Shimla in and around Tour - A Complete Travel Guide
Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and is located at a height of 2276 meters. It is the most popular hill station in North India throughout the year. Be it summer vacations, winter break, or rainy season; people visit here all the time. The group of families, friends, adventure seekers, and honeymooners all are keen to come here. It used to be the summer capital of British and still retains that colonial architecture feel.
Shimla is in the foothills of the Himalayas covered with apple orchards and pine forests. Shimla gets its name from “Shyamala Mata”; an incarnation of the Goddess Kali Mata. Many of the filmmakers have come here to shoot because of the splendid beauty. It has been a favorite for all for decades because of its lush greenery, natural beauty, and rich heritage.
Charming and whimsical, Shimla is full of places that will astonish you with its beauty. Not just the places in the city but near it are also so beautiful that will leave one spellbound. There are many hill stations around Shimla like Kullu, Manali, Narkanda, Sarahan, Kufri, Chail, Mashobra, Naldehra and Kasauli.
In summer vacations, people visit Shimla for pleasant weather and in the rainy season to relax over the weekend. Snow-capped mountains are the main attraction in the winter season. It has many budget-friendly options to stay, eat, and do activities. Hence, one can visit here anytime with anyone making it the most visited hill station of India. It’s one of the most accessible cities located in the hills.
When to travel to Shimla
The best time to visit Shimla to see the Apple Orchards is (apple harvesting season) from mid-July to the end of August. If you wish to enjoy the snow or snowfall, the best time to visit Shimla is from late December until February. To relax and rewind with family or friends, the best time to visit Shimla is From September until June.
How to travel to Shimla
- By Road: Many buses start from the nearby cities directly to Shimla and cover the distance in an overnight journey. One can hire a personal taxi or tempo traveller on rent and travel the distance while enjoying the natural beauty.
- By Rail: Kalka is the nearest railway station to Shimla and is about 96 km. This is one of the most beautiful train routes in India.
- By Air: Chandigarh Airport is the nearest airport to Shimla. It’s 120 km from Shimla so you have to taxi or bus to get there.
Places to visit in Shimla
1. Kalka Shimla Mail: It is declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you are visiting Shimla, this is a must for you to have a ride on the toy train enjoying the spectacular views of Shimla. The train passes through jungles, and tunnels and shows amazing views of the valley.
2. Mall Road: Tourists who have to shop for themselves or friends and family have to buy souvenirs. This shopping area is huge and you will find a variety of options like local art, winter wear, jewellery, and fridge magnets. Lakkar Bazaar is also on this road where you will have a huge variety of wooden gifts.
3. Tatta Paani: About 55 km from the central city lies the Hot Sulphur Springs on the bank of the Sutlej River. They have great medicinal value.
4. Christ Church: It is the second oldest church in the history of North India.
5. Scandal Point: This is famous for its history as the Maharaja of Patiala eloped with the daughter of that time British Viceroy. It was considered a big scandal back then.
6. Jakhoo Hill: Shri Hanuman temple is located on the hill having 108 feet tall statue of Hanuman Ji. This hill is the highest in Shimla with a height of 8000 feet. A beautiful view can be captured from here of the valley.
7. Viceregal Lodge: It used to be the home of the Viceroy of the British at that time.
8. Shimla State Museum: This city museum has all the collective history of Shimla like handicrafts, clothes, utensils, furniture, etc.
9. Kali Bari temple and Tara Devi temple: Must-visit temples for the ones who love knowing spiritual history. Take blessings from Mata Rani as both temples are dedicated to Kali Mata and Tara Devi respectively.
10. Chadwick waterfall: If any nature lover, visit this waterfall by stepping down a little and witnessing the natural fall.
11. The Glenn Valley: Near Annandale and Summer Hills, it’s a U-shaped valley. It’s mostly covered in thick Deodar and Pine forests. It is a 4 km trek and you can take things and picnic there.
12. Gaiety Theatre: One can catch a performance in this theatre as it’s the oldest one and many plays were performed here.
13. The Ridge: It is quite a broad area on Mall Road with wonderful views around. One of the best places to get clicked.
14. Kufri: It is just about 16 km from Shimla and in winter, and it’s covered with snow in winter. You can enjoy the snowfall or make a snowman and have a cup of coffee with Maggi.
Adventurous activities in Shimla
1. Ice skating: Shimla is a winter wonderland for those who love snow, specifically ice skating. Here is the only open-air Natural ice-skating rink in Asia.
2. Jet ski: Another sport to be done is going on the winter vacation to Shimla.
3. River Rafting: On the banks of the Sutlej River, you can experience the amazing rafting.
4. Shimla Summer Festival: It happens on the Ridge. Various activities take place here and you can participate and have fun.
5. Camping: If you are a trek lover, you can certainly find some locations amidst lush greenery for the camp and hence stay overnight
What to eat in Shimla?
On Mall Road in Shimla, there are so many cafes, clubs, restaurants, and eating joints serving almost all types of cuisines. The food is no doubt good in taste and the weather makes it even better. But there are a few local delicacies you can certainly try like Guchhi Mattar(Mushroom and Peas in a gravy) and, Dham( Rice, Dal, and Rajma cooked with yogurt overnight).
Also, if you are looking for a cheaper and delicious meal, go to the Gaiety Theatre. Just opposite to that you will find tasty Potato Tikkis and Chana poori. At local restaurants, you can try Himachal food also.
A few tips before you travel to Shimla
- Vehicles are not allowed on Mall Road and there is a lift which takes you from the car parking. It’s Rs.10 per person and is operational from 08:00 a.m. until 09:00 p.m.
- Kali Bari temple has a little trek so plan according to your health issues.
- Jakhu temple has a cable car. You can buy the ticket which costs 250 Rs per person for one way trip and 500 Rs for round trip. It is free for kids till the age of 3 only.