Temple About
Mani Mahesh Temple is a sacred shrine honoring Lord Shiva, believed to have created the adjoining glacial lake with his divine presence.
Temple Description
Located at a high altitude (~4,080 meters), the temple is perched beside a pristine lake, reflecting the snow-capped peak of Manimahesh Kailash. The entire region is deeply spiritual, with legends surrounding Lord Shiva’s presence and his consort Parvati.
Temple Specialty
It is a part of the Panch Kailash pilgrimage circuit.
Manimahesh Yatra held during Janmashtami to Radhashtami draws massive crowds.
The Kailash Peak is often veiled in clouds, symbolizing Shiva’s mystique.
Temple Details
Temple Address
Manimahesh Temple, near Manimahesh Lake, Bharmour, Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh, India – 176315
Latitude and Longitude
32.4487° N, 76.6340° E
Temple Timings
Open seasonally from June to September; most active during the Radhashtami Yatra.
Temple Sevas
Minimal sevas due to altitude. Rituals like Shiva Abhishek, aarti, and offerings are held during the yatra. Travel and Pilgrimage Facilities
Traveling Facilities
The trekking route from Hadsar (13 km) is the main approach.
Helicopter services from Bharmour to Gauri Kund (available seasonally).
Buses/taxis to Bharmour from Chamba.
Food Facilities
Langars (free kitchens) operated by devotees during yatra season.
Small tea stalls and eateries along the trekking path.
Stay Facilities
Government rest houses, tent accommodations, and dharamshalas at Bharmour and Hadsar.
Temporary shelters are available near the lake during the pilgrimage.
Access & Transport
Nearby Railway Station
Pathankot Railway Station – approx. 180 km
Nearby Airport
Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala) – approx. 215 km
Nearby Bus Station
Chamba Bus Stand, Bharmour Bus Stand
Bus Routes
From Delhi/Chandigarh to Chamba → Bharmour via Pathankot
Local buses from Chamba to Bharmour and Hadsar
Train Routes
Train to Pathankot, then bus/taxi to Chamba → Bharmour → trek from Hadsar
Air Routes
Flight to Gaggal Airport, followed by road travel to Bharmour
Seasonal helicopter service from Bharmour
Nearby Attractions
Nearby Cities
Chamba (65 km), Bharmour (14 km), Dalhousie (~100 km), Pathankot (~180 km)
Nearby Temples & Places
Chaurasi Temple Complex, Bharmani Mata Temple
Khajjiar, Dalhousie, Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary
Other Visitor Info
Best Time to Visit
July to mid-September, especially around Radhashtami
Shopping & Local Crafts
Famous for Chamba rumals, woolen shawls, Himalayan herbs, and local handicrafts
Manimahesh Temple is not just a spiritual destination but a journey into the heart of Himalayan culture, mythology, and natural splendor. The combination of challenging treks, sacred rituals, scenic beauty, and communal devotion makes this pilgrimage a profoundly transformative experience. Whether you're a devout seeker or a nature enthusiast, a visit to Manimahesh offers peace, purity, and a deep connection to the divine.
