Mandi facts for kids

Mandi is an important city in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is the main city of the Mandi District. People sometimes call it Choti Kashi or Varanasi of Hills because it has many old temples.

Mandi was once known as Mandav Nagar or Sahor. It is located about 153 kilometers (95 miles) north of Shimla, the state capital. The city sits in the beautiful Himalayas mountains. It is about 1,044 meters (3,425 feet) above sea level.

History of Mandi

Early Beginnings

The city of Mandi was founded in 1527 by a ruler named Ajbar Sen. He was a king of the Mandi State. The area was important for trade routes in the mountains.

Mandi as a Princely State

Before India became independent, Mandi was a princely state. This means it was ruled by its own king or prince. The rulers of Mandi were from the Sen dynasty. They built many temples and forts in the region.

Joining India

After India gained independence in 1947, the Mandi princely state joined the Union of India. It became part of the new state of Himachal Pradesh. Today, Mandi is an important administrative and cultural center.

Geography and Climate

Location in the Himalayas

Mandi is located in the north-west part of the Himalayas. The city is built along the banks of the Beas River. This river is very important for the region. The surrounding hills are covered with forests.

Weather in Mandi

Mandi has a mild climate. Summers are warm, with average temperatures around 29°C (84°F). Winters are cool, with temperatures around 17°C (63°F). The city gets a lot of rain, especially during the monsoon season. The average yearly rainfall is about 1,380 millimeters (54 inches).

People and Culture

Population and Languages

According to the 2011 census, Mandi has a population of about 62,624 people. Most people in Mandi speak Mandeali, which is a local language. English is also an official language.

Festivals and Traditions

Mandi is famous for its many temples and religious festivals. One of the most well-known is the Maha Shivaratri festival. During this time, hundreds of gods and goddesses from nearby villages gather in Mandi. It is a very colorful and lively event.

Education and Development

Mandi is a growing city with several schools and colleges. It is becoming an important center for education in Himachal Pradesh. The city also has good healthcare facilities.

Important Places to See

Temples of Mandi

Mandi is often called the "Varanasi of Hills" because it has more than 81 temples. Many of these temples are dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Some famous temples include:

• Bhootnath Temple: A very old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Triloknath Temple: Another ancient temple with beautiful carvings.
• Panchvaktra Temple: Located at the meeting point of the Beas and Suketi rivers.

Other Attractions

• Rewalsar Lake: A sacred lake located near Mandi. It is important for Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs.
• Prashar Lake: A beautiful lake with a floating island, surrounded by green meadows. It also has an ancient temple.
• Victoria Bridge: A historic bridge built over the Beas River, similar to the one in London.

See also

• In Spanish: Mandi para niños