Takshak Nag Mandir is located at Chhika near Jagatsukh in the Ujjhi Valley of Kullu, in Himachal Pradesh. The temple is situated on a high hill surrounded by dense deodar forests. Devotees reach the shrine after a trekking climb of about two hours from Jagatsukh village.
The temple is believed to be very ancient and associated with the period of the Mahabharata. Local traditions connect the temple with sage worship and serpent traditions dating back to the Mahabharata era, making it one of the old Nag shrines of the Kullu region.
The presiding deity of the temple is Nagraj Takshak, who is considered one of the eight powerful serpents of Patal Lok. Takshak Nag is worshipped as the guardian deity of the region. A Shivling is also present in the temple, and Lord Shiva is worshipped along with Takshak Nag. Devotees pray here for protection, welfare, and removal of negative forces.
The temple is built on a rectangular platform in traditional Himachali style. The structure features wooden craftsmanship and decorative carvings made by local villagers. The use of wood and stone reflects the mountain temple architecture of the Kullu valley. The temple is surrounded by deodar forests and scenic Himalayan mountains, creating a peaceful spiritual atmosphere.
The temple is connected with the Tapasthali of Dhoumya Rishi, who is believed to have performed meditation, japa, and paath at this sacred place. Over time, this location became associated with Takshak Nag, who was entrusted with guarding the region. The temple later became an important spiritual center where villagers performed rituals for protection and welfare.
According to mythology, this place was the Tapasthali of Dhoumya Rishi. It is believed that the sage performed intense penance here, and Lord Shiva is present nearby in the form of a Pindi.
After the Kurukshetra war described in the Mahabharata, the Pandavas were affected by the sin of Gotra Hatya. On the advice of Krishna, they decided to perform prayers under their family priest Dhoumya Rishi. When they sent a messenger to invite him, the sage refused to leave his Tapasthali.
Lord Krishna then entrusted Takshak Nag with the responsibility of guarding the sacred region. Since then, it is believed that Takshak Nag has been protecting the area from the Mahabharata period. Devotees believe the deity safeguards the valley, crops, and villagers from natural calamities and negative forces.
The temple celebrates a village fair after the Docha Mocha festival in the Beas Valley, usually held in May. Devotees gather and perform rituals for the welfare of the community.
Nag Panchami is another important festival when serpent deities are worshipped with special prayers. Shivaratri is also significant, as locals believe snakes emerge from hibernation during this period and prayers are offered to Lord Shiva and Takshak Nag.
