Epic Himachal
Sacred geography · Sage Shringa Rishi (the Deer-antlered Sage)
Shri Shringa Rishi Temple
Shringa Rishi Mandir Marg, Banjar, Kullu District, HP 175123
Timings
6 AM – 12 PM
Distance
58 km from Kullu town
Best time
October – April (Banjar is accessible year-round)
Elevation
1,400 m
About the temple
Shri Shringa Rishi Temple in Banjar is the presiding devata shrine of the Seraj Valley and one of the most revered temples in the southern Kullu district. Dedicated to Sage Shringa Rishi (the sage born with deer antlers, famous in the Ramayana as the sage who conducted the Putrakameshti yajna for King Dasharatha), the temple is considered a major cultural and religious anchor for the entire Seraj region.
Significance
Shringa Rishi is the resident divinity (gram devata) of the Seraj Valley and is believed to protect the entire region. His mythological connection to the Ramayana — he conducted the ritual that enabled King Dasharatha to father Lord Ram — makes him deeply venerated. The temple receives thousands of pilgrims annually from across the Seraj Valley who seek his blessings.
History & legend
The temple's origin is traced to ancient times, with Shringa Rishi believed to have meditated in the forests of what is now Banjar. The current elaborate wooden structure was built over several centuries by the Seraj Valley chiefs and local communities. The temple's jurisdiction extends over more than 80 village communities in the Seraj-Banjar region, making it one of the most politically and spiritually powerful devata temples in Kullu district.
Established
Ancient — Puranic mythology; current structure is medieval
Architecture
Himachali wooden pagoda with elaborate carved timber superstructure
Highlights
Devata of the entire Seraj Valley — protected by and protecting over 80 village communities
Mythological connection to Ramayana — the sage who enabled Lord Ram's birth
Elaborate Himachali wood carving considered among the finest in the Kullu district
Gateway to the Jalori Pass, Serolsar Lake, and the Great Himalayan National Park
Festivals & rituals
Shringa Rishi Mela
OctoberThe major annual festival drawing pilgrims from across the Seraj Valley with folk dances (natti), traditional music, and a grand palanquin procession (rath yatra) of the deity.
Fagli (Holi) Festival
MarchIn the Seraj Valley, Holi (Fagli) is celebrated uniquely with mask dances and ritual performances at the Shringa Rishi temple before the colours are applied.
Gallery
How to reach
Banjar is the main town of the Seraj Valley, 58 km from Kullu town. Take the road via Aut (on NH3) turning into the Seraj Valley. Regular buses connect Kullu to Banjar (2.5 hours). The temple is in the centre of Banjar town, a 5-minute walk from the bus stand. From the temple, Jalori Pass is 30 km further.
Nearby attractions
- Jalori Pass (30 km)
- Serolsar Lake (36 km)
- Shoja village (25 km)
- Great Himalayan National Park entrance (40 km)
Visitor tips
- Banjar makes an excellent base for Jalori Pass and Serolsar Lake trekking
- The Seraj Valley is off the tourist trail — expect authentic Himachali village culture
- October is the best time to combine the Shringa Rishi Mela with Jalori Pass trekking
- Photography of the wooden carvings is spectacular — bring a wide-angle lens
Frequently asked questions
Epic Himachal Expeditions
Walk the sacred geography of Kullu.
Custom temple circuits with a local guide who speaks the legends.
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