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Hatkoti Temple

Hatkoti Temple is situated 105 kilometers east of Shimla. Hatkoti Temple is noted for its unique architecture which dates back to the Gupta period. The Gupta dynasty ruled northern India from the 6th century AD to the 9th century AD.

Hatkoti Temple is actually not a temple in isolation; it is a an aggregation of a number of small temples on the banks of the Jabbar river. The temple complex in essence consists of a main temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, flanked by a small temple for Lord Shiva. It is interesting to note that the entrance of the Shiva temple is smaller than the ShivLinga (the material representation of Lord Shiva) housed inside the temple- pointing to the fact that the temple was constructed later than the installation of the Lingam.

The architecture and design of Hatkoti Temple was originally in the classical Shikhara or tower style. The Shikhara style represents ancient structures that is conical or narrow at the top and have a wide base at the bottom. At one time in its long and interesting history the structure of Hatkoti Temple also participated in the region's economic activity; the conclusive proof is found in the design of the structure-which is constructed with the primary aim to store food grains.

Two charming mountain streams Bishkulti and Raanvati joins the Jabbar river in Hatkoti. Local lore is that these confluence of streams oozes poison. This confluence is also a great place of pilgrimage.

You can reach Hatkoti Temple either by driving through Shimla-Theog-Kotkhai-Kharapathar-Hatkoti-Rohru route or by the Dehradun to Hatkoti route.



Last Updated on : 29/05/2013