
Shringa Rishi temple is not only relevant from a religious aspect but also provides an insight into the architectural richness of the upper reaches of the Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh. This temple is located at a distance of 60 Km from Kullu, around 65 Km from Mandi, and the Shringa rishi temple Banjar distance is only 6.5 Km. To be exact, this Shringa Rishi temple is located in Baggi village in the Banjar region of Kullu.
History of Shringa Rishi Temple
Shringa Rishi temple, or Shringi rishi as it is locally known is an important temple in this region. It is believed that Shringa rishi is the protector of people in this region and all have deep religious faith in the powers of Rishi. It is also relevant to mention here that Shringa Rishi is also among one of the eighteen chief deities of the Kullu valley.
Dedicated to Rishyashringa sage, Shringa Rishi was a renowned sage of the Ramayana era, and his importance can be understood from the fact that he was the one who performed the Putrakameshti yagna for Dashrath, the king of Ayodhya.
Shringi Rishi is also known as the ruling deity of the Banjar region in the Kullu district. The Shringi Rishi temple is a walk of 10 minutes from the road in a serene village and you will get an insight into rural Himachal life when you plan a visit to this region.
Shringa Rishi Temple Banjar Architecture
The unique wooden architecture of this temple adds an inquisitive beauty to this structure. The intricate carvings pagoda styled design make Shringa Rishi Banjar temple special indeed. Moreover, the ambiance is mind boggling, with the temple surrounded by apple orchards and houses designed in traditional style.
The temple is a three-story structure, and the deities reside in the top floor of this temple as if casting their blessings on the entire region. One thing that will leave its impression on your mind is the use of wood exclusively in designing of this temple. This not only gives it an aesthetic look but is also the traditional trademark of temples in this region.
You will find a mix of pagoda and Pahari styles of architecture in the Shringa Rishi temple. The idol in this temple is a mix of brass and stone which also gives it a unique blend.
Image Courtesy: Clear Holidays
Shringa Rishi Fair
The Shringa Rishi Banjar fair takes place during May. Infact, this would be the best time to visit this region as you will get a glimpse into the culture and ethics of this region. This fair is said to be the biggest in Banjar Valley.
This fair is held on the 2nd Jyestha, which usually falls between the second half of May and the first fifteen days of June. This is a four-day fair, and several deities, apart from Shringa Rishi participate in this fair. Before the fair and one day before the idol of Shringa Rishi is taken to his original home of Skeeran Jot in a palaki.
The people who go along the Palki go barefoot and fast during this occasion as a mark of respect to Shringa Rishi. The deity returns a day after and thus meets all the deities who come to this fair.
This is a big fair in this region, and Seraji Natti, which is the local dance form, is performed throughout this fair.
Baghi and Shinga Rishi
The village Baghi in which the Shringa Rishi temple is located also has an interesting history. It is said that Bageshwari Mata who is an incarnation of Maa Saraswati, did meditation here for thousands of years. It is on her name that the village came to be known as Baghi.
How to Reach Shringa Rishi Temple
Shringa Rishi Temple reviews will confuse you if you decide to find a way to the temple after reading these. The road begins from Jibhi, and the Jibhi to Shringa Rishi temple distance is 8.6 Km, and this will take you half and hour to cover this distance.
To reach the Shringa Rishi temple Banjar, you will have to travel for 4 Km from Jibhi towards Banjar. A bifurcation at 4 Km shall take you to this temple. There are two ways to access the temple. One of these is through the stairs, climbing which will give you a raw impression of the Himalayas. The other one is a steep, narrow dirt road that lasts around two Km.
FAQs
Where is the Shringa Rishi temple located?
Shringa Rishi temple is in the Banjar region of the Kullu district. It is 8 Km from Jibhi which is a tourist village in this region and is known for its aesthetic views.
What is the best time to visit Shringa Rishi?
The temple is usually inaccessible in winter due to heavy snow. May to June is, however, the best time to explore this region. During this time, the annual fair is held which gives one a distinct impression of the region as you will get to know a lot about the culture.
What are the other attractions near Shringa Rishi Temple?
When in this region, you can visit Jalori Pass, Chehni Kothi and the Great Himalayan National Park.
What needs to be carried when visiting this temple?
Always wear good sports shoes, carry plenty of water, walk slowly, and enjoy nature. You should be amply dressed and carry some light woolens even if you travel during May as the temperatures can fall during evening hours.
How much time is required to visit this region?
Kullu is a renowned tourist place in Himachal Pradesh, which is known for diverse reasons including adventure, religion, and culture. It depends upon the intent with which travel is being done to this region. If you aspire to explore Banjar Valley in detail it would require a week. However, a visit to the Shringa Rishi temple and the adjoining Chehni Kothi can be made in a day.
Himachal Pradesh is known as the Land of Gods or Devbhoomi, and you will find its true intent in the Kullu district. Plan your next vacation to this beautiful land and know for yourself why Himachal Pradesh is known as the “Land of Gods”.
Featured image courtesy: Manali Tour Planner