Things to Do Near Jakhu Temple, Shimla

Jakhu Temple is much more than a religious site — it's the spiritual and geographical crown of Shimla. Perched at 8,048 feet above sea level, Jakhu Hill is the highest point in Shimla city, and the temple complex surrounding the towering 108-feet Hanuman statue offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in all of Himachal Pradesh.

If you're staying at Hemkunj Homestay — located just a 5-minute drive from Jakhu Temple — you're perfectly positioned to explore everything this sacred hill has to offer. Here's your complete guide.

1. Visit the 108-Feet Hanuman Statue

The main attraction at Jakhu Temple is the colossal 108-feet tall Hanuman statue — visible from almost every corner of Shimla. Built in 2010, it's one of the tallest statues of Lord Hanuman in the world. The statue is made of steel and concrete, and on clear days, the sun reflects off it creating a golden glow that can be seen from Mall Road. The temple complex offers a serene space for meditation, and the views from the base of the statue stretch all the way to the snow-capped peaks of the Greater Himalayas.

2. Trek the Jakhu Hill Nature Trail

The classic way to reach Jakhu Temple is via the 2-kilometer uphill trek from The Ridge. This trail winds through dense cedar and Deodar forests, and on a quiet morning, you'll hear nothing but birdsong and the rustle of wind through ancient trees. The trek takes about 30-40 minutes and is suitable for moderate fitness levels. For families with young children, the trail is still doable, but you can also drive up if needed.

Pro tip from Hemkunj: Start the trek at sunrise for the best experience — the forest is magical when the first light filters through the canopy.

3. Jakhu Ropeway Cable Car

Shimla's Jakhu Ropeway is one of the city's newest attractions. The cable car connects The Ridge directly to Jakhu Temple, giving you aerial views of Shimla's colonial architecture, the surrounding hills, and the valley below. The ride takes about 5-7 minutes and is an excellent option for elderly visitors or those who prefer not to trek.

4. Explore the Cedar Forest Trails

Beyond the temple complex, Jakhu Hill is surrounded by ancient Deodar cedar forests that are among the oldest in the region. These trails are perfect for birdwatching (look for Himalayan bulbuls and blue magpies), photography, or simply finding a quiet spot to sit and breathe. At Hemkunj Homestay, these forest trails start literally at your gate — no cab needed.

5. Catch Sunrise or Sunset at the Viewpoint

Jakhu Hill offers the best sunrise and sunset viewpoint in Shimla. From the temple plaza, you can see the entire Shimla ridge, the valleys below, and on clear days, the snow-capped Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges. Many photographers consider this the single best vantage point in the city.

6. Walk Down to Mall Road

After your Jakhu visit, the downhill walk to Mall Road is one of the most pleasant walks in Shimla. You'll pass through charming colonial-era lanes, local shops, and small cafes. From Hemkunj, the walk to Mall Road takes about 10 minutes — making it the perfect base for daily explorations.

7. Visit the Monkey Feeding Area

Jakhu Hill is home to a large population of rhesus macaques. While they can be mischievous, the temple has designated feeding areas where you can observe them safely. Important tip: Keep your valuables secure, remove sunglasses, and don't carry open food items on the trail.

Where to Stay Near Jakhu Temple

If you want to be close to Jakhu Temple without being in the thick of Shimla's tourist crowds, Hemkunj Homestay is the ideal choice. Located just a 5-minute drive from the temple, Hemkunj offers private family apartments, drive-in parking, and homemade food — all starting at ₹8,000/night.

"We walked to Jakhu Temple every morning from Hemkunj. The silence of the cedar forests was unreal. Best location we could have asked for."