Tara Devi Temple

Getting there

• By air

  Shimla Airport (SLV) is the nearest airport. Chandigarh airport (IXC) is also listed as an option.

• By train

  Shimla Railway Station (SML) is the nearest railway station.

• By road

  The temple is an 11 km drive from the city, through deodar trees. A curling uphill drive leaves the highway at Shoghi and reaches the temple.

Why devotees come here

Tara Devi Temple stands on a ridge in the Taradevi area, about 7200 feet above sea level. It is an 11 km drive from the city of Shimla. Built nearly 250 years ago, it honours Tara, one of the ten Great Wisdoms, or Mahavidyas, of Hindu and Buddhist tradition.

Tara is worshipped in both Hinduism and Buddhism. She is the second of the ten Great Wisdoms, and is known as a source of all energies. Some people link her to the stars, and say she watches over everyone from the skies. Devotees believe that people who visit with unwavering devotion receive her blessings.

Legend says King Bhupendra Sen built the temple after a vision in which Tara asked him to install her there, so that people could receive her blessings. Another popular story says she appeared to a devout sage in answer to his prayers. A different legend credits the Raja of Junga, and says the temple was built over 250 years ago, making it one of the oldest in the region. The story traces back about 250 years.

Sen dynasty kings built the temple around 1766 AD. It was rebuilt in 2018 after three and a half years of work. Its architecture follows traditional pahadi, or hill, craft, with intricate carvings and ornate motifs. The idol is made of Ashtadhatu, a mix of eight precious elements.

Tips for your visit

• Around 12000 to 15000 devotees visit on weekends.
• On auspicious days the temple offers a free community lunch hosted by devotees.
• A temple of Batuk Bhairav is nearby, and a milestone gate lies 2.5 km away.
• Walkers can start a trek from Tara Devi station instead of taking the drive, which is another way up to the temple.

Questions people ask