Bhimakali Temple
Also known as Bhimakali Devi Mandir, Sri Bhimakali
Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan, Shimla district, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, marking where Sati's ears fell, with a striking 8-storey wood-and-stone tower.
Photos of Bhimakali Temple
Bhimakali Temple at a Glance
| Location | Shimla, Himachal Pradesh |
|---|---|
| Presiding deity | Devi |
| Established | 8th century CE (present tower 1927–1943) |
| Architecture | Kath-kuni (Himachali wood-and-stone) |
| Timings | 06:00–20:00 daily |
| Address | Sarahan, Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh 172102 |
History of Bhimakali Temple
Mentioned in the Skanda Purana as the ancient tirtha of Bhimakali. The present tower was built over several decades in the early 20th century under Raja Amar Chand and his successors of the Bushahr state.
Festivals Celebrated at Bhimakali Temple
- Navaratri
- Shivaratri
- Jagar ceremonies
How to Reach Bhimakali Temple
Sarahan is 170 km from Shimla on NH-22. Reachable by HRTC buses from Shimla, Rampur and Narkanda.
Temples Near Bhimakali Temple
- Grange Nag Sherkando Ji TempleHimachal Pradesh · about 17 km in a straight line
- Maa Usha Devi Ji Temple, NiganiHimachal Pradesh · about 18 km in a straight line
- Shiv Mandir, Sangla-Chhitkul RoadHimachal Pradesh · about 18 km in a straight line
- Kuldev Narayan Ji Temple, PanwiHimachal Pradesh · about 21 km in a straight line
- Yulla Kanda (Lord Krishna Temple)Himachal Pradesh · about 34 km in a straight line
- Narayana Temple, RoghiHimachal Pradesh · about 41 km in a straight line
More Devi Temples to Visit
- Maa Chandika Devi Ji Kila, KalpaHimachal Pradesh
- Maa Chandike Durga Ji Temple, KothiHimachal Pradesh
- Shikari Devi TempleHimachal Pradesh
- Chindi Mata MandirHimachal Pradesh
- Shri Hanogi Mata TempleHimachal Pradesh
- Shri Hateshwari Temple, DiargiHimachal Pradesh
Frequently Asked Questions about Bhimakali Temple
Where is Bhimakali Temple located?
- Bhimakali Temple is located at Sarahan, Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh 172102, in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Bhimakali Temple?
- The presiding deity at Bhimakali Temple is Devi (also known as Shakti, Durga), worshipped in the Shakta tradition.
What are the timings of Bhimakali Temple?
- Bhimakali Temple is generally open 06:00–20:00 daily. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Bhimakali Temple built?
- Bhimakali Temple was established 8th century CE (present tower 1927–1943). Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Bhimakali Temple?
- Bhimakali Temple is built in the Kath-kuni (Himachali wood-and-stone) style, characteristic of Devi shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Bhimakali Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Bhimakali Temple include Navaratri, Shivaratri, Jagar ceremonies. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Bhimakali Temple?
- Sarahan is 170 km from Shimla on NH-22. Reachable by HRTC buses from Shimla, Rampur and Narkanda.
Why is Bhimakali Temple significant?
- Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan, Shimla district, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, marking where Sati's ears fell, with a striking 8-storey wood-and-stone tower.