Jatoli Shiv Temple, Solan

If a tourist wants to see a grand and spectacular temple, perched on a hill top then Jatoli Shiv temple is the place to be. Jatoli gets its name from the long Jata (hair) that Lord Shiva has. Considered as Asia's highest Shiv temple, this shrine is indeed an architectural marvel. Jatoli Shiv Temple is one of the famous holy destinations of Solan which attract a large number of pilgrims and is only 6 Kms from the city.

Multiple fables and stories are associated with the history of Jatoli Shiv Temple. It is one of the oldest temples of Lord Shiv where an ancient linga is the also placed since a long time. It is believed that the temple was once the resting place of Lord Shiva.

The temple is made in typical Southern-Dravidian style architecture and is made of three consecutive pyramids. On the first pyramid, one can see the image of Lord Ganesha while on second pyramid there is a sculpture of Shesh Naag. Jatoli Shiv Temple holds the tag of being the highest temple in Asia; it took 39 years to complete the construction of the temple.

On the northeast corner of the temple, there is a water tank called 'Jal Kund' which is considered as pious as the holy river Ganga. The water of this tank is said to have some medicinal qualities that can treat skin diseases. There is a cave inside the temple where Swami Krishnananda Paramhans Ji resided. This ancient temple is famous for its annual fair, which is conducted during the festival of Mahashivratri. A number of devotees gather in the temple to offer prayers.