Raghunath Temple, Kullu – A Divine Retreat in the Lap of the Himalayas

History & Significance

Built in the 17th century by Raja Jagat Singh, the temple is deeply rooted in Kullu’s spiritual and royal heritage. According to legend, the king brought an idol of Lord Raghunath from Ayodhya to absolve himself of a curse. Since then, the temple has been the presiding religious site of Kullu, particularly during the world-famous Kullu Dussehra festival.

Brief history of the Temple

This historical temple was built during the reign of King Jagat singh ascended the throne of Kullu in 1637 – 62. He was a mighty and valiant king. He was disgraced by the murder of a Brahmin Vargidatta of Tipri village. Small insects started appearing in the food, the water turned bloody and he also got leprosy. In those days, a Siddha Mahatma of Krishnadas Gaydwari Cheshyav Sampravaap lived in a place called Bhidi near the city. He was famous in the local Moli by the name of Pudhari Bana. Rana went to Pujari Baba for a cure of his disease. With his spiritual powers, he cured the worms in the food and the water appearing like flax. The king was very impressed by this miracle and became a disciple of Krishnadas Papahari. Mahatma ji gave him the idol of Lord Narasimha.  The king installed Lord Narasimha on the throne and started serving as a Karodadar. Phuhari Baba asked the king to bring the idols of Shri Ramchandra and Sita ji from the Tanath temple in Apanodhya for the cure of leprosy. These are the same idols that Shri Ramchandra himself had made for the Ashwamedha Yagya. These are thumb size only. According to Vedic tradition, whenever a statue of a person is made, it should be thumb size only, because the size of the soul is considered to be thumb size only and the reason for keeping this statue behind the curtain is that Alga Devi cannot go. This is the proof that these idols were made for the Ashwamedha Yagya. To bring the idols from Ayodhya, Phuhari Bana sent his disciple Pandit Damodardas Gosain, who was living with the king of Suket (present Sundarnagar), to Ayodhya. He kept watching the rituals in the temple for a year and brought those idols when he got time.  First these idols were established in the pilgrimage Manikon. Here also the rituals were performed in the same manner as in Ayodhya. The festivals celebrated in Ayodhya throughout the year were celebrated in the same manner. The king observed the ritual every day and consumed Charanamrit. After some time he was cured of leprosy. Due to this amazing miracle, religious feelings became stronger in his mind, he offered his entire kingdom to Shri Raghunath ji and himself became the servant of Shri Raghunath ji. From that time Shri Raghunath ji became the main deity of Kullu. Seeing the miracle of the idols, all the gods and goddesses of Kullu came to see Raghunath ji. In 1660 AD, a temple was built in Raghunathpur Kullu and the idols brought from Ayodhya were brought from Manikaran and installed in this temple. The king gave jagir to the gods and goddesses of all the areas under him. Around 1660, Dussehra of Kullu started.  On this occasion, 365 deities of Kullu started participating. In Dhalpur ground also, a 1 day Dev Sammelan started being organized every year under the chairmanship of Raghunathji.

Even today, worship is done in the temple according to the same ancient religious and cultural tradition and forty major festivals are celebrated.

Best Time to Visit

• Dussehra Festival (October) – Experience the grand celebrations, where deities from across the region converge at the temple.
• March to June – Enjoy pleasant weather and clear views of the valley.
• Winter (December to February) – Witness the temple and surrounding mountains covered in snow for a serene experience.

How to Reach Raghunath Temple

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, around 10 km from Kullu.
• By Road: Regular buses and taxis are available from Manali (40 km) and Shimla (210 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, approximately 120 km away.

Why Visit Raghunath Temple?

• Spiritual Awakening – Seek blessings from Lord Raghunath.
• Historical Legacy – Explore the temple’s deep-rooted connection with Kullu’s past.
• Scenic Beauty – Enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas.
• Cultural Vibrance – Witness the spectacular Kullu Dussehra celebrations.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are a spiritual seeker, history enthusiast, or nature lover, Raghunath Temple in Kullu offers a mesmerizing experience that stays with you long after your visit. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the divine aura of this Himalayan hidden gems !

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