Tara Devi Temple
Tara Devi Mandir
An ancient goddess temple on a hilltop south of town, with a wooden shrine and wide views over the Shimla hills.
Tara Devi Temple sits on the summit of Tara Hill, about 11 km south of Shimla, at an altitude of roughly 1,850 metres. It is said to be around 250 years old, and the goddess Tara, worshipped by local royalty, is regarded as the guardian deity of Shimla. The shrine follows traditional Himachali wood-and-stone architecture, with fine carvings. From the top you can take in the layered mountains and, in the distance, the city of Shimla. Cars can drive up to the summit, or you can hike up from the foot of the hill in about an hour. A large temple fair takes place during Navratri, the Nine Nights festival, in October.
Opening hours
Approx. 07:00–19:00
Nearby sights
- Sankat Mochan Temple
- Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas)
- Himachal State Museum
- Kalka–Shimla Railway
- Kali Bari Temple
- Scandal Point & Gaiety Theatre
- Christ Church
- The Mall & The Ridge