J for Jakhoo Temple and all about Shimla
Jakhoo Temple is an ancient Hanuman temple in Shimla situated on Jakhoo
Hill, about 2.5 km from the main centre of Shimla i.e. The Ridge,
at about 8000ft height.
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| Jakhu Temple |
Legend
goes that Lord Hanuman stopped there to rest while he returned to replace the
mountain piece containing Sanjivni Booti after Lakshmana was revived during Lanka war as per epic
Ramayana. Due to his weight the Hill top became flat. The temple is
thronged by monkeys and thus the temple signs advise visitors to secure all
personal belongings and beware of the monkeys.
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| Jakhu Temple |
photo coutesy : http://www.mapsofindia.com/my-india/travel/shimla-popular-hanuman-mandir
Being at such a height,
it offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Shivalik Ranges and the town of
Sanjauli.
One can reach the temple
by foot climbing the steep through beautiful Deodars from Ridge. Alternatively
one can hire a pony or horse. Taxis are available too.
Recently
the world’s tallest 108 ft idol of Hanuman has also been erected here.
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| 108 ft Hanuman Statue at Jakhu |
Aside from Jakhu temple Shimla is one of the
easiest reachable Hill Station. Being the capital of present HP it has become
too crowded but has all amenities. It acts as a hub of tourism. One can reach by
four hours’ drive from Chandigarh through beautiful highway road. Alternatively
one can enjoy the narrow gauge train from Kalka to Shimla.
Historically Shimla was declared as the summer capital of
British Empire in 1864. After independence it became the capital of Punjab and
was later named the capital of Himachal Pradesh.The name Shimla is derived from
the goddess Shyamala Devi, an incarnation of the Hindu Goddess Kali.
When in Shimla one must try to spend some time on :
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| Ridge in Winter |
The Ridge –Situated in the heart of the city this large open space offers excellent views of the mountain ranges. It holds
the two landmarks of Shimla- the neo- gothic structure of Christ Church and the
neo - Tudor library building.
Lakkar Bazar: Popular for its
wood crafts and Souvenirs, this is just off the Ridge.
State Museum: Exhibits Himachal’s rich Heritage including
archaeological artifacts, carvings, paintings and sculptures. It stays closed
on Monday and holidays.
The Glen: About 4 km from Shimla at 1830m, is the popular picnic spot
with thickly wooded ravine with a stream flowing at the base.
Annadale (4.5 km): Surrounded by a thick deodar forest,
this large glade has an ancient temple on the edge.
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| Annadale |
Other Temples - The Kamna Devi Temple is 6 km away at a height of 2125m on Prospect Hills, Sankat Mochan 7 km away dedicated Lord Hanuman & Tara Devi 11 km away at a height of 2045m. The Kamna
Devi offers spectacular wide views of the city and its environs while Tara Devi
is thickly wooded.
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| Tara Devi Temple |
Shimla also acts as centre to visit other tourist spots like :
MASHOBRA (12 km): At 2149m, this beautiful suburb is
surrounded by thick forests. From here, a track leads down to Sipur which is an
exquisite glade shaded by ancient deodar trees. There are old temples a fair is
held every April.
KUFRI (16 km): At 2501m, this is famous for its wide views and ski
slopes. An enjoyable walk leads up to the Mahasu Peak.
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| Kufri in Winter |
FAGU (22 km): At 2510m, Fagu has some enchanting views. Himachal
Tourism run Hotel Peach Blossom offers spectacular views.
CHAIL (45 km): This was a former Summer Capital of the Patiala
State. The Palace has been converted to a Luxury Hotel by Himachal Tourism.
TATTAPANI (51 km): At 656m, there are hot sulphur
springs believed to have medicinal value.
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| Tatapani |
Shimla holds the famous mountain biking race MTB Himalaya owing to its steep terrain. It started in 2005
and is regarded as the biggest event of its kind in South Asia. It also is the
starting point for Himalayan Car rally
held every year.
That’s all from J. Tomorrow it would be K.
For other posts on Himachal written as part of Ato Z Challenge : List of post on Himachal Pradesh written as part of A to Z challenge.
For other posts on Himachal written as part of Ato Z Challenge : List of post on Himachal Pradesh written as part of A to Z challenge.
Aditya Sinha
For other participants in the challenge visit : A to Z Challenge
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