a statue of a man holding a large ball

Jakhu Mandir

Visit the iconic jakhu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.

Jakhu Mandir updates

Jakhu Temple, Shimla

At the summit of the historic Jakhu Hill in Shimla stands the ancient "Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman". According to legend, during the battle of Lanka, when Lakshmana was struck and rendered unconscious by Meghnath's powerful arrow, Lord Hanuman swiftly journeyed towards the Himalayas through the sky to fetch the life-saving herb, "Sanjeevani Booti". During his flight, his gaze fell upon "Yaksha Rishi", who was deep in meditation onJakhu Hill. Over time, the name of the place evolved from Yaksha → Yak → Yaku → Jaku, eventually becoming Jakhu.

In search of knowledge about the Sanjeevani herb, Hanuman descended onto the hill. Such was the force of his landing that the once-towering Jakhu Hill was pushed halfway into the earth. After obtaining the necessary information about the herb, Lord Hanuman resumed his mission towards "the Dronagiri mountain". The spot where he had landed still bears his sacred footprints, which are preserved in a small marble shrine behind the main temple.

Before leaving, Hanuman promised Yaksha Rishi that he would return the same way. However, because of the "deceit of the demon Kalnemi" on the way, Hanuman lost precious time and, in urgency, took a shorter route back, bypassing Jakhu Hill. The waiting Rishi, distressed by Hanuman's absence, became anxious. It was then that Hanuman appeared to the Rishi, explained the reason for not returning as promised, and after this divine interaction, immediately disappeared. Shortly afterward, a "Self-manifested (Swayambhu) idol of Hanuman" appeared at the very spot, which is still enshrined in the temple today.

To honor Lord Hanuman’s memory, Yaksha Rishi built this temple and left behind his wooden sandals (padukas) as a symbol of devotion before vanishing.

Since then, this sacred temple has stood here. It is believed that any devotee who worships Lord Hanuman at Jakhu Temple with a pure heart will have all their wishes fulfilled. Hanuman protects his devotees by destroying evil forces.

जाखू मन्दिर

शिमला नगर के ऐतिहासिक जाखू पर्वत के शिखर पर "श्री हनुमान जी का प्राचीन मन्दिर" है। ऐसी मान्यता है कि लंका के युद्ध में मेघनाथ द्वारा शक्ति बाण लगने पर मुर्च्छित लक्ष्मण को बचाने के लिए जब श्री हनुमान जी आकाश मार्ग से संजीवनी बूटी लेने के लिए हिमालय की ओर द्रुतगति से आ रहे थे। तो अचानक उनकी दृष्टि जाखू पर्वत पर तपस्या लीन यक्ष ऋषि पर पड़ी। कालान्तर से उनके नाम पर ही ( यक्ष + याक + याकू - जावू) इस स्थान का नाम जाखू पड़ा ।

संजीवनी बूटी का परिचय जानने के लिए हनुमान जी यहां पर उतर गए। उनके वेग से जाखू पर्वत जो पहले काफी ऊंचा था, आधा पृथ्वी के गर्भ में समा गया। बूटी का परिचय प्राप्त करने के उपरान्त श्री हनुमान जी अपना साध्य प्राप्ति के लिए द्रोण पर्वत की ओर चले गए, जिस स्थान पर हनुमान जी उतरे थे वहां पर आज भी उनके चरण चिन्हों को मन्दिर के पीछे एक कुटिया में संगमरमर से निर्मित करके सुरक्षित रखा गया है। ऋषि को वापसी में इसी स्थान से लौटने का वचन देकर हनुमान जी मार्ग में कालनेमी के कुचक में अधिक समय नष्ट होने के कारण श्री हनुमान जी छोटे मार्ग होते हुए चले गए, प्रतीक्षारत ऋषि श्री हनुमान जी के न लौटने पर व्याकुल हो गए। उस समय हनुमान जी ने ऋषि को दर्शन दिए और न आने का कारण बताया। उनके अर्न्तध्यान होने के तुरन्त बाद "एक स्वयंभू मूर्ति प्रकट हुई" जो आज भी मन्दिर में विद्यमान है। यक्ष ऋषि ने हनुमान जी की स्मृति को विद्यमान रखने के लिए इस मन्दिर का निर्माण किया। तदोपरान्त ऋषि अपनी चरण - पादुकाएं स्मृति चिन्ह यहां छोड़कर अदृश्य हो गए।

तब से आज तक यह मन्दिर यहां पर विद्यमान है। श्री हनुमान जी का जो भक्त सच्चे मन से इस मन्दिर में पूजा पाठ करता है, श्री हनुमान जी उनके सकल मनोरथ पूर्ण करते हैं तथा दुष्टों को संहार करके भक्तों की रक्षा करते हैं।

🌺 Spiritual Symbolism of the Visit

Hanuman’s brief stay on Jakhu Hill symbolizes:

  • Strength and Purpose: Even in the midst of urgency, divine beings are mindful of sacred places and seekers.

  • Blessing of the Himalayas: His stop imbued the region with spiritual energy, turning a Himalayan peak into a site of grace.

  • Guidance: The interaction with sages signifies the synergy between action (Hanuman) and wisdom (rishis).

  • Presence: It is believed Hanuman Ji never truly left the hill, and his divine energy continues to watch over Shimla and its people.

📜 Scriptural References and Local Legends

While the Valmiki Ramayana does not name Jakhu specifically, many regional Ramayanas, oral traditions, and Himachali folklore have carried forward the narrative of Hanuman Ji’s descent at Jakhu. The Hanuman Chalisa too glorifies his cosmic speed and divine journeys:
"Laye Sanjeevan Lakhan Jiyaye,
Shri Raghuvir Harashi Ur Laye
("You brought the Sanjeevani to revive Lakshmana, and Rama embraced you with joy.")
Locals also share that for centuries, devotees witnessed visions and felt inexplicable peace on Jakhu Hill, adding weight to the legend’s spiritual truth.

✨ Enduring Spiritual Energy on Jakhu Hill

Even today, Jakhu Hill is considered a taposthal (place of meditation). Visitors report a strong spiritual vibration — a sense of stillness and grace that connects them to the divine. The surrounding deodar forests and tranquil air contribute to the mystical aura, believed to be a direct result of Hanuman Ji’s divine touch.

🚩 Influence on Worship and Pilgrimage

  • Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with grandeur here.

  • Devotees trek uphill barefoot, retracing Hanuman’s path.

  • Monkeys, seen as Hanuman’s companions, are fed by devotees.

  • The site has become a symbol of faith, protection, and strength for residents and visitors alike.

🛕 Jakhu Temple, Shimla: A Divine Summit Above the Clouds

Perched atop the highest peak of Shimla at an altitude of 2,455 meters, Jakhu Temple is not just a place of worship — it’s a symbol of faith, mythology, and breathtaking Himalayan beauty. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple attracts pilgrims, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.

🌄 Location & Scenic Beauty

Located just 2 km from the Ridge, Jakhu Temple sits atopJakhu Hill, offering a panoramic view of Shimla town, surrounding valleys, and snow-capped peaks. The climb or cable car ride to the top is as mesmerizing as the destination itself.

🧗‍♂️ How to Reach

  • By Foot: A scenic but steep trek of about 30-45 minutes from the Ridge

  • By Ropeway: The Jakhu Ropeway offers a stunning aerial view (approx. 6-minute ride)

  • By Taxi: Roads are narrow but accessible by car or cab

🛕 What to Expect at the Temple

  • Peaceful environment amidst tall deodar trees

  • Large population of monkeys (be cautious but kind)

  • Offerings and prayers conducted by temple priests

  • A sense of divine calm and panoramic views from all sides

🕓 Timings

  • Open Daily: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

  • Best time to visit: Morning hours or around sunset

📸 Travel Tips

  • Keep your belongings secure — monkeys are known to snatch bags, glasses, or food

  • Wear comfortable shoes if trekking

  • Carry water and light snacks

  • Visit on Hanuman Jayanti to experience vibrant celebrations

✨ Visitor Experiences

“The spiritual vibe and the view from the top were unforgettable. Watching the mist roll over the hills while listening to temple bells is pure bliss.”
– Priya S., traveler from Delhi

“A serene break from Shimla’s bustle. The ropeway ride was a highlight!”
– Rajiv M., solo backpacker

📍 Nearby Attractions

  • The Ridge

  • Christ Church

  • Mall Road

  • Scandal Point

  • Kufri (a short drive for snow and adventure sports)


Jakhu Temple is not just a temple — it's an experience. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a history buff, or a traveler looking for peace above the clouds, this hilltop sanctuary will leave you touched by serenity and wonder.

Jakhu Temple Gallery

Explore stunning images of Jakhu Mandir and its surroundings.

जय श्री राम !!

जय श्री राम !!

मंदिर में स्थित हनुमान जी की प्रतिमा बहुत विशाल है । भक्तों का मानना है कि यदि कोई सच्चे मन से यहां आकर प्रार्थना करता है, तो उसकी मनोकामनाएं पूरी होती हैं ।

Visit the famous Jakhu Mandir, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering stunning views and a unique experience in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.

Location

Jakhu Hill, Shimla

Hours

7 AM - 8 PM

जय श्री राम !!