Visitor Information
- Famous For: Religion, Photography, Nature.
- Entry Fee: No fee is required.
- Visiting Time: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, preferably.
- Visiting Duration: 1 to 2 hours maximum.
Situated quite above the sea level, Mussoorie houses a great variety of flora and fauna because of which this place is famous all over the world. Amidst the dense, green forest, the locals boast of the existence of an ancient temple of Maa Jwala who is an incarnation of Goddess Durga. It is believed that a visit to this temple on foot can resurrect a pilgrim from the sufferings of life and bestow upon him or her a deep sense of sacredness. Thus, Jwalaji temple is a sacred site of pilgrimage for the Hindu pilgrims and they come to this place every year to pay respect to Maa Jwala, their Guardian Angel.
Traveller Tips
- Do not wear heels as you will have to walk up and down a rugged terrain.
- The Jwala Ji Temple is on the highest point of Benog Hill and is not guarded on all sides. So, be very careful when you step closer to edges as you might accidentally slip.
- Wear fresh clothes if you want to offer your prayer to the deity as that is a custom.
- Watch out for snakes when you are making your way to the temple through the dense forests of the Benog Hill.
Things to Do There
- Explore the ancient site of the temple and learn about the unheard of mysterious tales.
- Take a good look at the gorgeous Doon Valley, the Yamuna Valley and the Yamuna River below that look beautiful from the premises of this sacred place.
- Take a hand at photography except at the restricted zones.
- Go down to the Mussoorie Lake and enjoy boating while the cool breeze freshens you up.
- You can even visit the Christ Church which is less than an hour away to experience the admixture and the coexistence of different religions under the same sky.
Availability of Guides
You will not come across a professional guide, but, you can always come across the local residents who would be of immense help to you.
Best Time to Visit
It will be better if you visit the Jwalaji Temple between July and September for a comfortable trip because the trek to the temple might get unsafe during the other time of the year owing to sudden natural calamities.
How to Reach the Place
The Jwalaji Temple is 9 km away from Mussoorie and the best way of reaching the temple is to hire a cab up to Benog Hill initially. Once you reach the Benog Hill, you can trek through the forest to reach the ancient temple.
Interesting Facts About Jwalaji Temple
- The Jwalaji Temple is situated at the summit of the Benog Hill.
- The view of the Doon Valley, the Yamuna Valley and the Yamuna River from the premises of the ancient temple is breathtaking.
Nearby Attractions
- Kempty Falls
- Camel’s Back Road
- Bhatta Falls
- Mossy Falls
- Jawahar Museum
- Christ Church
- Landour Clock Tower
- Gun Hill
- Mussoorie Lake
Nearby Restaurants
- JW Café
- Lovely Omelette Centre
- Chic Chocolate
- Emily’s
- Momo’s Tibetan Restaurant
- The Tavern
Among the hidden gems of the peaceful hill station of Mussoorie, the Jwalaji Temple is of foremost important. Surrounded by the age-old myth revolving around the power and motherly care of Goddess Durga, this temple has kept the local people protected against all harm. Sitting atop the Benog Hill and looking over a mystique horizon comprising of every natural beauty one can think of, the Jwalaji Temple is a true gem and is, thus, a must visit for all.
