The Jatoli Temple, named after the “Jata” of ShivShankar Mahadev, is an architectural marvel in modern India. It houses an ancient Shiva Linga. Situated in Solan, Himachal, the temple is built in the southern Dravidian style and has three distinct pyramids emerging from a central base. The first pyramid bears the Image of Lord Ganesha, while the second bears the image of Sesh Naag. The temple is located atop a hill, and visitors need to climb 100 steps to reach the temple. As per the locals, it took 39 years to complete the Jatoli Mandir.
Quick Details About The Jatoli Temple
Address: Jatoli, Solan, Himachal Pradesh 173212
Opening Date: 24th January, 2013
Height: 122 feet
Timings: 4 AM – 8 PM
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport (55 Km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (45 Km)
Best Time To Visit: March to July
Location
Photo: Vikramdeep Sidhu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Jatoli temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, is located on the Rajgarh road. People believe that this temple is the resting place of Lord Shiva. Jatoli Mandie is about 8 Km from Solan, Himachal Pradesh.
Suggested Read: Panchvaktra Temple
How To Reach
Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach the temple by airways or railways. Both will be followed by a road journey.
By Road: After reaching Solan, you can take a cab or a bus to the temple. It is just 8 Km away, and you will need hardly 20 minutes to reach the temple if there are no road blockages.
By Train: You can take a train to the Kalka railway station, which is just 45 Km away. From there, you can take a cab or bus to the temple.
By Flight: You can fly to the Chandigarh International Airport from any part of India or outside. From there, it is just 55 km away, and you can cover the distance by renting a can or by riding a bus.
Places To Visit Around
There are many places to visit around the temple, Himachal Pradesh. Let’s check them out:
1. Dagshai Jail Museum
Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons
This 18th Century Jail is located about 11 Km from Solan, Himachal Pradesh, and is a colonial building echoing the atrocities of the former British Raj. The prison cells were so small that the prisoner had to stand as there was no place to sit. It had 54 maximum security cells, of which 13 were for severe crimes like treason against the British Empire. Post-independence, the jail was converted into a museum, and it now has several artefacts and photographs from that era.
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2. Dolanji Bon Monastery
Photo: Korean Buddhist / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located about 25 Km from Kumarhatti, the Dolanji Bon Monastery is the offshoot of the Menri Monastery, the second oldest Monastery in the world. Present in the Sirmour district, it is the home to about 200 monks. This Monastery, present in a mystique environment of excess greenery and misty blue skies, is a must-visit.
3. Karol Tibba
The Karol Tibba is the highest peak of Solan and is the destination for all trekking enthusiasts in India. The burst of green vegetation in the rugged landscape with the misty skies on top reveals the uncanny beauty of nature. You can have a picturesque view of the entire city of Solan and Shimla from the top. Visitors can see the Churdhar peak and the Pandava caves along the path.
Things To Do: Trekking to the Tibba, exploring the Pandava Caves
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4. Mohan Shakti Heritage Park
Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons
The Mohan Shakti Heritage Park, often nicknamed the “eighth wonder of the world,” is about 40 Km from Shimla. It features a beautiful garden of exotic fruits and flowers and is a paradise for bird watchers. It also has an open theatre, an open kitchen and a study centre to teach the kids about the Vedic sciences. Located along the banks of the Ashwini Khadd River, this place has several archaeological sites.
Things To Do: Bird watching, and learning about Vedic science
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: veerasak Piyawatanakul / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost of the Trip
Travel: Approximately ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 for transportation, depending on distance.
Accommodation: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 per night for mid-range hotels.
Meals: ₹500 – ₹1,500 per day, depending on dining preferences.
Entry Fees: Usually free, but check for any special event charges.
Tips For Travellers:
- Even though you will have eateries on the way it is always better to carry some dry snacks and water.
- Check the local weather before visiting, as conditions can impact travel plans.
- Accommodations you can book in advance, especially during peak season or festivals.
- Make sure that you wear comfortable footwear that suits the terrain
Suggested Read: Popular Himachal Temples
Set amidst the mountains and green plains, the Jatoli temple is the Nirvana for nature lovers and devotees alike. The temple complex has several areas to explore, and you have multiple other sites to see outside the temple. Therefore, it is always recommended that you plan your trip well before you set out. TripXL can easily help you manage this according to your time and budget.
Cover Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons