Jakhu Hanuman Mandir, Shimla

According to legend, while flying to fetch the Sanjeevani Booti to save Lakshman's life during the war in Lanka, Lord Hanuman paused at this very hill, where the sage Yaksha (Yaku Rishi) requested him to rest a while and recount his adventures. Not wishing to displease the sage, Hanuman manifested an idol of himself before continuing on his way, and the sage later built this temple at the spot in his memory, this legend is said to have given the hill its name, 'Jakhu'.

The temple is believed to be as old as the events of the Ramayana itself, and stands atop Shimla's highest peak at an altitude of about 2,455 metres. In 2010, a 108-foot Hanuman statue was installed here, counted among the tallest Hanuman statues at such an altitude anywhere in the world, and visible from many parts of Shimla.

Jakhu temple's most distinctive feature is the large population of monkeys found here, legend holds that Hanuman's monkey companions, believing he had left angrily and alone, have waited for his return here ever since. Visitors are advised to keep their glasses, bags, and food items secure, as the monkeys are known to snatch them.

The roughly 2.5 km climb from The Ridge and Mall Road can be covered on foot or by ropeway, and the hilltop offers a beautiful view of Shimla town and the surrounding mountain ranges.