Jakhu Hill

Jakhu Hill is the highest peak in Shimla city, standing at an elevation of approximately 2,438 meters. It is renowned for housing the ancient Jakhu Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and featuring a 108-foot statue of the deity installed in 2010. The hill offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and Shimla town, serving as both a significant religious site and a popular vantage point accessible by trek, taxi, or ropeway.

Visitors can expect a steep uphill trek or a ropeway ride to reach the summit, which hosts the historic Jakhu Temple and a massive Hanuman statue. The site provides 360-degree views of Shimla and the surrounding Himalayan ranges amidst dense deodar forests. Monkeys are prevalent throughout the area and are known to be aggressive with food or loose items. The temple premises feature religious paintings and architecture, while the hill itself serves as a hiking destination.

According to mythology linked to the Ramayana, Lord Hanuman rested on this hill while searching for the Sanjeevani herb to revive Lakshmana, meeting Sage Yaaku here. Legend states that an idol of Hanuman appeared self-manifested after he departed, leading Sage Yaaku to construct the temple. The current 108-foot Hanuman statue was unveiled on November 4, 2010, at a cost of Rs 1.5 crores.

Jakhu Temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, particularly devotees of Lord Hanuman, and hosts an annual Dussehra festival that was previously held at Annadale before 1972. The monkeys residing around the shrine are culturally regarded as descendants of Hanuman's army. The temple represents traditional Kath kuni architecture and remains central to Shimla's religious identity.