Jakhoo temple at a glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | About 2,455 m, Shimla's highest point |
| Distance | About 2.5 km from the Ridge |
| Statue | Hanuman, 108 feet (about 33 m), unveiled in November 2010 |
| Ways up | Walk, ropeway, or taxi to near the top |
| Entry | Free to the temple; the ropeway is ticketed |
The story
Local tradition links the hill to the Ramayana: Hanuman is said to have rested here while searching for the Sanjeevani herb to revive Lakshmana. The temple is older than British Shimla, and remains an active place of worship, busiest on Tuesdays and Saturdays, Hanuman's days, and during Dussehra.
The 108-foot statue of Hanuman, unveiled in 2010, is among the tallest Hanuman statues in the world, and stands above the treetops so it can be seen across the town.
How to reach Jakhoo temple
From the railway station or the ISBT, take a taxi to the lift or the Ridge and continue from there, or ask the driver to take you up the road to the temple.
- On foot: a steep paved path from the Ridge, near Christ Church, climbs about 2.5 km through forest. Allow 30 to 45 minutes up for a reasonably fit walker, less coming down.
- By ropeway: the Jakhoo ropeway runs from near the town centre to the top in around 10 minutes. It's the easiest option for older visitors and families.
- By taxi: local taxis can drive up the road to a point near the temple, then it's a short walk.
The monkeys: read this before you go
Jakhoo is famous for its monkeys, and they're bold. They snatch glasses, phones, hats, food and bags, and won't always give them back. Put sunglasses and spectacles away, keep phones in zipped pockets, carry no visible food and don't feed them. Some people carry a stick, which is often available near the start of the path. Stay calm if one approaches, and don't stare or bare your teeth.
Timings and when to go
The temple is generally open from early morning to evening; timings shift with the season and festivals, so plan to be down before dark. Early morning gives the clearest views and the fewest people. On clear autumn and winter days you may see the snow ranges to the north. After snow, the path can be icy, so wear shoes with grip or use the ropeway.
Tips
- Go early in the day for views and lighter crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the walk is steep.
- Dress modestly and remove shoes at the shrine.
- Combine with Christ Church and the Ridge on the way down.
- Carry water; there are few stalls on the path.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is the Hanuman statue at Jakhoo temple?+
108 feet, about 33 m. It was unveiled in November 2010.
How do I reach Jakhoo temple from the Ridge?+
Walk the steep 2.5 km path from near Christ Church in 30 to 45 minutes, or take the Jakhoo ropeway, which takes about 10 minutes.
Is there a ropeway to Jakhoo temple?+
Yes. The ropeway runs from near the town centre to the top. Tickets are sold at the lower station.
What are Jakhoo temple's timings?+
Generally early morning to evening, varying with season and festivals. Plan to come down before dark.
Are the monkeys at Jakhoo dangerous?+
They're bold thieves rather than usually dangerous. Put away glasses, phones and food, and don't feed them.
What is the height of Jakhoo hill?+
About 2,455 m above sea level, the highest point in Shimla.
