Jakhoo

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Older version of the present temple, 19th century.

A monkey at the entrance of the Jakhoo Temple

Jakhoo Temple is a ancient temple in Shimla, deciated to Hindu deity, Hanuman ^[1].

It is situated on Jakhoo Hill, 2.5 km /1.3 miles east from the Ridge, Shimla at a height of 2,455 m (8,000 feet) above sea level ^[2]. Shimla's highest peak offers a panoramic view of the Shivalik Ranges and the town of Sanjauli.

An ancient "Lord Hanuman" temple is there and every year a big festival is held on Dushera . You can go to the temple by foot (a steep climb) from Ridge (path behind the church) or can hire a pony/horse. Taxis are available too.

[edit] The legend

One legend goes that Lord Hanuman stopped there to rest while he was searching for the Sanjivni Booti to revive Lakshman in the Epic Ramayana. On arrival at the temple signs advise visitors to secure all personal belongings and beware of the monkeys, which are everywhere. This is appropriate as the temple is in honour of the Monkey Lord. Visitors must remove shoes (and leave them in the "shoe house") before entering the temple.

There are several eateries at the temple site. Local visitors ring the bell for good luck before making the descent back into Shimla.