Baijnath Dham: Mystery and secrets revealed!

Last Updated on January 14, 2022 by asoulwindow

Table of Contents

Information about Baijnath Dham

Baijnath Dham in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh is a major Shiva temple and a sacred Jyotirlinga that holds many mysteries and secrets.

As I stepped out of my car for a darshan at the famous Baijnath temple near Palampur, the breathtaking backdrop of snow clad Dhauladhar Himalayan range had me in splits. It was a very unusual setting for a medieval temple. At least in my experience! The ordinary streets of Baijnath town outside belied the importance of the temple.

Situated 16 kms away from the pristine Palampur, the 13 century Baijnath temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is blessed with the snow-capped Dhauladhaar range as its backdrop. Thanks to its remoteness, much is still well preserved.

It is an active temple and attracts throngs of devotees, especially during Mahashivratri festival. Here is all you wanted to know about Baijnath Dham. This is the most exhaustive blog on Baijnath Temple.

Baijnath temple location

Where is Baijnath temple located? Baijnath temple is located on the banks of Binwa river near Palampur. The natural scenery around the ancient temple is thus breathtaking. The Pir Panjal range and Dhauladar Himalayan mountains add to the aura of this beautiful location.

It is believed that the Binwa river which is in west currently was earlier in east direction. In fact, a Shamshan Bhoomi or Crematorium once existed right in front of Baijnath Mandir.

Why is Baijnath Temple Famous?

India has lakhs of temples devoted to Shiva Bhagwan. What is special about Baijnath Temple? Many consider Baijnath Dham of Himachal Pradesh as one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of India. That makes it very special.

This is why, devout Hindu pilgrims travel from near and far to pay their respects here.

When was Baijnath Dham built?

How old is Baijnath temple?Baijnath temple was built in the year 1204 C.E. We have this information thanks to the 2 stone engravings inside Baijnath temple. However, as per some historians, a Hindu Temple devoted to Bholenath existed on the same site since 9^th century C.E.

The temple which exuded sanctity incited curiosity in me. I wanted to know more! Hindus also believe that the temple has its root in Ramayana, the Hindu epic. Yes, this place has a connection with Ravana, the demon King or Asura from Sri Lanka.

Who built Baijnath temple?

Known as ‘Baijnath Prasastis’, the ancient stone inscriptions in the porch of Baijnath temple, clearly state that the Baijnath temple was commissioned by Ahuka and Manyuka, 2 wealthy merchants of those times who were also brothers. They built the Hindu shrine to express their love and devotion towards Shiv Bhagwan. Manyuka was the son of Siddha and Chinna as per the inscription. Ahuka was the younger brother of Manyuka. Gulha was the name of his wife.

Baijnath Dham was further renovated by Raja Sansar Chand (1765-1823), The Katoch dynasty King from Kangra, added more features to the Hindu temple. Alexander Cunningham (1814 to 1893 C.E.), a British Archeologist is credited with discovering an inscription from the year 1786 C.E. which states that the Baijnath Temple Complex was renovated by King Sansar Chand.

Though, I am sure that the temple authorities already knew it, Alexander just marked his stamp on it! Alexander is known for being the founder of Archaeological Survey of India aka ASI. Though it is a living temple, it is still being protected by ASI.

One more date, Samvat 1840 has been noticed on the wooden doors of the Baijnath Temple. Vikram Samvat of India and Bikram Sambat of Nepal is Hindu calendar. The Indian calendar uses lunar months and solar sidereal years, thereby Samvat 1840 C.E. translates to 1783 C.E. which is pretty close to the estimate of Alexander.

Ravan Connection of Baijnath Temple

Ravan from the Treta Yug, who had prayed devotedly to Shiv Bhagwan near the holy Kailash Parbat now in Tibet, was successful in pleasing Shiv Bhagwan. He even sacrificed his 10 heads in the havan kund or agni kund (holy fire).

Bhagwan Shiv was impressed with his devotion and restored his heads. Ravan was also bestowed with the power of immortality and invincibility. Bhagwan Shiv also gave Ravan a boon and allowed him to carry himself in a form of Shivling, as Ravan had requested him to accompany him to Sri Lanka. His only condition was that through his journey to Sri Lanka, not once should the Shivling or Atmalinga be placed on ground. Ravan started his southward journey.

On his way, he asked a local boy Baiju to hold Shivling when he felt the need to answer nature’s call. He instructed Baiju not to keep the Shivling on the ground. When he returned, Ravan was aghast to see that the shepherd boy had kept the Shivling on ground because it was too heavy.

When Ravana tried to lift the Shivling himself, he failed miserably. The Shivling was attached to the ground. Therefore, Baijnath Temple, devoted to Lord Shiva was built on the same spot. The Baijnath Temple was thus named after the shepherd boy Baiju.

In fact, there is a huge foot prints of Ravan can be seen at a temple on the Baijnath Paprola road. This temple can be accessed through a walk. It is known as Tara Siddh Peeth.

I saw another version of Atmalinga during my visit to Murudeshwara in Karnataka which has the tallest gopuram of the world and huge Shiva statue by the sea. Do read my detailed blog on Atmalinga as well where I have explained the complete Atmalinga story. You can connect the dots later.

Mystery of jewelry shop

In fact, there are no gold or silver shops in the outside Baijnath market. It is said that this story of Baijnath Temple is also linked with Ravan. 2-3 merchants attempted to open jewelry shop in 1970s, but after few days, the shops burnt down. No one ever tried to open jewelry shops ever since. However, the jewelry shops run successfully in the nearby Paprola.

No-body knows why goldsmiths do not set up shops in Baijnath area. While some stick to the theory of unnatural deaths, punishment and destructive wrath, others differ. Some people claim, this is associated with Ravan’s ‘Sone ki Lanka’ (Lanka of gold). To rescue Sita Mata, Hanuman ji had burnt down Ravan’s kingdom Lanka. Therefore, to mourn the episode, the locals do not open the Gold shops.

These lesser-known facts on Baijnath Temple mystery are not found in old school travel guide books. This detailed travel guide explains all the mysteries and secrets of Baijnath Temple.

Other Ravan-sympatico places in India where Dushehra is not celebrated are:

Mandore in Rajasthan: This is where Ravan married his wife Mandodari. In fact, the priests or pujari at Ravan Ki Chanwari Mandir performs Shraadh rituals of Ravan here every year.

Paraswadi, Gadchiroli in Maharashtra: The Gond people who live here claim that they are Ravanvanshis. Being descendants of Ravan, they refused to be classified as Hindu people.

Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh: It is believed by locals that Mandsaur was the paternal home of Mandodari. Hence Ravan is seen as a son-in-law here. That said, Bisrakh in my home state Uttar Pradesh also claims the same.

Ravangram in Madhya Pradesh: The villagers here pray to a 10-foot-tall rare reclining statue of Ravan. The statue is housed inside an ancient temple. The temple was built by Kanyakubja Brahmins. Ravan is often referred to as Kanyakubja.

Pandava Connection of Baijnath Temple

Even Pandavas from Mahabharat, another Hindu epic, are also associated with Baijnath temple. It is believed that the Pandavs established a Shiv Temple on the same spot. In ancient times, existence of a town and a Shivalaya has been mentioned in Shri Neel Tantra.

Noted Indian writer Shri Chunni Lal Sharma has confirmed in his findings that a town and a huge Shiv temple built by Pandavas existed here. In fact, there is also a way to Mahabharat era town called as Hastinapur from here. Even the army used to live nearby. The earlier town might have been destroyed due to some natural calamities such as floods. Even today, you can see huhge boulders in the east direction.

Festival of Baijnath Temple

Why Dussehra is not celebrated in Baijnath

Here is the big mystery around Baijnath Temple! Ravan is seen as a symbol of arrogance and evil in Sanatan Dharm. It is believed that Ravan again did tapasya or penance after the Shivling got attached to the ground. Since Ravan was one of the favorite Bhakt (devotee) of Shiv ji, Hindu festival Dussehra, which is celebrated for victory of Shri Ram over Ravan, is not celebrated here. Even Ram Leela is never played out in this mysterious place.

Around 40 years ago, some people tried to celebrate Dussehra here, but their families had to suffer later. Also, those who burnt effigies of Ravan on Dushehra, passed away unnaturally. Since then, local people are scared of Bhagwan Shiv’s wrath. These stories prove relation of Ravan with Baijnath Dham. It is therefore inauspicious to burn effigy of Ravan here. Neither are effigies of his son Meghnath and brother Kumbhkaran are burned in Baijnath.

It is very rare in India to not celebrate Dushehra. India and Sanatan Dharm, after all has always been a land of diversity where difference of opinion is not only respected but also encouraged.

Shivratri and Mahashivratri festival at Baijnath temple

Shivratri falls on the 14^th day of every Hindu lunar month, therefore it comes 12 times in a year whereas, Mahashivratri is a special night of marriage between Shivji and Parvati mata and happens once a year.

Both Shivratri as well as Mahashivratri are celebrated with much fanfare in Baijnath Temple. I was lucky to visit the temple during Shivratri in the month of March. Falling during Chaturdashi, Shivratri is one of the biggest Hindu festivals.

Doli Yatra at Baijnath Temple

Since I visited Baijnath Dham on Mahashivratri, I saw the doli yatra of a village during my visit to Baijnath Temple. They have similar ones for Char Dham of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri and Gangotri as well.

As per travel writer, Puneetinder Kaur Sidhu, “They’re local deities called devtas. Village folk communicate with them through an oracle or gur. Fairs are held in their honor on festivals and important occasions. Himachal Pradesh has countless such devtas, Kullu valley has over 500 devtas alone.

All of whom congregate most famously at the Kullu Dussehra. The local devtas are not to be confused with the pantheon of other Hindu gods. It’s a fascinating space, look it up. I acquired a deeper insight when I edited a book on devtas for the Kullu administration.”

As per Mahesh Barik from Odisha, “This is their local village deities. They visit to nearby villages to meet other deities on the occasion of some festivals. It’s part of their local culture. Similar type of culture is followed even in Odisha. Festivals such as Dola Yatra, Chandan Yatra, Jhamu Yatra, Dola Melana of Odisha are quite similar.”

As per Nitesh Mahajan, a resident of Palampur, “They carry local deities (devi – devtas), previously they were very less seen as they travel throughout Himachal Pradesh. We used to see 1 or 2 such yatras in a year but nowadays some people have made this their business and many of them are even fake these days.”

As per Divya Prasad, who moved to Himachal Pradesh, “It is a milan of devi-devtas. The paalkhi is led by the spirit of gods. It could be a special occasion like a festival or a day when devtas are supposed to gather…they even travel to other valleys as per ancient prathas.”

Uttarayan Mela

Devtas’s Jaat (Yaatra) associated with Uttarayan Mela also happens in the month of March. Devtas (deities) from different Hindu temples of different villages are brought out in dolis or palki or palanquins along with an enthusiastic procession to congregate at a central place. There could be a darbaar of the Devtas involved, a snaan, a jaagar, and a combined procession. Usually there is a mela in one or two places as well.

Sansar Chand’s victory over Mughals

Raja Sansar Chand was one of the most powerful rulers of his time, who is also credited for patronizing the famous Kangra school of paintings and art. Also known as Pahadi Badshah or King of the hills, he became a local hero after he waged a battle with Mughals and reclaimed the Kangra Fort after 154 years of struggle by his predecessors.

Baijnath Prasastis: Stone Inscription at Baijnath Temple

These valuable stone inscriptions also share details on who the architects of Baijnath Temple were, apart from the donor merchants. The inscription also mentions Nagarkot and not Kangra. Nagarkot is the old name for Kangra, not to be confused with the Nagarkot from Nepal. Name of King jay Chandra, who ruled this region then, has also been engraved in the stone.

What I also found unusual was various inscriptions on the exterior walls of the holy Baijnath Temple. I was also pleasantly surprised to see the pious shlokas (holy verses) engraved beautifully on the outer walls of the main shrine.

Scripts on the stone inscription

The language used to write the Baijnath Prasastis, stone Inscription at Baijnath Temple is Pahari, which speaks volumes on the confluence of cultures in this region. Takri and Sharda scripts and not the now popular Devanagari was used to write the Pahari language on stone.

Tākri, also known as Tankri was a medieval script, the origin of which can be traced back to North. A derivative of Sharda script, Tākri was popular not only in Himachal Pradesh, but also Uttarakhand, Jammu and Chamba.

Śāradā script or Sharda script, on the other hand, is a native Kashmiri language. It was wide spread once but it is now limited to use by only Kashmiri Pandits. Śāradā script was also popular in what is now Afghanistan.

Named after Maa Śāradā or Saraswati maa, the main deity of Sharda Peeth Mandir, now in Pakistan occupied Kashmir, Śāradā script was popular in northern areas of the subcontinent. In fact, you will be surprised to know that the Gurmukhi script used by Sikhs in Punjab, was derived from the Śāradā script.

Before the locals started writing the famous Dogri language in Devanagari, it was written in Takri script, till as late as the 1940s. We can clearly see how cultures as different from chalk and cheese overlapped and enriched each other.

Earthquakes in Baijnath temple

Did you know that much like the ancient Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand, Baijnath temple also survived multiple natural calamities. Despite the many earthquakes that had hot this region in the past, Baijnath temple remained unscathed. However, not all ancient temples were lucky! The Kangra regions was home to several ancient Hindu temples till earthquakes razed them down. These Hindu temples were mostly built by wealthy merchants and local Kings and chieftains.

The Kangra Earthquake of 1905 was damaging. It did cause minor harm to Baijnath Temple, however, the temple survived. It was repaired after Jean Philippe Vogel took charge of it. He was a Dutch Sanskritist and epigraphist, working with Archaeological Survey of India back then.

History of Baijnath temple

In those times, Kangra was one of the most prosperous regions of India. Situated at a strategic location, Kangra benefited from being a part of ancient trade routes that extended as far as Tibet, Kashmir and Punjab.

It is still unclear why Baijnath Dham was built. Little is known about the history of Baijnath temple. But that has not stopped Hindu devotees from paying their respects here in lakhs.

Baijnath Temple Architecture

Baijnath Temple is a shining example of typical Nagara style of architectural. I couldn’t help but admire the temple as I craned my neck to absorb the details of the towering Shikhara or the temple tower. The 80 feet tall Shikhara is beautifully decorated with iconographic details.

It is a matter of contention amongst some historians whether these are mere floral motifs or an unknown script, waiting to be discovered. Isn’t it Medieval Himachali architecture at its best?

The Baijnath Mandir was built with a mixture of Urad ki daal (lentil) and cement. This is why the temple is so strong and hasn’t changed a bit in spite of the earthquakes and passage of time.

Baijnath Temple measurements

Baijnath temple is 80 feet tall and 31 feet long.

Soul Window Observations

I have visited and documented on various Hindu temples across the world. Other glorious examples of Indian temples constructed in the Nagara style are as below:

Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha

Sun temple of Konark in Odisha

Sun temple of Modhera in Gujarat

Temple Complex at Pattadakal in Karnataka.

Kandariya Mahadev Temple in Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh.

Laxman Temple of Khajuraho

I have visited the temples in Odisha and can vouch for the similarity of the architectural style.

Idol of Nandi ji: The mystery

As I entered the main courtyard of the Baijnath Temple, the first thing which caught my attention was the massive Nandi statue. It was one of the largest statues of Nandi I had seen, though not as large as the Nandi statue near Lepakshi temple in Andhra Pradesh and Nandi Hills near Bangalore, both in South India.

Decorated heavily due to Shivratri festivities, the Nandi loyally faced the Shivling. In fact, statues of two Nandi Bulls are present in the courtyard of the Baijnath Temple. I had never before seen this! A woman dressed in purple amused me. She was saying something in the ears of Nandi bull, sotto voce.

I saw something like this in Ganapatipule in coastal Maharashtra. The Hindu devotes were similarly whispering in the ear of a huge metallic rat statue outside the temple. Rat is the vahana of Ganesh ji.

Turns out, Hindus believe that by whispering their wishes in the ear of Nandi bull, their desires and wishes will be fulfilled. Unless you also reiterate your desires to Nandi, your prayers to Shiv Bhagwan are considered incomplete.

Shivling at Baijnath Temple

Hindu pilgrims worship a sacred Shivling which is located inside the inner sanctum of Baijnath Mandir. Much like 2 Nandi bulls, I also noticed another Shivling at an unwalled enclosure with pillars and roof aka small pillared shrine located in the main courtyard.

Mystery and secrets of Shivling of Baijnath Temple

Here is another mystery of Baijnath Mandir. It is said that the Shivling of Baijnath runs very deep. Once the King of Mandi tried to take the Shivling along with him. Even after digging incessantly, the end of the Shivling was nowhere to be seen. Instead, a bizarre army of honeybees attacked and injured the laborers who were digging the Shivling.

The king repented. He rectified his mistake by adorning the Shivling with a butter paste. Ever since, every year during Makar Sankranti, the Shivling is covered in quintals of butter.

Carvings of deities on walls

I was particularly amazed at the art at the main façade of the Baijnath Temple. Though not as elaborate as Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, which also I visited,it still stood out. The Baijnath Temple was full of deftly carved images of deities from the Hindu pantheon.

Most striking was a panel which depicted the holy wedding of Shiv ji with Maa Parvati also called as Kalyanasundara. It reminds me of my epic trip to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Impressive stone carvings of Shri Ganesh and Bajrang Bali or Hanuman ji also adorned the walls. Many other Hindu Gods and Goddesses such as Lord Harihara, who is half Vishnu ji and half Shiv ji vied for my attention on the highly ornate small niches.

In fact, many times, people have noticed a brown rat near the carving of Shri Ganesh. Rat is his vahana. No one knows where the rat comes from and disappears to. A small Cobra or naag is also often observed around the Cobra and Shiv Parvati carving on the wall.

This famous pilgrim center is indeed unique in many ways! Also noticeable is the carving of an episode which shows Lord Shiva defeating the devil aka asura Andhaka. No one has been able to replicate thecarvings of Baijnath Mandir.

Soul Window facts

Did you know that in old times, when the priests used to chant ‘Om Namah Shivay’, the doors of Baijnath Mandir used to open by itself. This was confirmed by priest Dharmendra Sharma as the story belongs to his great grandfather.

Other temples in Baijnath Mandir area

Baijnath Temple is located in the center, surrounded by other temples in the vicinity. There are a total of 4 temples in Baijnath Mandir area

Mahakal Mandir
Tara Puri Mandir
Siddhnath Mandir
Pallikeshwar Mandir
Shiv Mandir Baijnath
Mukutnath Mandir, Sansaal

Make sure you visit all the 4 important temples.

Shree Kheer Ganga Ghat

Just behind the Baijnath temple lies Shree Kheer Ganga Ghat. A government signboard advised people to not go in the ghat and river area as the water level can rise any time during heavy rains.

Also, since Hydel Projects run in the upper parts of this region, so the water can be released any time. It is thus wise to stay safe and stay away from the water bodies here.

It is beautiful and it can be tempting for you to go to Shree Kheer Ganga Ghat but I would advise to admire its beauty from a distance. Some people also take water from Shree Kheer Ganga Ghat and pour it on the Shivling as an offering to God.

Nomenclature of Baijnath Temple

Baijnath temple is known by many names, as is also the case with many important Shiva temples across the world. I have used the mentioned names of Baijnath Dham. They all mean the same. Baijnath temple is also known as below:

Baba Baijnath
Baijnath Dham
Baijnath Mandir
Baijnath Temple
Baidyanath Dham
Baijnath Shivling
Kedarnath Mandir
Vaidyanath Temple
Baidyanath Temple
Baba Baijnath Dham
Baba Baijnath Mandir
Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga
Baijnath Dham Mandir
Baijnath Dham Temple
Baba Baidyanath Dham
Baba Baijnath ka Mandir
Baijnath Mahadev Mandir
Baijnath Mahadev Temple
Baba Baijnath Dham Mandir
Baba Baijnath Dham ka Mandir
Vaidyanatha Jyotirlinga Temple

Soul Window facts

Did you know that Baijnath Temple was also known as Kedarnath Mandir, not to be confused with Kedarnath shrine from Uttarakhand!

Baijnath or Vaidyanath?

Some people called it Vaidyanath Mandir, so I wanted to find out more. Turns out, it is so because of the Vaidyanath form of Shankar ji which people worship in Baijnath temple. The word Baijnath itself is a derivative of Vaidyanath. Vaid stands for a doctor in Sanskrit.

The Vaidyanath version of Bhagwan Shiv, therefore stands for his avatar as Lord of Doctors. It is needless to say, that people come here from far distance hoping for a permanent cure of their diseases and ailments. Shiv ji is worshipped as God of healing here.

Vegan and Vegetarian Food around Baijnath Temple

Since it is a religious place, it is easy to find great Vegan and Vegetarian Food around Baijnath Temple. I had delicious samosa from one of the street side carts. Full vegetarian meals and thalis are also easily available at the market outside the temple premises.

Souvenirs Shopping Guide to Baijnath Temple

There are many shops outside the Baijnath Temple which sell pooja samagri, fresh flowers, toys and even grocery right outside the temple precincts. A bustling market is located outside the temple.

How to buy prasad at Baijnath Temple?

The holy temple offering – Prasad is available right outside the Baijnath Mandir at reasonable rates. You can buy prasad, flowers etc from these authorized shops. Prasad shops are located near the park and parking area. Shoe rack is also located nearby.

ATM in Baijnath Temple

There are some ATMs located outside Baijnath Temple. However, Palampur being a bigger town has more ATMs. It is a good idea to carry some cash before you visit Baijnath Dham.

Backpacking Budget Travel Tips for Baijnath Temple

Baijnath Temple is an easy place to visit on a low budget. Low-cost accommodation and public transports are available in Palampur which is just half an hour away.

Luxury travel Tips for Baijnath Temple

You can travel in luxury in Palampur and make a half day trip to Baijnath Temple. The immediate area around Baijnath Temple has no luxury facilities.

Solo Trip Tips for Baijnath Temple

It is easy for solo travellers to visit Baijnath Temple, whether male or female.

Is it safe to visit Baijnath Dham?

Yes, Baijnath Temple and the surrounding areas are very safe to visit. Since it is located near a bustling market, so there is always some-one to help you if you get in trouble (which will never happen!)

Photography Tips for Baijnath Temple

Any day is good day to take some pictures at Baijnath Temple. However, I suggest to visit Baijnath Temple during the festival of Mahashivratri. This is when the Baijnath Dham is decorated beautifully. You can also click pictures of various festivities such as doli yatra of various nearby villages.

Languages spoken in Baijnath Temple

Himachali, Kashmiri, Dogri, Punjabi, Hindi and English are the main languages spoken and understood in and around Baijnath Temple.

Toilet facility near Baijnath Temple

Clean toilets are available near Baijnath Temple. You can also request and use the toilets of restaurant. Buying something is a good gesture in lieu of using the toilets.

Entry Fee of Baijnath Temple

There is no entry fee to Baijnath Temple. Much like all religious places of India, Baijnath Temple is a free place to visit.

Timings of Baijnath temple

Baijnath temple Opening and Closing Time

Winter: 5 a.m. in morning to 9 p.m. in evening

Summer: 6 a.m. in morning to 8 pm in evening

Aarti timings at Baijnath temple

Winter

Morning: 5 a.m. to 6 a.m.

Noon: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Evening: 8:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Summer

Morning: 6 a.m. to 7 a.m.

Noon: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Evening: 7:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Best time to visit Baijnath Temple

This is a commonly asked question about Baijnath temple. Baijnath Dham is a year-round destination. Since it is a religious place of great significance, Baijnath Temple is visited throughout the year. However, devotees throng Baijnath Dham in large numbers during festivals such as Mahashivratri. Weather in Baijnath Temple is pleasant in these months.

Winter: The winter months in Baijnath Temple are October, November, December, January and February. This is when it is very cold in Baijnath Dham and Palampur as these are located on a mountainous terrain. Temperatures in Baijnath Temple are very low in these months.

Summer: The months of March, April, May and June are summer months in Baijnath Dham. This is the best time to visit Baijnath Temple.

Best day to visit Baijnath Temple?

Monday is a good time to visit Baijnath Temple. Monday is considered to be an auspicious time to offer your payers to Bhagwan Shiva. Baijnath Dham is a must-visit place in Himachal Pradesh, especially on Mondays.

What to wear in Baijnath Temple?

This is another frequently asked question about Baijnath Dham. In winters do wear good woollen clothes and gloves as it can get very cold here, especially in December and January. I have visited Baijnath Temple and Palampur twice, once in March and then in April. Both the months were pleasant.

In fact, I was able to feel comfortable in just a T shirt and Jeans in afternoon. However, the morning and evenings were quite cold even in March and April. This is why always carry woollen clothes, thermal wears, shawls etc throughout the year when you visit Baijnath Temple and Palampur.

Excursions from Baijnath Temple

If you want, you can club your Baijnath Temple trip with a holiday in Palampur, Bir Billing, Gunehar Tibetan colony and McLeod Ganj-Dharamshala, like I did. I have written information packed travel guides on these places.

There are many unusual things to do and offbeat places of interest near Baijnath temple. Some of the best things to do with family and kids are also within 20-30 kilometers of Baijnath Dham. Most of these popular points of attractions and picnic spots are located close to Baijnath Temple.

My award winner travel blog A Soul Window is incidentally also mentioned as the Best Indian Travel Blog and No.1 travel blog of India on many occasions.

How many days to spend in Baijnath Temple?

What can I do in 1 day in Baijnath Temple? Baijnath Temple can be visited as a half day tour from Palampur Himachal Pradesh.

What can I do in 2 days in Baijnath Temple? If you are involved in the doli yatras and festivities, you can stay here for 2 days or longer. But a regular tourist just visits Baijnath Mandir as a half day trip from Palampur.

Local Transport for sightseeing in Baijnath Temple

Various modes of cheap transport such as autorickshaw and buses are available near Baijnath Temple.

How to reach Baijnath Temple?

It is very easy to arrive at Baijnath Temple.

By rail

The nearest railway station from Baijnath Dham is at Pathankot

By air

The nearest airport from Baijnath Temple is at Gaggal, which is located close to McLeodganj and Dharamshala.

By road trip

We visited Baijnath temple as a road trip from the nearby Bir Billing, Palampur and Mc leodganj. You can do the same.

By Bus

Buses to Baijnath Temple are regularly available from near places of interest in Himachal Pradesh.

Distances from Baijnath Temple

Distance from Palampur to Baijnath Temple is 16 kilometers

Distance from Bir Billing to Baba Baijnath Dham is 28 kilometers

Distance from Kangra town to Baijnath Temple is 36 kilometers

Distance from Gaggal to Baijnath Temple is 60 kilometers

Distance from Mandi to Baijnath Dham is 79 kilometers

Distance from Hamirpur to Baijnath Temple is 84 kilometers

Distance from Jawalamukhi to Baijnath Temple is 90 kilometers

Distance from Pathankot to Baijnath Temple is 130 kilometers

Distance from Kullu to Baijnath Mandir is 150 kilometers

Distance from Manali to Baijnath Temple is 187 kilometers

Distance from Dalhousie to Baba Baijnath Dham is 200 kilometers

Distance from Jalandhar to Baijnath Dham is 240 kilometers

Distance from Jammu to Baijnath Temple is 248 kilometers

Distance from Chamba to Baijnath Temple is 250 kilometers

Distance from Shimla via Sujanpur to Baijnath Temple is 266 kilometers

Distance from Chandigarh to Baijnath Mandir is 270 kilometers

Distance from New Delhi to Baba Baijnath Mandir is 492 kilometers

Conclusion: Why visit Baijnath Temple?

Baijnath Mandir, undoubtedly, is one of the most important Hindu temples of Himachal Pradesh. Often referred to as Baijnath Dham, lakhs of devotees offer their prayers to the holy Baba Baijnath.

Located close to popular tourist destinations such as Bir Billing, Palampur, Andretta, McLeodganj and Dharamshala, Baijnath temple is a must visit place in Himachal Pradesh in North India. Use this comprehensive travel guide and plan your Baijnath Mandir trip now!

Baijnath indeed is a must-see place in Himachal Pradesh. Do visit this historic destination with family and kids.

The view from my Soul Window is devotional!

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