TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy - Moderate
TREK DURATION
2 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
7,677 feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
26 KM
BASECAMP
Himachal Pradesh
BEST TIME
January to December
PICKUP POINT
Himachal Pradesh
The Bijli Mahadev Temple is a famous ancient temple, located in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated at an altitude of 2,460 m (8,070 ft) and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Kullu and Parvati valleys.
As the name suggests, Bijli Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is said that lightning strikes the temple once in every 11-12 years and sometimes it strikes the Shiva Lingam inside. After the strike, the temple priests bind the Shiva Lingam again using butter and sattu (flour). This whole phenomenon symbolizes rebirth.
The trek starts in Chansari or Naggar (depending on choosing route) and shall take you through dense forests and paddy fields. The mesmerising views of Parvati Valley from the top make it worth the climb. Trek passes through the beautiful pine and cedar forests. Being a short and easy trek, it's suitable for beginners, kids and families. Trekkers camp near the temple to enjoy the serene environment and the beautiful views of sunrise and sunset. Bijli Mahadev Temple trek is an all-year trek but to enjoy the journey most, better do it in spring, summer and autumn seasons.
The Bijli Mahadev Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The popular story linked with the temple is 'Bijli' (thunder lightning) story. As per this mythological story, once in every 12 years the lightning strikes the temple and Shiva Lingam enshrined inside the temple. Due to the lightning, the Shiva Lingam gets shattered but the priests of the temple restore it with sattu (gram flour) and butter. Incredibly, the butter does not melt and keeps the Shiva Lingam intact until the next lightning strike. Locals believe this phenomenon symbolizes the rebirth and the protection provided by the Lord Shiva by absorbing the lightning to safeguard the valley.
Another mythological story linked with the Bijli Mahadev Temple is- the story of demon Kulanta. Demon Kulanta tried to submerge the entire Kullu Valley by blocking the Beas River. In a fierce battle, Lord Shiva defeated Kulanta by striking him with his (Lord Shiva's) trident. Kulanta's body was shattered and formed the mountains of the region.
Being a sacred place, the Bijli Mahadev Temple continued to be a significant pilgrimage site. However, there are limited historical records about the region but it is believed that when Kullu Valley emerged as a regional kingdom, the Bijli Mahadev Temple would have been the centre of religious and cultural activities. The remote location of the temple kept it pristine and ensured its preservation through many regional power shifts.
Today, the Bijli Mahadev Temple is counted among the highly revered Shiva shrines. It attracts thousands of tourists annually. For trekkers, it’s a popular trekking destination which offers the panoramic views of famous valleys of Himachal along with offering the spiritual fulfillment.
The Bijli Mahadev Temple trek is a short and beginner-friendly trek, suitable for kids (above 7 years), families and solo trekkers. It is relatively an easy trek with a total trekking distance of around 3 km (2 hrs) one way. The trek starts in Chansari or Naggar and heads to the Bijli Mahadev Temple, situated at an elevation of approx 2,460 m above sea level.
The trail of the Bijli Mahadev Temple consists of a well-laid cemented path alongside pine and cedar forests. The trail includes gradual ascents and few steep sections but nothing technically challenging. The terrain is a mix of grassland, forests and rocks.
The best thing about the Bijli Mahadev Temple trek is, you can do it with your families and kids (above 7 years). The solo trekkers can also attempt it, no prior trekking experience and particular guidance is needed. The trail is well-marked and locals are helpful.
However, in monsoon, the trail can be slippery and in winter it can be snow-covered so it requires caution. The best time to do this trek is in the spring, summer and autumn seasons.
Overall, the Bijli Mahadev Temple trek is an easy and short trek which gives a fulfilling Himalayan trekking experience. If you just want to start your trekking journey and are looking for an easy one, the Bijli Mahadev Temple trek is perfect for you.
Though the Bijli Mahadev Temple trek is all seasoned trek, the ideal time to do it is from March to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the sky is clear.
March to June (Spring & Summer): Arrival of spring makes the trail alive and by the summer, the trail is full of greenery. The weather is perfect and temperature ranges go between 15°C to 30°C. Clear sky makes the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges visible. The panoramic views of Kullu and Parvati valleys are at their best.
July-August (Monsoon): Heavy rainfall can make the trail slippery and prone to landslides. Thus this window is not recommended to do the Bijli Mahadev Temple trek but adventure seekers can attempt it with caution.
September to November (Autumn): Post-monsoon freshness adds charm to the surroundings. Sky is also clear. The golden hue of autumn makes trails dreamy; perfect for photography. The temperature ranges are between 10°C to 25°C.
December to February (Winter): This time trails can be covered with snow which makes remple inaccessible. Temperature can also drop below 0°C. Due to harsh weather better avoid this window to trek.
The famous Bijli Mahadev Temple is located near the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh. To reach here, first arrive in Kullu.
The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, located about 10 km from Kullu. You can also reach Kullu by road via regular HRTC and private buses from Delhi (approx 500 km) and Chandigarh (approx 270 km).
From Kullu, travel by road to Chansari Village. It is located around 24 km from Kullu and takes about 1 hr by local bus or taxi.
From Chansari, the trek to Bijli Mahadev Temple is around 3 km uphill. The trail is well-marked and well-paved with stone steps. It takes around 2 hrs to reach the temple. The trail passes through pine and cedar forests and offers scenic views.
Alternatively, you can also reach the Bijli Mahadev Temple from Naggar. But Naggar is a longer trekking route (about 15-16 km). Chansari route is more popular and suitable for beginners, families and casual trekkers.
In Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your Bijli Mahadev Temple trekking experience. Whether you're a beginner, solo traveller or a group of friends, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made trekking program. This customized trek will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals and any other premium facilities you may need during the trek.
Starting from Naggar, Bijli Mahadev Temple trek's trail passes through pine and cedar forests and offers scenic views. Himalaya Shelter ensures your journey is safe and memorable with experienced local guides and all necessary permits. You can even request offbeat routes or sunrise hikes for a more immersive Himalayan experience.
Moreover, no other participants will be added to your group. Choosing a Customized trek will enable you to fully enjoy the trek with your loved ones.
Day 1: Naggar to Matikochar via Jana Village | Trek: 13 km in 8 - 9 hrs
Naggar → Jana → Matikochar
Pick-up from Kullu/Naggar, then drive to Jana village, the trek’s starting point.
Trek 13 km over 8–9 hrs through paddy fields, deodar and pine forests.
Camp overnight at Matikochar (2,200 m) amid scenic valleys.
Day 2: Matikochar to Naggar via Jana Village | Trek: 13 km in 7 - 8 hrs
Matikochar → Bijli Mahadev Temple → Jana → Naggar
Depart Matikochar early, trek through Kais Wildlife Sanctuary to the temple at 2,460 m (7,677 ft).
Visit the famous Bijli Mahadev Temple. After spending time at the temple, descend via Jana, returning to Naggar by late afternoon.
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
Trek Inclusions
Trek Exclusions
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
It is located near Kullu in Himachal Pradesh.
The temple is at an altitude of around 2,460 meters (8,070 feet).
The trek is approximately 3 km one way.
It usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the top.
Yes, it is an easy trek, ideal for beginners and families.
“Bijli” means lightning. Every few years, lightning strikes the temple.
The Shiva Lingam inside breaks and is repaired with butter and sattu by priests.
It is both a natural phenomenon and a mythological belief.
It remains closed during heavy snowfall in peak winter.
Yes, it’s a short and popular day hike from Kullu.