Jakhu Temple, Hindu temple at Jakhu Hill in Shimla, India
Jakhu Temple is a Hindu sanctuary on the highest peak of Shimla in India and rises 2,455 meters (8,054 feet) above sea level. An orange-red monumental statue of Hanuman towers over the compound and is visible from afar between the pine trees.
The Ramayana narrative links this location to the search for the Sanjivni healing herb meant to save Lakshmana. The current temple structure emerged during British colonial times and was expanded several times, with the large statue added in 2010.
The name Jakhu comes from the monkeys that have lived on this mountain for centuries and still greet visitors in large groups today. Worshippers walk around the shrine clockwise following age-old custom and light incense sticks while monkeys move skillfully between the steps.
A ropeway system connects the city center to the temple entrance and saves the steep forest walk uphill. Those who walk should start early in the morning when the temperature is still comfortable and the monkeys are less active.
The statue measures 33 meters (108 feet) in height and thus exceeds the landmark in Rio de Janeiro by about three meters (10 feet). From its base one can spot the snow-covered peaks of the inner Himalayan range on clear days.
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