Baijnath Shivratri Fair

An Exquisite relic of devotion and heritage It is an ancient Nagara-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built in the 13th century by two local merchants named Ahuka and Manyuka. With its intricate stone carvings and historical significance, this temple symbolises the region's cultural heritage and religious devotion. It attracts devotees and history enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the rich worship traditions.A marvel of Nagara-style architecture and historical inions Built in 1204 A.D, it is situated at a distance of 16 km from Palampur. It is one of the few temples where Lord Shiva and Ravana are worshipped. The inions on the stone slabs are written in Sanskrit using Sharda Script and the local Pahari language in Takri Script. The deions demonstrate Lord Shiva and the current king, Jaya Chandra, names of architects and other contributors. The temple also has Lord Ganesha, Lord Harihara and Lord Kalyansundara, and paintings and carvings. The inner temple has a Lingam of Shiva and is one of the sought-after tourist attractions. The architecture of the Baijnath Shiv temple blends with the mediaeval North Indian style, which is popularly called 'Nagara'. The sacred abode of the immovable Shivling Lord Shiva is worshipped here as the 'God of Healing.'According to the ancient ures, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas established by Lord Shiva is situated here. Ravana was granted a boon of unparalleled strength and wisdom by Lord Shiva, and agreed to accompany Ravana to Lanka. It is believed that he turned himself in as a Shivling and asked him to put it down only once when he reached there—Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma, who were concerned about Ravana's power. Dressed in disguise, Lord Vishnu, as a beggar, stood before Ravana, who gave him the Shivling, and he had to attend nature's call. Vishnu placed the Shivling down, and it became immovable then, now Baijnath Temple.