Shimla
London, GB
3:54 am,
Dec 23, 2024
5°C
broken clouds
Travel Days:
- Duration of Visit: Plan to spend about half a day at Jakhoo Temple, although it can be combined with other nearby attractions in Shimla for a full day’s itinerary.
Main Attractions at Jakhoo Temple:
- Giant Hanuman Statue: This is one of the tallest statues of Lord Hanuman in the world, standing at 108 feet high. It’s visible from many parts of Shimla and is a major landmark.
- Panoramic Views: Located at the highest peak of Shimla, the temple offers spectacular views over the surrounding Shivalik ranges and the nearby town of Sanjauli.
- Peaceful Surroundings: The serene and wooded area around the temple provides a tranquil escape from the bustling town below.
- Rich Mythology: The temple holds great mythological significance, believed to be the spot where Hanuman rested during his search for the Sanjivani herb.
Best Time to Visit:
- Early Morning: Visiting early in the morning not only helps you avoid the crowds but also lets you enjoy the serene atmosphere and fresh air. It’s also a perfect time for photography with the soft morning light.
- Weather Considerations: The best months to visit are from April to June and from September to November when the weather is pleasant and clear, offering the best views. Winter months from December to February can be quite cold but picturesque with occasional snowfall.
Best Food to Have:
- Local Eateries: While there are limited food options right at Jakhoo Temple, Shimla offers a range of eateries down the hill. Before or after your visit, you can explore local Himachali cuisine.
- Siddu: A local bread made from wheat flour, filled with various ingredients like poppy seeds, walnuts, and ground peanuts, and steamed to perfection. It is often served with ghee or butter and lentil soup.
- Babru: Similar to kachoris, these are Himachali pancakes stuffed with black gram paste and fried. They make for a filling snack.
- Cafes on Mall Road: After visiting the temple, head to Shimla’s Mall Road where you can find various cafes and restaurants.
- Cafe Sol: Offers a variety of dishes ranging from pizzas and pastas to more traditional Indian fare.
- Indian Coffee House: A historic and economical place that serves simple and traditional Indian snacks and meals alongside coffee.
How to Get There:
- Hiking: You can hike up to the temple from the Ridge, which takes about 30 minutes and is quite steep, offering a good workout.
- Ropeway: There’s also a ropeway that connects the Ridge area to Jakhoo Temple, providing a scenic ride up to the temple with aerial views of the forest and town.