Narayan Nagini Temple is located in the beautiful hill village of Kalpa, in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The temple is believed to be 5000 years old.
The temple is believed to have been built during the early rule of the Kinnauri kings, who were great patrons of temple art and architecture. Kalpa is situated at an altitude of around 2,960 meters (9,711 feet) and offers a spectacular view of the Kinnaur Kailash mountain range. The temple is positioned on a hilltop above the village and can be reached by walking uphill through narrow stone paths.
The temple is dedicated to two main deities: Lord Narayan (a form of Lord Vishnu) and Goddess Nagini, a serpent goddess who is deeply respected in local Kinnauri traditions. Lord Narayan is worshipped as the universe’s protector, while Goddess Nagini symbolizes nature, fertility, rain, and protection from evil. Their worship together reflects the deep bond between divine power and natural elements in this region.
The Narayan Nagini Temple is a brilliant example of Himachali and Kinnauri wooden temple architecture. The temple structure is mostly built with wood and stone, featuring a multi-tiered pagoda-style roof, beautifully carved wooden beams, and a strong stone foundation. The door panels and walls are engraved with traditional symbols, floral motifs, and divine figures, reflecting the fine craftsmanship of the Kinnauri people. The temple complex includes a main sanctum (garbhagriha), a courtyard, and a covered wooden gallery. The temple blends perfectly with the natural surroundings and offers a serene atmosphere.
Long ago, the region of Kalpa in the Kinnaur Himalayas was known for its natural beauty and spiritual energy. The land was believed to be guarded by Nagini Devi, a powerful serpent goddess who lived in the forests and streams of the mountains. The local people worshipped her as the protector of the land, who brought rain for crops, prosperity, and safety from evil forces.
As time passed, the people of Kalpa faced many challenges from harsh weather, landslides, and unseen dangers. It was then that *Lord Narayan* (a form of *Lord Vishnu) is believed to have descended from the heavens to protect the region. Lord Narayan chose to unite his powers with Nagini Devi to maintain **peace, balance, and order* in this sacred land.
It is said that the very hill where the Narayan Nagini Temple now stands is the *spot where both deities revealed themselves* in divine form. The villagers built a temple there to honour this sacred union. Ever since, both *Lord Narayan and Goddess Nagini* are worshipped together in the temple — symbolizing *divine protection and the harmony between nature and the cosmos*.
The local people believe praying at this temple with true devotion can remove obstacles, protect families from danger, bring good harvests, and bless them with peace and prosperity. The spiritual energy of both Narayan and Nagini continues to guide and bless the village of Kalpa even today.
One of the most significant events is the Fulaich Festival (also known as the Flower Festival), usually celebrated in September. During this time, the first flowers of the season are offered to the deity, and villagers wear traditional attire, sing folk songs, and perform masked dances to honour the gods.
The temple also celebrates Janmashtami, the birth of Lord Krishna (an avatar of Narayan), with bhajans, special poojas, and community feasts.
