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Shimla, also known as the “Queen of Hills,” is an excellent tourist place. Decked with various religious attractions, it offers an amazing spiritual experience. Shimla temples are particularly famous for their historical and spiritual significance. Nestled amidst the natural, unadulterated splendour, the region boasts several religious edifices and magnificent temples. Some of the best temples in Shimla are ancient shrines that offer an opportunity to not only seek solace but also a chance to dig into their rich history at the same time.
10 Shimla Temples
Explore the spiritual core of Shimla temples by visiting these ten must-see holy shrines that offer a combination of history, culture, and devotion.
1. Jakhoo Temple
Photo: minaxi choudhary / Wikimedia Commons
The Jakhoo Temple, located atop Jakhoo Hill, is one of the most famous temples in Shimla. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, it stands at an elevation of 2,455 metres, making it Shimla’s highest point. According to mythology, Lord Hanuman stopped here while hunting for the Sanjeevani plant in the epic Ramayana. The temple is notable for its towering 108-feet Hanuman statue, which can be seen from all across the city. Beyond beautiful deodar trees, Jakhoo Temple provides spiritual tranquillity and panoramic views of the picturesque Himalayan scenery.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (90 km)
2. Kali Bari Temple
Photo: MannaSourav / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kali Bari Temple, located in the centre of Shimla, is a famous religious monument devoted to Goddess Kali, also known as Goddess Shyamala, the deity after whom Shimla is named. The temple, founded in 1845 by Bengali devotees, creates a peaceful mood in its gorgeous surroundings. The temple’s basic yet exquisite construction and spiritual importance draw both believers and tourists. Being one of the most popular temples in Shimla, it is incredibly colourful during holidays, like Durga Puja and Navratri.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (90 km)
3. Tara Devi Temple
Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons
Tara Devi Temple, located atop Tara Parvat, is a sacred temple devoted to Goddess Tara, a manifestation of Goddess Durga. The temple, around 11 kilometres from Shimla, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped mountains. The temple, built over 250 years ago by the Sen dynasty, has enormous spiritual value and is noted for its serene atmosphere. The temple’s tranquil location among deep forests of oak and rhododendrons makes it a favourite destination for devotees and environment enthusiasts. Tara Devi Temple offers Shimla’s ideal combination of spirituality, history, and natural beauty.
Best Time To visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (80 km)
4. Sankat Mochan Temple
Photo: Rahul Mishra / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Sankat Mochan Temple, set in beautiful countryside on the outskirts of Shimla, is a tranquil sanctuary devoted to Lord Hanuman. Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj established the temple in 1950, it is one of the oldest temples in Shimla. The temple complex, located around 7 km from Shimla along the Kalka-Shimla Highway, also has shrines for Lord Rama, Shiva, and Ganesha. The quiet ambiance and magnificent views of the surrounding hills make Sankat Mochan Temple a pleasant refuge for tourists seeking spiritual fulfilment and a profound connection with nature.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (90 km)
5. Kamna Devi Temple
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Kamna Devi Temple, located on Prospect Hill, is a scenic temple devoted to Goddess Kamna Devi, a manifestation of Goddess Kali. Situated around 6 km from Shimla’s city centre, it is one of the best temples in Shimla. Surrounded by deep pine and deodar trees, the temple provides beautiful views of the Shimla Valley and neighbouring hills. The tranquil setting and picturesque hike to the temple contribute to its allure, making it a pleasant refuge for those seeking spiritual tranquillity and a deeper connection with nature amid Shimla’s tranquil surroundings.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (90 km)
6. Mahasu Devta Temple
Photo: Aditya Gairola / Wikimedia Commons
The Mahasu Devta Temple, located in the small town of Hanol near Shimla, is an old and revered temple devoted to Mahasu Devta, the primary god of the region’s indigenous populations. This temple, with its distinctive wooden architecture and beautiful carvings, is culturally and religiously noteworthy. The temple, which is said to be over nine centuries old, draws followers from all across the region, particularly during the exuberant Mahasu Jatra festival, which features traditional music, dance, and ceremonies. Set against the picturesque Himalayas, Mahasu Devta Temple provides a profound spiritual experience rooted in history and local traditions.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (100 km)
7. Laxminarayan Temple
Photo: MOHINDER SINGH DHARI / Wikimedia Commons
The Laxminarayan Temple, located in the centre of Shimla, is a lovely temple devoted to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. Built-in 1882, this temple has spectacular neo-Gothic architecture, elaborate stone carvings, and rich decoration. The temple has cultural and religious significance, attracting worshippers seeking blessings for wealth and well-being. Surrounded by rich grounds, the temple creates a quiet ambience, making it an ideal tourist getaway. The Laxminarayan Temple is a place of worship and a historical monument, reflecting Shimla’s rich architectural legacy and spiritual soul.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (90 km)
8. Shri Shyamala Devi Temple
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Shri Shyamala Devi Temple is one of the prominent Shimla temples that honours Goddess Shyamala, an avatar of Goddess Kali. The temple is significant spiritually since the city of Shimla is named after this god. Nestled in the calm hills, the temple provides a peaceful getaway for both devotees and tourists. The temple’s basic yet profound design makes it a must-see destination for anyone seeking heavenly favours and a deeper connection to the region’s spiritual legacy. It is incredibly dynamic during festivals, which draw a large number of pilgrims and tourists.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (90 km)
9. Mahunag Temple
Photo: Dev Patel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Mahunag Temple, located in the picturesque town of Mahunag near Shimla, is a respected temple devoted to Mahunag, the snake deity. The temple, located amidst lush vegetation and surrounded by gorgeous hills, is known for its quiet environment. The temple’s traditional Himachali architecture, embellished with elaborate wooden carvings, adds to its appeal. Devotees come to Mahunag Temple to seek blessings and protection against illnesses. The temple regularly conducts spectacular fairs and festivals, which attract both residents and tourists. Its peaceful surroundings and spiritual importance make it a must-see location for anyone visiting Shimla’s spiritual landscape.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station (70 km)
10. Dhingu Mata Temple
Photo: Mehmet Tirgut Kirkgoz / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Dhingu Mata Temple is a lovely temple dedicated to Goddess Dhingu Mata. The temple provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped mountains, making it a relaxing getaway for both devotees and nature enthusiasts. During festivals, the temple becomes very bright, offering an opportunity to partake in ancient ceremonies and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere. Dhingu Mata Temple is a must-see for anybody wanting to experience Shimla’s spiritual and natural splendour.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station (7 km)
Shimla temples provide a riveting combination of spirituality, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. Each temple has distinct beauty and importance, encouraging tourists to discover the region’s rich cultural legacy. These hallowed locations are a must-see whether you want tranquilly, devotion, or adventure. Plan your trip to Shimla with TripXL for a smooth journey, and explore this wonderful place’s spiritual riches!
Cover Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons
