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Famous Temples in Shimla
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It is a well known fact that Himachal has always been the land of Gods and deities. Many sages and saints came and meditated in the Himalayas of Himachal. Lord Shiva, Lord Rama, Lord Hanuman and many others have been related to Himachal in some or the other way. The places where they lived, meditated or placed their foot became holy places later. People started worshiping those places in the name of these Gods. Eventually people constructed temples in such places so that the place could be remembered always. There are innumerable examples of such temples in different parts of Himachal Pradesh which have certain religious history associated with them.
Shimla, the capital city has also a large number of holy temples. The name ‘Shimla’ itself is derived from the name of Goddess ‘Shyamla Devi’. Here I am going to give a brief introduction about the prominent temples located in main Shimla.
Hanuman Temple at Jakhoo Hills, Shimla:
One of the famous temples of Hanumanji is located at chilling height of about 7500 feet at a place known as the Jakhoo Hills, Shimla. Jakhoo Temple is at a distance of about 1km from the Church, the Ridge Shimla and it takes about 25 minutes to complete this trek. Though the trek has a steep ascent but the shadow of tall deodar trees all around makes the walk thrilling.
The history behind Jakhoo temple is really interesting. It is believed that the establishment of this temple is associated since the era of lord Rama. According to Ramayana, when Lakshmana was wounded and had lost consciousness, then Hanuman was called to bring the medicinal plant from the Himalayas. Failing in recognizing that particular plant, Hanumanji took the entire mountain in his hands. It is then said that during this journey, he felt tired and in order to rest he placed one of his foot at Kasauli, Solan and the other at Jakhoo Hills. Since then this place is worshipped in his name.
The existence of naughty monkeys in the surrounding place really makes it a place of ‘Vanras’ as Hanumanji himself was a ‘Vanar’. Tourists coming Shimla, often visit this temple. During the Dussherra festival, the main event of burning the effigies of Ravna, Kumbhakarna and Meghdoot is also done here. This event is witnessed by the Chief Minister himself.
Kali Bari Temple, Shimla:
Kali Bari Temple is dedicated to goddess ‘Kali Mata’. It is situated near the Fingask Estate. It takes just 10 minutes by foot from the Mall Road, Shimla to reach kali Bari temple. Kali Bari Temple is located just right above the famous Cecil Hotel, Shimla. The temple has a very beautiful architecture. Whole of the temple is fully marbled. There is one entrance for the temple and separate exit. Inside the temple lies the main idol of the goddess where people pray and receive the blessings.
Sankat Mochan Temple, Shimla:
This is another temple dedicated to Hanumanji. It is located at a distance of about 4 kilometers from the main bus stand, Shimla. The temple has a fantastic area with numerous small idols and temples. Hundreds of people come every day to visit this holy temple.
Tara Devi Temple:
This is the temple of ‘Tara Mata’ one of the incarnations of Lord Shiva’s wife, Parvati. Tara Devi Temple is situated at a distance of about 8 kilometers from the main Shimla. Earlier it was bit difficult to reach the temple as it was at a walk of about 30 minutes from the main road but now a link road has been made to the temple premises. Thus making an ease for the worshipers. It is a very big temple with thousands of crowd visiting every day. On every Sunday, ‘Bhandaras’ are organized by the temple authorities for the people visiting the temple.
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