Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is located in Khaniyara village, near Dharamshala, in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. The temple is situated at the foothills of the Dhauladhar mountain range, surrounded by forests, rocks, and a flowing mountain stream.
The present temple structure is believed to be around 500 years old. However, the spiritual importance of this place is considered much older, as local traditions associate it with the Mahabharata period.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Aghanjar Mahadev.
The word Aghan means sin, and Jar means destroyer. Hence, Aghanjar Mahadev signifies Lord Shiva as the Destroyer of sins. The main deity is worshipped in the form of a Shiva Lingam, and devotees believe that sincere prayers here purify the mind and soul.
Aghanjar Mahadev Temple follows a simple Himalayan-style architecture, mainly constructed using stone. There is no elaborate ornamentation, but the temple’s simplicity reflects deep spiritual strength. The shrine blends naturally with its surroundings, and the sound of flowing water nearby enhances the peaceful atmosphere.
According to local tradition and oral history, Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is associated with the Mahabharata period. It is believed that Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers, travelled through this Himalayan region while performing penance to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The quiet forests and mountain surroundings of present-day Khaniyara are said to have been suitable for deep meditation.
Local belief holds that Lord Shiva was pleased with Arjuna’s devotion and blessed him during his spiritual journey. Because of this sacred association, the place came to be worshipped as Aghanjar Mahadev, the Destroyer of sins.
As part of a long-standing devotional belief, a hidden Shiva Lingam known as Gupteshwar Mahadev is associated with the temple area, believed to be located near a natural rock formation close to the flowing stream. Devotees believe that this lingam remains protected even during heavy rains by divine grace. This belief forms part of the living oral tradition of the temple, passed down through generations, though it is not supported by archaeological records.
Maha Shivaratri is the most important festival celebrated here, attracting large numbers of devotees.
The Shravan month (July–August) is considered very auspicious, with special poojas and abhishekams. Mondays, sacred to Lord Shiva, see regular offerings of milk, water, and bilva leaves.
