Top 10 Hindu Temples In Pakistan

Pakistan, a land often shrouded in mystery, evokes a complex mix of emotions when mentioned. However, hidden within its borders lie some of the most ancient and breathtaking Hindu temples, which serve as a testament to the country's diverse heritage and history.

According to a survey by the All Pakistan Hindu Rights Movement, Pakistan is home to approximately 428 Hindu temples, but sadly, only about 20 of them have managed to withstand the test of time. These temples have faced numerous challenges, including attacks during events such as the 1992 riots, the 2014 Larkana temple attack, and the 2019 Ghotki riots, to name a few. Many of these sacred places have been converted into mosques, hotels, and libraries, or even left to deteriorate, resulting in missing idols, dried-up holy ponds, and more.

Despite the adversities, some of these temples still stand proudly, attracting pilgrims from all over. Hindus make up only about 2.14% of Pakistan's population, but the country continues to cherish these valuable cultural treasures. Let's delve into the top 10 most remarkable Hindu temples in Pakistan.

  1. Shri Hinglaj Mata Temple 

Shri Hinglaj Mata Temple, also known as Nani Mandir, is a major pilgrimage site in Pakistan, drawing around 250,000 devotees during the Hinglaj Yatra. It is situated in Balochistan and is one of the three Shakti Peeths in Pakistan, alongside Shivaharakaray and Sharda Peeth.

  2. Shivaharakaray 

Shivaharakaray, the oldest Hindu temple in Pakistan, is located near Karachi. It is a place of worship dedicated to Goddess Sati as Mahishasurmardini, the slayer of the demon Mahishasur. Legend has it that the third eye of Devi Sati fell at this sacred site.

  3. Sharda Peeth 

Sharda Peeth, now in ruins, can be found near Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. According to Puranic tales, the right hand of Goddess Sati fell here, and it's located a mere 10 kilometres from the Line of Control that divides India and Pakistan.

  4. Churrio Jabal Durga Mata Temple 

Churrio Jabal Durga Mata Temple is another significant Mata temple, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, and it welcomes around 200,000 devotees during the Mahashivratri festival.

  5. Ramapir Temple, Tando Allahyar 

The beautiful Ramapir Temple in Tando Allahyar witnesses a large influx of pilgrims during the Ramdev Pir mela every year. This magnificent temple was constructed in 1859.

  6. Shri Katas Raj Temple 

Shri Katas Raj Temple, also known as Qila Katas, holds profound significance as it houses the idol of Lord Shiva. Located in the Punjab region of Pakistan, this temple complex is surrounded by a sacred pond, believed to have been created by Lord Shiva's teardrop. It is also said that the Pandavas spent a significant part of their exile here.

  7. Umarkot Shiv Mandir 

The Umarkot Shiv Mandir, also known as Amarkot Shiv Mandir, stands as the oldest temple in Sindh Province. Adorned with a magnificent Shiv Lingam, it draws a large crowd during the three-day Shivratri festival.

  8. Shri Swaminarayan Mandir 

One of the largest Hindu temples in Pakistan, the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Karachi, served as a refugee camp during the tumultuous 1947 partition and was even visited by Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

  9. Manshera Shiv Temple 

The Manshera Shiv Temple, with a history dating back 2,000-3,000 years, stands as one of the oldest Hindu temples in Pakistan. Situated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it has been partially restored after years of neglect and abandonment.

  10. Shri Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir 

Situated in Soldier Bazar, Karachi, the Shri Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir is a precious temple, boasting a natural statue of Lord Hanuman. This temple believed to be around 1,500 years old, holds religious significance as it is believed that Lord Rama visited the site during his exile.

In conclusion, Pakistan's rich heritage includes these magnificent Hindu temples, which, despite their challenges, continue to be a vital part of the nation's culture, history, and traditions. It's now easier than ever to visit these temples, thanks to the efforts of organizations like the Pakistan Hindu Mandirs Management Committee, which oversees their maintenance and management. As times change, the warmth and hospitality of the people, along with the rich culture and delicious cuisine, make a visit to these temples a truly memorable experience. After all, these sacred sites remind us that, despite human-made divisions, the divine transcends all boundaries.