If you’re someone who craves spiritual tranquility mixed with panoramic mountain views, then let me take you on a journey to Badidhar Shiv Temple – a hidden gem nestled on Badi Hill in Himachal Pradesh’s Solan district.
Our journey began from Shimla, the ever-beautiful capital of Himachal, at 9 AM sharp. The air was crisp, the sun peeking over the hills, promising a perfect day for this offbeat exploration.
Two Roads, One Destination
To reach Badidhar, you have two equally scenic routes:
- Shimla – Shalaghat – Darlaghat – Piplughat – Badidhar (Approx. 75 km)
- Shimla – Shalaghat – Arki – Piplughat – Badidhar (Approx. 78 km)
Both roads are in excellent condition and offer stunning views of pine-clad valleys and small villages tucked into the hills. We decided to take the Darlaghat route for our ascent and planned to return via Arki for a full-circle experience.
The Road to Bliss
The drive was smooth as we crossed the small, bustling township of Tutu, just outside Shimla. Beyond this, traffic began to ease, leaving us alone to enjoy the road ahead.
One particular highlight was driving right in front of Shimla Airport, where we paused for a few moments. Watching airplanes land amidst the mountain-scapes was surreal, almost cinematic. The winding road gave us frequent glimpses of forested slopes, sunlit peaks and valleys draped in pine and deodar trees.
After about an hour, we reached Darlaghat, a quiet yet charming stop. From here, we took a diversion toward Piplughat. The route grew more exciting as the climb began.
The Ascent – Into the Heart of the Hills
The road leading to Badidhar has a gradual ascent but remains clean and well-maintained. As we climbed higher, the mountains began to unfold their magic – layers of lush green ridges, distant peaks and golden sunlight filtering through the branches.
By now, the air had grown cooler, carrying a slight scent of pine and the earthy fragrance of the hills. After about 40 minutes, we reached the top of Badi Hill – our destination, Badidhar Shiv Temple.
The Temple Complex – Serenity at Its Best
The first thing we noticed was the peaceful silence, disturbed only by the gentle rustling of deodar trees. The temple complex has two main structures:
- The Ancient Temple, nestled slightly lower on the hillside.
- The New Temple, located right at the hilltop, surrounded by towering deodar trees.
We offered our prayers at the temple, soaking in the spiritual vibes. The priest shared some fascinating stories about the temple’s centuries-old legacy and its significance to devotees across Himachal. On Sundays, the temple hosts a Langar – a community meal open to all. We were fortunate to join this humble feast and experience the warmth of local hospitality.
A View to Remember
One of the most breathtaking experiences here is the 360-degree view. From small gaps between the towering trees, you can see:
- The sprawling Shivalik Range below.
- The plains of Chandigarh shimmering in the distance.
- And on a clear day, the snow-covered Dhauladhar peaks gracing the horizon.
It’s the kind of view that makes you pause, breathe and realize how small we are in the vast beauty of nature.
The Return Journey – Through Arki’s Charm
After spending over an hour soaking in the peace and capturing endless photos, we began our descent, this time via the Arki route. The return journey was equally mesmerizing. The road was smooth, lined with little villages, heritage stops and endless mountain views. If you have time, a short stop at Arki Fort is well worth it!
Best Time to Visit Badidhar Shiv Temple
While this beautiful spot can be visited year-round, the weather here changes its charm with every season:
- Summer (March to June): Pleasant and cool – perfect for a sunny escape.
- Monsoon (July to September): Misty, lush and refreshing.
- Winter (December to February): Crisp air with occasional snowfall on nearby peaks.
Even on our trip in mid-December, the sunshine was so bright that we found ourselves sweating as we explored the temple complex.
Why You Should Visit Badidhar Shiv Temple
This place isn’t just for devotees; it’s for anyone seeking:
- Peaceful solitude amidst nature.
- Unparalleled mountain views.
- A spiritual experience away from crowded tourist spots.
The Sarais (rest houses) near the temple also offer simple yet comfortable staying facilities for those who wish to spend more time in this tranquil setting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a spot to reconnect with nature, explore a spiritual haven and witness jaw-dropping landscapes, Badidhar Shiv Temple should be on your list.
So pack your bags, fuel up your car and head to Badi Hill – a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. You won’t regret it. 🌄
For more such offbeat journeys, keep visiting T4Tourism.in – your window to Himachal’s best-kept secrets. See you on the next adventure!
