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Know Your Himachal

Shikari Devi Temple

Human-reviewed

Janjehli, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

Altitude
~3,330 m
Trek from
Janjehli side (~6 km) or Karsog side
From Mandi
~80 km to Janjehli
In
Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary
Open
Roughly April to November

About

The Shikari Devi temple stands on an open summit in the Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary, in the Seraj area south of Mandi. By tradition the shrine has never held a roof — any that is built is said to be brought down — and the stone images inside are described as staying clear of snow even when the ridge is buried. The last stretch is a climb of a few kilometres from the road-head near Janjehli, with wide views over the Dhauladhar and the higher Himalaya from the top.

How to reach

  1. Drive from Mandi to Janjehli via Chailchowk and Gohar (~80 km), then to the Shikari road-head.
  2. From the road-head it is a steep walk of a few kilometres, partly on steps, to the summit.
  3. The Karsog side is an alternative approach for those coming from Shimla / Tattapani.

Best time to visit

April to June and September to November. Snow closes the top in winter; Navratri (twice a year) brings large crowds.

Things to know

  • There is no shelter or shop at the summit — carry water, warm layers and a torch.
  • The path is through a sanctuary; stay on the trail and do not litter.
  • Weather on the ridge changes quickly; start early and turn back if cloud closes in.

FAQ

Why is the Shikari Devi temple open to the sky?

Local tradition holds that no roof ever stays on the shrine. Whatever the reason, the temple has always stood open, which is part of what draws pilgrims and walkers.

How hard is the walk to Shikari Devi?

Short but steep — a few kilometres with a stiff final climb from the Janjehli road-head. Reasonable fitness and an early start are enough in good weather.

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Location

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Nearby

JanjehliKarsogChindiShikari Devi Wildlife SanctuaryMandi

Individual pages for these are added as they are reviewed.

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