Sarahan is small picturesque village in Himachal Pradesh of India. It is the site of famous Bhimakali Temple, originally known as Bhimadevi Temple (Bhīmā Kālī), dedicated to the mother goddess Bhimakali, presiding deity of the rulers of the former Bushahr State. The temple is situated about 170 kilometres from Shimla and is one of 51 Shakti Peethas. The village is known as the gateway of Kinnaur it being near the old Indo-Tibetan Road. Seven kilometers below (17 km by road) Sarahan is the river Satluj. Sarahan is identified with the Sonitpur mentioned in Puranas. Sarahan Bushahr has been the summer capital of Bushahr kingdom. Rampur Bushahr being the winter capital.
Bhimakali Temple
Bhimakali temple is counted as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. This temple is dedicated to the mother goddess Bhimakali and a famous temple in Himachal Pradesh. The unique thing about this temple is that the style of architecture used to build it is a unique amalgamation of both Hinduism and Buddhism. The architecture is unlike most other Hindu temples, built in a rather Tibetan style quality of wood and mortar. Carved wood panels, doors and trim throughout show the regal palace details.
History
The temple has an interesting story behind it. It is said that long ago, there were many demons in the Himalayas who were proving to be a major distraction when the priests and saints used to meditate. They all prayed to the Gods above to send a powerful force to wipe the demons off. Hearing their pleas, the Gods decided to concentrate their powers on one point. A huge explosion took place and one could see a small girl child on that spot. This girl child grew up to be the force who destroyed all demons and was supposed to take repeated births to destroy any evil force on the face of the earth. The temple is dedicated to this great female power who was called Bhimakali.
The temple also has interesting tit-bits that are truly intriguing. In the year 1905, a powerful earthquake struck this place and the temple tilted to one side. Then it straightened to its original shape after another tremor. It has been believed that there is a secret tunnel in the temple which was earlier used by the priests. The side of this old Bhimakali temple, a new one was constructed. Today it houses a two centuries old image of Goddess Bhimakali at its first floor. This image on the first floor is not open throughout the year for worship. But however,the one at the second floor is definitely worshipped daily.
Mysterious Himachal 