Baijnath Temple is one of the most popular temples in Himachal Pradesh, and here, Lord Shiva is worshipped as the 'God of Healing'. Baijnath or Vaidyanath is an avatar of the great Lord Shiva, and in this avatar, the great lord rids his devotees of all miseries and pain. As a result, this temple holds ultimate significance to all Lord Shiva devotees and is considered to be extremely sacred. In fact, the water of this temple is believed to be of medicinal value and has the potential to cure several illnesses and diseases. This draws thousands of devotees from all around the world every year.
Baijnath temple was built in 1204 A.D by two native merchants, Ahuka and Manyuka, who were doting devotees of Lord Shiva. Situated at a distance of only 16 kms from Palampur, this time-honoured temple is a place where one can attain sterling peace and untainted tranquillity in the gentle caress of god. It is one of the very few temples in India where both, Lord Shiva and Demon King Ravan are worshipped.
According to the ancient scriptures of Hindu tradition, Lord Shiva established 12 jyotirlingas, which were pillars that emanated pure light and unencumbered power, across the country as a challenge to Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma; and one of these 12 jyotirlingas rests inside the famous Baijnath Temple.
The ancient but magnificent temple is set in the backdrop of the Dhauladhar Himalayan Range. Imagine, an ancient rustic temple standing gloriously in front of vampire white mountains! The view of the peaks in the Himalayan Range covered in ghost grey mist as they pierce the sky is a feeling of both, marvel and satisfaction.