Must-visit Temples in Shimla | The Orchid Hotel Shimla | Friendly, Eco-Friendly

Must-visit Temples in Shimla

Tara devi temple at Shimla under a clear blue sky

Nestled amidst the lush green hills of Himachal Pradesh, the quaint little town of Shimla is a popular tourist destination for its stunning natural beauty, colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage. While it is well-known for its picturesque hill stations, Shimla is not often associated with its magnificent temples. However, the truth is that the town is home to some of the most beautiful and revered temples in the country. From the majestic Jakhu Temple to the serene Tara Devi Temple, each of these temples in Shimla has a unique history and significance, making them a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the spiritual side of the town.

1. Jakhu Temple, Shimla


Jakhu Temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations and is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the temples in Shimla. Located on Jakhu Hill, the temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is said to have been built on the site where the deity rested his feet during his search for the Sanjeevani Booti plant. The highlight of Jakhu temple, Shimla is the 108-feet tall statue of Lord Hanuman, which is one of the tallest in the world.

Statue of Hanuman at Jakhu temple Shimla
Statue of an aggressive Kali with ten hands at a temple

2. Kali Bari Temple, Shimla


Kali Bari is another popular temple in Shimla, located near the famous Mall Road. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped as the destroyer of evil and the protector of devotees. It is believed to have been established by Bengali devotees in the late 19th century and is an important center of worship for the Bengali community in Shimla.

3. Tara Devi Temple, Shimla


Tara Devi is a beautiful temple located on Tara Devi Hill, around 11 kilometers from Shimla. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Tara, a manifestation of the goddess Durga, who is worshipped as the protector and savior of her devotees. The temple's location on the hill provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley and is a popular spot for picnics and hiking. Its architecture, intricate wood carvings, and detailed paintings are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the local artisans.

traditional architecture of Tara Devi Temple Shimla
a statue of Hanuman showing his love for Ram and Sita

4. Sankat Mochan Temple, Shimla


Sankat Mochan Temple is located in the southern part of Shimla. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the one who can bestow courage and strength on his devotees. The temple is set amidst serene surroundings, with tall trees and lush greenery adding to its peaceful ambience. The temple's main hall houses the idol of Hanuman, which is beautifully adorned with flowers and other offerings by the devotees. The temple also has smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, including Rama, Shiva, and Ganesha. 

Shimla is home to several other magnificent temples that are a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of this beautiful hill station. To experience the best of Shimla's temples, visitors can stay at The Orchid Hotel Shimla, which offers comfortable and luxurious accommodations amidst the serene surroundings of the hill station. From here, visitors can easily explore the temples of Shimla and immerse themselves in the spirituality and beauty of this unique destination. Whether you are a spiritual seeker or a lover of architecture, Shimla's temples are a must-visit, and the Orchid Hotel Shimla is the perfect base for your exploration. To plan your summer vacation in Shimla, check out our blog here.