Baijnath Temple, Bir - Billing: How To Reach, Best Time & Tips

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Baijnath Temple Overview

Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, just 51 kilometers from Kangra, the famous Shiv temple is considered a holy site both by locals and tourists. The temple is set against the backdrop of the beautiful Dhauladhar range and offers spectacular views of various little mountain streams.

The virgin environs and the bells ringing with the wind make for an otherworldly experience – you will feel as if you have been transported to another universe of spirituality and serenity.

Distance from the bus stand: 17.9 km

Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM, all days of the week

Entry fees: no entry fees

The Baijnath temple located in the hilly state of Himachal Pradesh holds high religious importance amongst followers of Hinduism. It is a highly popular temple as it houses one of the 12 holy jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in the country and devotees from across the country throng the temple to offer prayers to the lord. The temple, constructed in 1207 AD by Lord Shiva devotees and local merchants Ahuka and Manyuka, is believed to have medicinal powers as the water emerging from the temple is believed to heal people from their illnesses.

The Baijnath temple redefines the Nagara style of architecture, which is highly popular in Himachal Pradesh. While the inner and outer walls of the temple boasts of exotic carving and sculptures depicting incidents of Hindu mythology, the inner sanctum houses the holy shivling. Surrounded by lush green gardens, the temple is destined to take your breath away as it overlooks the mighty snow-clad mountains while filling the air with spirituality.

The temple also offers its visitors a tranquil experience in the Dhauladhar mountain ranges of Himalayas. Be it a nature lover, adventure enthusiast or a history buff, the Baijnath temple and places around it have a lot to keep the visitors hooked in the mighty Himalayas. Visit the quaint temple, located 16 km from bustling Palampur, for a truly spiritual and raw sojourn in the mountains.

How To Reach

The nearest airport from Baijnath temple is Gaggal Airport in Kangra, which is located at a distance of 37 km. While you may find it challenging to find a convenient flight to Gaggal Airport, you can fly down to Shimla airport, which is located in Jubbarhatti at a distance of 225 km from the temple. Once you reach Shimla airport, you can hire a private cab or taxi to travel to Baijnath temple.

Alternatively, you can hire a state transport bus from Shimla to Mandi and then hire a taxi to reach Baijnath temple since there are no direct flights or trains between Baijnath and Shimla. You can also hire a taxi or state-run bus from Shimla to Dharamshala, after which you can hire a private taxi to Baijnath temple, which is located at a distance of 54 km from Dharamshala.

Best Time To Visit

The temple is accessible throughout the year, but it is best visited during winters for a memorable experience.

Winter: Located in Baijnath town of Himachal Pradesh, the temple can be visited between the months of October and February, when the atmosphere is pleasant and cool, making it an enjoyable experience for visitors.

Summer: Although it’s summer, the place is explorable between March and June, If you are planning to throng the temple, visit it on Mondays, which is believed to be an auspicious day for Lord Shiva’s devotees. The temple observes a large footfall of devotees during on the occasion of Mahashivratri every year, when thousands of devotees from across the country visit the temple to offer prayers and celebrate the festival.

Other Essential Information

- Location: The ancient Baijnath temple is located in the Baijnath town, 16 km from Palampur in Beas Valley, in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh and is easily accessible throughout the year.

- Opening hours: The temple is open to visitors and devotees from 6 AM to 9 PM. You can explore the entire temple in 1-2 hours, and there is no entry fee to visit the temple.

- Prayer timings: Prayers are held every morning and in the evening at the Baijnath temple, which happens to be one of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in the country. While Mondays are a popular day to visit during the week, the temple observes a large influx of devotees on the occasion of Mahashivratri, which has a great religious significance.

- Distance from nearest airport: The nearest airport to Baijnath temple in Kangra district is Shimla airport located in Jubbarhatti, which is at a distance of 225 km from the temple. Private cabs and taxis are easily available from Shimla which can take you to Baijnath temple once you arrive in Shimla.

History of Baijnath Temple

The temple was constructed more than 1000 years around 1204 AD by local merchants and Lord Shiva devotees Ahuka and Manyuka. The ancient temple is believed to be one of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, making it a place of religious importance in the country. Before the construction of the temple, a shrine of Lord Shiva was already established according to the porch of the temple.

It is believed that the water flowing from the temple has great medicinal qualities, healing the devotees from health issues to a great extent. The deity of Lord Shiva at the Baijnath temple is worshipped in the form of a physician due to the healing qualities.

Architecture of Baijnath Temple

Constructed in 1204 AD by Lord Shiva devotees Ahuka and Manyuka, the temple dons the Nagara style of architecture, which is popular in north India. The doorways of the temples are adorned by minute carvings and sculptures depicting narratives of Hindu mythology.

The temple has two entrances which lead to a vast dome called the Mandap. Leading to the Mandap is a porch which houses the Nandi, which is believed to be the carrier of Lord Shiva. The large, lush green gardens surrounding the temple offer a serene experience to visitors as spiritual tunes fill the air.

Places to Stay near Baijnath Temple

1. Quartz Himalayan Brothers: Experience comfort and luxury in the lap of mountains by staying at this property, which offers free wifi and parking facilities to guests along with other luxurious amenities.

2. Tatva Bir tents and Hotels: If you are an adventure enthusiast, hire a tent and experience the joy of lighting a bonfire while camping in the middle of the mountains.

3. Mohinder and Mahindra Homestay: Become a guest of the hosts as they serve you lip-smacking food and warm hospitality. If you are a budget traveller, the homestay is the best option for you as it will not burn a hole in your pocket and, at the same time, you will feel homely by the warmth of the hosts and the special attention they give you.

Places to Eat near Baijnath Temple

1. Café Ilaka: If you want to munch on some melting snacks near Baijnath temple, visit Café Ilaka, located at a distance of 6 km from the temple. The café serves on-the-move snacks including Italian and continental cuisines.

2. Musafir, a traveller’s café: If you are a person who chooses ambience, Musafir is the place for you. Experience the rugged ambience of the café, offering you an old-world charm in the café as you munch on some delicacies in the mountains.

3. Cloud 7: The hotel offers Indian and Asian cuisines coupled with drinks, making your visit to the mountains memorable. Cloud 78 is a paradise for vegans as the restaurant offers several delicious vegan dishes to customers.

Baijnath Temple FAQs

Who built the Baijnath temple?

The Baijnath temple, popularly known as Baijnath Shiva temple, was built in 1204 AD by Ahuka and Manyuka, two Shiva devotees and natives of Himachal Pradesh. The architecture of the temple reflects the Nagara style, which is unique to the structures in Himachal Pradesh and Assam.

How do I get to Baijnath temple?

Baijnath temple is easily accessible from major cities of north India. Private taxis from parts of Himachal Pradesh can take you to the temple. The temple is located 16 km from Palampur town, which is well connected by state transport buses and taxis. if you are travelling by train, Amb Andaura is the nearest railway station (4 km) to get to Baijnath temple. Shimla airport, located at a distance of 225 km, is the nearest airport.

What is the old name of Baijnath?

Baijnath was originally known as Kiragrama. The Baijnath temple was dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vaidyanath, which means the “healer” and the “lord of the physicians” due to its extraordinary healing powers. The water emerging from the temple is believed to provide relief from several ailments, due to which the place derived its name.