Bathu ki Ladi Temple – A Hidden Marvel in Kangra

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If you are looking for a place that blends history, mystery, and nature, Bathu ki Ladi Temple in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, should be on your travel list. This unique temple complex remains submerged under water for most of the year and appears like magic during summer when the water recedes. The sight of ancient stone temples rising from the waters of the Maharana Pratap Sagar (Pong Dam) is truly unforgettable.

History and Legends

Bathu ki Ladi means “row of Bathu temples” in Hindi. These temples are made from a special kind of stone called Bathu stone, which has survived the test of time and water erosion.

According to local legend, the temples were built during the time of the Mahabharata by the Pandavas. It is believed that they tried to build a staircase to heaven from here. Even today, a set of about 40 steps can be seen inside the temple complex, adding to the mystery of the place.

Historians, however, believe that the temples might have been built around the 8th–9th century by local rulers of the Guler kingdom or the Hindu Shahi dynasty. In the early 1970s, when Pong Dam was constructed, the area where the temples stood got submerged in water. For most of the year, only the top portions are visible.

Architecture and Carvings

The architecture of Bathu ki Ladi Temple follows the Nagara style, which is common in North Indian temples. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, but carvings of other deities like Goddess Kali, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Vishnu reclining on Sheshnag can also be seen.

What makes the site special is how well the carvings have survived years of submersion. The stone walls still have intricate patterns, and the overall structure stands strong despite being surrounded by water most of the time.

When to Visit

Bathu temples (बाथू मंदिर), known locally as Bathu ki ladi (बाथू की लड़ी), is a cluster of temples in the Kangra district of Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, with the main temple dedicated to goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. … Since then, these temples are only accessible from May to June when the water level decreases because it remain underwater for almost 8 months. #instagram #insta #instagood #instamood #trendingpost #trendingnow #trendingsongs #trendingaudio #viralreelschallenge #viralvideostoday #viralreelsfacebook #TempleTales #bathukiladi #incredibleindia #traveldiaries #instatravel #instatraveling #instatraveling #mythicalindia #indiatravelgram #indiatravel #naturelovers #submergedtemple s #viralreels #travel #india #incredibleindia #facebookreel #FacebookPage
Posted by Bathu ki Ladi on Thursday, September 12, 2024

The best time to visit Bathu ki Ladi Temple is from March to June. This is when the water level in the reservoir goes down, and the temples emerge fully. You can walk to them or take a boat ride, depending on the water level.

From July to February, most of the temples remain underwater due to the monsoon rains and the winter water storage of the dam.

Weather

Summer (March–June): Pleasant and the perfect time to explore, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C.
Monsoon (July–September): Heavy rains; temples stay underwater.
Winter (October–February): Cool weather, 8°C to 20°C, but the temples are usually submerged.

If you are planning a trip, always check the weather and water level before going.

How to Reach Bathu ki Ladi Temple

By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport in Kangra, about 55–60 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi.

By Train: The nearest major railway station is Pathankot, around 70 km from the temple. You can take a taxi or bus to reach Jawali or Dhameta, the nearest towns.

By Road: Bathu ki Ladi is well connected by road to Kangra, Dharamshala, and Pathankot. From Jawali or Nagrota Surian, you can either walk to the temple (if the water is low) or hire a local boat.

Boat Ride: During the summer months, local villagers offer boat services to take you close to the temple complex, giving you beautiful panoramic views.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Bathu ki Ladi, you can also explore:

Maharana Pratap Sagar (Pong Dam) – Great for bird watching, especially during the migratory season.
Kangra Fort – A historical fort with amazing views.
Masroor Rock Cut Temples – Unique rock carvings from the 8th century.
Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj – Known for Tibetan culture, monasteries, and the Dalai Lama’s temple.

Tips for Visitors

Best Time: March to June for full temple visibility.
Carry Essentials: Water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
Check Access: Before visiting, ask locals about the water level to know if the temple is reachable on foot or by boat.
No Facilities: There are no shops or restaurants near the temple, so carry everything you need.
Photography: This is a photographer’s paradise, so keep your camera ready.

Why Bathu ki Ladi is Special

Bathu ki Ladi is not just a religious site but also a living reminder of the region’s history and resilience. It’s one of the rare places in India where you can witness a temple that spends most of its life underwater and still stands strong. Whether you go for the legends, the architecture, or simply the beauty of the surroundings, a trip here will leave you with memories that last forever.

Final Thought
Bathu ki Ladi Temple is a hidden gem of Kangra, offering a mix of myth, history, and natural beauty. Visiting it feels like stepping back in time, to a place untouched by modern development. If you love exploring offbeat destinations, this temple is definitely worth your journey.