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Kalibari Temple of Shimla is a popular tourist destination across the nation and is devoted to Goddess Kali. Maa Kali is also known as Shyamala. This sacred spot is very renowned in Shimla. People coming here believe it to be the holiest place and make it a point to visit if you want any wish to be fulfilled. It is located in Jakhu Hill and set amidst the opulent green forests of Shimla and offers a glorious view of the Himalayas. Hence, this place is considered as the most favored place by tourists. The tourists love to explore this stunning hilltop.
History of kalibari temple
Locals have faith in that Goddess Kali lived on Jakhoo Hill and it is the location of an ancient temple. This temple was later re-positioned to Kali Bari by the British. The temple was built in the year 1845. Locals also call Goddess Kali as Goddess Shyamala. Hence, the name of the city, Shimla, was derived from this Goddesses name.
A huge number of disciples visit the Kali Bari Temple in search of Goddess Kali's consecration and to bid their prayers during the festival of Navratri. If you want to view the true beauty of this place then the evening aarti at the divine temple must be witnessed. The spot of devotees getting engrossed in the holy verses recited by the Kali Bari temple priests is yet an amazing sight to witness.
Best time to visit
Kali Bari temple can be visited every day all through the year. But considering the best time, it is during the tourist season between October and May. The travelers are advised to visit the temple at 7:00 PM. This is the time when you can partake in the evening aarti which is an astounding view to witness.
Entry Fee and Timings to visit Kali Bari Temple
No entry fee is charged by the temple committee to visit Kali Bari Temple in Shimla. It is open from 6 AM, closes for 4 hours from 12 to 4 PM. Reopens from 4 PM to 7 PM every day.
Festivals Celebrated
Various festivals are celebrated during October-November every year. There is a famous Durga Puja celebrated due to the immense community of Bengalis in Shimla. Durga Puja celebration involves immense festivities like cultural programs, dance and fun activities. Kali Bari, being the devoted place for Maa Shyama Kali, celebrates Diwali in the same period with massive enthusiasm.
How to reach Kali Bari Shimla?
Kali Bari temple is situated very near to Shimla City Mall on Kali Bari Road. Visitors can walk to the destination from the mall road. They can also hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
If you are coming directly from the bus stand or railway station, it is suitable to take a local bus or a sharing taxi to visit the Kali Bari Temple. For a convenient and easy commutation within the hill-station, you can furthermore choose a tour and travel companies in Shimla. They can offer you a cab facility along with a guide to travel the whole of Shimla in one day.
The temple is only 1 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand and 1.5 km from Shimla Railway Station.
Travelers tips to visit Kalibari Shimla
1. One will spot many monkeys around the temple. They should keep their belongings safe as the monkeys could snatch them.
2. Photography is prohibited inside the temple premise.
3. The temple is located on a hilltop. Although the hike isn't shattering, tourists may want to think again visiting the temple if they have any kind of medical issues.
4. The temple premise also has a Guest House and a Canteen for tourists who wish to stay nearby. This canteen serves some delectable but simple Bengali cuisine during lunch and dinner time.
Other Attractions in Shimla
• The Mall Road Shimla
• The Ridge
• Jakhoo Temple Shimla
• Kamna Devi Temple Shimla
• Christ Church
• The Glen
• Annandale Shimla
• Chindi
• Tattapani Shimla
• Craignano Shimla
• Summer Hill Shimla
• Fagu Shimla
• Tara Devi Temple Shimla
• Sankat Mochan Temple Shimla
• Chadwick Falls Shimla
• Prospect Hill Shimla
• Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Gardens
• Shimla State Museum
