Kulu bhaikali indian tourism

BHAIKALI

Bhaikhali is a small village of Brahamins, about 10 km. far from the main town of Kullu by bus and 4 km. on foot. It is situated in the lap pf a hill. Bhaikhali is the abode of Jagannathi mata, sister of Narayana, also called as Bhuweneshawari. Its temple is 1500 years old. In the courtyard a full size lion of stone stands which is a fine example of local art of sculpture. On the walls of the temple there are paintings of Durga in different actions. Legend goes that a boy of Palsara family went to graze cattle. He played on flute charmingly and was surprised to see two girls dancing on his music. But the girls were floating in the air and their feet were not touching the ground. He went closer to the dancers and caught one of them. The girl declared her identity and agreed to stay in the village. The present temple was originally of Narayana who Vacated it for the goddess. Three fairs are held at Bhaikhali in April, June and on first day of Kullu Dussehra. On the Dussehra day gur-khel is worth witnessing. The goddess is taken out in a chariot but only after the sun set. The carriers of chariot take strides limpingly to show that in a fight with the sun the goddess became lame and could not take steps rightly there after.

The height of the village is 1833 metres. The place commands very beautiful view. There are shops where refreshment and other things of need are available.

There is another version regarding the appearance of the goddess. After changing herself into girl, she used to play with the children of Palsara family. When the children told the parents about their new play-mate, they managed to catch her. On knowing the identity of the girl they began to worship her.