Shali Mata Temple, Shali Tibba

Shali Mata Temple sits on top of Shali Tibba, a peak above Khatnol near Sunni and one of the highest in Shimla district. No road reaches it: from Khatnol, about 36 km from Shimla by way of Mashobra and Baldeyan, a moderately steep, well-marked trail climbs 7 km through deodar and pine forest. The path can turn slippery in snow or monsoon rain.

Local sources put the temple's history at over 400 years. Legend says the idol, brought from the Bhimakali shrine at Sarahan, was first installed at Dalana and later moved to the peak after the goddess asked in a dream to be placed on the highest point nearby. Devotees honour her as Rog Nashini, destroyer of disease. The temple is in the Kath Kuni style, the king of Faridkot built the trail in 1936, and a pilgrim rest house stands nearby. The summit view takes in the Dhauladhar, Kinnaur Kailash, Shrikhand Mahadev, the Satluj valley and, on clear days, Garhwal peaks such as Kedarnath.