Baijnath temple of Himachal Pradesh represents the Jyotirlinga in the form of Lord Vaidyanath or Baidyanath, the Lord of Physicians. As a part of Indian Heritage, this 12th-century temple is well maintained and protected.
As per the inscriptions on the wall of the Baijnath temple, it was built in 1204 by brothers Manyuka and Ahuka. The inscriptions also reveal a fact that the Shiva Linga was already existing at the place but without a proper shrine. The temple was further renovated by king Sansara Chandra.
Baijnath temple is built in a Nagara Style of temples and imbibes Orrisan architectural style. Such architecture is unique to Himachal Pradesh. The temple can be seen as an ancient example of early medieval architecture. Simple but beautiful is a one liner summary of the temple.
The Himalayas in the background, grand Binwa river flowing nearby and lush green lawn around.. the temple gives a lifetime enchanting memory. Sculptures of Ganesha, Vishnu, Brahma, Shiva, Devi along with many others act like ornaments to add beauty.
I would like to mention Lord Vaidyanath of Parali in Maharashtra. Both Baijnath temples, Himachal Pradesh and Maharashtra, claim to be the real Jyotirlinga and shares similar mythologies. Well.. its all about the belief!
Mythology / Legends
Ravana worshiped Lord Shiva by offering his 10 heads in Treta Yuga. Lord Shiva pleased and gave him the boon of invincible powers. Ravana decided to carry Lord Shiva in the form of Shiva Linga to his native, Lanka. Lord Ganesha, to fail Ravana, became a shepherd and offered help to Ravana. Ravana handed over the Shiva Linga to the shepherd and took a break. Well, mission accomplished. Lord Ganesha, the shepherd, placed the Shiva Linga on the ground and broke Ravana’s dream. The Shiva Linga stayed there forever.
The temple is located in Baijnath town (originally known as Kiragrama) which is near to Palampur. It’s well connected and well-maintained place. Just like other Shiva temples, Shivaratri celebrated on a great scale here.
Read about my motorbike trip to the temple