Hatu Mata Temple in Narkanda
Hatu Mata temple is located at the top of the peak of Hatu Peak in Narkanda in the mesmerizing Himalayan mountain ranges of Himachal Pradesh. This temple is devoted to Mandodari who was the wife of Ravana. The temple offers a spiritual experience, thus inviting visitors and pilgrims alike. The temple is located at a height of 3400 meters and offers stunning views of the majestic mountain ranges and is perched in between dense forests that consist of pine, deodar and shrubs and bushes and the verdant valleys. The trek to the temple is simply rewarding as it rejuvenate your senses.
The temple is made is wood and stone and is designed in traditional Himachali architectural style which represents true craftsmanship of the local artisans. The wooden work comprises of intricate carvings with beautiful motifs and designs.
In order to reach the temple, visitors will have to opt for a 7 km trek, and the trail is filled with breathtaking beauty of the landscape, the verdant forests, the rich flora and fauna of the region and the remote villages. The trek is a bit challenging, as it comprises of undulating rocky terrain and steep slopes, but it is worth the try.
During the local festival time, the temple is decorated by the locals and religious ceremonies are performed here and the temple looks lively. Visiting the Hatu Mata temple when in Narkanda is one of the must-have experiences, as the journey to the temple offers mesmerizing sceneries, rich vegetation and dense forests. Thus it is one of the best spots for spiritual and nature lovers, photographers and adventure fanatics.
Best time to visit Hatu Mata Temple in Narkanda
The best month to visit the Hatu Mata Temple in Narkanda is from March to June, as the region experiences favorable weather with no snowfall and rainfall during these months to enjoy outdoor activities.
How to reach Hatu Mata Temple in Narkanda
To reach Hatu Mata Temple which is located in Hatu Valley, travelers will have to take a bus or flight from Delhi or Chandigarh to Shimla. From Shimla travelers will have to opt for a local bus or taxi to reach Narkanda, which is situated at a distance of 65 km away. From Narkanda, travelers will have to opt for a trek to Hatu Peak, which is around 7km.
Best Places to visit in Narkanda
Since Narkanda is blessed with lush green forests, high mountain peaks, apple orchards, verdant valleys and peaks and scenic views, there are many breathtakingly beautiful places to visit in Narkanda:
Hatu Valley is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Narkand, as the region is blessed with scenic landscape and serene and peaceful environment. Tourists visiting this valley can engage in number of activities.
The Hatu Mata Temple is located in the Hatu Peak (which is the highest point of the region). Tourists visiting the Hatu Peak should definitely visit the Hatu Mata Temple.
Tani Jubbar Lake is an enchanting spot perched in between the cedar trees, making the surrounding look like a paradise. The water of the lake is crystal clear, when the sun rises and sets.
Mahamaya Temple is another important temple located in Kacheri near Narkanda. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. In order to visit the temple, tourists will have to opt for a short drive from Narkanda.
Kotgarh and Thanedar are two beautiful small towns located near Narkanda. These towns are popular for their apple orchards and enchanting scenery. In fact, Kotgarh and Thanedar are the two small towns popularly known as the birthplace of apple.
Stokes Farm is popular apple orchard; it takes you closer to the local apple farming industry in Himachal Pradesh. The farm is located in one of the mountains of the region, surrounded by the high mountain peaks.
Since Narkanda is located at a high altitude and has many mountain peaks, during the winter season when the region turns into a snow land, tourists visiting Narkanda can engage in skiing.
For shopping lovers the local market in Narkanda offers a unique shopping experience. The region offers variety of Himachali handmade items, woolen clothes, jewelleries, organic products, etc.