Jaakhu Hanuman Mandir is the temple ascribed to Sri Hanuman. This temple is situated at Jaakhu Hill, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. The hill is the highest zipping point at the height of approximately about 2.5 kilometers from the sea level.
Jaakhu Hanuman Mandir is noted for the tallest statue of Sri Hanuman. It is also said to be considered as the tallest statue in the world so far.
As per the legend, this was the place chosen by Sri Hanuman to rest when He was searching for the Sanjeevi Aushada Parvada to take to Lanka to cure Sri Lakshmana who was felled by Indrajit, the son of Ravana.
The temple can be approached through taxi or bike or ropeway from the Shimla city center. The entrance to the temple has a colorful arch.
From there, steps to reach the temple are visible. The steps are made in the nature of slope so that it is easier to climb.
We have to walk a few steps which are covered from above. This cover protects the devotees from snow, rain or sunshine.
On completing the steps, at our right-hand side, we can sight a huge open space. In the space, on a huge dais, the Vigraha of Sri Hanumanji mesmerizes us.
The enormity and the magnificence of the Vigraha is to be seen to be believed. We have to crane our neck to look at the holy face of Sri Hanuman. It is so awe inspiring. We are speechless. Sri Anjaneya Swamy is so serene and majestic.
After darshan of Sri Hanumanji, we have to climb a few steps to our left. These steps lead us to the sanctum of Sri Ramachandra Murthy. This sanctum is also on a small dais.
When we perambulate the sanctum, we come across another smaller Sri Maruthi Shrine.
While we perambulate the premises, we cannot help but look at the huge Sri Hanuman from time to time.
There are walkways and gardens below the dais. The whole atmosphere is charged with serenity, holiness and we can feel the oneness with God.
After completing the darshan, we have to get down the same stairs to reach the entrance. From the entrance, we can see a small Eshwar temple across.
