Jakhu temple or Jakhoo Temple is placed over the top of Jakhoo Hill. It is a sacred temple for Hindus. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Jakhoo Hill is at an altitude of 2455 m above sea level. There is a Hanuman idol situated at the temple, which is 108 feet tall. Jakhoo hill is the highest peak of Shimla, and tourists and devotees can enjoy a panoramic view from here.
Mythology Associated With Jakhu Temple
Jakhu Temple is a renowned temple situated in Shimla at Jakhoo Hills. There is a mythological story attached to the Jakhoo temple. The story goes back to the Ramayan times when the younger brother of Shri Ram got severely injured by a poisonous arrow by Meghnad. At that time, a renowned physician, Sushen, told Lord Ram to bring Sanjeevani herb from Dronagiri Mountain situated in Uttarakhand. The work was assigned to Lord Hanuman.
On his way to Dronagiri Mountain, Hanuman met a sage, Yaaku, on a hilltop. Hanuman sat on the hilltop to receive all the information related to Sanjeevani Herb. After getting all the information, Lord Hanuman left the place in search of Sanjeevani herb and promised Yaku to meet him on his way back to Lanka. However, after collecting the herb, Hanuman had to fight with the demon Kalnemi. Due to this, he lost valuable time and chose the shortest route to Lanka.
On the Jakhoo hill, a Temple emerged itself, and it is believed that the temple still has the footprints of Lord Hanuman. The monkeys surrounding the temple are believed to be the descendants of Lord Hanuman.
Entry Fee, Timings And How To Reach Jakhu Temple, Shimla
- Devotees and tourists do not need to pay any entry fee to visit Jakhoo Temple. It is completely free of cost.
- Temple is open at 7 AM and closes at 8 PM. everyday.
- At the end of the mall road, you will find a taxi/cab stand. From here, you can hire a cab that will drive you to Jakhoo Temple. The price would be around 200 rupees per cab.
- Another way to reach the Jakhoo temple is by Ropeway. You will find a ropeway counter also near the Taxi stand. The price is 300 for adults and 250 for children.
You can also walk to reach the Jakhu temple. It is a 2.5 km walking distance from the mall road.