Gauri Shankar Temple

Introduction to Gauri Shankar Temple

Manali is a town well-known for its cool climate and snow-filled mountains. The rich culture and heritage of the city make it one of India's best tourist destinations. There are many heritage sites in Manali, which is a must-visit. One such place is the Gauri Shankar Temple in the Naggar village of Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. It is one of India's oldest temples dedicated to the deity Gauri Shankar. As the name says, the deity of this temple is Shiva. The temple lies very close to the famous Gayatri temple of Jagatsukh.

Legend of Gauri Shankar Temple

There is no specific legend about this temple. The temple was built and dedicated to Shiva in the 11th century AD. The kingdom of Gurjara-Pratihara built the Gauri Shankar temple. The temple was renovated later. The temple has been preserved as it represents the heritage of Manali. It is now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.

The Architecture of Gauri Shankar Temple

Gauri Shankar Temple is the last monument of the Gurjara-Pratihara traditions. The temple displays the Shikhara style of architecture. This style of architecture makes the temple look like the peaks of a mountain. The temple has a dome shape at the top. The temple's Shikhara has nine stories decorated with intricate carvings. The Gauri Shankar Temple is made of stone and has a square base. It is also known for stone carvings, and there is no roof on the top.

The temple contains the idols of Shiva and Parvati placed on a pedestal. The deities hold their children in their hands, seated on Nandi (Shiva's mount). The idols in the temple are decorated with gold jewelry and placed under a silver canopy. Along with the idols of Gauri and Shankar, there are also idols of other deities. The sanctum sanctorum contains the idols of Shiva and his consort Parvati. There are carvings of other deities and some dancing statues. There is a statue of Nandi found outside the temple. All stone-carved idols add an exotic look to the temple.

Festivals of Gauri Shankar Temple

Shivratri is the famous festival in the Gauri Shankar Temple. All the local and outstation pilgrims assemble here to commemorate and worship the deity Shiva on this occasion.

Benefits of Worshipping at Gauri Shankar temple

Pilgrims worship in Gauri Shankar Temple for peace and prosperity in their life. People believe that worshipping Shiva keeps sorrows away and removes darkness from their minds and life.