Temple About
Bhootnath Temple is an ancient Shiva temple located in the heart of Mandi town in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region, known for its deep historical and spiritual significance.
Temple Description
The temple was built in the 1520s during the reign of Raja Ajber Sen. The architecture reflects typical Himachali style with intricate stone carvings and wooden elements. The sanctum houses a Shiva lingam that is believed to be self-manifested. The temple comes alive especially during the Maha Shivratri fair, which is a major celebration here.
Temple Speciality
It is believed that Lord Shiva himself attends the famous Mandi Shivratri Fair, making it spiritually significant.
The temple is also known as the starting point of the Shivratri procession.
The main deity, Lord Shiva, is worshipped here in his Bhootnath (Lord of Ghosts) form.
Temple Address
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
Temple Timings
Open Daily: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Best Time for Darshan: Early morning and evening aarti
Temple Sevas
Rudrabhishek
Shiva Aarti
Special Pooja during Shivratri
Offering of Belpatra, milk, and water to the Shivlinga
Traveling Facilities
Regular buses and taxis available from nearby towns
Local auto-rickshaws available within Mandi
Well-connected by road via NH-154
Food Facilities
Local dhabas and restaurants near the temple
Vegetarian food is widely available
Langar and prasad served during festivals
Stay Facilities
Budget and mid-range hotels in Mandi town
Government guest houses
Dharamshalas for pilgrims
Nearby Railway Station
Joginder Nagar Railway Station – ~55 km
Una Railway Station – ~120 km
Nearby Airport
Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) – ~60 km
Gaggal Airport (Kangra) – ~130 km
Nearby Bus Station
Mandi ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal) – ~1 km from temple
Bus Routes to Temple
Direct buses available from Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala
Regular HRTC and private services
Train Routes to Temple
Connect via narrow gauge from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar
Broad gauge access via Una (suitable for Delhi/Chandigarh travelers)
Airways to Temple
Fly to Bhuntar and travel by road (approx. 2 hrs)
From Gaggal, reach Mandi by taxi or bus (approx. 4 hrs)
Nearby Cities
Kullu (70 km)
Manali (105 km)
Sundernagar (25 km)
Shimla (145 km)
Nearby Visiting Temples & Places
Triloknath Temple
Shyama Kali Temple
Panchvaktra Temple
Rewalsar Lake – Sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs
Prashar Lake – Scenic high-altitude lake and temple site
Preferable Visiting Season
February–March (for Shivratri)
Shopping Famous For
Woolen shawls, Himachali caps
Handcrafted wooden items
Local pickles, dry fruits
Pashmina and handwoven carpets
Bhootnath Temple is more than just a place of worship—it's a spiritual journey into the heart of Himachali culture and devotion. Whether you are drawn by faith, history, or the majestic beauty of the Himalayan landscape, this temple offers a deeply enriching experience. With well-connected travel options, ample facilities for stay and food, and proximity to several other sacred and scenic spots, a visit to Bhootnath Temple is sure to leave you with memories of peace, devotion, and timeless tradition.
