On a forested hilltop above the Kalka–Shimla road, the Tara Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Tara, one of the forms of Durga, and has long been revered by the people of the Shimla hills. The temple was rebuilt in the traditional Kath-Kuni-inspired hill style, with carved wood and stone.
The hilltop gives some of the widest views in the Shimla area, over the ridges towards the town and the mountains. Below the hill, Taradevi station on the toy-train line is a popular end-point for short rides from Shimla.
Top things to do at Tara Devi Temple
Visit the temple
Remove your shoes and step into the carved temple hall. Navratri, in spring and autumn, brings large crowds of devotees.
Enjoy the view
Walk around the hilltop for panoramic views across the Shimla hills.
Combine with a toy train ride
A short toy-train ride between Shimla and Taradevi station is a popular way to experience the railway.
How to get to Tara Devi Temple
- By taxi: about 11 km from Shimla, 30 minutes, via a steep side road from the Kalka highway.
- On foot: a steep path climbs from near Taradevi station for keen walkers.
Insider tips
- Hours are typically from early morning until evening; they may change on festival days.
- Dress modestly and remove footwear before the temple.
Best tours & tickets for Tara Devi Temple
These experiences are the easiest way to see Tara Devi Temple with a guide and transport sorted:
Guided day tour from US$73 Shimla: Toy Train Ride and City Tour with Guide
The classic Shimla day in one package: a stretch of the toy train through pine forest and tunnels, then the Viceregal Lodge, the climb to Jakhoo and the Ridge with Christ Church, finishing on the Mall. Your guide handles tickets and transfers, and reviews are consistently strong.
- A ride on the UNESCO-listed Kalka–Shimla narrow-gauge railway
- The Viceregal Lodge, Jakhoo Temple and Christ Church
- A stroll along the Mall Road with your guide
Guided half-day tour from US$61 Shimla: Toy Train Ride and City Highlights Day Tour
A compact version of the toy-train day: a ride on the narrow-gauge line, the grand Viceregal Lodge on Observatory Hill, the State Museum’s miniature paintings and a walk on the Mall — all in about five hours.
- A short ride on the heritage toy train
- The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (Viceregal Lodge)
- The Himachal State Museum and the Mall Road
