Tara Devi Temple is a famous Hindu temple located near Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. This temple is situated on top of a hill at a distance of about 11 km from Shimla. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Tara Devi, a form of the Divine Mother. And offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and mountains. A visit to Tara Devi Temple provides a spiritual experience as well as an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Shimla region. The serene atmosphere and breathtaking views make it a popular destination for both devotees and tourists seeking solitude and peace.
Tara Devi Temple Shimla
According to Hindu mythology, Tara Devi is believed to be a form of Goddess Kali. The temple has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century and it is said that the original temple was built by a king from the Sena dynasty. Maa Tara Devi appeared in the king’s dream and expressed her desire to build a temple. The king immediately got a temple built in which an idol of Mata Tara Devi was also made. Over the years, changes have come in Maa Tara Devi Temple, gradually the temple has been made more beautiful and bigger.
Tara Devi Temple is an important religious site and attracts a large number of devotees. Especially during the Navratri festival, when the temple witnesses a large number of pilgrims. Devotees worship, perform rituals, and seek blessings from the maa Goddess and it is said that the maa Goddess hears and fulfills the prayers of the devotees. The architecture of Tara Devi Temple reflects a mixture of traditional Himachali and colonial styles. The structure is adorned with intricate woodwork, carvings, and colorful frescoes, making it a visual delight.
Tara Devi Trek
Trekking is one of the popular ways to reach Tara Devi Temple. The trail starts near the Shimla Railway Station. And takes you through dense deodar forests and scenic views. The trek is relatively moderate and takes around 2-3 hours to reach the temple. The temple complex provides basic facilities for visitors, including a small parking area, restrooms, and shops selling religious items and offerings. There is also a small cafeteria where devotees can have refreshments. Tara Devi Temple is surrounded by natural beauty. And visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Shimla and the Himalayan range from the top of the hill. Some of the nearby attractions include Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, and Mashobra.
How to Reach Tara Devi Temple Shimla
The most convenient way to reach Tara Devi Temple is by road. From Shimla city center, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple. Know the bus timings in advance. The distance between Shimla to Tara Devi Temple is around 11 km. And it takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour to reach the temple. If you prefer a scenic route, you can take the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The train journey from Shimla to Tara Devi takes approximately 20 minutes. However, please note that the train does not go directly to the temple. The nearest airport to Shimla is Jubbarhatti Airport, located approximately 23 kilometers away. It is advised to thoroughly check local transport options and timings for planning a visit to Tara Devi Temple in Shimla.
