Located at Sarahan in Himachal Pradesh, known as the gateway of Kinnaur, situated about 180 km from Shimla, Shri Bhima Kali Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas dedicated to Goddess Durga. The Mother Goddess Kali is the presiding deity of the rulers of former Bushahr state.  At the top storey of the temple building, the Goddess is consecrated in the form of a virgin. Below, the Goddess is enshrined as Goddess Parvati, the divine consort of Lord Shiva. The temple complex has another three temples dedicated to Lord Raghunath, Lord Narsingh and Patal Bhairva - the guardian deity.

location Himachal Pradesh, Sarahan, Shimla

Legend

According to the legends, after the Daksha-Yajna incident, the ear of the Devi Sati fell at this place and it became one of the peetha sthan. In Puranas, Sarahan is known as Sonitpur. It is believed that the country of Kinnaur was the Kailash mentioned in the Puranas. It is at this area  where Lord Shiva disguised himself as Kirata for sometimes. Banasura, the ardent devotee of Lord Shiva was the ruler of this princely state.

Architecture

Emerged out as the marvellous structure, Bhimakali Temple is adorned of wooden carvings bringing near to the people for the natural essence. Each and every carving on the walls of the temple depicts about the story of Goddess Bhima Kali. The architecture of the temple is its sole attraction. There is a rich amalgamation of both Hindu and Buddhist architecture in its building structure.

Culture

Shimla is the most visited hill stations in north India. The life pattern of people here in Shimla is very simple. The locals here are known as the Pahari Peoples. However in modern times, the people living in Shimla are known as Shimlaites. The Shimlaites make their living through agriculture and livestock, these two are the main occupations of the people out here. The women here wear Salwar, Kameez, Kurta or the long knee length gown known as Juan Chadiyan which reflects their culture.

Darsan Info

The temple is open on all days from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Darsan Dresscode

Clean and conservative clothing is preferred.

Famous Festival

Maha shivaratri is the special day in this temple. The Kali Puja is celebrated here with great zeal and enthusiasm. The Principal religious festival called the Udyapan Jag connected with this temple is celebrated at intervals of a hundred years or more. The last Jag was in the year 1904 which took place 280 years after the preceding one. There are fairs of Navratras (Nine auspicious nights) which are held twice in a year in Chaitra and Ashvin Hindu Months i.e.in April and October. The Navratras are most significant from religious point of view. During these Navratras "Durga Saptashati" text is recited by the priest.

Temple Rituals

In a day four aartis are done at regular intervals at the the Bhimakali shrine.

Special Rituals

Devotees can even opt for special pooja which can be ordered from a distance by requesting the S.D.M. or Temple officer Rampur Distt., Shimla, H.P. or to the Manager Temple trust Sarahan, Bushahr Distt, Shimla which sits in the Temple complex. Pooja will be performed as per order and prasad of Mata will be sent to the concerned devotee.

Additional Info

 

Hotel Trehan Sarahan

Hotel Satluj View Restaurant