Hindu Religious Places In Pakistan

Oldest Hindu Temples In Pakistan That Are A Must See

From modern-day buildings to ancient artefacts that serve well as masterpieces of art, the country of Pakistan never runs out of beautiful surprises with every turn you take. Talking about history, the country houses many ancient Hindu temples that represent different historical eras in which they were built.

So, why the wait? Let’s explore some of the best and oldest Hindu temples;

Tale of Contents:

1- Jagannath Mandir, Sialkot district, Punjab province. 

2- Hinglaj Mata Mandir, Lasbela District, Baluchistan 

3- Shri Varun Dev Mandir, Manora Island in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan 

4- Katas Raj Temple, Chakwal district, Punjab province. 

5- Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir Old quarters of Soldier Bazaar, Karachi. 

6- Kalka Devi Cave Arore, Sindh. 

7- Naval Mandir Ranchore Lines, Karachi 

8- Gor Khattree and Gorakhnath Temple Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Hinglaj Mata Mandir, Lasbela District, Baluchistan:

Claimed to be 0.4 million years old, the Hinglaj Mata Mandir is located in the hilly area of Lyari Tehsil in Baluchistan Province and lists among the oldest temples in the world. The Hinglaj Mata Mandir is a natural cave temple located in the center of the Hingula National Park. 

250 kilometers to the northwest of Karachi, 19 km inland from the Arabian Sea, and 130 km to the west of the River Indus, the Hinglaj Mata Mandir is associated to the Hingula Devi or Hinglaj Devi. Hinglaj Mata is considered to be very powerful among all the immortals and is believed to bring goodness to all the devotees.

Mythic History of the Temple:

The importance of this Mandir can be estimated by the fact that it is one amongst the “Three Shakti Peethas” in Pakistan. Sati (wife of Shiva), when committed suicide (some stories say a cruel ruler killed her), Vishnu cut her body into 51 parts, each of them fell in different places on the earth. This way, the 51 Shakti Peethas came into existence. Her head is considered to be dropped in the Khirtar Mountains, in the Makran desert, near the west of Hingol River.

This way, the place holds great significance for all the Hindus across the globe. It is said that the statue of the Devi is not man-made and is a shapeless stone considered to exist in the actual shape. It is smeared with vermillion (Sindoor). 

The whole place is supposed to be the house of the Devi, and everything associated with it stays sacred for the followers. It provides a great attraction for the tourists for every single thing it has to offer.

A Complex Of National Park, Temple, And Canyons: 

Many Hindus, not only from Pakistan but from India as well, visit the shrine every year for their annual pilgrimage known as Hinglaj Yatra or Theerth Yatra. It continues for three days, and many devotees return happily because of their granted wishes and answered prayers.

The place not only continues to hold great importance amongst the followers, but it also attracts many tourists because of its history and the dramatic landscapes that the site has to offer.

The Hingola National Park houses the cave temple of the Mata, as well as is famous for its flora and fauna. Around 250 species of plants, 35 mammal species, 65 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 185 species of birds are the residents of Hingola National Park. 

Apart from flora and fauna, the Hingola Park, considered to be the largest national park of Pakistan, also subdues 3 mud volcanoes, one amongst them is sacred for the pilgrims. The sensational geography also houses canyons that are magical to see and feel.

Shri Varun Dev Mandir:

Shiv Varun Dev Mandir, considered to be around 1000 years old, is located near Karachi’s flawless turquoise Manora beach. The sight of this ancient structure of the temple gives goosebumps, while the fresh blustery breeze from the sea nearby makes you feel magical about that place.

The exact details about when the first construction of the temple took place, are unknown, but the deity Varuna, to whom the Mandir is devoted, is known to represent water. Hence the temple is regarded by many fishermen and was constructed near the sea. 

The Grand Architecture Of The Mandir: 

The actual construction of the temple was done with stones and vibrant carvings on the wall and stucco work. The humid air from the sea has eroded the original structure up to some extent, but the remains of the temple still show how magnificent the temple was. The temple was later renovated in the early 1900s, and the primary thing considered before the renovation was that the current structure replicates the actual one.

The temple also houses two smaller temples, “The Jhooley Laal Mandir” and “The Shiv Mandir.” Besides these smaller temples, the Mandir also subdues two Gurdwaras for the Sikh community, and a church is also located nearby for the Christine community. Can you imagine what message this gives? Even the early people knew how to live together despite the cultural and religious differences.

The temple offers complete peace of mind with solace to the inner soul and spirit. The richly carved walls of the temple never cease to stun the viewers while the eloquent structure gives a deep sense of warmth. The inscriptions on the walls, the centuries-old architecture, and the beautiful seashore glorify the view. 

Reconstruction And Enhanced Beauty:

The temple is still highly regarded by the devotees, and they travel by sea from far and wide to kneel their foreheads to the deities present there. The reconstruction of this temple has made it very neat, and despite the religious beliefs, the temple’s beauty has made it a very popular spot for tourists from all around the world. 

The Shri Varun Dev Mandir has a historical significance that cannot be denied by any means. Tourists love it for its historical importance. And now, the control has been taken by the Sindh Exploration and Adventure Society under a US-government funded project to make it even more inviting for tourists.

JAGANNATH MANDIR, SIALKOT:

Among the historical Hindu temples, Jagannath temple is a must-see ancient site. The place has been opened for international and local visitors after 72 years. The Pakistan Hindu Council welcomes countless domestic and foreign tourists to visit the temple every year.

Jagannath Mandir was built in 12th AD in the district of Sialkot, Punjab, and is said to be the oldest Hindu temple in Pakistan. The temple is devoted to the Hindu God Jagannath, and this is a magnificent masterpiece of Kalinga architecture. 

The Mandir was first renovated in 2007 and then in 2018 to preserve its beauty. Though old, the temple still showcases the grandeur that it once held with the raised temple and the park that is included in the property.

How to reach Jagannath Mandir?

The Jagannath Mandir is located on Paris Road in the city. Tourists can reach the temple by;

Local transport- Rickshaw, Public coach, or a tanga. 

Own car

Witness the Hindus Pilgrimage activities:

The temple is a major trip destination for witnessing many Hindu traditions and ancient architecture. People usually spend 2 to 3 hours to explore the whole temple and enjoy the cultural and religious heritage.

You can witness the Hindu religion Pilgrimage activities. You can meet the Hindu Pundit’s and ask for more detailed historical information of the grand temple. A tourist can witness the beautiful architecture of the temple that reflects the history and cultural importance of the place. Reviews say that this is once in a lifetime experience.

 Click photographs and facility of instant photographs:

International and local tourists are allowed to take pictures that they can take back to their homes as memories. If you forget your DSLR or smartphone, you can get the services of instant photographers. They charge you nominally and click your photos inside the magnificent temple building and give it to you in the next 10 to 15 minutes.

Small heritage tuck shop:

Within the Jagannath Mandir, there is a small tuck shop where you can buy items that are related to Hinduism and also reflect the historical heritage of Hindu culture.  You can buy something for your Hindu friends and family back at home.

Pakistani Government has announced to reopen and restore the historical Hindu temples all across the country so that the people can visit these holy places for worship and tourism. Local and international tourists with a keen interest in history and archeology can visit these temples and learn a lot from these sites. 

Katas Raj Temple, Chakwal District, Punjab Province:

This beauty is the most reverenced among all the Hindu temples in Pakistan. Consisting of 12 temples, Katas Raj is a complex located in the Chakwal district in Punjab province of Pakistan. The splendid temples and the mystic pond takes you back in history to 1500 years ago when Ram, Hanuman, and Shiva (the Hindu Gods) ruled. 

A Little On Temples’ History:

Before we get into the spectacular details of the famous tourist spot, let’s shed some light on its history. These well-looked-after temples preserve at least 1500 years’ worth of history that ranges from the Buddhist era to British rule. According to the historical records, some temples were constructed in the Kashmiri architectural tradition back in the 11th century CE. 

The temples are built on square platforms, and the raise of sub-shrines appears to form a series of cornices with small rows of pillars, completed by a ribbed dome. The ceiling of the Hanuman Temple is undecorated, and lime plastered. The Shiva temple is also built on a platform with an entrance featuring a recessed arch, faint cusps, and a rectangular opening to the north. In many ways, this site is a wonder with its incredible architecture and history.

Famous Tourists Spots Around The Katas Raj Temples:

Katas Raj is very scenic with a green and blue lake water surrounded by lush green hills. Many famous tourist spots surround katas Raj temples. The complex is situated within the embrace of the Salt Range and Kallar Kahar, and the remains of a Gurdwara reside at a little distance from the pond, which Guru Nanak is believed to have stayed in during his journey around the world. 

Partially excavated remains of a Buddhist stupa close by also remind you of the time when Subcontinent came under the sway of Buddhism during the reign of Emperor Ashoka.

The Mystery That Surrounds The Pond:

Hindus believe that the beautiful pond was created when Lord Shiva was weeping while flying across the sky with his dead wife’s body. Out of the two tears that were shed, one created this pond where Pandavas came during their exile and built some of the older temples as the legend goes. Hindus believe that if you take a bath in this Holy Pond of Tears, it will wash away your sins.

According to some scriptures, it is said that the pond is manmade, and there are several water streams deep down under the surface of the water in Katas under the temples and in the base of the pond as well. Along the pond, there is a place for taking a holy bath by men while on the southern side, there is a ladies' bath. All these baths are made of marble.

The complex is like a maze; you can get lost in this ensemble of several old structures. However, you would want that because it represents the grandeur and splendor of the Hindu Rajas who lived 1000 years ago.

Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir:

If you are in Pakistan and want to visit an ancient miracle of Hindu Belief, then you can visit the Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir in Pakistan. It is in “Soldier Bazar Karachi” and is one of the ancient and oldest temples. 

This historic temple existed before the partition of India-Pakistan. According to myths, Bhagwan Shri Ram (the central character of India’s greatest Hindu epic Ramayan) had come here once.

A Little History On The Magnificent Temple:

The temple holds a special significance as Hindus believe that the statue present in the Mandir is not man-made as it is the only one that holds naturally created statue of Hanuman. 

This temple is the epitome of a historical masterpiece. It even existed before the partition of India-Pakistan and is believed to be seventeen hundred years old. Many years ago, a statue was found there. That statue had eight feet, and they were white and blue in color. The figure possessed all of Hanuman’s features as well as Narasimha, Adivaraha, Hayagriva, and Garuda.

As this Mandir is ancient and a sacred place for the Hindus as well, it was renovated in 2012 to preserve the tales it tells. During the renovation, different types of stones were used to enhance the beauty and charm of the place. During the refurbishment, 7-8 other statues of Hindu gods were also found along with;

Buffalo-like Idols

The Ganesha Idols

Sherawali Mata Idols 

Some Earthen Pots

The Incredible Structure:

When you enter the Mandir, you are struck with the beauty of the small front porch of Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir. It has pillars carved of yellow stones on either side with a black and white marble floor, a wide passage for clockwise circumambulation (parikrama / pradakshina) runs around it. 

People who visit the place really adore it for the trees present there as they have leaves of unusual shapes on them. Hanuman’s statue there is the spiritual attraction for Hindus and other devotees as well.

Ancient lore/Folklore Linked To The Mysterious Statue:

You can experience the essence of ancient lore here as the multiple communities like Maharashtrians, Sindhis, Balochis visit this temple on a regular basis. Hindus believe that once they complete 108 rounds around the chamber, their sins and worries vanish away. They find the Mandir a source of spiritual cleanliness. They have a firm belief that all scars present on soul disappear after the completion of rounds.

Devotees believe that the impressive idol of Lord Hanuman was found from the earth, and it is magical and sacred. They also say that if someone walks around the idol 11 or 21 times, all his wishes come true.

Kalka Devi Cave:

Sindh is home to many remarkable old Hindu temples. Approximately half an hour away from the Sadh Belo Temple, there is a place named as Arore. Arore is the place where one of the well-known Kalka Devi’s temple exists. This temple has a mountainous cave which is called the Kalka Devi Cave, and it is decorated with Kalka Devi sculptures.  

If you are fond of exploring the ancient religious places, then the Kalka Cave should be on your priority list.  

History of Kalka Devi Cave:

In the Shashthi language, Kalka means power. It is believed that Kalka Devi is Kali Maa (mother) of Hindus. They worship and think of her as their mother, who fought for different purposes and fought against the evil. She was a powerful lady having supernatural powers. It is believed that she was a religious and pious lady. She lived in the cave during the “Roy Dynasty.” It is said that she was the wife of a Hindu god, “Shiva.” Kali also symbolizes “Shakti,” which means:

Feminine energy 

Fertility 

Sexuality 

Ferocity 

Creativity

The Ambiance of Kalka Devi Cave:

The Kalka Devi temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. There are Kalka Devi’s sculptures, oil lamps, and incenses spread all around, which are somehow soothing to the senses. The Kalka Devi Cave has a low roof with ash grey caved walls. The strong and sweet smell of burnt incense (called Agar Batti in Pakistan) provides a perfect ambiance to pray, sit, and reflect.

The rooms which are built around the temple can be used for praying or for staying as well. The way to cave is through one of the rooms from where a five to six feet entrance will lead you towards the cave. When you are visiting the cave, you will be captivated and mesmerized by the mystical aura of sweet scents of incense. There are some rooms around the cave for the passengers as well. Food is served there three times a day. Some of the features you can enjoy at this religious spot include;

Hindu devotees pay homage to Kalka Devi on the first Monday night of every month and in spring and autumn (during the nine-day Hindu festival).

Devotees gather and sing various chorus and songs praising the Goddess Durga in a large organized fair.

The temple has an airy atmosphere, and it is bright with lights throughout the night. Followers also meditate there, and a “Tantric Arti” is held in the evenings as well.

Other than Hindu Tourists, people from all around the world also visit this Temple as tourists. 

Naval Mandar, Ranchor Lines, Karachi:

Tourism in Pakistan offers beautiful places that can quench the inner explorer in you with its mesmerizing geography and architectural monuments in all its provinces. 

Karachi, also known as the city of lights, is a wonderful place for tourists all over the world because of multiple reasons. This includes the mesmerizing beaches and seashores as well as sites depicting the history the city has to offer to tourists from all over the world. Naval Mandir is one of such sites. 

Naval Mandir may not be an ancient temple, but it is definitely a spot that is worth visiting when it comes to enjoying notable Hindu temples in Pakistan.

Naval Mandir – A Mystical Hindu Temple:

Naval Mandir is located in the Ranchor Lines area, which was formally called Gazdarabad and is near the famous Saddar Town in Karachi. The temple has served to be a holy place for people in the Hindu community for ages, and it has also been a shelter to a lot of homeless people.

Prominent historical figures like Guru Nanak, Rama, Shiva, Santoshi Mata, Ganesha, Vishnu, Hanuman, and Kali have been commemorated with their statues in this historical and one of the highly famous temples in Pakistan. During the festive seasons such as Holi and Diwali, the temple becomes a highlight with its mystical ambiance and history associated with it. 

People belonging to the Hindu community give special attention to this holy place during the festival season and do their rituals with full dedication. 

Structure of Naval Mandir: 

Naval Mandir temple extends to about two hundred square yards and is made of yellow stone bricks. The walls are further elaborated with polished marble surfaces. Naval Mandir in Karach houses several statues made of clay that gives it a special place among other temples belonging to the same era. 

If you are a sightseer in the city of lights and want to go on a historical expedition, this temple is an excellent place to start, given its antique significance. Moreover, the presence of different statues gives a sound knowledge about the different Gods and saints that are well celebrated in the Hindu religion since ancient times. 

The mystical vibes get thousand times stronger and better during Holi and Diwali. So if you are hanging around the spot, check the calendar for the festival time, and if you are lucky enough, make sure you get to see all the rituals and colors around. So, yes, it is one of the best old religious places to visit.

Gor Khattri and Gorakhnath Temple Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:

From the Mughal empire to the British Rule, and from the concoction of Muslim and Hindu unity to the artistic manifestation of the culture of Kashmir and Gilgit, Pakistan’s beauty is well depicted in its historic buildings. 

Gor Khattri and Gorakhnath temples are such examples of this beautiful architecture. Located in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the temples were built by the ancient Hindu community back in 1851. 

Out of all tourism features, the memorization that historical architecture brings on the table is simply unbeatable. Pakistan has a rich diversity of architecture that reflects the beautiful tales history has to tell us, and it is precisely what you experience when you visit Gor Khattri and Gorakhnath temples.

Location of Gorakhnath Temple: 

Located in Gor khatri in Peshawar, the Gorakhnath temple has its name derived from Gorakhshanath. He was a medieval saint and a Yogi who journeyed across different regions of the Indian subcontinent and spread his knowledge. His followers built various temples in his name across some highlighted areas of the subcontinent, where he earned significant fame and commemoration. One of these temples is present in the northern side of Pakistan and known as Goraknath temple.

The temple is open for travelers and serves as one of the famous historical attraction sites in Pakistan, depicting the antique architecture of the ancient residents in the region. 

The fortified compound has two well-evident gateways and covers an area of 160x160 square meters. A fire brigade building is present in the vicinity, which was built in 1917.

Gor Khattri – A Culturally Rich Tourist Attraction: 

Gor Khattri is a public park that is home to this temple. The Mughals built it as a way to preserve the ancient ruins of the Hindu heritage. Some history experts believe that Buddha lived in this place once. Besides this, the famous Mughal emperor Babar also visited the place, while Shah Jahan’s daughter, Jahan ara Begum, built a pavilion at the site. 

During the years from 1838 to 1842, the Sikh community converted it to a residential site and also built a Hindu Temple to commemorate Shiva there. The community at this temple performs the famous Sardukahr ritual. 

Given such a rich and diverse background, Gor Khattri and all temples related to the site, especially Gorakhnath temple, is a place worth visiting if you want to feel the mesmerizing vibes the area has to offer to visitors. 

So, which ancient temple is your pick for your next adventure?