Bhimakali Temple, Sarahan
Human-reviewedSarahan, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
- Deity
- Bhimakali (a form of the goddess)
- Altitude
- ~2,165 m
- Style
- Kath-kuni tower temple
- History
- Former capital of Bushahr state
- Time needed
- 1 hour
About
The Bhimakali temple complex at Sarahan, about 2,165 m, was the seat of the rulers of Bushahr. Two tall towers of interlocking timber and stone stand in a walled courtyard; the goddess is now worshipped in the newer of the two. The site is counted among the Shakti Peethas by tradition, and the Bushahr royal family still maintains a connection to it. Sarahan looks across the Sutlej valley towards the Srikhand range and is the last major stop before Kinnaur.
How to reach
- Sarahan is ~180 km from Shimla on NH5, then a ~17 km branch road from Jeori.
- Buses towards Rampur and Kinnaur stop at Jeori; local transport runs up to Sarahan.
- It is a common overnight stop between Shimla and Sangla.
Best time to visit
April to June and September to November. The Sutlej valley is warm in summer and cold in winter, when the towers may be snow-dusted.
Things to know
- Visitors are usually given a cap and sash to wear before entering the inner courtyard.
- Leather items and, often, cameras are left at the entrance.
- There is a temple guesthouse; Sarahan is small, so book ahead in season.
FAQ
Why are there two towers at Bhimakali temple?
The older tower was damaged (in part by earthquakes) and worship shifted to a newer tower built alongside it; both still stand in the courtyard.
Is Sarahan worth stopping at on the way to Kinnaur?
Yes — the temple is one of the finest examples of Himachali tower architecture, and Sarahan makes a quiet overnight break before the Kinnaur roads.
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