“Where pine-scented silence leads to a shrine in the sky.”
📖 Overview
The Tara Devi Trek is a 4–5 km uphill forest trail that begins near Tara Devi Railway Station (on the Kalka–Shimla line) or Shoghi, and ascends to the Tara Devi Temple (1,851 m / 6,076 ft)—a 250-year-old shrine dedicated to Goddess Tara, a form of Shakti. The trail winds through dense pine, oak, and rhododendron forests, offering panoramic views of Shimla, the Shivalik hills, and on clear days, even the snow-capped Himalayas.
🧭 Trail Profile
Attribute
Details
Trailhead
Tara Devi Railway Station or Shoghi
Temple Altitude
1,851 m (6,076 ft)
Trek Distance
~4–5 km one way
Trek Duration
2–3 hours (one way)
Grade
Easy to Moderate
Best Season
October–April (clear skies, cool weather)
Permit Required
No (register locally for safety)
🥾 Trail Highlights
Forest Canopy: Walk through cedar, pine, and rhododendron groves, with birdsong, wildflowers, and occasional langur sightings.
Panoramic Vistas: As you ascend, enjoy views of Shimla town, Jakhoo Hill, and the Himalayan ridgelines.
Tara Devi Temple: A wooden pagoda-style temple with golden spires, believed to be over 250 years old, offering a tranquil space for prayer and reflection.
Optional Toy Train Ride: Take the UNESCO-listed Kalka–Shimla toy train to Tara Devi Station and begin your hike from there—a nostalgic and scenic prelude.
🛕 Spiritual & Cultural Significance
Goddess Tara: A form of Durga, Tara is revered as the protector of travelers and seekers. The temple is a major Shakti Peeth in the region.
Navratri Celebrations: During Navratri, the temple hosts folk performances, devotional music, and community feasts.
Local Lore: The temple is said to have been established by the Sen dynasty rulers of Keonthal, who carried the idol from Bengal.
🧳 Essentials for Trekkers
Item
Notes
Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes or trail sneakers
Clothing
Light layers; mornings can be chilly
Gear
Water bottle, sun hat, camera
Food
Carry snacks; tea stalls near temple
Safety
Trail is well-marked; solo hikes are safe in daylight
🧭 How to Reach
By Road:
Shimla ➝ Tara Devi / Shoghi: ~15–20 km
Taxis and buses available from Shimla
By Train:
Kalka–Shimla Toy Train: Get off at Tara Devi Station
Trail begins a short walk from the station
By Air: Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti): ~25 km from Tara Devi
🏞️ Add-On Adventures
Shoghi Forest Walks: Explore oak-lined trails, birdwatching spots, and eco-resorts in the surrounding hills
Hanuman Temple & Jakhoo Ridge: Combine with a visit to Jakhoo Temple, the highest point in Shimla
Camping & Stargazing: Stay at eco-camps near Shoghi for a quiet night under the stars
