Bathu Ki Ladi is an ancient temple in the Kangra District’s Maharana Pratap Sagar. The temple is believed to be over 1200 years old and was built during the Hindu Shahi Dynasty in 8 AD. The temple also symbolises devotion from the people to Lord Shiva and Parvati. Not only that, the countless hours of dedication and focus can be seen in its rigid structure.
The temple is unique because it has been submerged in the Pong reservoir for over eight months. This means that one can only visit the temple by land for four months, which is also probable if no rain occurs during summer. However, people can easily see the marvel by boat and look closely at the old wonder. On top of that, the best time to visit the place is during summer when the water levels are low in the reservoir. So, if you’re searching for a great getaway place with a bit of history, Bathu Ki Ladi will not disappoint.
What Makes The Temple An Ancient Relic?
The temple is a relic. The people who made the temple worshipped Lord Shiva and Parvati, chiselled through their devotion and hard work. The temple survives the test of time. Moreover, the temple can be reached for a limited time by foot in years.
A Symbol of Lord Shiva and Parvati
As discussed above, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shambhu and his Lordess Parvati. Thus, it symbolises an old tradition and a sacred institution of the old ages. The place also uses distinct stones with good carvings, making the place surreal. Therefore, visiting this attraction for its heritage is enough to awe the site.
Mythological Aspect To The Temples
The actual story behind the construction of the temples is still a mystery, as some religious tales tell that Pandavas built the temples as a staircase to heaven. At the same time, some believed that the last empires of the region did the work. Whatever the reason behind the construction of these monuments, one thing is sure there are still many unanswered questions in our modern world.
Wonder In The Water
During summers, it is straightforward to reach the temple; however, when it rains, the water level goes up, and thus, one has to take a boat to get a closer look at the structure. It’ll take an ordinary boat around 15 minutes to get close to the temple; from there, one can see the seven wonders in the water.
A Focal Point Of The Gaint Reservoir
Pong Dam is one of the most significant reservoirs in north India and is home to various towns and localities on the shore. On top of that, the place has great potential to be the area’s major tourist attraction. Again, the area’s lack of resources and development could be better. Thus, the place will require a lot of attention to get ready for the influx of tourists in the future.
A Tourist Attraction for the Summer?
Bathu Ki Ladi has the potential to be one f the significant attraction this summer because of its location and history. At the same time, we must preserve this marvel for future generations and provide factual information regarding ancient civilisations.
Final Words
Bathu Ki Ladi, an ancient temple in Maharana Pratap Sagar, is over 1200 years old and built during the Hindu Shahi Dynasty in 8 AD. It symbolises devotion to Lord Shiva and Parvati and is unique due to its submerged location in the Pong reservoir for over eight months. The temple represents Lord Shambhu and his Lordess Parvati, and its mythological aspect remains a mystery.
The temple is a focal point of the Gaint Reservoir, offering potential tourist attractions. However, the area needs more resources and improvement to accommodate future tourists.
Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)
Who Built the Bathu Temples?
There are two answers to this question.
First, a common belief is that the local ruler of that time built these temples. Second, some people believed that Pandavas created temples to make a staircase to heaven.
What is the best time to visit Bathu Ki Ladi?
The best time to visit the Bathu Ki Ladi is during summer when the water levels are low. Again, the temples are in the water for most of the year.
What is the total number of temples in Bathu?
There are seven temples, of which six are dedicated to Lord Vishnu, while the major one is devoted to Lord Shiva and Parvati ji.
How to Visit Bathu Ki Ladi?
One can directly visit the Bathu temples during summers or at low water levels, but when there is water, the only way is via boat.
