Shri Bhimakali Temple is a temple at Sarahan in Himachal Pradesh in India, dedicated to the mother goddess Bhimakali, presiding deity of the rulers of former Bushahr State. The temple is situated about 180 km from Shimla and it is as holy as 51 Shakti Peethas. The town Sarahan is known as the gate way of Kinnaur. Down below at a distance of 7 km from Sarahan is the River Satluj. Sarahan is identified with the then Sonitpur mentioned in Puranas. The unique thing about this temple is that the style of architecture used to build it is a unique amalgamation of both Hinduism and Buddhism. Bimakali Temple’s unique and ornate architecture and colorful history make it a showpiece of the region. Bhimakali Temple is a grand ‘tower temple’, its majestic twin towers being its most defining feature. The Bhimakali Temple Complex is believed to be at least 800 years old. Great numbers of devotees visit this temple every year to pay obeisance to the presiding deity. The architecture is unlike most other Hindu temples, built in a rather Tibetan style quality of wood and mortar. Carved wood panels, doors and trim throughout show the regal palace details.
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History:
The temple has an interesting story behind it. It is said that long ago, there were many demons in the Himalayas who were proving to be a major distraction when the priests and saints used to meditate. They all prayed to the Gods above to send a powerful force to wipe the demons off. Hearing their pleas, the Gods decided to concentrate their powers on one point. A huge explosion took place and one could see a small girl child on that spot. This girl child grew up to be the force who destroyed all demons and was supposed to take repeated births to destroy any evil force on the face of the earth. The temple is dedicated to this great female power who was called Bhimakali.
Legend surrounding Maa Bhimakali relates to the Daksha Yajna incident, when the left ear of Mata Sati, daughter of King Daksha, is said to have fallen on the ground here making this high energy spot charged by the divine feminine energy (Parashakti) and it is as holy as the 51 Shakti Peethas.
Sarahan’s other Himachali folklore revolves round the thousand-armed Banasura (first of the hundred sons of Mahabali and the great grandson of Prahlad) was the ruler of this princely state during the puranic age.
Banasura’s daughter, Usha, fell in love with Anirudha, who appeared in her dream. Her friend Chitralekha, who was well-versed in performing magical tricks, brought Anirudha to Usha, when he was asleep. When Krishna learnt of his grandson’s abduction, a war between Banasura and Lord Sri Krishna ensued, in which the demon king was defeated. Lord Sri Krishna got his grandson Anirudha married to Usha and gifted the kingdom of Shonithpur (Sarahan) to Banasura, which he and his descendants ruled thereafter. It is believed that Banasura brought the river Sutlej from its source in Manasarovar to flow through his kingdom.
After the death of King Banasur, King Pradyuman became the ruler of this kingdom. And, since then, it has been governed by the descendants of this dynasty. Rediscovering Temples of Bharat Gaṇarajya!
The temple also has interesting tit-bits that are truly intriguing. In the year 1905, a powerful earthquake struck this place and the temple tilted to one side. Then it straightened to its original shape after another tremor. It has been believed that there is a secret tunnel in the temple which was earlier used by the priests. The side of this old Bhimakali temple, a new one was constructed. Today it houses a two centuries old image of Goddess Bhimakali at its first floor. This image on the first floor is not open throughout the year for worship. But however, the one at the second floor is definitely worshipped daily.
Best Time to Visit:
This temple can be visited throughout the year because the climate remains pleasant and cool and never exceed more than 25 degrees in summer. In winters, it is very cool and proper protection of woolen items is needed. During March-November, light woolen items are needed during early morning and in the evening.
Timings:
The temple is open from 5.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. and from 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.
How to Reach:
The temple of Bhimakali Ma is located about 180 km away from Shimla. It can be reached by road very easily from Shimla and from other parts of Himachal Pradesh.
By Road:
The Bhimakali Temple is only 180 km away from the capital city Shimla. Jeeps as well as taxi hire are available from both Rampur and Shimla. Buses, both private and run by HPRTC are available very frequently. From Shimla, many prefer to take private vehicles and it takes only 6 hours to reach the temple. Those who are traveling by road must take National Highway 22 till Jeori. Jeori is only 11 km before Jhakri. Jhakri is the place from where the road divides into two parts and one of these roads lead to Sarahan. There are many petrol pumps located at Jeori, Narkanda, Theog and Rampur so travelers must carry extra fuel when they travel by road.
By Rail:
As there is no railway station near to this temple, travelers have to get down at Shimla Station, the nearest station form here. Shimla has connection with Kalka through narrow gauge.
By Air:
The nearest airport of Bhimkali Temple is Jubbarhati Airport of Shimla.