Hatu Mata Temple

Introduction to the Hatu Mata Temple

Hatu is the second-highest peak in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. The Hatu Mata Temple is on the Hatu Peak, located in the dense forest of Narkanda. The temple is 3352 meters above sea level.

Legend of the Hatu Mata Temple

According to local belief, the Hatu Mata Temple is the temple of Mandodari, the wife of Ravana. She is revered as Panchakanya. It is also believed that Pandava's wife, Draupadi, took her last breath in this spot when she fell from a mountain in the Himalayas on her way to heaven. The temple was established after Draupadi's demise. Visitors can see an image of Draupadi in a stone inside the temple.

As per the Bhagwad Gita, the Pandavas and Draupadi spent some time in exile on the top of the Hatu peak. They sought the blessings of Kali Mata to win over their enemies in the succeeding wars.

The Architecture of the Hatu Mata Temple

This beautiful Hatu Mata Temple is in the Himachali style with bands of wood, glass, and stone. It has exquisite wooden carvings depicting stories from the Hindu scriptures. The influence of Buddhism is also seen in some dragon carvings and auspicious symbols.

The Hatu Mata Temple is a small wooden temple dedicated to Hatu Mata, an incarnation of Kali. This stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Narkanda, with its historical significance and intricate carvings. A huge crowd of devotees come here on the first Sunday of Jyeshtha (May – June) to pay homage to Hatu Mata.

People still have the practice of animal sacrifice near the temple. The Pandavas prepared and cooked their food here during their exile. The two giant hearth stones called Bheem Chullah stand as evidence of this in the vicinity.

Travelers visit the Hatu Mata Temple also for trekking. Here, Kali Mata, also known as Manokamanapoorna Mata, blesses her devotees abundantly.

Festivals in the Hatu Mata Temple

One of the main festivals celebrated at the Hatu Mata Temple is Bheeshma Ekadashi, which falls in February. The temple also organizes a fair at this time where locals and tourists participate in the festivities and enjoy the occasion.