Mandi
About the city
The historic town of Mandi (800 m) is built along the banks of the river Beas. It has long been an important commercial centre and the sage Mandva is said to have meditated here. This one time capital of the princely state of Mandi is a fast developing town that still retains much of its original charm and character. Today, it is a district headquarters. Mandi is renowned for its 81 old stone temples and their enormous range of fine carving, it is often called the 'Varanasi of the Hills'. The town has remains of old palaces and notable examples of 'colonial' architecture. HPTDC runs a hotel here.Magnificent Mandi, an important historical, cultural and religious cente nestles on the left banks of the river Beas. It was the capital of the erstwhile princely state of Mandi and also a major commercial centre. Mandi, also known as ‘Varanasi of Hill', has 81 exquisitely carved temples. The most important are of Bhutnath, Triolknath (built in 1520), Panchvaktra and shyamakali at Tarna Hill. Mandi is also associated with saint Mandva, who is believed to have meditated here. The town is famouws for its unique celebrations of shivaratri Festival. The celebrations last for eight days and during this time images of the deities of the nearby temples are brought in a colourful procession to the shrine of Lord Bhutnath (shiva).