Hadimba Temple

One of the primary Manali tourist attractions is the Hadimba Temple that was constructed in the 16th century. The temple is situated at a distance of 2.5 kilometers from the tourists' office in Manali. Surrounded by the wooded deodar forests, the temple attracts a large number of tourists who frequently visit the pilgrim spot in Manali.

The presiding deity of the Hadimba Temple or the Dhoongri Temple is the Goddess Hadimba who is the wife of the strongest of the Pandava brothers, Bhim. According to Hindu mythology, the giantess Hadimba meditated in this region and indulged in penitence. As a result of her penance, she was raised to the position of Durga, the Goddess of power. The rock in which the giantess meditated is placed within the confinements of the temple. The rock is known as the Dhoonger in the local language from which the temple derives its name. A 10 centimeter footprint of the goddess Durga is also preserved by the entrance of the temple.