Tara
Devi Temple,
Shoghi Shimla
Situated
1851 meters above sea level, Tara Devi temple is situated on
the Tara Devi Mountain between Shoghi and Shimla. The
location of the temple on the Hill top makes it appear that
the goddess seems to keep everyone under the protective gaze ,showering
innumerable blessings
on her worshippers From here one can get a panoramic view of
Shimla and snow-clad Himalayan range on one side, with the
other side revealing the plains at a far distance.
With
the majestic forested mountains around, this place has high
spiritual value that has a soothing and rejuvenating effect,
being away from the din, noise, pollution, crowd and urban
infrastructure.
Photos
of Tara Devi
The
Tata Devi temple has a great spiritual and heritage value.
The temple was built approximately 250 years ago.
The road
connectivity of the temple from Shoghi recently has
increased the devotees coming to this temple manifold. The
road has also helped to boost up the construction and
development activities at the temple. New langar halls,
kitchens and other facilities for the devotees have been
added at a fast pace. The langar is served every Sunday, and
is generally offered by the devotees who have pledged to do
so after fulfillment of their wishes.
There
are two routes to go to this temple.
Mountain
walk
The
best way to appreciate the mountains in Shimla is by taking
a scenic walk.
This
is from Shimla end and the walk starts from Tara Devi
station on the national highway 7 kms before Shimla. From
this place one has to walk / trek about 4 kilometers to
reach the temple. When out walking, it is recommended that
you do not wander off the tracks and that you wear sensible,
comfortable shoes or sneakers. The meandering foot path to
the temple is uphill, through the pinewoods and green
meadows, accompanied by the chilly mild wind. Atmosphere of
the hill rejuvenates the pilgrims and common tourists
visiting this sacred temple.
Walk
Grade
Easy
to medium: May not be suitable for all ages, some steps and
inclines; for people who walk occasionally. Distance about 4
kilometers
By
road
The
second one is from Shoghi 13 kilometers before Shimla on the
national highway. The temple is about six kilometers from
this place and is connected by road. If you do not want to
trek to the temple this is the best option. Government buses
and taxis are available to go to this place. The road to the
temple is narrow and inclined
with lots of U
turns and it needs an expert driver to drive the vehicle from Shoghi to Tara Devi temple.
Tourists with less experience of this kind are
advised to avoid this drive themselves. The temple is about
200 meters from the parking near the temple
There
is also a mountain walk route to go to the temple from
Shoghi also, but the other route from Shimla end is much
better compared to this.
Walk
Grade
Hard:
Steep steps and inclines; for people who walk regularly.
Visitors with heart or respiratory problems should not
attempt these walk. Distance 2.5 kilometers.
|