Shimla

Shimla Blessed with nature’s bounties and an eternal charm; Shimla is a city carrying colonial impression.

Introduction

Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, for many reasons has been attracting domestic as well as international tourists for decades. Beautiful valleys, lush green forests, snow-covered mountains and pleasant climate - all make Shimla a complete package delighting one’s senses. The scenic beauty of this extremely popular hill station is complemented by its grand old structures erected during the colonial era. Those looking to have a thrilling time find some of the best options in the form of adventure activities like golf, skiing and trekking.

Places to explore

Shimla, once the summer capital of British, is a place with endearing tourist spots.

The Ridge

It is the highest point of the city offering spectacular views of mountain ranges. The place is famous for Neo-Gothic Christ Church and Tudar library. There is a road which leads to a market of wooden crafts and souvenirs known as Lakkar Bazaar. It is also famous for organizing the annual summer festival in May. A long walk around the place is very pleasurable.

The Mall

It is the main shopping area of Shimla largely frequented by tourists. This bustling place offers wide range of handicraft items. The appealing “Gaiety Theater”, constructed by the British, is one of the main places where many cultural programmes are organised. There are many showrooms and emporiums as well where you can get shawls, caps, pullovers, jewellery, potteries, books and other handicraft products. The place comes to its full beauty in the evening when the entire area is illuminated with lights.

Viceregal Lodge

Situated on the Observatory Hills, Viceregal Lodge once served as the residence for British viceroys. Also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, the place used to be a summer retreat for Indian presidents. It houses rare and fine collection of photographs displaying the colonial era of India. Former Indian President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan transformed it into the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. The astonishing structure is adorned with well-maintained lawns and a small cafeteria.   

Kufri

A very popular hill station, Kufri, gets its name from the word ‘Kufr’ which means lake in the local language. The flourishing green hills of Kufri are simply awesome. The annual winter sports festival draws tourists as well as localities in a huge number. For adventure enthusiasts, there are many options like skiing, tobogganing, trekking and hiking.  

 

Christ Church

The 19th century church is the second oldest church in Northern India. This Neo-Gothic styled church is extremely popular among people. Mr. Lockwood Kipling (father of Rudyard Kipling, the writer of Jungle Book) designed its sanctuary wall fresco. The church also has paintings portraying the life events of Jesus Christ and a pipe organ which is biggest in the Indian subcontinent. It is an outstanding church which turns extremely beautiful at nights when it is illuminated with strategically placed lights.

Jakhoo Hill

It is the highest peak of Shimla at an altitude of 8048 feet located just 2 km away from Shimla. Here, tourists trek all the way to visit famous Hanuman temple. However, one can take taxi or pony facilities as well. From this place, the panoramic view of the city is enjoyed by the tourists. It serves as a vantage point where one can witness the beauty of changing skyline during sunrises and sunsets.

Luxury hotels

Your tour to Shimla is best experienced with your stay in its five star hotels. The Oberoi Cecil hotel reminisces of the colonial history of Shimla. Nestled amidst lush green beauty with some amazing views of nature, the hotel bespeaks opulence. Wooden flooring, attractive furniture and fascinating ambience are the speciality of the hotel. It is best in offering luxury and immaculate services. Welcome Heritage Woodville Palace is a heritage hotel famous among Hollywood and Bollywood celebs. Its 30 rooms, surrounded by plush lawns, are epitome of elegance. The multilevel rose gardens here are completely spellbinding. The Radisson Hotel and Hotel Wildflower Hall come with matchless hospitality and breathtaking views. You will enjoy each and every moment immersed in luxury in these hotels. Enjoy the hilly beauty of Shimla with a memorable stay in these hotels.  

When to go: One can go for a Shimla tour throughout the year depending on one’s likings and interests. In summers (March-June), Shimla serves as an ideal destination to get respite from the scorching heat of plains. Visiting the city during monsoon (July-September) is not recommended due to heavy downpours, occasional avalanche and landslides. Shimla witnesses huge number of tourists during winters (October-February) who visit the city to enjoy snowfall and adventure sports like ice-skating, skiing.

Reaching Shimla

By Air:  Jubbarhatti is the nearest airport at 23 km from Shimla.

By Rail: Shimla is connected through a narrow gauge railway line to Kalka.

By Road: There are regular private and state-run buses connecting Shimla to all major cities.

Shimla - the queen of hill stations

The magic engrossed in Shimla’s air is surely going to make you fall in love with it.