Jakhoo Temple Trek
About this activity
Perched atop Jakhoo Hill, the highest peak in Shimla at an elevation of 2,455 meters, the Jakhoo Temple is a significant spiritual landmark dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is famous not just for its religious importance but also for the colossal 108-foot-tall orange statue of Lord Hanuman that towers over the trees and is visible from most parts of Shimla.
Reaching the temple is an adventure in itself. You can embark on a steep but rewarding trek of about 2.5 kilometers from the Ridge. The path winds through a dense forest of deodar trees, offering spectacular glimpses of the town and the surrounding Shivalik ranges. As you climb higher, the air gets cooler and the views more expansive. For those unable to trek, ponies and taxis are available, and there's also a ropeway that offers a scenic aerial ride to the top.
Legend has it that Lord Hanuman stopped at this very spot to rest while searching for the Sanjeevani Booti to heal Lord Lakshmana during the epic battle of Ramayana. The temple houses footprints believed to be of the deity. Devotees flock here in large numbers, especially on Tuesdays and during festivals like Dussehra and Hanuman Jayanti, to seek blessings.
Be prepared to encounter the resident monkeys of Jakhoo Hill! They are notoriously mischievous and known to snatch glasses, cameras, and food from unsuspecting visitors. It's advisable to secure your belongings and rent a stick at the entrance to keep them at bay. Despite their localized terror, they are an integral part of the temple's charm.
Once at the top, the panoramic view is mesmerizing. You can see the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas standing guard in the distance and the town of Shimla sprawling below. The temple complex provides a peaceful atmosphere for prayer and reflection. The sheer size of the Hanuman statue is awe-inspiring up close.
A visit to Jakhoo Temple combines spirituality, physical activity, name and nature. It's a place where myth and majesty meet, offering one of the best vantage points in all of Shimla.