Sankat Mochan Temple

Seeking Blessings at Sankat Mochan Temple: A Spiritual Journey in Shimla

Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is primarily known for its natural beauty, colonial architecture, and cultural heritage. But did you know that the city is also home to several ancient temples that offer a glimpse into the spiritual side of the city? One such place that is known for it’s spiritual aura amongst the locals and visitors alike is the Sankat Mochan Temple. In this article, we will take you on a spiritual journey to the Sankat Mochan Temple and explore its history, architecture, and festivals.

Introduction to Sankat Mochan Temple

The Sankat Mochan Temple is a popular Hindu temple located in the suburb of Shimla known as Taradevi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god who is known for his devotion to Lord Rama. The temple is situated on a hilltop and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The temple is one of the most visited religious sites in Shimla and is believed to fulfill the wishes of the devotees.

History of Sankat Mochan Temple

It was founded in the year 1950 by Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj. Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj was a disciple of Hanuman Prasad Poddar, who was a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement. The temple was built with the help of donations made by the local people and has been regarded as a hub for various spiritual activities since then. The temple is managed by the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir Trust, which was established to oversee the temple’s affairs and promote the teachings of Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj.

Architecture of Sankat Mochan Temple

The temple is built in a traditional north Indian style architecture. It has a white façade and a spire rising from the roof. The lush green trees surrounding the temple along with a well-maintained garden add to the beauty. The temple has several small shrines that are dedicated with various Hindu deities.

The main shrine of the temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and features a statue of the monkey god in a sitting position. The God statue is always adorned with marigold flowers. Devotees from all around India offer prasad to the deity. There is a sacred pond located at the temple known as the Ramkund, where the devotees take a dip to purify their souls.

Festivals at Sankat Mochan Temple

The Sankat Mochan Temple is a hub of activity throughout the year and is particularly crowded during festivals. Most popular one has to be the Hanuman Jayanti festival that marks the birthday of Lord Hanuman. It is celebrated with great fervor, and the temple is truly a site during this time as it is decorated with lights and flowers.

Devotees come and offer special prayers to Lord Hanuman and sing devotional songs in his praise. Even if you aren’t a Hindu, do visit the temple during the festivities. Another popularly celebrated festival is Navratri that is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The festival is celebrated for nine consecutive days, and the

temple is decorated beautiful with a variety of different lights and flowers. The devotees offer special prayers to the goddess and perform aarti (devotional ritual) in her honor. On the ninth day of the festival, which is known as the Vijayadashami, a grand procession is taken out, which is attended by thousands of devotees.

Tips for Visiting Sankat Mochan Temple

If you are planning to visit the Sankat Mochan Temple, here are a few tips that might come in handy:

• The temple is located on a hilltop. You can wither reach it via a car or by foot. If you do decide to take the car, be sure to park it in the designated parking space.
• During the festivals, temple is very crowded. If you aren’t a fan of crowds, we recommend visiting the temple in the early mornings or late evenings.
• Dress appropriately while visiting the temple. Make sure to wear modest clothing and stay clear of shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops as they aren’t allowed within the premises of the temple.
• Do not click pictures inside the temple complex as photography isn’t allowed.
• Be very of the temple customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering the temple and avoid eating non-vegetarian food inside the temple premises.
• Respect other people visiting the temple and avoid disturbing anyone who is praying.

All in all, the Sankat Mochan Temple is not just a religious site, but also a symbol of the cultural heritage of Shimla. The temple’s serene surroundings and the breathtaking view of the mountains make it a perfect destination for spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike. So, if you are looking for a spiritual journey in Shimla, make sure to visit the Sankat Mochan Temple and seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman.