At some 11 km from the hill station of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh is located the Tara Devi Temple - a holy and tranquil place. The temple is located in the midst of a thick forest of oak and rhododendron and gives scenic views of the mighty Himalayas. Spiritual and religious piety apart, the temple provides a peaceful setting and invites those tourists wishing to escape the chaos of the city life.  

As per the legends, the temple is dedicated to the goddess of stars – Tara Devi – who came from Bengal to Himachal Pradesh. Located on TaravParvat and in the western side of the hill station, the temple is as much popular among pilgrims as visitors seeking calm in a natural setting. The temple is some 250 years old and holds immense spiritual and heritage value.

It’s also believed that kings from the Sen Dynasty from Bengal contributed a lot in the temple, donated lands to it and oversaw its construction. A visit to the Tara Devi temple gives visitors a chance to savor the sweet fragrance of pine forests and gaze at the sight of lush green meadows around. The location of temple on the hilltop lends it a unique visual appeal you should not miss!