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
- Presiding Deity
- Devi
- Established
- 8th century CE (present tower 1927–1943)
- Architecture
- Kath-kuni (Himachali wood-and-stone)
- Address
- Sarahan, Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh 172102
- Timings
- 06:00–20:00 daily
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.
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.
Is there an entry fee at Bhimakali Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Bhimakali Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Bhimakali Temple?
- Bhimakali Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Himachal Pradesh temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.