Jakhu Temple

Jakhu Hill · Shimla · Himachal Pradesh · India

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About Jakhu Temple

Jakhu Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, situated on Jakhu Hill, the highest peak in Shimla at 2,438 meters. It houses a 108-foot statue of Hanuman, considered among the world's largest. The site holds mythological significance linked to the Ramayana and hosts an annual Dussehra festival. Visitors can access the temple via a 2 km trek, taxi, pony, or the Jakhu Ropeway.

Visitors guide

Visitors can expect darshan at an ancient Hanuman shrine featuring a massive 108-foot idol and panoramic views of Shimla and the Himalayas. The premises include resident monkeys and forested surroundings accessible by foot or ropeway. The site offers spiritual atmosphere combined with scenic vistas from the city's highest point. Facilities are basic, focusing on religious worship rather than commercial tourism amenities.

Key highlights

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Ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman on Shimla's highest peak
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Features a 108-foot tall statue of Lord Hanuman
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Located at 2,438 meters elevation offering panoramic Himalayan views
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Associated with Ramayana legend of Hanuman's search for Sanjeevani herb
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Accessible via 2 km forest trek or Jakhu Ropeway
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Hosts annual Dussehra festival celebrations
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No entry fee for temple visit

History of Jakhu Temple

According to mythology, the temple marks where Lord Hanuman met sage Yaaku while searching for the Sanjeevani herb during the Ramayana era. Legend states that after Hanuman departed without meeting the sage again, an idol appeared spontaneously, prompting Yaaku to build the temple. The site has hosted Dussehra celebrations historically, previously held at Annadale before 1972.

Culture & Context

The temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hanuman devotees and central to Shimla's religious identity. Resident monkeys are considered descendants of Hanuman's army. The annual Dussehra festival draws significant local participation and reinforces community traditions tied to the Ramayana narrative.

Route

By air

Keep exploring nearby

Discover more nearby attractions and build a fuller day around this stop.

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Lakkar Bazaar

Lakkar Bazaar is a historic market located adjacent to The Ridge in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, specializing in wooden handicrafts and souvenirs. Established over a century ago by Sikh carpenters from Hoshiarpur, the market is renowned for hand-carved walking sticks, toys, and decorative items made from local wood. It remains a prominent cultural landmark and shopping destination reflecting Shimla's colonial-era craft traditions and Himalayan woodworking heritage.

Shimla, Himachal PradeshMarket

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The Ridge

The Ridge is a large pedestrian open space located in the heart of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, running east to west alongside Mall Road. It serves as the cultural hub of the city and connects major landmarks including Christ Church and Scandal Point. Built over historic water reservoirs constructed in the 1880s, this traffic-free promenade features colonial architecture, statues of prominent national figures, and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. It hosts major events like the Summer Festival.

Shimla, Himachal PradeshPromenade

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Christ Church

Christ Church is a neo-Gothic heritage church located on The Ridge in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Built between 1844 and 1857, it is the second oldest church in North India. Designed by Colonel J.T. Boileau, the pale yellow structure features five stained glass windows representing Christian virtues and houses the largest pipe organ in the Indian subcontinent. It remains an active place of worship under the Church of North India and serves as a prominent colonial-era landmark visible from across the city.

Shimla, Himachal PradeshChurch

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Kali Bari Temple

Kali Bari Temple is a historic Hindu temple located on Bantony Hill in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Established in 1845 by Bengali saint Ram Charan Brahmachari, it is dedicated to Goddess Kali in her form as Shyamala, from whom the city of Shimla derives its name. The temple features traditional Deula architecture and houses a blue wooden idol of the deity. It serves as a significant religious site and cultural landmark near Mall Road.

Shimla, Himachal PradeshTemple

By train	Nearest station is Shimla Railway Station, 3.2 km away; connected via Kalka-Shimla UNESCO toy train

By road	Taxis and shared taxis available from The Ridge or Mall Road; approximately 3 km drive from Shimla bus stand

By public transport	Shared HRTC taxis available from The Ridge; Jakhu Ropeway operates from near Shiwalik Hotel

Nearest airport	Jubbarhatti Airport

Nearest railway station	Shimla Railway Station

Need to know

01Things to know before you go	Resident monkeys are abundant and may be aggressive; secure food items and belongings Ropeway operates separately from temple hours (typically 9:30 AM to sunset) with paid tickets The 2 km trek from The Ridge takes 30-45 minutes uphill through pine forest Ponies are available as alternative transport for those unable to walk the steep path
02Rules & restrictions	Footwear must be removed before entering temple sanctum Feeding monkeys is discouraged due to safety concerns Photography may be restricted inside main sanctum area
03Safety information	Monkeys can snatch food, glasses, and loose items; keep belongings secured Steep trekking path requires appropriate footwear and physical fitness Weather conditions can change rapidly at high altitude; carry rain gear

Facilities listed

Reported facilities to help you plan your visit.

Food Stalls
Parking
Ropeway