Read More on Kali Bari Temple
History
A Bengali Brahmin Ram Charan Brahmachari had originally built the Kali Bari temple in 1845 in the vicinity of Rothney Castle on Jakhoo Hill. That's the sole reason why the temple resembles the Dakshineswar Kali Temple in Kolkata. Later, the British authoritarians shifted the location of the Devi temple to Bantony Hill. Kali Bari Temple trust, which was formed in the year 1902 mainly consists of Bengali members.
This Devi temple is one of the ancient temples of Shimla city and features a peculiar Hindu-style architecture along with the wooden idol of the goddess Kali colored in blue. Locals also refer to Goddess Kali as Goddess Shyamala. The name of the city (Shimla) itself was derived from the Goddesses' name.
Architecture
The authorities of the Kali Bari temple Shimla have well maintained the temple and it is properly facilitated for the convenience of the devotees. This Devi temple is one of the ancient temples of Shimla city and features a peculiar Hindu-style architecture along with the wooden idol of the goddess Kali colored in blue.
The courtyard of the temple is quite big and devotees can spend some time there and enjoy the amazing hill view. A steep stairway leads to the main entrance of the temple.
Activities
- You can take part in the Aarti that takes place twice a day.
- You can also pray to other deities that are housed there.
- Many devotees prefer to meditate in the temple, you can also join them to relax your mind.
- The temple also has a guest house on its premises, if you want then you can stay there.
- A canteen is also available where you can eat some tasty food.
Tips for visiting
- Alcohol and non-veg items are strictly prohibited inside the temple.
- Photography is not allowed inside the main hall of the temple.
- You will find a lot of monkeys in the temple complex, so try to keep your belongings packed in a bag and your phone in your pocket.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Kali Bari Temple would be during the festival of Navaratri. The atmosphere during that time of the year is simply amazing.
Nearby Atractions
- Himachal State Museum
- Marina Waterfall
- Victory Tunnel
- Bantony Castle
Nearby market/ shopping places
- Lakkar Bazaar: If you want to purchase wooden handicrafts, artifacts, and even wooden kitchenware, then this should be the place you should visit.
- Lower bazaar: In the narrow lanes of this market one can find various items such as clothes, jewelry, and vegetables.
- Tibetan Market: you can purchase a lot of items from this famous market of the city such as souvenirs, home décor items, kitchenware, and clothes.
Nearby Hotels
- Hotel Divine Hills Shimla
- Sai Cottage Shimla
- The Royal Regency Shimla
- Silver Oak Bed and Breakfast
Interesting Facts About Kali Bari Temple
- A Bengali Brahmin Ram Charan Brahmachari had originally built the Kali Bari temple in 1845 in the vicinity of Rothney Castle on Jakhoo Hill, Later, the British authoritarians shifted the location of the Devi temple to Bantony Hill.
- Kali Temple trust, which was formed in the year 1902 mainly consists of Bengali members.
- The temple resembles the Dakshineswar Kali Temple in Kolkata.