The Menri Monastery, Dolanji Solan

 

COVID 19 Vaccination

A countrywide COVID-19 Vaccination drive has has been rolled out on 16th January, 2021. In district Solan 30 places have been identified in different medical blocks for this drive. Health workers and front-line workers will receive the vaccination doses in the first phase. The second group to receive the vaccine will be persons above 50 years of age and person under 50 years of age living with comorbidity. It has been seen that many health-workers who have registered, are backing out on one pretext or other and a sense of doubt is visible among people regarding vaccine. However, the administration and health authorities have urged not to pay heed to the rumours. 

There are certain questions/doubts in the mind of general public regarding the vaccination. We are trying to address some of the question below:

When is COVID 19 Vaccination Scheduled?

Vaccination has started on 16th January, 2021. 

Who will get the vaccination in which phases?

Is it mandatory to get the vaccine?

No, it is completely volunteer , but it highly advised to take the vaccine.

Person recovered from COVID 19 should get the vaccine?

Yes, it will help to develop a strong immune system. 

Are there possible side-effects of the vaccine?

Similar to the other vaccines, there may be some common side-effects like mild fever, pain etc at site of injection. 

If you have any other question/doubt, please mention in the comment below. 

Source: Various newspaper & website of Ministry of Health Govt of India

Jatoli Temple – The Tallest Lord Shiva Temple in Asia, Solan

If you are a spiritual seeker or a traveler who loves exploring hidden architectural gems, Jatoli Temple in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, deserves a top spot on your bucket list. Known as the tallest Lord Shiva temple in Asia, this sacred site is not just a religious destination but also an architectural marvel that draws thousands of devotees and tourists every year.

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History and Significance

The word “Jatoli” comes from the Hindi word “Jata”, which refers to the long, matted hair of Lord Shiva. The temple got its name because of the massive Shivalinga and the towering architecture that symbolizes Lord Shiva’s divine form. Built in the South Indian Dravidian style, the temple took almost 39 years to complete and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer and transformer in the Hindu Trinity.

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Architectural Marvel

Standing at an impressive height of 111 feet, the Jatoli Temple features intricate carvings, a massive dome, and stunning stone work that reflects traditional Indian craftsmanship. The main sanctum houses a Shivalinga, and the temple’s design is influenced by South Indian temple architecture, making it unique in the hills of Himachal.

The temple’s grandeur is further enhanced by the spiritual aura and panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The three-tier structure, ornate pillars, and sculptures make it a visual delight for architecture lovers.

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Spiritual Importance

Devotees believe that Lord Shiva blessed this land and that worshipping here fulfills one’s wishes. Every year during Mahashivratri, the temple hosts a grand fair that attracts thousands of pilgrims. Rituals, chanting of mantras, and the sound of temple bells create a serene, divine experience.

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How to Reach Jatoli Temple

• Location: Around 7 km from Solan town on Rajgarh Road.

• Nearest Railway Station: Solan Railway Station (approx. 8 km).

• Nearest Airport: Shimla (approx. 45 km).

• Best Time to Visit: October to June (clear weather and scenic beauty).

Local transport like taxis and buses are easily available from Solan town.

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Tips for Visitors

✔ Carry water and light snacks – the climb can be tiring for some.

✔ Dress modestly, as it is a revered temple.

✔ Photography is allowed in the outer premises, but respect the sanctity of the inner sanctum.

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Why Visit Jatoli Temple?

Jatoli Temple is not just a place of worship — it’s a blend of faith, art, and nature. Whether you are a devotee of Lord Shiva, an architecture enthusiast, or a nature lover, this temple offers an experience that stays in your heart forever.

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"Golden Rays and Silent Skies: A Poetic View"

"When the sun hides behind the clouds,

And the sky whispers in golden shrouds,

Hope peeks through in a shining ray,

Promising light at the end of the day." 

Evergreen Pines

 

Lush Green Pines hiding the Sun by stretching their contorted arms. 

 

River of Cloud

 A beautiful scene of mist flowing along the valley captured early in the morning on Solan -Nahan Road, near Sarahan, HImachal Pradesh, India. 

ये दरिया हे  धुंद का या के धुंद में दरिया  

Garkhal Village

 A small, but quite popular and extremely beautiful village located in the close vicinity of Kasauli town. The village is very popular among people of almost all over the country for the famous Baba Balak Nath Temple situated at the Glanag Parvat at Garkhal.  Here are some more photos of the village take from the temple 

Coming soon.....

सवर्णिम धुल

वो देखो अद्भुत रथ पे 

सवार सूरज आया। 

अंधकार को चीरता 

सवर्णिम धुल उड़ाता आया। 

वो देखो अद्भुत रथ पे 

सवार सूरज आया। 

हर वो चीज़ जो 

उसके सामने आयी 

उसको सवर्णिम करता आया। 

वो देखो अद्भुत रथ पे 

सवार सूरज आया। 

 

चाँद की धुप में (Chand ki Dhoop me)

चाँद की धूप में हैं खड़े पहाड़ ।

सूरज की चांदनी की प्रतीक्षा में हैं खड़े पहाड़ ।।

Temple of Patta Ghat

A beautiful village temple of Maa Kali is situated on the hilltop near the Chewa Village in District Solan of State of Himachal Pradesh. This Devisthan is called PATTAGHAT. Devi is worshiped by the villagers of the surrounding villages. The enchanting temple is surrounded by the thick pine forest. A local fair is organized on the occasion of Baisakhi in the month of April. There are many routes to reach the temple. I will explain to you the easiest way to reach. The temple is on a 6 KM drive from Solan City to the village Chewa and thereafter a moderate track of 3 KM. 

Patta Ghat Kali Temple 

Yagya Kuti near the temple.

Rejoicing Warriors - fighting, winning and dancing

Thoda Dance, a traditional folk dance of Solan District. Its a  war dance which is performed before the soldiers going on war. The dance is performed with a bow and arrow. In this dance the dancers, in the traditional dresses, portray the scene of war. Dancers aim with their arrow at the feet of the person dancing with Peacock  Feathers. Traditional music instruments Dhol, Nagara, Been and Dhonkuru are played. The performance is filled with thrill, excitement, and fun.