Introduction

Sankat Mochan Temple, a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is younger than most temples in Shimla and surrounds. Nestled on Tarav Parvat along the Kalka-Shimla Highway, this temple was built in 1966 by Raja Bajrang Bahadur Bhadari, the Lieutenant Governor of the state at that time, and Shree Bhagwan Sahai.

The temple was constructed as per the wishes of their Guru, Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj, who had visited the spot in the 1950s, and experienced great peace in its surroundings. After staying here for 10 days, the ascetic wished to have a Hanuman temple built in the site. Construction of the temple began in 1962, and was consecrated after four years.

Subsequently, the temple was expanded to include the shrines of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj and a Navgrah temple, outside of that of the main deities, Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman. Interestingly, the Ganesha shrine has a Dravidian style of temple architecture. While the temple is visited by devotees around the year, it draws more people during festivals such as Dusshera, Ramnavmi and Vinayak Chaturthi. The Ganesh Chaturthi festivities are held for over 10 days. Initially the locals looked after the temple, but in 2004, the state government took over the responsibility of maintaining it. Facilities for visitors include a community meal hall, where lunch is served every Sunday, a marriage hall, a prasad shop and a government Ayurvedic dispensary.

Special Attributes

A Hanuman Temple amid pristine surroundings

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Train, Bus, Taxi

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

You will mostly be indoors.

Avoidable Season

It's open through the year.

Facilities

Facilities for visitors include a community meal hall, where lunch is served every Sunday, a marriage hall, a prasad shop and a government Ayurvedic dispensary.

Things Not Allowed

Footwear

Tip

Visitors can plan their day to include a visit to the Tara Devi Temple as well which is in the same locality.

Type of site

Place of Worship/Temple