Photo-Essay from Jakhu Temple, Shimla: Jai Shri Ram!

Jaya hanumāna Jnaana guna saagara
Jaya kapeesha tihu loka ujaagara

Rāma dūta atulita bala dhāmā
Anjani putra pavanasuta nāmā

The spiritually enchanting and lively Jakhoo Temple is an ancient temple in Shimla, dedicated to the Hindu deity Hanuman. It is situated on Jakhoo Hill, Shimla’s highest peak, 2.5 km east of the Ridge at a height of 2,455 m above sea level.

A giant 108-feet-high idol of Hanuman was unveiled at Jakhoo Hanuman temple on 4 November 2010. At 108 feet (33 m), it surpasses the statue of Christ the Redeemer

The temple is accessible by foot, horse, taxi or ropeway. 

Visitors can drink in the spectacular views offered at this level and enjoy the charming environs of the temple. I prefer the time before sunset. Seeing the same place by day and also during  the blue hour /golden hour is like visiting two places at the same time. 

Sanjauli, A suburb near Shimla city is a joyful place. It has a swag that keeps traditions beautifully alive. Following latest styles and trends the modern outlook in general keeps you engaged.

 A nice theme park for children to play within the temple premises.

Things to do in Shimla

Jakhoo Hill ropeway ride

Travellers can take a ride on the ropeway/ Gondola ride to catch some breathtaking views of Shimla Hills, Shimla town, Forests and a magnificent view of snow covered hills during winters as you reach an altitude higher than the Shimla city. In some places like the Mall road one can see a partial view of the tall statue of Hanumanji.

I do not take Pictures of temples, (mostly, prohibited) and therefore I can only share images of outside views like this one. Photography is allowed here, near the tall statue.

Bhandar

I reached the Jakhoo hill around 3 PM IST, and i was pleasantly surprised after the temple Darshan I was gently ushered into a long dining hall where food ‘bhandar’ was going on. The volunteers/staff requested that  I join the group and I was happy, for I always enjoy community dining and besides, realised was hungry too, and ready to delve into my meal. They served a simple, sumptuous meal that filled our stomachs and I was good to go and explore a little more before leaving for my next destination.

Note: The last meal served is around 3:30 PM.

Cafe under a Tree at 8100 Ft

 For others there is a Cafe under the tree amidst the deodar forests to enjoy a cup of warm tea or similar.

Sanjauli

I highly recommend to walk down to Shimla city, because enroute you can stop to drink some unique and colourful views of Sanjauli. There are a few cafes serving up Indian and Continental food as well.

I paid taxi, return fare of INR 300 from Shimla Railway Station to Jakhoo and drop off near Victory Tunnel Bus Stand.

Ropeway timings: 9:30 AM till Sunset . Ticket prices: one way INR 250 and two way INR 470.

How to reach Shimla

Shimla is connected by air, train and road.

Shimla airport: There are regular flights connecting Jubbarhatti to Delhi. Distance from Shimla city to Jubbarhatti Airport is 23 kms

The next nearest airport is Chandigarh which is 125 kms away.

Trains from Kalka to Shimla  https://www.irctc.co.in/nget/train-search

From Chandigarh to Kalka take a cab service. Kalka to Shimla is connected by narrow gauge mountain rail, which is a very interesting ride. The time taken is about four hours to traverse a distance of about 90 kms. It is well worth to explore the Queen of Hills on the way up and or take the bus on the way down to Chandigarh which is about 115 kms far. From Chandigarh there are several trains and flights connecting the rest of the country. 

Places to explore near Shimla

Mashobra

Kandaghat

Chail

Kufri

Shoghi

Shimla is also one of the starting points to enter the  Spiti Valley. Anyone interested to drive further can explore Lahaul and Spiti Valley from this city. Road Routes are open only during a particular season. Do check the weather forecast, and local guides, stays for local updates before planning to go further.