This was the last lap of my journey to Himachal in April 2022. So much information to process and to write a blog as well as produce the video, etc isn't an easy task but doable on this interesting take on the history of Kullu, Kali Temple and Vaishnodevi Temple.
The history of Kullu is about 2000 years and if you ask me it is even much older.
The word ‘Kullu’ could have been derived from the word ‘Kuluta’ which was found inscribed on a coin from the first century A.D. The first king (Raja) mentioned in historical record is Virayasa whose name figures on the coin as ‘Virayasa, King of Kuluta’. A Chinese pilgrim, Hiuen Tsang, is believed to have described Kullu as ‘Kiu-lu-to’.
Kullu Kali temple at Sarabhai National highway is an ancient temple. It is located after the Kullu Bhuntar airport. There are Kali, Shiva, Shirdi Baba, Hanuman and others.
On the way to Kullu Kali, I was able to sight the Trishul of Bijli (Lightning) Mahadev (Lord Shiva) temple from the highway. According to locals, lightning strikes the temple and recreates or withstand after it. Require trekking of 1 hour to reach this place. I could not cover this place but stopped to take the blessings!
Vaishnodevi temple which I visited also known as the Mahadevi Thirth is named after Goddess Parvati. Photography is prohibited here. Hence, I posted the art picture for reference which was on the wall of the temple. The temple is adorn with gold or gold like ceiling as you enter. There is a nice shop inside to purchase souvenirs.
Mahadevi Tirth is a tall layered pagoda or shikhara structure built in 1966, in the beautiful Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh. The foundation of Mahadevi Tirth was laid in 1962 when “Swami Sewak Das ji Maharaj” searched for eternal peace and found Mahadevi’s abode (initially a cave) in the mountains. Swami Sewak Das ji, the founder of Mahadevi Tirth preached and practiced “Nishkaam Karmseva” meaning “Selfless Service”.
Mahadevi Tirth calls forth different faiths to come under a single roof and meet in the spirit of friendship and show their love for the humanity and for all the living organisms.
Inside the temple, there are various Gods and Goddesses including Shiva Parvati, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha, various Vishnu avatar. It was good to see Swamy Vivekananda and Swami Sewak Das ji statue here.
Also, there is a women empowerment Kullu Shawl factory owned managed by women only on the way back on the highway. You may get your Kullu shawls here at reasonable price.
Lastly, food at Manali Mall Road. Food ranging from Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Tibet, etc. and shops selling various products. A local Durga temple at the Mall Road is not to be missed.
Thank you for following my story on Himachal Pradesh. Please leave your comment, I would love to hear from you and your experiences.
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