Bheemakali Temple & Hatkoti Temple

In God’s Own Backyard

The history of Himachal has played a great role in shaping up the monumental heritage of the state. Thanks to the multi cultural influence that has made it possible for Himachal to give the tourists everything that they can seek for. The most dominating as well as the most highlighted monumental attractions are that of the British landmarks. It is an inevitable fact as they were the ones who ruled this state for the maximum stretch of time. But however, you will find significant effect of Mughal and Hindu architecture as well. This week we are taking you to some more temples of Shimla.

Temples of Shimla

Excellent Stonework Architecture

Shimla has a number of temples. As found in the Himalayas most of the temples are located on the hill top. Same is the case with Shimla. The temples of Shimla show the excellent stonework of the architects there. The sculptors have proved their mettle in upholding the art of Shimla. Shimla has many temples and is often visited by devotees from nearby towns and cities. TheKali Bari temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali is near the mall. Jakhoo Temple, for the Hindu god Hanuman is located at the highest point in Shimla. Sankat Mochan, another Hanuman temple, is famous for the numerous monkeys that are always found in its vicinity. It is located on Shimla-Kalka Highway about 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) from the city. The nearby temple of Tara Devi is a place for performing rituals and festivals. Other prominent places of worship include a Gurudwara near the bus terminus and a Church on The Ridge.

Bheemakali Temple

The BheemakaliTemple, reputed to be at least 800 years old, is dedicated to Goddess Durga or Bheemakali and is considered one of the significant Shakti Peeths of Shaivite Hindus. The temple is Tibetan in its architectural style, with Buddhist and Hindu influences and bronze statues of both religions in the shrines. It has slanted slate roofs, golden towers, pagodas and a carved silver door. Dussehra is celebrated in a grand way at both the Bheemakali Temple and in the village of Sarahan, with animal sacrifice playing a big role in the festivities. Bheemakali Temple regarded as one of the fifty one sacred Shaktipeeths. A marvelous example of hill architecture, the temple complex at Sarahanis set against the incredibly beautiful backdrop of high ranges and forested slopes. Built in a mixture of the Hindu and Buddhists styles, it was the temple of Bushehar rulers of Rampur (Shimla). The palaces of the royal family are adjacent to the temple. From Sarahan there is a view of the Srikhand Peak, revered as the home of goddess Lakshami.

Hatkoti Temple

Along the River Pabbar, 104 km from Shimla, is the temple dedicated to Durga and Shiva. The gods are said to have fought a pitched battle at this spot. The temple is famous for ancient temple of Mata Hateswari in the midst of paddy fields on the right bank of the Pabber River