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About
Shikari Devi temple is located at an altitude of 3,359 meters in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. Because it is the highest peak in Mandi, it is also known as the Crown of the Mandi district. The distance from Mandi to Shikari Devi is around 92 km, and it is 18 km from Janjehli. The weather here remains cool even in the summer season, as the place is at such a soaring height.
There is no roof on this temple—literally NO ROOF! People made many attempts to cover this temple with a roof, but the roof could not stay. The goddess is within the boundaries of the temple without any roof. Other idols are also there alongside the walls. It is a belief that the deity does not stay in a temple with a roof over it. The more surprising fact is that while Shikari Devi has a lot of snow, the idols are snow-free. Despite its remote location, Shikari Devi temple sees regular footfall from devotees seeking spiritual solace and blessings.
According to local legends, the Shikari Devi temple was established by the Pandavas during their exile. It is also believed that Sage Markandaya meditated at this place for several years. These associations give the temple not only spiritual significance but also historical and mythological value in Himachal’s cultural landscape.
The summit of Shikari Devi offers an uninterrupted 360-degree view of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. On a clear day, you can observe the snow-covered mountain ranges of Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal, forests, and deep river valleys below. During winter, the entire area remains snow-covered. The route to Shikari Devi remains open mainly during summer; heavy snowfall in winter often blocks the way. The route leading up to the temple passes through beautiful and dense deodar and pine forests. The forest path opens up to meadows near the top. The exhausting journey is rewarded with a truly breathtaking experience at the summit. The place is truly breathtaking for adventure lovers, photographers, and pilgrims.
How To Reach Shikari Devi?
There is more than one route to Shikari Devi. Mandi is in the middle of cities like Delhi/Chandigarh and Manali, so one has to travel from their respective places. After reaching Mandi, the journey proceeds towards Janjehli and continues to Shikari Devi Temple. While the route is mostly motorable, the final 1 to 2 kilometers must be covered on foot.
From Manali
Travelers coming from Manali have three main route options to reach Shikari Devi Temple, all converging at Janjehli:
- Manali → Pandoh → Kandha → Janjehli → Shikari Devi
– A direct route passing through Kandha, suitable for a quicker drive with less deviation. - Manali → Pandoh → Gohar → Kandha → Janjehli → Shikari Devi
– Slightly longer but more scenic; goes through Gohar, a small town en route to Kandha. (**These two routes, directly from Pandoh and from Gohar, merge at Kandha.) - Manali → Nerchowk → Chail Chowk → Devidarh → Janjehli → Shikari Devi
– This route takes you through Devidarh, known for its off-road stretches and dense forest views. It’s less crowded but may require a higher ground-clearance vehicle and an experienced driver as well.
From Shimla
Travelers coming from Shimla can reach Shikari Devi Temple via Shimla → Karsog → Raigarh → Janjehli → Shikari Devi route. People from Shimla generally travel through this route. The route is well maintained and passes through a picturesque valley with apple orchards.
From Chandigarh or Delhi
The route is the same for Delhi and Chandigarh. From Delhi/Chandigarh, you reach Chail Chowk via Sundernagar. From here, you can follow the same above routes, i.e., via Gohar or Chail Chowk itself. For personalized route you can use map also.
Map showing route to Shikari Devi Temple
There is an alternative route to Shikari Devi via Devidarh. The road remains in good condition up to Devidarh, but beyond that, it turns into an off-road trail suitable only for jeeps or high-clearance vehicles. For more details you can check out the video below:
Shikari route: Chail Chowk → Devidarh → Shikari Devi
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the place is from March to June and from September to November. During this time, the weather remains clear and pleasant. You can enjoy the journey with panoramic views. Although be ready for the unexpected weather there and always carry some winter wear. Avoid visiting the place during winter and monsoon as the roads become unsafe. If you are planning to stay overnight thereby, we provide a comfortable and scenic accommodation option at Bhulah, located en route to Shikari Devi.
Stay at Bhulah – Accommodation near Shikari Devi
If you are planning an overnight stay on your way to the temple, our cottage, The Mountain Huts, offers a scenic stay. Surrounded by deodar and pine forests, the cottage is at a serene location with a small rivulet flowing nearby. The cottage is suitable for families as well as solo travelers.
Contact us for the stay inquiry or call us.
