History, Importance, Timings, Festivals, Architecture, Activities, Interesting Facts and Travel Guide of Jakhu Temple, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
Shimla is home to a number of religiously significant temples that are thronged with devotees throughout the year. An ancient Hanuman temple in Shimla, the Jakhoo Temple, gives a mysterious atmosphere to those who worship the "Pawan Putra" and is tucked away among the colourful splendour of the Shivalik hill ranges. The largest statue of God Hanuman is one of Shimla's most well-known tourist attractions, drawing tourists of all ages in addition to members of the Hindu faith. It thus is an important shrine celebrating of Hindu tradition in the city.
The Jakhoo Temple's surroundings, which include stunning views of the nearby town of Sanjauli, add to the already stunning scene. It is a fantastic location to take in the breath - taking sunrises and sunsets as well as a thrilling drive for trekkers. Other than that, nature lovers will adore the luxuriant green, twisting roads of the site, which makes it an important pilgrimage as well as tourist spot in the city.
History and Popular legend of Jakhu Temple, Shimla
There is an intriguing legendary tale associated with Jakhoo Temple. Lakshmana, Ram's younger brother, is reputed to have been struck by a potent arrow during the Ramayana's war sequence and rendered unconscious. Several attempts to revive him failed. A respected priest then advised Lord Rama that he needed a certain Sanjeevani herb to revive him. Hanuman was tasked with locating the herb in the Himalayas.
He came across the sage Yaaku on a hilltop as he was travelling toward the Himalayas. On the mountain, Hanuman sat down to allay his concerns about the plant. The mount collapsed under his weight and remained only half as tall. After learning enough facts about the plant, he made a vow to Yaaku to meet him on his way back to Lanka.
He spent a lot of his valuable time, though, fighting a demon named "Kalnemi" who tried to trick him on the trip back. He made the decision to avoid meeting Sage and took the quickest route in order to arrive in Lanka on time. Sage considered meeting with him in person to explain why he broke the pledge when he was dissatisfied.
An idol of Hanuman arose on the hill by itself as he departed the area. Yaaku erected a temple there to commemorate the Lord's visit. It is still believed that Hanuman left his footprints in the temple and that the monkeys who hang out near the shrine are his offspring.
Architecture of Jakhu Temple, Shimla
Jakhoo Temple, which is located on Shimla's highest mountain, has a number of attractions. The route up to the temple allows you to take in the captivating beauty with stunning vistas as your backdrop, which is surrounded by tall mountains and deodar trees.
The location has a number of artworks that depict Hanuman's Ramayana tale. The 108-foot-long Hanuman idol in the temple was installed in 2010, and has since then drawn a sizable number of tourists throughout the years. It is a magnificent site to see on your Shimla trip and is visible from everywhere in Shimla when it is lit up at night.
Festivals celebrated at Jakhu Temple, Shimla
The festival of Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with huge fervour in the temple complex. It is huge celebration that witnesses a number of devotees across the city as well as neighbouring states flock the temple to receive Lord Hanuman’s blessings on his birth anniversary. Special langar is also offered in the celebrations.
Other festivals celebrated here include Mahashivratri, Dussehra and Diwali.
Entry Fee and Timings of Jakhu Temple, Shimla
The Jakhoo Temple in Shimla is free to enter. The temple is opened every day from 7 in the morning to 8 in the evening.
How to Reach Shimla, Capital of Himachal Pradesh, India
Shimla being one of the major tourist center along with capital, important district and city of Himachal Pradesh, it is very well connected with all major cities of India via road, rail and air network. Millions of tourist across the world visits here throughout the year which makes Shimla more convenient in terms of travel, accommodation and other services. By road is the most common and easy way of transport to reach Shimla as highway from Delhi and Chandigarh are good in condition. The nearest major airport from Shimla is Chandigarh airport which is located just at a distance of around 110 km from the city. Kalka railway station is the nearest major rail junction which is at around 90 km from city. Shimla is located at 238 km from Manali, 112 km from Chandigarh, 200 km from Kullu, 340 km from Delhi, 485 km from Vaishnodevi, 205 km from Palampur, 115 km from Mandi and 186 km from Joginder nagar.
