English: Panchvaktra, name derived from the five avatars of Lord Shiva is situated at the confluence of two rivers,Suketi and Beas is built in Shikara style and in astonishing in its looks.
The temple is clearly visible from the starting of the Mandi-Bajaura road and takes around 7-10 minutes to reach by walking from the Victoria Bridge in Mandi.
The temple, holds a huge statue of Lord Shiva. The statue has five faces depicting the five avatars of Lord Shiva,namely Aghora, Ishana, Tat Purusha, Vaamdeva and Rudra. Angora is the destructive nature, Ishana is omnipresent and omnipotent, Tat Purusha is his ego, Vaamdeva is the female facet and Rudra is his creative and destructive aspect. Panchvaktra is the union of all five of these.
The foundation date of the Panhvaktra temple is still unknown. As per the facts and figures from our rich history, the temple was restored under the reign of Sidh Sen's kingship (1684-1727) after it was damaged due to flood. Main porch of the temple is supported by 4 minutely carved pillars.
The location and the temple itself is a treat for history loving people, its tranquility, peaceful ambiance and sound of river makes it a great place for gaining solitude.
The monument is considered as a national heritage by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and surely it is a place worth visiting.
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