Shimla, also referred to as the "Queen of Hills," is a charming hill town in the captivating state of Himachal Pradesh that is situated at an elevation of 2205 meters. Travelers from all walks of life have always been interested in this place because of its unspoiled landscape of breathtaking Himalayan peaks and ethereal forests of oak and pine. Shimla is guaranteed to leave you with some lifelong memories, whether you're there for a honeymoon, a cultural adventure, or just a restful vacation.
Shimla has long drawn nature lovers with its lush landscapes, healthy climate, snow-capped hills, and rustic charm. The city's thick oak and pine forests are ideal for taking in the tranquility and tranquility. Trek to the peaceful "Chadwick Falls," which is only 7 km from the main city, if you're interested in a quick hike. This place's aesthetic splendor, calm atmosphere, and melodious bird sounds will provide you with much-needed comfort.
A haven for adventurers, the charming hill town is also a haven for those who love the outdoors. Fans of water sports congregate at the well-known "Tattapani Point" on the banks of the Satluj River, 50 kilometers off Shimla, where they may have an unparalleled river rafting experience. To satisfy those adrenaline desires, there are many more captivating things to partake in. Cycling through the 'Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary' wilderness, paragliding, and forest camping are a few of these activities.
This cozy little spot on earth would undoubtedly be a lovely joy for those visiting Shimla on a romantic vacation. One of the city's main tourist destinations, the "Scandal Point," is a lover's paradise. Couples can have some of the most romantic experiences of their lives here because to the captivating vistas of the hills, the refreshing mountain breeze, and the setting sun. At night, the well-known 'Mall Road' is crowded with tiny restaurants serving ice cream, roasted corn, and momos.
During their romantic trip to this picturesque colonial city, every couple looks forward to enjoying a nice cup of coffee in one of the exquisite cafes here. Your vacation in Shimla will undoubtedly not let you down if you want to explore the local culture and religion.
A well-known religious destination in the area is the renowned "Jakhoo Temple," which is situated atop the Jakhoo Hill overlooking the valley. To seek Lord Hanuman's blessings, countless pilgrims and tourists make the short walk here. The magnificent 'Tara Devi Temple' is another of the region's most revered shrines, located approximately 11 miles from Shimla bus station. Set amid thick oak and rhododendron forests, it is devoted to the goddess of stars.
It is a must-visit location when in the city because of its lush surroundings, serene atmosphere, and stunning view of the high Himalayan ranges. Without taking the renowned toy train journey, which connects Shimla and Kalka, a visit to Shimla would not be complete. One of the best things to do in Shimla, it is an engineering marvel in and of itself, winding through steep routes and offering a look of the mesmerizing environment.
Shimla is a destination for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature photographers due to its abundance of natural life. Some of the most well-known animal locations in the area include the "Himalayan Bird Park," "Kiala Forest," and "Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary." These are must-see sights while visiting the city.
For ardent shoppers, Shimla offers an unmatched retail frenzy. Adjacent to the 'Ridge', the well-known 'Lakkar Bazaar' is constantly bustling with tourists. Some of the best handcrafted wooden objects and artifacts may be found in the long aisles of stores that line either side of the bazaar. Are you trying to find small presents and mementos for your family members back home? Indeed, it's the ideal location to look for some amazing bargains.
Tourist Attractions in Shimla
The quaint little hill town of Shimla hides in its store a plethora of activities, places to visit, and things to do. Shimla Christ Church, Johnnie's Wax Museum, Viceregal Lodge, and Annandale Army Museum sit as some of the popular sightseeing attractions in the erstwhile British summer capital, leaving every visitor here with a great experience.
1- Mall Road
With its numerous hotels, restaurants, clubs, bars, banks, shops, offices, post offices, and tourist offices, the Mall Road is one of Shimla's most visited tourist destinations. While sipping their preferred coffee, people can take leisurely strolls up and down Mall Road and take in the picturesque natural sights. Many people congregate at the Ridge and Scandal point on Mall Road to shop, meet and chat with friends, and take in the vistas of the Himalayan range. At the Scandal point, where a statue of nationalist leader Lala Lajpat Rai has been placed, the Mall road connects to the Ridge.
2- The ridge
The Ridge is a sizable open area in the center of Mall Road that offers a breathtaking view of the mountain ranges surrounded by breathtaking scenery. One of Shimla's most well-known sights, it's worth taking the family and friends to visit. The Ridge provides a broad perspective of Shimla's snow-capped mountains and links to the Mall road at the Scandal point on the west side.
3- Jakhu Temple
An old temple devoted to Lord Hanuman is the Jakhoo Temple. It is thought that Lord Hanuman's footprints can be found in this shrine. Situated 2.5 miles from the Ridge, on the Jakhoo Hill, it provides stunning views of the Shivalik Mountains and the neighboring town of Sanjauli. As Shimla's tallest mountain, it provides refuge to many playful monkeys that are always waiting for tourists to feed them.
4- Kamna Devi Temple
About 6 miles from the Shimla hill station, the Kamna Devi Temple is a stunning holy site perched on Prospect Hill, surrounded by stunning mountains. The temple is easily reachable from Boileauganj on the Shimla-Bilaspur route, and because it is surrounded by beautiful valleys and meadows, it can be visited for picnics or trekking. People say that Goddess Kali fulfills the wishes of all her followers who climb up the hill and offer prayers in the temple, hence it is thought that everybody visiting Shimla must visit this magnificent temple. Built by Rana of Junga, this temple is a veritable paradise for adventurers and nature lovers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
5- Christ Church
The British constructed Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India, in 1857 to cater to the area's sizable Anglican British population. The church is a major attraction in Shimla because of its magnificent beauty and breathtaking setting. The stained glass windows of the church stand for humanity, faith, hope, charity, fortitude, and patience. It is the most well-known landmark in Shimla and one of the enduring effects of British rule in India. Any visitor to Shimla should spend some time in this magnificent church building, which was built in the Neo-Gothic architectural style.
6- The Glen
Glen is a u-shaped valley surrounded by dense deodar and pine forests, close to Andale and Summer Hill forests. This well-known location has a hiking track that leads to Summer Hill and Chora Maidan, allowing visitors to explore Shimla's dense surroundings while taking in peace and serenity. At the Glen, there is a little trickle of water that gets wider and narrower at different points. Many people come here as a weekend getaway to have picnics in the woods because the stream appears particularly lovely when it falls from a height.
Although Glen is easily accessible by automobile, some people would rather walk because it's only 4 miles from the main shopping road.
7- Annadale
Annandale, a level area in Shimla, has been transformed into the city's playground. It is roughly three kilometers from the Ridge and is utilized for golf, polo, picnics, and cricket tournaments. It is a really attractive location with a lovely view of Shimla city and trees like oaks and deodars growing all around. The reason Annandale is well-known is because it was formerly a British playground where people could enjoy sports like cricket, polo, and racing.
8- Chindi
One of Shimla's most picturesque locations is Chindi. This mountaintop offers breathtaking views of the lovely Himachal Pradesh and is covered in dense forests, apple orchards, and small, charming hamlets. Despite being off the usual route, a lot of travelers who are eager to discover a lesser-known location come here to take in the breathtaking view of the expansive Karsog Valley, which is located underneath Chindi. The apple orchards that encircle this location are even more stunning in the winter. Mamleshwara Mahadev, Kamakshya Mata, Mahunag, Ardhnarishwara, Aledi Mahadev, Palinag at Nalagali, and Churag temple are a few of the significant temples that you can see while in Chindi.
9- Tattapani
This stunning location, which is about 51 kilometers from Shimla, is well-known for its hot springs. Many people come here to witness the beautiful water spring and a Hindu temple that was constructed close to the Shiv Goofa (Shiva Caves) at Saraur, which is four kilometers from Tattapani. On the banks of the Sutlej River, where people travel from all over the nation to dip in the sacred spring and get treatment from ailments like joint pain, exhaustion, or skin conditions, fishing is a thrilling pastime.
10- Summer Hill
On the Shimla-Kalka railway line, Summer Hill is a charming location with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas. This charming township, which is just a few kilometers from Shimla, offers peaceful settings and picturesque views of the surrounding hills. Mahatma Gandhi had visited and stayed at Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur's exquisite Georgian home on Summer Hill. It appears to be completely covered in snow in the winter and incredibly comfortable in the summer. In the breathtaking setting of Summer Hill is Himachal University as well.
11- Fagu
Known for its undulating green meadows with the snow-capped Himalayas in the background, Fagu is one of the state's most remote snowy getaways. Trekkers, botanists, and naturists who come to explore the stunning countryside around Shimla—which is conveniently accessible from Fagu—find it to be a great starting point. This location is ideal for honeymooners because there is a lot to see and experience in Fagu, particularly in the winter when the surroundings are even more stunning. Fagu is the ideal location for photography because of its verdant valley and little cliffs.
12- Sankat Mochan Temple
Sankat Mochan temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shimla, which is located amid the lush green and tranquil locals of Himachal Pradesh. Tourists visit this temple to pay obeisance to the deities of Lord Rama and other notable gods of the Hindu pantheon. This spiritual destination is located approximately 5 kilometers away from Shimla and it is the second most popular tourist spot after Jakhu Temple. The temple, which was established in the year 1950, was the result of an initiative taken by the noted religious figure Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj, who was amazed by the beauty of the place. He stayed in the deep dark woods for ten days and decided to establish a Hindu temple in the location. This majestic temple houses the deities of Lord Rama, Lord Shiva, and Hanuman.
13- Shimla State Museum
Ancient historical sculptures, paintings, coins, handicrafts, photographs, and other artifacts from both inside and beyond the state are well-represented in the Shimla State Museum. It is open daily save on Mondays and public holidays and is situated 2.5 km west of the main point, which is a location on Mall Road. One of the top attractions in Shimla is the state museum, which was constructed in the colonial style and has expansive gardens all around. When it was opened in 1974, there were only four galleries. Since then, additional galleries have been built, and the collection now contains over 9,000 items.
14- Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Gardens
Constructed in 1888, this beautiful structure served as the home of Lord Dufferin, the British Viceroy. It is situated in the observatory hills and is encircled by lovely pine trees and rose bushes, as well as well-kept lawns and gardens. Students currently attend the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, formerly known as the Viceregal Lodge or "Rashtrapati Niwas," to pursue higher education. The building's architecture, which features grey limestone, is reminiscent of the English Renaissance. Because of its good altitude, the views from this location are captivating and indescribable.
15- Tara Devi Temple
A sacred site, the Tara Devi Temple is 11 kilometers from the Shimla Bus Stand. It provides picturesque views of the high Himalayas that encircle the town and is situated amidst dense oak and rhododendron woodland. The temple is well-known among tourists because of its fresh and clean ambiance, which allows them to unwind from their daily stresses. This temple is devoted to the goddess of stars, Tara Devi, who is thought to have traveled from Bengal to Himachal Pradesh. For someone looking for calm and solitude, Tara Devi Temple is the perfect location.
16- Chadwick Falls
Summer Hill in Shimla is within a few kilometers of the stunning Chadwick Falls. This breathtaking waterfall, which rises to a height of 1586 meters, is surrounded by high hills of pine and deodar and dense green forests. It is especially beautiful when it rains. One of Shimla's most popular tourist destinations, it appears even more unique and breathtaking when the water rushes quickly through the forest. Since the water flow increases in the fall after the monsoon season ends, September is a popular time for tourists to visit this location. The sight of this flowing waterfall and the tranquil ambiance leaves one in awe of the amazing abundance of nature.
Best Time To Visit Shimla
Peak Season: May to Mid-July/ December-January
Shoulder Season: September to October
Off-Season: Mid July- Late September
November – January (Winter)
Weather: At this time of year, the hill station is enchanting. The winter weather in Shimla is a major contributing factor. While it might go as low as -7°C, the average temperature hovers around 8°C. At its coldest, winter gradually engulfs the entire hill station in December and January after first spreading its icy fingers over Shimla in November. Shimla has chilly gusts that further reduce the city's temperature. Snowflakes land on the ground in powdery masses after dancing their way there.
Tips: You might be tempted to bring light summer clothing. Although this isn't incorrect, keep in mind that the nights are cool and make sure your suitcase has space for at least a jacket, windbreaker, or shawl. Additionally, this may not be the season for you if you dislike crowds. In the summer, Shimla is crowded with tourists. This implies that you will also need to reserve your lodging and tickets well in advance.
March - June (Summers)
Weather: The sun's beams gradually warm Shimla throughout the summer. Shimla has good weather and moderate heat (most of the time). Before turning into summer, the season virtually starts like the spring. Shimla experiences temperatures that range from 16 to 18 degrees Celsius. When the winter snow melts, a glistening Shimla with verdant hills and trees and blossoming flowers beneath the blue sky is revealed. Shimla's weather is generally wonderful, though the evenings can get a little cold. To avoid the summer heat, many residents of nearby towns and cities flee to Shimla.
Tips: You might be tempted to bring light summer clothing. Although this isn't incorrect, keep in mind that the nights are cool, and make sure your suitcase has space for at least a jacket, windbreaker, or shawl. Additionally, this may not be the season for you if you dislike crowds. In the summer, Shimla is crowded with tourists. This implies that you will also need to reserve your lodging and tickets well in advance.
July-September (Monsoon)
Weather: A thick veil of dampness envelops the hill station, as Shimla is covered in sheet after sheet of rain. The trees and hilly slopes are lush and glistening after the hill station is thoroughly cleaned by heavy rainfall. However, Shimla has 1400 mm of rain annually during this time of year, which significantly hinders your ability to venture outside and take in your surroundings. Although the monsoon season is Shimla's official off-season, it's the ideal time of year for travelers on a tight budget. Rainfall occurs from mid-July to September. Fortunately, Shimla stays cool during the monsoon season despite the humidity.
Tips: Make sure your packing list includes a raincoat, gum boots, windcheater, and umbrella. Because the hillsides are unstable at this time, be careful not to hike or trek too far out. Be careful as you go.
How To Reach Shimla
Reach Shimla by Air
Jubbarhatti Airport, which is around 20 kilometers outside the city, is the only airport in Shimla, one of the few hill stations with its own. The airstrip is rather small, so landings are a little lumpy and harsh. Alliance Air only offers one trip per day from Delhi, and it's crucial to remember that the airport is closed all year round. Moreover, flight cancellations are rather frequent during the summer monsoon season. Alternatively, the flight will be diverted to Chandigarh if the pilots are unable to land safely. You may easily get a taxi or cab from the airport to get to Shimla, which is not far away.
Flying via Chandigarh or Delhi, which are quite close, is a somewhat longer but better option to go to Shimla to avoid these issues. All you have to do is reserve a taxi to Shimla after landing at either of these airports. From the Chandigarh airport, busses will also transport you to Shimla. By road, it takes about three to four hours to get from Chandigarh to Shimla, and up to seven or eight hours from Delhi. Flying to Chandigarh and then continuing to Shimla is the best option if you want to get there sooner.
Reach Shmila by Railway
Although Shimla has a small train station within the city, it is only served by narrow-gauge trains from Kalka. The village is only around 20 minutes walk uphill from the station, which is only 1.5 km west of Scandal Point. Taking the train to Shimla can be a very memorable trip. After more than a century of fame, the toy train from Kalka to Shimla takes almost seven hours to get there.
This train has some amazing views. As you make your way through many thrilling tunnels, you pass by verdant mountains and deep valleys. On your rail journey to Shimla, you will encounter up to 102 tunnels and 988 bridges. The extra time it takes to go to Shimla is more than made up for by all these amazing sights and experiences. It can be a truly unforgettable experience, so if you have the time, don't miss it.
Every day, the trains depart in each direction about seven times. The Kalka Railway Station is a broad-gauge railway station, and regular trains connect it to Chandigarh and Delhi. Keep that in mind. Since it passes via Chandigarh, the Kalka Shatabdi is a fantastic option for anyone wishing to get to Kalka from New Delhi. You must first arrive at Kalka, regardless of how you choose to get to Shimla via train.
Reach Shimla by Road
By Bus: The bus is one of the most widely used modes of transportation to go to Shimla. Regular busses arrive in Shimla, one of India's most popular tourist attractions, from Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Jaipur, and Chandigarh. It has good access to the majority of these cities in northern India. It is not a long bus ride from Chandigarh to Shimla, but if you are traveling from Delhi, it is advisable to take the air-conditioned overnight luxury bus. It is a pleasant overnight trip that, when you open your eyes in the morning, provides a breathtaking picture of Shimla. In the morning or late at night, buses travel to Shimla.
By Driving: If you have your vehicle, traveling to Shimla by driving can be a lot of fun. Since the city has excellent highway connections, driving down is a good method to get to Shimla at your speed. The shortest way, which takes about 7 to 8 hours, is the Ambala route, which links Delhi and Shimla via NH 44, 152, and 5. Other routes are also accessible, such as the Dehradun way, which takes 12 to 13 hours, and the Yamunanagar route, which takes 10 to 11 hours. Like most road trips, there is a lot to see and appreciate if you concentrate on the drive rather than simply the endpoint. All of the roads are picturesque and offer a wealth of amazing views as they go.
How to Commute Within Shimla
By Bus: Local bus services are usually found along the Ring Road and run from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Additionally, there is a bus specifically designated for ladies. The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Board operates customized buses that take you to all the popular tourist destinations for additional local sightseeing opportunities.
By Cab: Hiring a cab is an excellent way to go around the city. Families may find that this is the greatest option because everyone can see the many well-known locations together. Taxis range in price from Rs. 800 to Rs. 1500 each day, and you can reserve one for the full day. Using these taxis for local touring might also result in significant cost savings.
You will need to walk to Mall Road and the Ridge because cars are not permitted there. For individuals who wish to commute between different locations inside the city, there are also shared taxis accessible.
Through the Walk: The best way to view Shimla is on foot because all vehicles, including taxis, are prohibited on Mall Road, Ridge, and Kali Bari. It is quite pleasant to stroll and take in all the beautiful vistas, and these locations offer some great settings for sightseeing.
The elevator operated by HP Tourism is an intriguing addition to the transportation landscape. It links the Mall, Shimla's highest point, with Cart Road, its lowest point.
