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Hadimba Temple Manali – History, Timings & Travel Guide 2025

Hadimba Temple Manali – History, Timings, Distance & Travel Guide

Introduction

 

Manali is laden with nature and culture, but in all its beauty, Hadimba Temple Manali is one place that tops the charts and is a highly visited and revered location. It is set amidst dense cedar woods and snow-covered mountains, and this temple is not only a religious destination but also a preferred haunt for tourists, photographers, and history enthusiasts.

 

Most visitors initially visit Manali for snowfall or adventure activities, but they ultimately get bewitched by the spiritual beauty of Hadimba Devi Temple. If you've ever gone through postcards or travel brochures of Manali and seen Manali pictures, then you might have already seen the famous Hadimba Temple pictures.

 

At Tejofy Travels, we have taken hundreds of travelers to this holy shrine, and each one of them returns with a tale. Some are impressed with the temple's wooden structure, some enjoy the serene atmosphere, and others are interested in its unusual history from the Mahabharata. In this blog, we will discuss everything you must know—its history, timings, distances, hotels around it, and the experience of traveling to this temple.

 
Hadimba Devi Temple

History of Hadimba Devi Temple

 

The Hadimba Temple history is well established in Indian mythology. This wooden temple was constructed in 1553 by Raja Bahadur Singh in honor of Hadimba Devi or Hidimbi, the wife of Bhima, a Pandava brother from the Mahabharata.

According to legend, Hidimbi was a demoness living in the forests of Manali. When Bhima came to this region during exile, he defeated Hidimbi’s brother Hidimb and later married Hidimbi. Their son Ghatotkacha became a mighty warrior who played a major role in the Kurukshetra war.

Within the temple, the goddess has no idol, but a holy footprint said to be that of Hadimba Devi. This distinguishes the temple from other temples.

For myth-lovers Indian tourists, experiencing Hidimba Devi history is like taking a trip back to the ages. And should you be looking for Hadimba Temple history in Hindi, guides there usually tell them in an easy, conversational manner so it is easy to relate to the destination.

 

Architecture and Surroundings

 

Unlike North Indian stone temples in general, the Hadimba Devi Temple is famous for its wooden style of architecture. The temple has a four-storied pagoda-shaped roof, intricately carved wooden doors, and walls adorned with mythological figures carved on them.

Standing amidst deodar trees, each high and dense, the temple is nothing short of stunning in all seasons. With green fields around during summer, the temple is infused with a fresh, gorgeous look. During snowfall, when Manali is blanketed with snow, the wooden roof of the temple gets completely white. Hadimba Temple pictures during snowfall are a favorite of numerous tourists.

Only a short walk away from Mall Road, the temple is serene even though it is a favorite tourist spot. The blend of spirituality, history, and nature makes it one of the most unforgettable experiences in Manali.

 

Hadimba Temple Manali Timings

 

One of the most frequently asked questions by tourists is Hadimba Temple Manali timings. The temple is open every day:

Morning: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

No entry fee will be charged, and photography is permitted.

On festive days such as Navratri, the temple is adorned and special rituals are conducted. Both Hadimba Temple hours and Hidimba Devi temple hours do not change throughout the year, although there may be a few instances when pujas prolong the timing.

 

Distance & Accessibility

 

Tourists always wonder how far the temple is from the town. Manali to Hadimba Temple distance is merely 2 km, and it's an easy drive or even a walk for those who are residing close to the centre.

If you are on Mall Road, the Manali Mall Road to Hidimba Devi Temple distance is approximately 1.5 km. Walking through the pine trees to get to the temple is an experience by itself, particularly in the morning when the air is crisp and the crowd is less.

 

Hotels Near Hadimba Temple

 

If you prefer remaining near this famous shrine, there are more than a few hotels around Hadimba Temple available in various budgets. Panoramic views of snow-capped peaks are available from luxury resorts, boutique hotels offer warm stays with traditional wooden ambiance, and budget travelers have homestays available with warm Himachali hospitality.

For couples on their honeymoon, staying around Hadimba Temple means not only comfort but also experiencing romantic walks in the surrounding forest. Families adore this location for its serene atmosphere and close proximity to other spots such as Mall Road and Manali Nature Park.

 

Best Time to Visit Hadimba Temple

 

Although the temple remains open the whole year around, the experience is different with the seasons. In summers, the weather is nice with warmth, which is suitable for sightseeing. If you come in May, you can experience the popular Hadimba Devi fair, where the natives celebrate with dance, music, and traditional rituals.

But most travelers believe that the best time to see Hadimba Temple Manali is during the Manali snow period. The temple under a thick layer of snow appears as though taken straight out of a winter postcard. The Manali snowfall period (December–January) of Kullu Manali makes this place really magical for photography and cultural insights.

 

Travel Tips for Visiting Hadimba Temple

 

Take warm clothing while visiting during Manali snow months because the place becomes extremely cold.

Early morning visits are optimum if you wish to shun crowds and get serene Hadimba Temple photos.

Be considerate of the temple atmosphere. Although photography is permitted, don't interrupt pujas.

Combine your tour with other attractions in the vicinity such as Manu Temple, Ghatotkacha Temple, and the Manali Nature Park.

 

Why You Shouldn't Miss Hadimba Temple

 

Each visitor to Manali has his or her own reason for loving Hadimba Temple. Some people love the history of Hidimba Devi, while others love the peaceful spiritual atmosphere. Most couples add it to their list as one of the most romantic locations in Manali. Families adore its accessibility, and adventure enthusiasts like the forest trek to the shrine.

Whether you are an adventure-seeker, a nature lover, or a foodie, a trip to Hadimba Temple Manali will enrich your vacation. It's not merely sightseeing but also living Manali's essence.

 

Conclusion

 

Hadimba Temple Manali is not merely a tourist destination—it's the combination of religiosity, mythology, culture, and nature. From its intriguing Mahabharata link to its wooden structure and serene ambiance, the temple provides a holistic experience.

Whether you are accommodated in hotels around Hadimba Temple, take a walk from Mall Road, or visit during snowfall season in Kullu Manali, this temple will definitely be remembered. At Tejofy Travels, we ensure our packages for holidays cover Hadimba Temple so that travelers not only get to experience the adventure and snow of Manali but also bond with its roots.

So the next time you are planning a trip to Himachal, keep in mind—no Manali vacation is complete without entering the world of enchantment of Hadimba Devi Temple.

 

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FAQs

The temple is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.
It is about 2 km from the town centre.
The Manali Mall Road to Hidimba Devi Temple distance is around 1.5 km.
It is linked to the Mahabharata, where Hidimbi, wife of Bhima, lived. Built in 1553, it remains a cultural symbol of Manali.
Yes, local guides and temple signboards explain the story of Hidimba Devi in Hindi.
Yes, from luxury resorts to budget homestays, plenty of options are available nearby.
Summer for sightseeing and May for the fair, but December–January is the best time if you want to see snow.
Yes, you can capture photos outside and around the temple.
Its wooden pagoda-style architecture, forest setting, and Mahabharata connection make it different from other temples.
Yes, the temple remains open throughout the year, even during heavy snowfall.