Solo Traveler’s Unexpected Spiritual Experience at Jakhu Temple

I hadn’t taken a break from work for months. Exhaustion had crept into my body, and stress clouded my mind. I was in desperate need of a vacation. But where to go? India has so many incredible destinations that choosing just one felt overwhelming.

When discussing this with my wanderlust friend, he asked for the kind of experience I am looking for. I preferred somewhere amid nature, a peaceful and relaxing place, with a little bit of excitement. He instantly suggested Shimla and asked me to bring prasad from the Jakhu temple.

So, here I was, embarking on my first-ever solo travel to Shimla.

The Journey

As per my friend’s suggestion, my first solo travel wasn’t by car or flight but by train. Even more shocking, I had to change trains midway! Cursing him under my breath, I boarded the train and reached Kalka station, unaware of the surprise that awaited me.

From Kalka, I took the famous Kalka-Shimla toy train. Initially, I wondered if I was in the right place—the compartment looked nothing like a typical Indian Railways coach. I found my seat and began browsing my mobile. But within minutes, the breathtaking landscape-lush green hills passed by, mesmerizing me. Compared to the fast-paced city life, these serene surroundings were a welcome change.

The large train windows offered panoramic views, and the excited gasps of children in the front seat filled the air every time we entered a tunnel. Finally, after an enchanting ride, I reached Shimla, where the fresh, crisp air greeted me warmly.

The Jakhu Ropeway

After resting in the hotel room, I decided to visit the Jakhu temple-the iconic landmark of the city. Tired from the journey, I chose Jakhu ropeway to reach the temple.

The cable cars gliding through the sky filled me with anticipation. I bought my tickets at the counter at the Ridge and boarded the elevator to the 11th floor. Being a solo traveler, a mix of excitement and nervousness rushed through me as I boarded the cable car, or as locals call it, the gondola.

As the gondola ascended, an awe-inspiring panorama unfolded before me. A thick canopy of pine and deodar trees stretched as far as I could see. The majestic Shivalik mountain range towered in the distance and the city sprawled beneath in a spectacular scene. Initially, I thought the ropeway tickets were expensive and opted for a one-way trip. But the ride was totally worth the cost.

The Jakhu Temple

The highlight of the ride and temple was a gigantic statue of Lord Hanuman. A feeling of divinity washed over me, and instinctively, I folded my hands in prayer. The temple, resting on the highest peak of Shimla, was impeccably clean. The vibrant orange hue of the temple seemed apt for Lord Hanuman temple. After praying at the temple, I relaxed in the temple premises surrounded by the stunning vista. I closed my eyes and breathed in the tranquil air. Suddenly I heard a gasp when a monkey stole a couple’s meal. I suppressed my laugh as I watched a monkey thief for the first time. Fair warning, keep a watchful eye on your belongings in the temple, especially the food items; the place is thronging with monkeys. The sunset painted the sky in crimson hues, blending magically with the Lord Hanuman statue.

Exploring Shimla

After two hours, I walked down to Lakkar Bazaar. Its interesting name is derived from the exquisite wooden artifacts sold in the market. After some shopping—keychains, a decorative item, and a small wooden box—I realized my extravagance and diverted away from the place!

Soon, I reached the Ridge, a wide street lined with charming old buildings. The Indian flag fluttered proudly, and fountains added cheerfulness to the scene. Nearby stood the Christ Church, the second-oldest church in North India, with its yellow façade glowing excellently in the night.

Descending to Mall Road, I rested on a bench. The twinkling city lights below felt like a star-studded sky present both above and beneath me.

Hunger struck, I ate a snack and some desserts along the way. Surprisingly, they were scrumptious, the best foods I had ever eaten. I finally returned to the hotel, eager to explore more the next day.

Morning Vibes

When I woke up, refreshing air recharged me. I went to the famous Viceregal Lodge, a magnificent colonial-era mansion reminiscent of ancient European manors. The well-maintained lawns bloomed with colorful flowers. In the halls, historical photographs depicted the pre-independence era.

I returned to the Ridge for a daylight tour and it was still as enchanting. I shopped at Mall Road, this time prepared with a proper backpack to store the purchases. I relished local delicacies in the shops dating back to the time of independence, showcasing an old-world charm.

I attended the evening aarti at Kali Bari Temple amid the tranquil scenery. I sat there for an hour, soaking in its divine aura before indulging in more street food on my way back to the hotel.

The next day, I took a government bus tour to Naldehra, Kufri, and an apple orchard near a resort, witnessing the fascinating natural beauty.

Conclusion

At first, I wasn’t convinced with my friend’s suggestion. But I was completely in awe of the place. It was an experience of a lifetime. The Jakhu temple was a spiritual journey amidst nature at its full grandeur. Those moments still fill my heart with an unparalleled serenity. 

There are a few tips that I would like to share with you in case you are planning a Shimla trip. The uphill walk and stairs are pretty much present throughout the city and for an enjoyable stroll, wear comfortable footwear, especially shoes. Traveling with all your shopping bags might be difficult, so carry a backpack. Also always take a cab, wherever possible, it will save you a lot of time. Overall my trip was exciting. I am eager to return to Shimla and this time I will plan it during January or December for the mesmerizing snowfall.

FAQs

Q – How to reach Shimla?

Shimla can be reached by road, railways, and air. But I will advise you to choose a toy train. The Shimla government has specially designed them to enhance the overall experience. The panoramic views from the large windows, the tunnels, and the unique rail coach are worth a try.

Q – What was your experience at Jakhu Temple?

The most popular landmark of the city is the Jakhu Temple. Try the Jakhu ropeway, it is an exhilarating experience on its own. The spiritual journey will stay with you forever.

Q – What are the best places to visit in Shimla?

Shimla is laden with exciting places. Mall Road and the Ridge run parallel for an evening leisurely walk. They are lined with eateries and colonial-era buildings. Shops at Mall Road and Lakkar Bazar invite you on a shopping spree. For a glimpse into history, visit Viceregal Lodge. For feeling the divine, Kali Bari temple, Jakhu temple, and the Christ Church are a must. There are also many other places near Shimla- Naldehra, Kufri, Narkanda, etc., for you to explore.

Q – What are some tips to fully enjoy the city?

As a first timer, here are some tips to enjoy the most. First and foremost, wear comfortable shoes because there is a lot of walking in the city. To fully immerse in the shopping experience, keep a backpack. Also prefer a vehicle for distant places, it will save a lot of your time unless you are up for a delightful walk. Savor the local delicacies from the vendors and the old shops.