The Panchavaktra Temple is a supreme pilgrimage center dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva, this temple is situated in Mandi, Himachal. Panchvaktra Temple also known as Panchbakhtar Temple is a sacred Hindu temple located at the confluence of the Beas and Suketi rivers, it is one of the oldest temples and one of the most visited tourist places in Mandi.
History and Architecture of Panchvaktra Temple
Panchvaktra Temple is one of the protected monuments in Mandi city, which comes under the Archaeological Survey of India. Panchvaktra Temple is a revered temple dedicated to the five-headed Bhagwan Shiva. Built in the typical Shikhara architecture style, the temple stands on a massive platform and is supported by four finely carved stone pillars.
Inside the temple, there is a colossal five-faced idol of Bhagwan Shiva, which depicts various characters of Bhagwan Shiva - Aghora, Ishaan, Tat Purush, Vamadeva and Rudra. Panchavaktra is defined as the union of all these. The temple stands on a huge platform and is very well furnished.
Mandi is not only a popular tourist destination of Himachal Pradesh, it is often called the 'Varanasi of the Hills', or 'Chhoti Kashi', or 'Kashi of Himachal Pradesh' as the city has 81 temples. The date of foundation of the Panhavaktra temple is still unknown, but it was renovated during the reign of Siddha Sen (1684–1727) after it was damaged due to floods.
Panchvaktra Temple Visiting Timings:
Panchvaktra temple darshan time is from 6 am to 6 pm.
The temple attracts a large number of pilgrims every year during the Maha Shivratri festival.
How to reach Panchvaktra Temple?
Panchvaktra Temple is located in the city of Mandi which is very well connected to other cities by road. Presently the nearest railway station is Jogindernagar Railway Station which is about 50 km from the city. The nearest airport to Mandi is Kullu Airport which is 74 km away from Mandi.
Popular Name: Panchvaktra Mandir, Panchbakhtar Mandir