Where waterfalls whisper mantras and devotion freezes into form
Tucked amidst the alpine meadows and snow-draped slopes of Solang Valley, the Anjani Mahadev Temple is a mystical shrine where nature and divinity converge. Revered as the Amarnath of Himachal, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is named after Anjani, the mother of Lord Hanuman, who is believed to have meditated here to invoke the blessings of the Mahadev.
🌄 Location & Accessibility
- Location: Burwa, near Solang Valley, Manali, Himachal Pradesh – 175131
- Altitude: ~2,800 meters
- By Road: 14 km from Manali; accessible by car or taxi till the base
- Trek: ~2 km scenic trek from the parking area through pine forests and icy streams
- By Air: Bhuntar Airport (~65 km)
- By Rail: Joginder Nagar (~165 km) or Pathankot (~300 km)
🕉️ Deity & Worship
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here in the form of a naturally formed ice Shivalinga, created by a freezing waterfall that cascades over a rock during winter. This ice lingam, which can grow up to 25 feet tall, is considered a sacred manifestation of Shiva’s presence, drawing comparisons to the famed Amarnath shrine.
The goddess is worshipped in the form of three pindis, representing Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Saraswati.
Devotees offer red flags, coconuts, and sweets, and the temple is especially known for fulfilling wishes of childless couples and those seeking justice. Rituals include chanting of Shiva mantras, offering Gangajal, and circumambulating the lingam during the winter pilgrimage season.
❄️ The Ice Lingam Phenomenon
The ice Shivalinga forms naturally between December and March, as the waterfall above the sanctum freezes into a towering stalagmite. This seasonal miracle is revered as a divine blessing, and pilgrims brave the snow to witness its formation. The sound of the waterfall, the glint of ice, and the smell of incense create a surreal spiritual atmosphere.
🏛️ Architecture & Setting
The temple itself is modest and open-air, built around the sacred rock and waterfall. A small cave nearby, known as Anjani Gufa, is believed to be the spot where Anjani Mata performed her penance. The trail to the temple is flanked by snow-covered boulders, pine trees, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind, offering a soul-stirring Himalayan experience.
📜 Mythological Significance
According to legend, Anjani Mata, the mother of Lord Hanuman, meditated here to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings for a divine child. Pleased by her devotion, Shiva appeared before her, granting her the boon that led to Hanuman’s birth. The temple thus stands as a symbol of divine motherhood, penance, and cosmic grace.
🎉 Festivals & Celebrations
- Mahashivratri: The most significant festival, marked by night-long bhajans, havans, and community feasts
- Winter Pilgrimage (Dec–March): Devotees trek through snow to witness the ice lingam and offer prayers
- Daily Worship: Includes offering of water, flowers, and incense, especially during early morning hours
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
- Solang Valley: A hub for skiing, paragliding, and snow adventures
- Rohtang Pass: Gateway to Lahaul and Spiti, open seasonally
- Old Manali & Manu Temple: Spiritual and cultural gems nearby
- Jogini Falls: A sacred cascade linked to local goddess worship
🙏 Spiritual Experience
The Anjani Mahadev Temple is not just a shrine—it is a living miracle sculpted by nature and sanctified by faith. As you stand before the ice lingam, with snowflakes falling and the waterfall murmuring ancient hymns, you feel the presence of Shiva in every breath of mountain air. It is a place where devotion crystallizes, and the soul finds stillness in the silence of snow.
