Shimla Kali Bari Temple

Address

Kali Bari Temple,

Panthoni Hill,

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – 171001.

Amman

Syamala

Introduction

Kali Bari Temple, also known as Kali Bari Mandir, situated on Panthoni Hill in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, the fierce form of Shakti, also worshipped here as Syamala—a name from which the city of Shimla is believed to have derived its name. Local legends also suggest that Goddess Kali once resided near Iyaku Hill, adding to the spiritual significance of the region.

The Kali Bari Temple is conveniently located in the heart of Shimla, offering a serene spiritual retreat amidst the bustling city. Surrounded by the picturesque beauty of Shimla’s natural landscape, the temple provides scenic views of several notable landmarks, including the old bus stand, Art Rock, Annadale, the Railway Board building, Shimla Railway Station, and Sri Hanuman Iyaku. Its central location and tranquil ambiance make it a popular destination for both tourists and devotees alike.

Puranic Significance

The Kali Bari Temple was originally constructed in 1845 by a Bengali Brahmin named Ram Charan Brahmachari, near Urodni Fort on Iyaku Hill. Due to its origins, the temple closely resembles the iconic Dakshineswar Kali Temple in Kolkata. One of the oldest temples in Shimla, it showcases a distinctive style of Hindu architecture and houses a striking blue wooden idol of Goddess Kali.

Later, during the British era, the temple was relocated to its present site on Panthoni Hill. The temple trust, established in 1902, continues to be managed predominantly by members of the Bengali community.