamukhi Temple — Jwalamukhi (Distt. Kangra)
• 5.3 Chintpurni Devi Temple — Amb/Chintpurni (Distt. Una)
• 5.2 Brajeshwari Devi Temple — Kangra Town (Distt. Kangra)
• 5.6 Kameshwar Temple — Mandi (Distt. Mandi)
• 5.5 Tarna Devi Temple — Mandi (Distt. Mandi)
• 5.4 Naina Devi Temple — Bilaspur (Distt. Bilaspur)

6. Pyramidal Style : hm ss

Key Characteristics: Features a square base with a roof that rises in a pyramid shape.

• 6.1 Hateshwari Devi Temple — Hatkoti (Distt. Shimla)
• 6.2 Mahasu Devta Temple — Deora, Jubbal (Distt. Shimla)
• Shiva hatkoti
• shiva deori jubbal

7. Sutlej Valley Style : bdb

Key Characteristics: A unique fusion often combining Pent roof and Pagoda elements. Typically found in the upper Shimla and Kinnaur regions along the Sutlej river.

• 7.1 Bhimakali Temple — Sarahan (Distt. Shimla)
• 7.2 Dhaneshwari Devi Temple — Nethar, Outer Seraj (Distt. Kullu)
• 7.3 Behna Mahadev Temple — Behna, Outer Seraj (Distt. Kullu)

Major Temples in Hamirpur District

Overview: Hamirpur district is renowned for the highly revered Baba Balak Nath shrine and the exquisite historical temples built by the Katoch dynasty in Sujanpur Tihra.

1. Famous Devi (Goddess) Temples

• 1.1 Awah Devi Temple (Jalpa Devi)
  • Location: Awah Devi (Tehsil Bhoranj)
  • Significance: Situated on the highest peak of Hamirpur district. It is believed to be the distinct place where the idol of the goddess appeared naturally.
• 1.2 Tauni Devi Temple
  • Location: Tauni Devi (Approx. 12 km from Hamirpur)
• 1.3 Jhaniyari Devi Temple
  • Location: Jhaniyari village (Near Hamirpur town)
• 1.4 Santoshi Mata Temple
  • Location: Ladraur

2. Baba Balak Nath & Hanuman Temples

• 2.1 Baba Balak Nath Temple
  • Location: Deotsidh (Chakmoh)
  • Significance: One of the most significant religious centers in North India. The main shrine is located inside a natural cave.
• 2.2 Mattan Sidh
  • Location: Near Hamirpur town
  • Deity: Lord Hanuman

3. Historical Temples of Sujanpur Tihra

Key Note: These temples were primarily constructed under the royal patronage of Raja Sansar Chand of the Katoch dynasty.

• 3.1 Narbadeshwar Temple
  • Location: Sujanpur Tihra (Near the Beas River)
  • Built By: Rani Prasanna Devi of Suket (Wife of Raja Sansar Chand)
  • Architectural Style: Flat Roof Style
  • Significance: Famous across Himachal Pradesh for its exquisite interior wall paintings (frescoes) rather than its exterior architecture.
• 3.2 Murli Manohar Temple
  • Location: Sujanpur Tihra(it is situated at the edge of the famous Sujanpur Chaugan)
  • Built By: Raja Sansar Chand in 1790
  • Architectural Style: A fusion of Shikhara and Flat Roof styles
  • Deity: Dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. Uniquely, the flute is depicted in the opposite direction.
• 3.3 Gauri Shankar Temple
  • Location: Sujanpur Tihra(inside the precincts of the Sujanpur Tihra Fort)
  • Built By: Raja Sansar Chand in 1793

4. Shiva & Other Temples

• 4.1 Gasota Mahadev Temple
  • Location: Gasota (Near Hamirpur)
  • Significance: An ancient Shiva temple beautifully situated alongside a natural water stream.
• 4.2 Shani Dev Temple
  • Location: Lambloo (Sarli)
  • Significance: Considered one of the largest temples dedicated to Shani Dev in the state of Himachal Pradesh.

5. Gurudwaras

• 5.1 Gurudwara Dasvin Padshahi
  • Location: Nadaun
  • History: Built to commemorate the visit of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. He stayed here during the Battle of Nadaun, which was fought against the Mughals in an alliance with the regional Hill Rajas.

Major Temples of Chamba District

Overview: Chamba is architecturally unique because it has successfully preserved ancient wooden Pent-roof temples (dating back to the 7th century) alongside classic stone Nagara (Shikhara) temples.

1. Chamba Town

Key Note: Most temples in the main town follow the classic North Indian Nagara (Shikhara) style and were heavily patronized by Raja Sahil Varman.

• 1.1 Lakshmi Narayan Temple Complex
  • Location: Near Main Chaugan.
  • Architectural Style: Nagara (Shikhara) Style.
  • Builders: Raja Sahil Varman (10th Century AD). The Gauri Shankar Temple within this complex was built by Yugankar Varman (son of Sahil Varman).
  • Details: A group of 6 main temples (3 dedicated to Vishnu, 3 to Shiva). The main temple is dedicated to the Vaikuntha form of Lord Vishnu.
• 1.2 Hari Rai Temple
  • Location: Near Gandhi Gate / Chaugan.
  • Architectural Style: Nagara (Shikhara) Style.
  • Builder: Salabahana (11th Century AD) .
  • Details: Famous for the exquisite Chatur-murti (four-armed) bronze idol of Lord Vishnu.
• 1.3 Champavati Temple
  • Location: Behind the Treasury building.
  • Architectural Style: Nagara (Shikhara) Style.
  • Builder: Raja Sahil Varman.
  • Details: Built in memory of his daughter Champavati, who is worshipped as a goddess here. It serves as the family temple of the Chamba Rajas.
• 1.4 Chamunda Devi Temple
  • Location: Shah Madar Hill.
  • Architectural Style: Pent Roof Style (entirely wooden structure with a slate roof).
  • Builder: Raja Umed Singh (1762 AD).
  • Details: Notable for its intricately wood-carved ceiling depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
• 1.5 Sui Mata Temple
  • Location: Shah Madar Hill.
  • Details: Built as a memorial for Queen Naina Devi (wife of Sahil Varman) who sacrificed herself for the town’s water supply.
• 1.6 Bansi Gopal Temple
  • Location: Chamba Town.
  • Architectural Style: Late Shikhara style showing Mughal influence on the entrance architecture.

2. Bharmour (The Chaurasi Temple Complex)

Key Note: A complex of 84 shrines built on level ground. It features a mix of soaring Shikhara temples and ancient wooden shrines, primarily credited to Raja Meru Varman (7th Century).

• 2.1 Manimahesh Temple
  • Architectural Style: Nagara (Shikhara) Style.
  • Builder: Raja Meru Varman (7th Century).
  • Details: The tallest temple in the Chaurasi complex, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• 2.2 Lakshana Devi Temple
  • Architectural Style: Pent Roof Style.
  • Builder: Raja Meru Varman (680 AD) | Architect: Gugga Shilpi.
  • Significance: The oldest surviving wooden temple in Himachal Pradesh. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, featuring an exquisitely carved wooden entrance.
• 2.3 Narsingh Temple
  • Architectural Style: Nagara (Shikhara) Style.
  • Builder: Tribhuvan Rekha Devi (Queen of Yugkar Varman).
  • Details: Dedicated to the Narasimha (half-lion, half-man) avatar of Lord Vishnu.
• 2.4 Dharmeshwar Mahadev
  • Location: Northern corner of the Chaurasi complex.
  • Details: Houses an idol of Yamraj (God of Death). It is locally believed that after death, souls appear here for the final judgment by Dharamraj.
• 2.5 Ganesh Temple
  • Builder: Raja Meru Varman.
  • Details: A smaller shrine located near the entrance of the Lakshana Devi temple.

3. Chattrari

• 3.1 Shakti Devi Temple
  • Location: Chattrari Village.
  • Architectural Style: Pent Roof Style.
  • Builder: Raja Meru Varman (680 AD) | Architect: Gugga Shilpi.
  • Details: Famous for incredibly detailed wood carvings and a rare Ashtadhatu (8-metal) idol of the Goddess.

4. Saho (Near Chamba)

• 4.1 Chandrashekhar Temple
  • Architectural Style: Nagara (Shikhara) Style.
  • Builder: Raja Sahil Varman.
  • Details: Famous for a large Nandi bull statue that produces a distinct tinkling sound when tapped.
• 4.2 Kameshwar Temple
  • Builder: Raja Sahil Varman.
  • Details: Another ancient Shiva temple located in the Saho area.

5. Pangi Valley

• 5.1 Mindal Vasni (Chamunda) Temple
  • Location: Mindal Village.
  • Architectural Style: Pent Roof Style.
  • Details: A famous wooden temple located in the remote Pangi valley, dedicated to Goddess Chamunda (locally known as Mindal Devi).

6. Khajjiar

• 6.1 Khajji Nag Temple
  • Architectural Style: Fusion Style (Hill architecture mixed with Mughal influence). Features a slate roof topped with a golden cupola/dome.
  • Details: Dedicated to the Serpent God (Nag Devta) and features wooden images of the five Pandavas.

temples in Mandi :

1. Padhar Tehsil (Chauhar / Tikkan Valley)

• Dev Pashakot: Located in the Barot/Tikkan Valley.
• Hurang Narayan: Located in Hurang village within the thick forests of the Chauhar Valley.

2. Sadar Mandi Tehsil

• Prashar Rishi Temple: Located at Prashar Lake, situated 2,730 meters above sea level.
• Trilokinath Temple: Located in Mandi Town.
• Bhootnath Temple: Located in Mandi Town.
• Panchvaktra Temple: Located in Mandi Town.
• Shyama Kali Temple (Tarna Devi): Located on Tarna Hill in Mandi Town.
• Kameshwar Temple: Located in Mandi Town.
• Ardhnarishwar Temple: Located in Mandi Town.

3. Balh Tehsil (Rewalsar Area)

• Rewalsar Temples: Located at the sacred Rewalsar Lake (Tso Pema), an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs.
• Naina Mata Temple: Located on Sarkidhar, situated on a hilltop near Rewalsar.

4. Sundernagar Tehsil

• Suraj Kund Mandir: Located in the Baned area of Sundernagar.

5. Chachyot Tehsil

• Kamrunag Temple: Located at Kamrunag Lake at an altitude of 3,334 meters, surrounded by thick deodar forests.

6. Thunag Tehsil (Seraj Valley)

• Shikari Devi Temple: Located at Shikari Peak (often accessed via Janjehli).
• Magru Mahadev: Located in Chhatri village (Chhatri operates as a sub-tehsil under Thunag).

7. Karsog Tehsil

• Kamaksha Devi Temple: Located in Kao village.
• Mamleshwar Mahadev Temple: Located in Mamel village.
• Mahu Nag Temple: Located in Bakhari village.

solan :

• Lutru Mutru Mahadev Temple: Located in Arki.
• Shoolini Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Shoolini, the presiding deity of Solan town.
• Shiv Temple Jatoli: Known for being one of the highest Shiva temples in Asia, located near Solan town.
• Kali Tibba Temple: Located at the top of a hill in Chail.

Sirmaur Temple & Heritage List

Temples and Religious Sites in Bilaspur

• Shri Naina Devi Temple: A highly revered temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi.
• Markandeya Rishi Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to the sage Markandeya, known for its traditional kath-kuni architecture.
• Badoli Devi Temple: A serene temple dedicated to Goddess Durga (Badoli Devi), situated on a hill in Badol village.
• Gugga Peer Temple: A shrine dedicated to the folk deity Gugga Jahar Peer, worshipped for protection and healing.
• Peer Bhyanu (Lakhdata Peer Bhyanu Mandir): A recognized religious site in the Bilaspur region.

Other Historical and Cultural Sites

• Vyas Gufa: While often visited by pilgrims and considered a sacred site where Sage Vyas is said to have meditated and written the Mahabharata, it is historically and structurally a cave (gufa) rather than a conventional temple building.
• Ranganatha Temples: These are a group of ancient historical temples that were submerged by the Gobind Sagar reservoir during the construction of the Bhakra Dam. They are not currently active temples in the traditional sense, as they are located underwater and only occasionally re-emerge when water levels drop.

Una district:

• Chintpurni Temple: A major pilgrimage destination dedicated to Mata Chintpurni Devi.
• Shiv Bari: A prominent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near Gagret.
• Baba Rudru: A religious site dedicated to the local deity or saint Baba Rudru.
• Baba Garibnath: A significant shrine located in the district.

Temples within Shimla City (Urban & Suburban)

• Jakhoo Temple: Located on the highest point in Shimla city, Jakhu Hill.
• Kali Bari Temple: Situated centrally on Bantony Hill in Shimla city.
• Kamna Devi: Located on Prospect Hill in the Boileauganj area of Shimla city.
• Sankat Mochan: Situated in the Bagh area near Taradevi, on the outskirts of Shimla.
• Tara Devi Temple: Located on Tara Parvat (Tarav Hill) near Shoghi.
• Dhingu Devi Temple: Situated on Dhingu Dhar hill, located above the Sanjauli area of Shimla.

Temples in Rural/Tehsil Regions of Shimla District

• Bhima Kali Temple: Located in Sarahan, Rampur Bushahr.
• Sun Temple: Situated in Nirath, which is southeast of Rampur.
• Dattatreya Temple: Located in Dutt Nagar, near Rampur.
• Shali Temple: Situated at the summit of Shali Tibba peak, near Khatnol/Sunni.
• Hattu Temple: Located at the peak of Hattu, near Narkanda.
• Giri Ganga Temple: Situated in the forest area near Kharapathar.
• Hatkoti Temple: Located in the village of Hatkoti in the Jubbal region.
• Shikru Temple: Located in the Upper Bazaar area of Rohru.

Other/Local Shrines

• Koteshwar Temple: This name refers to popular locations outside this immediate district (often in Uttarakhand), though minor local shrines may exist in the broader region.
• Marich Deevta: This is traditionally associated with local folk deities in the Shimla and Kinnaur regions, requiring specific local verification for precise administrative mapping.

the religious sites in Kinnaur categorized by their type:

Monasteries

• Chango Monastery: Located in Chango village.
• Leo Monastery: Situated near the town of Poo.
• Nako Monastery: Located in Nako village, in the Hangrang valley.
• Drugpa Monastery: A lineage-associated monastery often found in high-altitude Buddhist regions.
• Chuling Monastery: Located in the Kinnaur region.
• Charang Monastery: Also known as Rangrik Shungma, located in Charang village near the Indo-Tibet border.

Temples & Sacred Sites

• Yula Kanda Krishna Temple: Located in the Yula Kanda area.
• Chandika Devi Temple: Situated in Kothi village, near Kalpa.
• Sungra Mahadev: Located in Sungra village, Nichar tehsil.
• Mathi Devi Temple: The presiding deity temple located in Chitkul village.
• Kachele Khang: A traditional sacred site found within the Kinnaur region.

Other Landmarks

• Kinner Kailash: A sacred mountain peak central to local pilgrimage, rising to 6,055 meters.
• Kamru: A historic village in the Sangla Valley, known for the Kamru Fort and local shrines.

Based on the document image_d7e15f.png and regional records, the Lahaul and Spiti district is home to numerous significant temples and monasteries.

Notable Sites in Lahaul

The Lahaul region is known for both ancient temples and historic Buddhist monasteries. Key sites include:

• Trilokinath Temple: A prominent temple that is historically significant to both Hindus and Buddhists. It was originally a Hindu Shiva temple before being transformed into a Buddhist shrine.
• Mrikula Devi Temple: Located in the Udaipur sub-tehsil, this is another famous temple in the region known for its historical and architectural importance.
• Guru Ghantal (Gandhola) Monastery: One of the oldest monasteries in Lahaul, it is noted for its unique wooden architecture and idols.
• Kardang Monastery: The largest monastery in the Lahaul Valley and a historic center of the Drukpa lineage.
• Shashur Monastery: A 17th-century monastery perched on a hill above Keylong, famous for its Thangka paintings and annual festivals.
• Gemur Monastery: A peaceful monastery situated on the banks of the Chandra River.
• Tayul Monastery: A 17th-century monastery known for its extensive library of sacred texts and a large statue of Guru Padmasambhava.
• Raja Ghepan Temple: A shrine dedicated to the presiding deity of the region, often revered in local villages like Sissu.

Notable Sites in Spiti

The Spiti Valley is renowned for its ancient, fortress-like monasteries. Major sites include:

• Tabo Monastery: Often called the “Ajanta of the Himalayas,” this UNESCO World Heritage site was founded in 996 AD and is one of the oldest functioning monasteries in India.
• Key (Kye) Monastery: The largest monastery in the Spiti Valley, known for its fortress-like architecture and panoramic views.
• Dhankar Monastery: Historically the capital of Spiti, it is dramatically situated on a rocky cliff overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin rivers.
• Tangyud Monastery: Located near Komic, this monastery belongs to the Sakya sect and is situated at a very high altitude.
• Kungri Monastery: The main center of the Nyingma-pa sect in Spiti, located in the Pin Valley.
• Lha-Lun Monastery: An ancient monastery celebrated for its cultural significance and beautiful clay sculptures.
• Yang-Yud Gompa: Another monastery featured in regional records of the Spiti area.

These sites are essential to the spiritual, cultural, and historical landscape of the district.

KULLU Categorization by Geographical Region (Valley / Block)

Manali & Upper Kullu Valley

• Anjani Mahadev (Solang Valley)
• Manu Temple (Old Manali)
• Hidimba Temple (Manali)
• Siyali Mahyadev (Manali)
• Sandhya Devi (Jagatsukh)
• Gauri Shankar Temple (Dashal / Naggar)
• Tripura Sundari (Naggar)

Kullu Town & Central Valley

• Raghunath Temple (Sultanpur)
• Bijli Mahadev Temple (Kashawri)
• Ganesh Temple (Kullu)
• Bhutani Temple (Kullu)
• Adi Brahma Temple (Khokhan)
• Triyug Narayan (Dyar)
• Visheshwar Temple (Bajaura)
• Baba Garibnath (Western Kullu)

Parvati Valley & Malana

• Manikaran (Parvati Valley)
• Kartikeya Cave (Kheer Ganga)
• Jamlu Rishi Temple (Malana)

Banjar & Inner Seraj

• Cheeni Kothi Temple (Chehni)
• Shringa Rishi Temple (Banjar)
• Balu Nag Temple (Bahu)
• Budhi Nagin Temple (Serolsar Lake)

Nirmand & Outer Seraj

• Shreekhand Mahadev (Shrikhand Peak)
• Dakshnashwar Temple (Nirmand)
• Devi Ambika Temple (Nirmand)
• Behni Mahadev (Behna)

Here is the transcribed, logically ordered, and properly formatted list of art styles, temples, and historical legends based on your notes.

1. Three-Fold Classification of Himachal Art

• Khasa Art: Recognized as the most ancient, indigenous style of the region. The primary construction material is wood, specifically Cedar or Deodar, which is locally known as Kelou. The existence of early Shaivite temples is evidenced by 2nd-century BC copper (Cu) and silver coins of the Audumbaras, which feature motifs like the Dhwaja (flag), Trishul (trident), and battle axe (kulhari).
• Indo-Aryan Art: A major art tradition in India that matured under the Guptas and originally flourished in the Indo-Gangetic plains. It bloomed in Himachal Pradesh between the 8th and 13th centuries. Rajputs, fleeing Muslim invasions, are credited with introducing these post-Gupta art forms to the region.
• Indo-Tibetan Art: Flourished primarily in Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti, and the Trans-Himalayas. It is closely associated with the Vajrayana school of Buddhism. A prominent depiction in this style is Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig), illustrated as a 1000-armed saint with an eye in the middle of each hand to symbolize compassion. Another key depiction is the Yidam, representing a meditating Buddha. This region also showcases influences from ‘Bon’, the indigenous shamanistic religion of the Himalayas. Tibetan temples built in this architectural style are called Lhakhang.

2. Outside Influences on Himachal Art

• Kashmiri Style: This architectural style entered the region in the late 7th century under the reign of Maru Varman of Bharmaur. It was also heavily influenced by the Kashmir King, Lalitaditya Muktapida.
• Other Rajput and Dynastic Influences: The art and architecture of Himachal Pradesh show distinct influences from the Chauhan, Parmar, Rathore, Pala, and Chandella dynasties.

3. Chamba Art, Bronze Sculptures, and Legends

• Bronze Art Patronage: Chamba stands out as the only district where ancient temples feature metal sculptures. Most temples in Bharmaur contain bronze sculptures created by the Badiar community, patronized by Meru Varman in the 6th century.
• Legend of the Vishnu Idol: According to local legend, Raja Sahil Varman sent his 9 sons to the Vindhyas to procure marble for a Vishnu idol. While 8 of the sons were killed, his son Yugankar successfully brought the marble back.
• Gauri Shankar Temple: The deity in this temple was installed by Yugankar.
• Architectural Adaptations: Temples in Chamba were built using the traditional Shikhara style but were modified with wooden chhatris (umbrella-like roofs) to protect the structures from heavy snowfall.

4. Mandi Architecture

• Panchvaktra Temple: Constructed in the 14th century AD, this temple is strategically located at the confluence of the Beas and Suketi rivers. It is dedicated to Panchanana Shiva, the five-faced form of Lord Shiva.

5. Sirmaur Temples and Surrounding Sites

• Bala Sundari Temple (Trilokpur): Built in 1573 by Dip Prakash, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is popularly revered as the “84 ghanto wali Devi”. A local legend claims that the temple’s founding was inspired by a dream experienced by a shopkeeper who sold salt. The Laya Devi Temple is located on its east side, towards Sirmaur.
• Patalian Jyotirling: A sacred site in Sirmaur worshipped by Patanjali, who is noted in the text as a disciple of Vyas from the Mahabharata.
• Shirpuri: This location is known for its prominent Shiva Temple.
• Bhangani: Home to both the Bhadrakali Temple and the Tirgarhi Gurudwara.
• Gangvaha Tirth: Situated across the Yamuna River. According to mythology, Lord Gopal Ji crossed the Yamuna here to please Rishi Gautam, the husband of Ahilya.
• Rampura Ghat: Located on the Himachal Pradesh side of the river, this spot is associated with the mythological crossing of Lord Ram in a boat.

Here is the transcribed, factually corrected, and alphabetically ordered list of temples and related historical notes based on the provided document.

1. Adi Brahma Temple

• Location: Kokhan, Kullu.

2. Baba Balak Nath Temple

• Location: Deotsidh in Chakmoh.
• Key Details: Baba Balak Nath is revered as a reincarnation of Lord Kartikeya and is associated with Guru Dattatreya. Offerings typically include ‘Rot’ (a sweet flatbread) and goats.
• Mythology: Baba Balak Nath did penance at Shahtalai under the guidance/care of Maa Ratno (associated with Changertalal/Chach).

3. Bhalei Bhadrakali Temple

• Location: Chamba district, surrounded by deodar trees near Chamera Lake.
• Key Details: The temple features a black stone idol of the Goddess. In the 18th century, Raja Pratap Singh placed the idol in a wooden box and reconstructed the temple using wood and stone. It was later rebuilt by the state government, replacing traditional materials with stone, sand, and iron.
• Legend & History: According to a dream interpreted by a Kelod priest, the idol was traveling from Bharon to Chamba but stopped at Bhalei. The temple was renovated by Sri Singh. The idol was stolen in 1973 but was later recovered at the Chohra dam site.

4. Bhootnath Temple & Ardhnarishwar

• Location: Mandi, situated on the banks of the Beas River.
• Key Details: Built by Raja Ajber Sen, it is associated with the Ardhnarishwar (half-Shiva, half-Parvati) deity.

5. Bijli Mahadev Temple

• Location: Near Kullu, along the Beas River.
• Key Details: Famous for being struck by lightning every year. It is built entirely of stone and wood, supported by wooden deodar columns. Historically, it is believed that Sidh Pal won back Kullu after receiving blessings here.

6. Chagaon Temple

• Location: Kinnaur.

7. Chintpurni (Chhinnamastika) Temple

• Location: Una. It is a revered Shaktipeeth associated with the Goddess’s forehead.
• Geography (Markandeya Purana): The temple is guarded by four deities in cardinal directions: Kaleshwar Mahadev (East), Narayan Mahadev (West), Mukund Mahadev (North), and Shiva Bari (South).
• Mythology: Legend states that after Goddess Chandi defeated the demons, her assistants Jaya and Vijaya were still bloodthirsty. To satisfy them, Chandi cut off her own head.

8. Devi Ke Mandir

• Location/History: Built in 1889 by the sister of the Raja of Sirmaur.
• Key Details: Dedicated to Lord Ram, who is the presiding deity of the Suryavansh dynasty of Sirmaur.

9. Gasota Mahadev

• Location: Hamirpur.

10. Gayatri Temple

• Location: Situated on the left bank of Renuka Lake.
• Key Details: The temple serves as the ashram of a sadhu and is dedicated to the Goddess of the Vedas. It features a 1.6-meter Panch Mukhi (five-faced) marble statue of Ma Gayatri. It was built by Sri 1008 Mahatma Pyara Nand Brahmchari.

11. Hadimba Temple

• Location: Manali. It is associated with the Doongri Mata festival held in May.
• Key Details: Dedicated to Hadimba, the wife of Bhima. The temple is a four-tiered pagoda constructed entirely out of wood. It was built by Bahadur Singh of Kullu in 1553 AD.

12. Hatkoti Temples

• Location/Details: A complex containing the Mateshwari Devi Temple and a Shiva Temple.

13. Jagannath Temple

• Location: Sirmaur.
• Key Details: Built by Raja Budh Prakash in 1681. It is famously associated with the Sawan Dwadeshi Festival.

14. Jubbal Temples

• Location: Features a Mahasu Temple and a Shiva Temple located at Deora.

15. Magru Mahadev & Rakhni Mahadev

• Location: Mandi.

16. Manan Temple

• Location: Shimla Hills.

17. Manu Temple

• Location: Shanshar, Kullu.
• Key Details: It is celebrated as the only temple dedicated to Sage Manu in India.

18. Marich Havan Kund

• Location: Dholasari in Kumarsain (Shimla).
• Key Details: The Kund has a unique Panchmukha (five-faced) shape. It was notably reopened after 900 years on February 22, 2005, marked by a symbolic sacrifice of 16 fruits.

19. Math

• Key Details: Constructed by the Gorkhas in 1814.

20. Mrikula Devi Temple

• Key Details: Associated with Surya Mati, who was a Kangra princess and the wife of Kashmir’s King Ananta.

21. Naina Devi Temple

• Location: Bilaspur.
• Key Details: The temple complex houses the samadhi of Bhagat Jatt Jeona Morh. A tragic stampede took place here on August 3, 2008.

22. Prashar Temple

• Location: Mandi.
• Key Details: Built by Ban Sen in 1346.

23. Sungra Maheshwar

• Location: Kinnaur.

24. Surya Temple

• Location: Nirath (near Rampur Bushahr).

25. Tripura Sundari

• Location: Naggar, Kullu.

26. Triyugi Narayan

• Location: Dyar, Kullu.

27. Vaishno Devi Temple

• Location: Dhaulpur, Kullu.

Additional Note: KC Sharma Committee

• Purpose: Formed to review the status of temples controlled by the government.
• Details: Prem Prasad served as the Member Secretary. The committee submitted its report on July 20, 2009, recommending that 25 temples be kept under government control and 20 be de-notified.

Here is the transcribed, logically ordered, and clearly formatted list of the temples based on your latest notes.

1. Mrikula Devi Temple

• Location: Udaipur, located 54 km from Keylong. The ancient name of Udaipur was Moorgul or Mrikul.
• History & Architecture: The temple was built by the Kashmir King, Raja Ajay Varman. It was designed by the same architect who built the Hadimba Temple in Manali (which is associated with Raja Bahadur Singh of Kullu).
• Key Details: In 1569–1570, Thakur Himpala installed a silver idol of Goddess Kali in the form of Mahishasurmardini. This exquisite idol was crafted by Panjamanaka Jinaka, an artisan from Bhadarwah.

2. Trilokinath Temple

• Location: Tunde Village in Udaipur.
• Art & History: The temple represents the Kashmir-Kannauj style of art, which flourished during the reign of Lalitaditya of Kashmir. Originally built as a Shiva temple, it was later transformed into a Buddhist shrine.
• Key Details: According to art historian Goetz, the present image of Avalokiteshwara inside the temple dates back to the 12th century. Because of its unique history, the temple is a shared pilgrimage site where both Hindus and Buddhists come to worship. A stone image of Nandi is notably positioned in the center of the temple.
• Festivals: The temple hosts the famous Pauri Festival, which is celebrated for 3 days.

Here is the transcribed, logically ordered, and alphabetically arranged list of the temples based on your latest document. I have also corrected spelling and historical clarifications where necessary.

1. Baijnath Temple

• Location: Kangra district. Historically, the area was known as Kirgram, the capital of the Kiratas.
• History & Origins: According to Sanskrit inscriptions written in the Sharda script on stone slabs, the temple was built by two brothers, Manyuka and Ahuka (sons of Siddha). It was later renovated by Raja Sansar Chand in the 18th century.
• Architecture: The temple features a pyramid roof and bears a strong architectural resemblance to the temples of Odisha.
• Documentation: The site was studied and documented by archaeologists Cunningham and Fergusson, and the inscriptions were sourced and deciphered by Sir Aurel Stein.

2. Bajaura Temple

• Location: Kullu. It is also known as the Basheshwar Mahadev Temple.
• Art & History: Dating back to the late 10th century, the temple showcases Pala art influence, combined with Later Gupta architectural styles. It is considered the finest temple in the Western Himalayas.
• Key Details: A prominent feature is the depiction of Mahishasurmardini on Shiva.

3. Bhadrakali Temple

• Location: Kotla, Kangra district.
• History & Restoration: This 400-year-old temple was destroyed during the devastating 1905 earthquake. It was later restored by INTACH under the state government, utilizing specialized workers brought in from Orissa.

4. Brajeshwari Temple

• Location: Kangra.
• Key Detail: Historically famous for having been attacked and plundered by Mahmud of Ghazni.

5. Jwalamukhi Temple

• Significance: It is a revered Maha Shaktipeeth. According to mythology, the tongue of Goddess Sati fell at this location. There is no idol in the temple; the deity is worshipped in the form of eternal flames.
• Historical Contributions:
  • The Mughal Emperor Akbar famously visited this shrine.
  • The temple’s dome was gilded by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1813.
  • The silver doors were installed by Kanwar Nau Nihal Singh in 1840.
• Festivals: Grand fairs are organized here during the Chaitra and Asuj Navratras.

6. Lakshmi Narayan Temple Complex

• Location: Chamba.
• Architecture & Layout: Built in the 10th century, this complex consists of 6 different temples. Notable individual shrines within the complex include the Radha Krishna Temple, the Shiva Temple of Chandergupta, and the Gauri Shankar Temple.
• Historical Additions:
  • Raja Balbhadra Varman: Installed a metallic image of Garuda on a pillar at the main gate.
  • Raja Chattar Singh: Added gilded pinnacles to the tops of the temples. He famously did this in defiance of Emperor Aurangzeb’s orders to demolish the temples.

7. Masrur Rock Cut Temples

• Location/Significance: Located in the Kangra district, this complex is widely celebrated as the “Ellora of Himachal Pradesh”. It was brought to wider attention by H.L. Shuttleworth in 1913.
• History: The earliest origins trace back to the 8th century AD, associated with the Kashmir King Lalitaditya.
• Architecture: It is carved in the Nagara style and comprises a total of 15 shrines. The complex includes a Thakurdwara now dedicated to Ram, Sita, and Lakshman, though it was originally dedicated to Shiva and is historically associated with the Pandavas. The dimensions are recorded as 11–18 ft wide and 160–105 ft (or 195–85 ft).
• Key Components: The architectural layout includes:
  1. Vimana.
  2. Ardha Mandapa, featuring Garuda.
  3. Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum), measuring 13×16 ft.
  4. Jagmohan (audience hall), measuring 20 ft.
  5. Shikhara, topped with an Amalaka and Kalasha, reaching 80 ft.
  6. Gopuram (also noted as a cow gate).

8. Trilokpur Temple

• Location: Kotla, Kangra district.
• Details: Dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated near the Totla River, whose source originates from the Jamula Parvat.