Kali Bari Temple is a Hindu temple situated on Bantony Hill, Shimla. The temple is dedicated to the fearsome reincarnation of Goddess Kali, known as Shyamala, after which the Shimla city is named. The temple is one of the ancient and popular religious places in Shimla and attracts many devotees and tourists throughout the year. One Day Shimla Local Sightseeing Trip By Private Cab. The temple also offers a splendid view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visit during One Day trip Shimla Local Sightseeing Package – Visit Famous Place
Location of Kali Bari Temple
Kali Bari Temple is located on Kali Bari Road, Fingask Estate, Shimla. The temple is about 350 km away from Delhi, the capital of India. The temple is easily accessible by road, rail and air from various parts of India. The nearest airport is Chandigarh International Airport, which is about 120 km away from Shimla. The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station, which is about 2 km away from the temple. There are also regular bus services to Shimla from Delhi, Chandigarh, Manali and other cities.
Timing/Entry Fees Kali Bari Temple
Kali Bari Temple is open for visitors from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm every day. There is no entry fee for visiting the temple, but there are charges for photography and videography. The photography charge is Rs. 50 per camera, and the videography charge is Rs. 100 per camera.
How to Reach Kali Bari Temple
Kali Bari Temple can be reached by road from various parts of Shimla and nearby towns. There are auto rickshaws and taxis available for hire from the railway station, bus stand and other places. Alternatively, one can walk or cycle to the temple from nearby areas.
Things to Do/Must See Kali Bari Temple
There are many things to do and see at Kali Bari Temple, such as:
- Praying: The main attraction of Kali Bari Temple is praying and seeking blessings from Goddess Shyamala, who is believed to have immense power and grace. The temple has a blue coloured wooden idol of Goddess Kali in a sitting posture with four arms holding a sword, a trident, a severed head and a lotus flower. The idol is adorned with jewellery and flowers and is worshipped with rituals and offerings.
- Admiring: The temple also has some architectural and artistic features that are worth admiring. The temple has a simple but elegant structure with a dome-shaped roof and a colourful gateway. The temple also has some paintings and sculptures that depict the various forms and aspects of Goddess Kali.
- Exploring: The temple also has some historical and cultural significance that are worth exploring. The temple was originally built in 1845 by a Bengali Brahmin Ram Charan Brahamchari in the vicinity of Rothney Castle on Jakhoo Hill. That’s why it resembles the Dakshineswar Kali Temple in Kolkata. Later, the British shifted the location of the temple to Bantony Hill in 1915.
- Shopping: The temple also has some souvenir shops that sell various items such as candles, incense sticks, books, cards and handicrafts. The shops also support some charitable causes such as education and health care for the poor and needy.
Nearby Tourist Attractions Kali Bari Temple
There are many other tourist attractions near Kali Bari Temple that are worth visiting, such as:
- Christ Church: This is a majestic church that was built in 1857 in the neo-Gothic style to serve the Anglican British community in Shimla. Christ Church is situated on The Ridge and offers a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains.
- Mall Road: This is a pedestrian-only zone that offers a variety of attractions such as shopping, dining, entertainment and sightseeing. Mall Road also has some historical and cultural landmarks such as Scandal Point, Town Hall Building and Gaiety Theatre.
- Jakhoo Hill: This is the highest peak in Shimla that offers a bird’s eye view of the city. Jakhoo Hill also has a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is believed to have rested here while searching for Sanjeevani herb.
- Viceregal Lodge: This is a majestic building that served as the residence of the British Viceroy of India from 1888 to 1947. Viceregal Lodge also houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) that conducts research in humanities and social sciences.
Significance of Kali Bari Temple
Kali Bari Temple is not only a tourist attraction, but also a source of faith and devotion for the people of Shimla. It is a place that celebrates the spirit and culture of the hill town. It is also a place that reflects the diversity and harmony of Shimla, as it has people of different religions, such as Hinduism, Christianity and Islam, who visit and worship here. It is also a place that preserves the historical and architectural heritage of Shimla, as it has a building and structure that date back to the colonial era.
FAQ
Q: How big is Kali Bari Temple?
A: Kali Bari Temple is about 60 feet high and 40 feet wide.
Q: How old is Kali Bari Temple?
A: Kali Bari Temple was built in 1845 and shifted in 1915.
Q: What is the best time to visit Kali Bari Temple?
A: Kali Bari Temple can be visited throughout the year, as the climate is pleasant and cool. However, the peak season is from October to March, when the weather is clear and sunny.
Conclusion
Kali Bari Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the charm and beauty of the Queen of Hills. It is a place where one can pray, admire, explore and shop in a sacred and serene atmosphere. It is a place where one can enjoy the views of nature while listening to the chants and bells. It is a place where one can experience the glory and spirit of Shimla.
