About Jakhu Temple
The Jakhu Temple sits on top of Jakhu Hill, the highest point in Shimla at about 2,455 metres, roughly 2.5 km east of the Ridge. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is the most famous temple in the Himachal capital. Surrounded by tall deodar trees, the hilltop offers wide views of the town and, on clear days, of snow peaks in the distance. A giant orange statue of Hanuman, 108 feet tall and unveiled in 2010, now towers above the trees and can be seen from many parts of Shimla.
According to local tradition, when Lakshmana lay wounded in the war with Ravana, Hanuman flew north to bring the life-giving Sanjeevani herb and paused on this hill, where a sage named Yaku (Yakshu) was meditating. Hanuman is said to have rested here and learned about the herb from the sage, promising to return. When he could not come back, he appeared to the sage, and a shrine was built in his memory. Devotees point to marks believed to be Hanuman's footprints, and the hill is said to take its name from the sage. The temple has been a place of worship for a long time, and a festival is held here at Dussehra.
The shrine itself is a modest hill temple with a sloping roof, carved wooden details and a courtyard paved with stone. Next to it stands the huge Hanuman statue on a high base, a favourite subject for photographs. Large troops of monkeys live on the hill and are regarded as Hanuman's companions, though they are known for snatching things. The steep walk up from the Ridge through the forest is part of the experience, but there is also a road and a ropeway for those who prefer to ride.
Jakhu Temple timings & aarti
Usually open from about 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM; hours may be shorter in winter. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning aarti | Early morning (approx.) |
| Evening aarti | Around sunset (approx.) |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Jakhu Temple
By air
Shimla (Jubbarhatti) airport is about 23 km away; Chandigarh airport is about 115 km away.
By train
Shimla station on the Kalka–Shimla mountain railway is about 4 km away; Kalka, the broad-gauge railhead, is about 90 km away.
By road
From the Ridge it is a steep walk of about 30–45 minutes through deodar forest. Taxis drive up most of the way, and a ropeway links central Shimla to the temple.
Festivals at Jakhu Temple
- Hanuman JayantiMar/Apr
- DussehraSep/Oct
- Tuesdays and Saturdays (weekly)Weekly
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest clothing is recommended; carry warm layers, as the hilltop is cooler than the town.
- Entry
- Free. The ropeway and taxis are paid separately.
- Monkeys snatch spectacles, phones, food and bags; keep them out of sight. Walking sticks are often available near the start of the path.
- The walk up is steep and the air thin for some visitors; go slowly and carry water.
- Tuesdays and Saturdays are the busiest days of the week.
- Early morning brings the clearest mountain views and fewer crowds.
- In winter, check road and path conditions after snowfall.
Places to visit near Jakhu Temple
- The RidgeOpen promenade at the heart of Shimla, about 2.5 km away
- Christ ChurchHistoric church on the Ridge, about 2.5 km away
- Rashtrapati Niwas (Viceregal Lodge)Colonial-era building with gardens, about 6 km away
- KufriHill resort known for views and snow, about 16 km away
Frequently asked questions
Why is Jakhu Temple famous?
It is an old Hanuman shrine linked to the Sanjeevani legend, on Shimla's highest hill, and has a 108-foot Hanuman statue.
How to reach Jakhu Temple from the Ridge?
You can walk up a steep forest path in about 30–45 minutes, take a taxi most of the way, or use the ropeway.
What are the Jakhu Temple timings?
It is usually open from early morning to around 9 PM with a midday break, and hours may be shorter in winter. Check locally before visiting.
Are the monkeys at Jakhu dangerous?
They are not usually aggressive but often grab glasses, phones and food, so keep belongings secure and do not feed them.
What is the aarti time at Jakhu Temple?
Morning aarti: Early morning (approx.); Evening aarti: Around sunset (approx.). Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
Is there a dress code at Jakhu Temple?
Modest clothing is recommended; carry warm layers, as the hilltop is cooler than the town.
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