A hilltop Hanuman temple on Shimla’s highest point, with big views and a short ropeway ride.
Jakhoo Temple is an old Hanuman temple that sits on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point inside Shimla town. It is best known for its towering Hanuman statue, which is visible from many parts of the city, and for the calm forest walk that leads up to it.
Most travellers come here for two reasons: to seek blessings at a temple tied to the Ramayana, and to enjoy wide views of Shimla and the surrounding ridges from the top. It is a short visit that fits easily into a Shimla sightseeing day.
The main thing to plan is how you get up the hill. You can take the Jakhoo Ropeway, hire a taxi, or walk up on foot from The Ridge. This page compares all three so you can pick what suits your group and your energy levels.
Quick Answer
Jakhoo Temple is a hilltop Hanuman temple on Jakhoo Hill, Shimla’s highest point at around 2,455 m. It is famous for its giant Hanuman statue and views over the city. Entry is free and most visitors need about one to two hours. Plan your access first: you can reach it by the Jakhoo Ropeway (subject to daily operation), by taxi, or on foot from The Ridge.
Visitor Quick Facts
| Field | Detail |
| Location | Jakhoo Hill, above The Ridge, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh |
| Attraction type | Hindu temple, hilltop religious site and viewpoint |
| Known for | Giant Hanuman statue, Ramayana legend, city views |
| Religious significance | Dedicated to Lord Hanuman |
| Temple timings | Reported 7 AM to 8 PM daily. |
| Entry fee | Free |
| Ropeway availability | Yes, Jakhoo Ropeway (subject to weather and maintenance) |
| Ropeway boarding point | Near The Ridge, about a 500 m walk from Mall Road |
| Ropeway fare | One-way ₹252 adult / ₹200 child; return ₹467 adult / ₹381 child; under 3 free; plus 5% GST. |
| Ropeway timings | 9:30 AM to sunset daily. |
| Recommended duration | 1 to 2 hours |
| Best time of day | Early morning or late afternoon |
| Best season | March to June, September to November |
| Walking requirement | Short walk from the upper terminal to the temple; steep trail if walking up |
| Road access | By taxi or private vehicle, with a final walk |
| Parking | Limited; confirm locally |
| Suitable for children | Yes, with supervision (monkeys) |
| Suitable for senior citizens | Yes via ropeway or taxi; the walk is steep |
| Accessibility | Partial; the hilltop has steps and uneven surfaces |
| Photography | Generally allowed in open areas; ask before shooting inside the shrine |
| Footwear | Removed before entering the shrine |
| Monkey precautions | Yes, secure food, glasses and loose items |
| Nearest major landmark | The Ridge, Shimla |
Temple entry is free. The ropeway ticket is a separate charge and is not an entry fee for the temple.
Why Visit Jakhoo Temple?
Jakhoo Temple is one of Shimla’s most visited religious sites, so it carries real meaning for pilgrims as well as day visitors. For devotees of Hanuman, it is a place of worship with a strong link to the Ramayana.
The giant Hanuman statue is the visual highlight. Standing about 108 feet tall, it rises above the deodar trees and can be seen from much of Shimla, which makes the temple a recognisable part of the city’s skyline.
The setting is the other draw. Jakhoo Hill is the highest point in Shimla, so the top gives you open views of the town, the valleys and, on clear days, distant snow-capped ranges.
It also suits a short outing. You can pair a temple visit with a scenic ropeway ride or a forest walk, and still keep the whole thing to an hour or two. That makes it easy to slot into a wider day of Shimla sightseeing.
History and Religious Significance
Jakhoo Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and its story is rooted in the Ramayana. (This is religious tradition and local belief rather than documented history.) By popular legend, Hanuman is said to have paused on this hill while searching for the Sanjivani herb to revive Lakshmana during the war against Ravana.
Local tradition holds that a self-manifested idol of Hanuman appeared on the hill, and that a temple was later built here to honour that visit.
What is more widely documented is the temple’s standing today as a major Hanuman shrine in Shimla and the addition of the large Hanuman statue in modern times. The statue is frequently described as one of the tallest Hanuman statues, set at a very high altitude.
For worshippers, the hill is significant as a living place of devotion. For Shimla, the temple and its statue have become part of the town’s identity and one of its best-known landmarks.
Temple Complex and What to See
The visit is short and mostly open-air. As you arrive on the hilltop, the giant Hanuman statue is the first thing that draws the eye and the natural spot for photographs from a respectful distance.
The main shrine is the focus of worship. Footwear is removed before entering, and there is usually a place to leave shoes near the entrance.
Around the complex you will find open viewing areas that look out over Shimla and the ridges beyond. These are the best spots for wide city views.
You will also notice the resident monkeys almost immediately. They are part of the Jakhoo experience, but they can be bold, so keep food and loose items secured (see the monkey precautions section below).
Simple facilities such as small shops or refreshment points tend to be present near the temple and the ropeway terminal, though availability varies.
Jakhoo Temple timings, entry fee and visit duration
The temple is reported to be open daily, with the Shimla district administration listing hours of 7 AM to 8 PM. Other sources quote different hours, so treat this as a guide and confirm before visiting, especially for very early or late arrivals.
There is no entry fee for the temple. Any charity or donation is voluntary.
Specific aarti or worship timings are not published on an authoritative source, so we have not stated fixed times. If you want to attend a particular ritual, ask locally or plan a morning or early-evening visit.
Most visitors need about one to two hours for the whole trip, including the ride or walk up, time at the shrine and a few photos. Allow extra time on weekends, during festivals such as Dussehra, or when ropeway queues are long.
Timings can also change during worship, festivals, maintenance or poor weather. If you plan to use the ropeway, remember it runs on its own schedule (9:30 AM to sunset), so you may need to coordinate both the temple hours and the ropeway hours for your visit.
Jakhoo Ropeway guide
What is the Jakhoo Ropeway?
The Jakhoo Ropeway is a cable-car (gondola) service that carries visitors up to Jakhoo Temple, letting you skip the steep uphill walk. It is operated by a private company, M/S Jagson International Ltd., and has been running since 2017. It is a practical, quick way up the hill and a scenic ride in its own right.
Where does the ropeway start?
The lower boarding station is close to The Ridge in central Shimla. According to the operator, it is roughly a 500 metre walk from Mall Road to the ropeway, and Shimla railway station is about 1.5 km away.
You can reach the boarding point on foot from The Ridge and Mall Road, or by taxi. The operator also mentions a taxi drop service from The Ridge near Ritz Cinema that brings you close to the ropeway entrance. Buy tickets at the counter at the lower station, or book online in advance.
Where does the ropeway end?
The ropeway carries you up towards the Jakhoo Temple area near the hilltop. After you step out at the upper terminal, there is still a short walk to the temple entrance, and the hilltop has some steps and uneven ground.
So the ropeway greatly reduces the climb, but it does not drop you exactly at the shrine door. Expect a little walking and a few steps at the top.
Jakhoo Ropeway timings
The ropeway operates daily from 9:30 AM to sunset, according to the operator. Because closing follows sunset, the last ride time shifts through the year and is earlier in winter.
The ropeway may be suspended for weather or maintenance, and on those days it may not run at all. Its hours are also different from the temple’s own hours, so plan your ride within the 9:30 AM to sunset window.
Jakhoo Ropeway ticket price
Based on the operator’s official ticket page, current fares are:
| Ticket | Adult | Child (3 to 12 yrs) | Child under 3 |
| One-way | ₹252 | ₹200 | Free |
| Return (two-way) | ₹467 | ₹381 | Free |
A 5% GST is charged extra on these fares. Prices can change, so confirm current rates on the official site or at the counter before you travel. Note that the ropeway ticket is completely separate from temple entry, which is free.
How to book ropeway tickets
You can book in two ways: at the counter at the lower station, or online through the official Jakhoo Ropeway website. In quieter months you can usually just buy at the counter, while in peak season booking online ahead of time is sensible.
Many visitors buy a one-way ticket up and return by taxi or on foot to avoid queuing twice, especially on busy days. Keep your return ticket safe if you buy a two-way.
Journey duration and visitor experience
The ride itself is short, generally reported at around five to ten minutes, with cabins that seat a small group. The main draw is the view over Shimla’s rooftops and forest as you rise up the hill.
Boarding is straightforward, but waiting times can be long at peak hours, on weekends and during holidays. If you dislike queues, travel early or consider going up by ropeway and down by taxi. Weather can affect operation, so a clear day is best. The ropeway is a good choice for anyone who wants to avoid the steep climb.
Ropeway accessibility
The ropeway removes most of the uphill climb, which helps travellers with limited stamina. However, it does not make the whole visit step-free: the lower station area, the upper terminal and the temple approach can involve stairs, slopes and uneven surfaces.
If anyone in your group uses a wheelchair or has mobility concerns, check specific access, boarding and assistance arrangements directly with the operator before travelling. Do not assume the temple visit is fully wheelchair accessible simply because a ropeway exists.
Ropeway versus taxi versus walking
| Factor | Ropeway | Taxi | Walking |
| Walking required | Short walk at the top | Short final walk | Full steep uphill |
| Approx. journey | 5 to 10 min ride | Short drive | About 30 to 45 min uphill |
| Cost | Ticketed (see fares) | Metered/negotiated fare | Free |
| Queue risk | Can be high at peak | Low | None |
| Scenic value | High (aerial views) | Moderate | High (forest trail) |
| Children | Good | Good | Tiring for young kids |
| Senior citizens | Good | Good | Challenging |
| Limited mobility | Reduces climb, not step-free | Most comfortable | Not suitable |
| Weather dependence | High (can suspend) | Low | Moderate (slippery when wet) |
| Traffic/parking | Not affected | Can face congestion | Not affected |
No single option is best for everyone. Families and older travellers often prefer the taxi or ropeway, while walkers enjoy the forest trail.
Best Time to Visit
The best times of day are early morning and late afternoon. Mornings are quieter and good for peaceful darshan, while late afternoon offers softer light and sunset views over Shimla.
Weekdays are calmer than weekends and public holidays, when both the temple and the ropeway queues get busier. If you want a relaxed visit, avoid peak weekend hours.
By season, March to June and September to November generally bring pleasant weather and clearer views. The monsoon (roughly July to August) can be foggy and slippery, and winter can bring cold, snow or fog. We cannot guarantee clear views or ropeway operation on any given day.
Festival days such as Dussehra draw larger crowds and can change access patterns. Monkey activity tends to be higher wherever food is around, so stay alert year-round.
How to reach Jakhoo Temple
Jakhoo Temple sits just above The Ridge in central Shimla, so it is close to the town centre. You can reach it by ropeway, taxi or on foot.
By Jakhoo Ropeway
Board near The Ridge (about a 500 m walk from Mall Road), ride up in a few minutes, then walk a short distance to the temple. Full fares, timings and booking details are in the dedicated Jakhoo Ropeway guide above.
By taxi
Local taxis are easy to find around Mall Road and The Ridge. A taxi can take you most of the way up by road, leaving a short final walk to the temple. This is often the most comfortable option for families, older travellers, and on rainy or cold days.
Road conditions, traffic and the exact drop-off point can vary, and not every taxi may go right to the entrance, so confirm with your driver. Arrange your return taxi in advance if you plan to come down by road.
By private vehicle
Private vehicles can generally use the road up the hill, but road width, congestion and turning space can be tight, and parking near the top is limited. Expect a final walk to the temple.
On foot
The classic walking route climbs up from The Ridge, roughly a 2 km uphill route through pleasant deodar and pine forest. It is scenic but steep, and can take around 30 to 45 minutes depending on fitness.
There are no formal steps for the whole route; it is mainly a steep trail. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and take breaks. It is manageable for reasonably fit walkers but tiring for young children and challenging for senior citizens. Watch for monkeys along the path.
From major transport points
Shimla railway station is about 1.5 to 2 km from the ropeway/central area, and the nearest airport is Shimla (Jubbarhatti), roughly 20 km away. For full arrival planning to Shimla, see the Shimla destination guide rather than repeating it here.
Parking and Last-Mile Access
Parking near the temple itself is limited, and much of Shimla’s core is congested. Many visitors park in central Shimla and then use the ropeway, a taxi or the walking trail for the last stretch.
If you drive up, expect a short final walk to the temple from wherever you can park or be dropped, and be ready for busy-period restrictions. Ropeway users generally park in central Shimla near the lower station area rather than at the top.
Accessibility and Traveller Suitability
Jakhoo Temple works well for families, couples, solo travellers, groups, photographers and pilgrims, with a few practical points to plan around.
For children, the ropeway and taxi are easiest; the walk is long and steep for little legs, and monkeys mean kids should be kept close.
For senior citizens, the ropeway or taxi is strongly preferable to the walk.
For wheelchair users and travellers with limited mobility, the ropeway reduces the climb but does not remove all steps and uneven surfaces at the top, so the visit is only partly accessible. Check assistance options with the ropeway operator in advance.
Surfaces can be slippery in rain or snow, seating is limited, and crowding rises on weekends and festivals. We cannot describe the site as fully accessible or suitable for everyone.
Jakhoo Temple Monkey Precautions
Monkeys are a well-known part of a Jakhoo visit, and they can be bold around food and shiny objects. A little care keeps things calm for everyone.
Practical guidance:
- Avoid carrying visible food or open snacks.
- Secure spectacles, phones, caps and loose items.
- Do not feed or provoke the monkeys.
- Keep children close and hold their hands.
- Follow any instructions from temple or ropeway staff.
- Avoid tugging back aggressively if an item is taken; ask staff for help instead.
This is sensible safety advice rather than a guarantee. We cannot promise you will or will not encounter monkeys.
Religious Etiquette and Photography
Jakhoo Temple is an active place of worship, so a little respect goes a long way. Dress modestly, keep noise down near worship areas, and follow the queue and any local customs.
Footwear is removed before entering the shrine, and there is usually a place to leave shoes nearby. Follow instructions on where to stand and what may or may not be touched.
Photography is generally fine in the open hilltop and around the statue. However, do not assume photography is allowed inside the shrine; ask before shooting there, and avoid flash during rituals. Rules on video, tripods and drones can apply, so check locally. Please avoid littering, and be considerate of worshippers during prayers.
Facilities
Facilities near the temple and ropeway terminal usually include basic shops and refreshment points, and the ropeway station has a waiting area with a small snack counter. Ticket counters are at the lower ropeway station.
Availability of toilets, drinking water, seating and other services can vary, so we have not listed specific facilities as guaranteed.
Nearby Attractions
Jakhoo Temple pairs naturally with central Shimla sights, since it sits just above The Ridge.
The Ridge
The open central promenade of Shimla and the usual starting point for the walk or ropeway. Just below the hill, so it adds almost no travel time.
Mall Road
Shimla’s main shopping and eating street, about a short walk from The Ridge. Good for combining with a Jakhoo visit.
Christ Church
The landmark church on The Ridge, moments from the ropeway approach. Easy to see on the same outing.
Distances are short and central, so verify exact walking times on the day. Explore more options on the Attractions in Himachal Pradesh hub.
Suggested Sightseeing Combination
Here is one relaxed half-day plan around central Shimla:
Start mid-morning on The Ridge and visit Christ Church. Then head to the Jakhoo Ropeway lower station (about a 500 m walk from Mall Road), ride up, and spend time at Jakhoo Temple and the hilltop viewpoints. Come back down by ropeway or taxi, then finish with a slow stroll and a late lunch along Mall Road.
This keeps walking manageable, allows for ropeway queues, and leaves room for photos and rest. Adjust the order for weather, crowds and your group’s mobility. Avoid rushing; a calm pace suits the temple visit.
How to Add Jakhoo Temple to a HimTrails Trip
Jakhoo Temple fits into almost any Shimla itinerary as a short half-day stop rather than a full-day excursion. It suits families, couples, older travellers and pilgrims, and combines easily with The Ridge, Mall Road and Christ Church.
If your group prefers to avoid the steep climb, we can plan the visit around the ropeway or a taxi for comfort and time management. When you share your dates, group and mobility needs, HimTrails can build a Shimla plan that includes Jakhoo Temple at a sensible pace.
Responsible Visiting Guidance
- Treat the temple as a place of worship and be respectful during prayers and rituals.
- Do not feed the monkeys; feeding encourages aggressive behaviour.
- Carry your waste back down and use bins where available.
- Keep noise low near worship areas.
- Stay on marked paths and avoid damaging temple property.
- Follow ropeway staff instructions during boarding and busy periods.
- Be considerate of local residents, workers and fellow visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
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