Raghunath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rama, located in the picturesque hill town of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region, and attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year. Visit during Kullu-Manikaran local sightseeing. In this article, we will explore the location, timing, entry fees, significance, things to do, and FAQs of this temple.
Location of Raghunath Temple
Raghunath Temple is situated on a hilltop in Sultanpur, about 1 km from the main market of Kullu. It offers a panoramic view of the Kullu valley and the Beas river. The temple is easily accessible by road from Kullu town and other nearby places.
Timing / Entry Fees Raghunath Temple
The temple is open for visitors from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM every day. There is no entry fee for visiting the temple. However, donations are accepted by the temple authorities for the maintenance and upkeep of the temple.
How to Reach Raghunath Temple from City Centre
The temple is about 1 km from the city centre of Kullu, which can be reached by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or bus. The nearest bus stand is at Dhalpur, which is about 2 km from the temple. The nearest railway station is at Joginder Nagar, which is about 125 km from the temple. The nearest airport is at Bhuntar, which is about 10 km from the temple.
Things to Do / Must See Raghunath Temple
- Offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Rama and his consort Sita, whose idols are installed in the main sanctum of the temple.
- Admire the architecture and craftsmanship of the temple, which reflects the Pahari and Pyramidal styles. The temple has a three-tiered roof with wooden carvings and a golden dome on top.
- Witness the grand celebration of Dussehra festival in October, when the idol of Lord Rama is taken out in a procession along with other deities from nearby temples. The festival culminates with the burning of effigies of Ravana and his brothers on the banks of Beas river.
- Explore the other attractions in and around Kullu, such as Hadimba Temple, Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, Great Himalayan National Park, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, etc.
Significance of Raghunath Temple
The temple has a rich history and legend associated with it. It was built by Raja Jagat Singh in 1660 as an act of repentance for his sins. He had wrongfully accused a Brahmin named Durga Dutt of possessing pearls that belonged to him. The Brahmin committed suicide by setting himself on fire along with his family. To atone for his sin, Raja Jagat Singh brought an idol of Lord Rama from Ayodhya and installed it in this temple. He also renounced his throne and became a devotee of Lord Rama.
The temple is also considered as the presiding deity of Kullu valley and its people. The idol of Lord Rama is regarded as the king of Kullu and is worshipped with utmost reverence and devotion. The temple is also the venue for many religious ceremonies and rituals performed by the locals.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Raghunath Temple?
A: The best time to visit Raghunath Temple is during the autumn season (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the Dussehra festival is celebrated with great fervour.
Q: Is photography allowed inside the temple?
A: No, photography is not allowed inside the temple premises. However, one can take pictures outside the temple or from a distance.
Q: Are there any accommodation options near the temple?
A: Yes, there are many hotels, resorts, homestays, cottages, and campsites available near the temple that cater to different budgets and preferences.
Q: Are there any eateries or shops near the temple?
A: Yes, there are many eateries and shops near the temple that offer local delicacies and souvenirs.
Conclusion
Raghunath Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the spiritual and cultural essence of Kullu valley. It is not only a place of worship but also a place of beauty and tranquility. It is a perfect getaway for anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature and divinity.
