Sri Raghunath Temple, Kullu

The temple is particularly famous for its connection with the Kullu Dussehra festival, during which the deity of Bhagvan Raghunath is ceremonially taken out in a grand procession.

The temple is located in Sultanpur, Kullu town, Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh.

After the incident, Jagat Singh suffered from guilt, illness, and eventually leprosy. His Rajguru advised him to seek the blessings of Siddhguru Krishnadas Payahari, who told him that he had committed the sin of Brahmahatya and could atone by bringing the Deity’s of Sri Raghunath (Rama), Mata Sita, and Hanuman from Ayodhya.

The task was given to the guru’s disciple, Damodar Das. After serving at the Tretanath Temple in Ayodhya for a year, he brought the Deities toward Kullu. When the priests tried to take them back, they found the Deity’s impossible to lift, while Damodar Das could carry them easily. Taking this as divine will, they allowed him to continue to Kullu.

Initially the Deity of Bhagvan Raghunath was installed in Manikaran. Upon the arrival of Deities, King Jagat Singh worshipped Sri Raghunath and drank the sacred Charanamrita from the Deity’s feet. Due to Raghunathji’’s grace, his illness and leprosy gradually disappeared. After this miracle, the king placed the Deity of Sri Raghunathji in his throne and dedicated his kingdom at his lotus feet. He considered himself to the servant of the Bhagvan.

The Deity of Bhagvan Raghunath is approximately the size of a thumb. According to tradition, Bhagvan Sri Rama had it created for the performance of the Ashvamedha Yajna.

The sanctum houses Lord Raghunath (Rama), along with other revered deities. The temple complex is closely associated with the religious and cultural heritage of Kullu and serves as an important centre of worship, particularly during the Kullu Dussehra celebrations.

Kullu Dussehra is celebrated at Dhalpur Ground in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, in honour of Bhagvan Sri Raghunath (Bhagvan Sri Rama). The festival brings together over 300 local deities (Devas from nearby villages in decorated palanquins). Unlike other Dussehra celebrations, it focuses on religious processions and cultural traditions rather than the burning of Ravana’s effigy. Traditional Nati dance, folk music, handicrafts, and local cuisine are major attractions.

Shringi Rishi Temple: It is a revered temple dedicated to Sage Shringi, located in the Banjar area of Kullu district.

Hidimba Devi Temple: It is one of Manali’s best-known temples, set among deodar trees. Its distinctive four-tiered pagoda-style architecture dates to the 16th century.

Jagannathi Devi Temple: It is a hilltop temple near Bhekhli, known for its peaceful setting and views of the surrounding Kullu Valley.

By Railway: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station located in Joginder Nagar, Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh. It is located 100 – 110 km away from

By Road: There are frequent buses to Kullu Town from important cities like Shimla, Chandigarh, Delhi, Ambala, Dehradun and Amritsar etc.