Perched on the forested hills of Chakmoh village, Deotsidh Temple is one of North India’s most revered Siddha Peethas, dedicated to the divine child-saint Baba Balak Nath Ji. This mystical cave shrine draws lakhs of devotees every year, especially from Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi.
🌄 Location & Accessibility
- Location: Chakmoh village, Hamirpur district, Himachal Pradesh
- Altitude: ~1,110 meters above sea level
- Nearest Towns: Hamirpur (45 km), Una (55 km), Bilaspur (60 km)
- How to Reach:
- By Road: Well-connected by HRTC buses and taxis from major cities
- By Rail: Nearest station – Una (63 km)
- By Air: Gaggal Airport, Kangra (~120 km)
🛕 Mythological Significance
Baba Balak Nath Ji is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva. According to legend, he meditated in the natural cave at Deotsidh after spending 12 years herding cattle in Shahtalai, where he was adopted by Mata Ratno Mai.
The cave is considered his eternal abode, and devotees believe that Baba Ji continues to bless his followers from this sacred spot.
🕉️ Worship & Traditions
- The temple houses a natural cave where Baba Ji is believed to have meditated.
- Male devotees can enter the cave and offer prayers directly.
- Women, out of tradition, offer prayers from a raised platform outside the cave.
- Devotees offer “Rota” (a sweet bread made of flour, jaggery, and ghee) and goats as symbolic offerings—though the goats are not sacrificed but cared for.
🎉 Major Festivals
- Chaitra Mela (March–April): The biggest annual fair, held during the Hindu month of Chaitra, draws thousands of devotees.
- Navratri: Celebrated with special aartis and rituals
- Guru Purnima & Shravan Ashtami: Marked with fasting and devotional gatherings
🏛️ Temple Highlights
- A golden-domed shrine with panoramic views of the Shivalik hills
- A ropeway (cable car) connects Deotsidh to Shahtalai, offering scenic views
- A statue of Baba Ji in the temple courtyard for darshan
- Langar halls and dharamshalas for pilgrims
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
- Shahtalai: The childhood abode of Baba Ji, with sacred trees and a temple
- Naina Devi Temple: One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, nearby in Bilaspur
- Sujanpur Tira Fort & Awah Devi Temple: Historical and spiritual sites in Hamirpur
- Cable Car Ride: A thrilling ride offering views of the valley and Bhakra Dam
🙏 Spiritual Experience
The serene pine forests, the chants of “Jai Baba Balak Nath Ji,” and the unwavering flame of faith make Deotsidh a place of deep spiritual resonance. Whether you’re seeking blessings, peace, or simply a connection to Himachal’s sacred heritage, this temple offers a truly transformative experience.
