Can a Hindu Temple have Tibetan Architecture?

High above the plains & in the higher reaches of the Himalayas religions `converge' & intermingling among the Buddhists & Hindus is very common. 150 kilometers, east of Shimla lies a tiny hamlet, Sarahan where the Bhimakali Temple reputed to be at least 800 years old has both Buddhist & Hindu influences. In fact the exterior is distinctly Tibetan in its architectural style. It has slanted slate roofs, golden towers, pagodas and a carved silver door.

The Dassera festival is celebrated with grand fervor & passion, the tradition of animal sacrifice during the festival continues to this day. Goddess Bhimakali is the presiding deity of the former rulers of the Bushahar State (Shimla). The temple is special from the point of view is that, though cultures & religions co-exist, especially in hilly regions & mountainous areas of Northern India, Tibetan influences & wood carvings are extremely rare in a Hindu Shrine. This makes a visit to Bhimakali so special.Eastern Himachal is best visited during an Indian summer, Sarahan, though can be visited during the winter months as well, though the best time to visit is during the Dussehra festival held in October.