Shimla Sightseeing

 
 

Shimla

An ultimate summer retreat, a land of sparkling crystal clear lakes, of awe-strucking snow-capped mountains, of its picturesque vegetation cover, its unpredictable climate, tranquilizing atmosphere, to name a few are some of the dew-drops from the essence of breathtaking City Shimla, a wonderful abode crowned in the Himalayas. Anchored at a height of 7,238 ft., Shimla is one of the most popular tourist spot and a hugely visited honeymoon spot of the country.Pleasantly called as “Queen of Hills”, Shimla is the capital city of Himachal. It is located at a distance of 112 kms from Chandigarh and 348 kms from Delhi. The British liked Shimla so much so that they designated it as the erstwhile summer capital. The charming colonial -era can still be seen from its Churches and Institutes and many more. Shimla gives its tourists the chance to discover the best of the Himalayas, completed by rich cultural heritage and enthralling attractions. Shimla was named after “Goddess Shyamala”, an incarnation of Goddess Kali.

 Shimla, a charming and quaint hill station nestled in the state of Himachal Pradesh, enjoys a convenient driving distance from Delhi and various cities in Punjab. It undoubtedly stands out as one of the most popular hill stations in the country, offering a multitude of places to visit in Shimla and a wide array of activities to enjoy both in and around this charming town.

When traveling by train, make it a point to experience the joyful Toy Train journey from Kalka to Shimla—it’s a fun and exhilarating ride. Don’t forget to treat yourself to the delicious baked goods from the famous bakeries lining Mall Road and relish a scrumptious breakfast at the Indian Coffee House.

Shimla boasts a plethora of attractions, including the Ridge, Mall Road, Kufri, the iconic Toy Train journey from Kalka to Shimla, Jakhoo Temple, Theog, Scandal Point, Institute of Advanced Studies, Mashobra, Chail, Christ Church, Tattapani, Lakkar Bazaar, Himalayan Bird Park, and Naldhera. The best time to explore this city is between April and September, although it remains a year-round destination. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of delightful activities like river water rafting, camping, paragliding, mountain biking, skiing, golfing, ice skating, and many more.

Keep in mind that Shimla is a popular weekend getaway for North Indians, so if you plan to visit during a weekend break, it’s advisable to make all your reservations in advance. Train bookings open three months ahead of the journey, and if you’re driving, consider leaving early in the morning to avoid traffic. Check the weather conditions before any bookings or reservations.

Best Time to Visit Shimla 

The special trait of this Majestic location is that it can be visited any time of the year. But most visited during summers for its cold yet warm atmosphere ranging to a maximum of 25-26 degrees during then and winters can be bone chilling and temperature can fall below zero ranging to a maximum of 10-12 degrees during winters.The spring season in Shimla offers you an alluring sight of all types of flowers blooming all around and its monsoons are known to present you the best sunsets in the world. Summer festival celebrated on a grand scale is held every year during May month makes Shimla all the way more special for tourists to visit.

 

Distances

From Delhi :-

• Distance by road: Approximately 343 kilometers (213 miles)
• Distance by air (nearest airport to Shimla): The nearest airport to Shimla is the Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti Airport), but it has limited connectivity. Most travelers use the Chandigarh Airport, which is about 113 kilometers (70 miles) from Shimla and then travel by road to Shimla.

From Chandigarh :-

• Distance by road: Approximately 113 kilometers (70 miles)
• Distance by air (nearest airport to Chandigarh): The city of Chandigarh itself has an airport, Chandigarh International Airport, which is about a 3-4 hour drive from Shimla.

Top Places to See in Shimla

 

The Ridge

Located in the heart of Mall road, The Ridge, famously known as Scandal Point is a large open space offering a panoramic view of the captivating snow-capped hills surrounding Shimla. It is known for its captivating sunset across the globe. It is home to the two major landmarks of Shimla – the Neo- Gothic architectural structure of Christ Church and the Neo – Tudor library building. Various Government functions and fairs are held in the Library.The statue of the founder of Himachal Pradesh, YS Parmar and of Mrs. Indira Gandhi are also located on the Ridge.

The Scandal Point

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Ridge Scandal Point, known locally as the “Scandal,” is a captivating destination in Shimla, located between the bustling Mall Road and the iconic Ridge. This charming platform offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Shimla valley and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. It’s a perfect spot for witnessing both sunrise and sunset, and it hosts the annual Shimla Summer Festival. In addition to its picturesque vistas, Scandal Point is also home to the renowned Tudor Library. Its intriguing name is linked to a love story involving the Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh, and the daughter of a British Viceroy. This central location is always bustling with shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy stunning views from the viewing platforms, and during the winter, the snow-capped mountain ranges add to the beauty. The platform is particularly crowded in the evenings as people gather to witness the mesmerizing Himalayan Sunset. Hotels in Shimla are conveniently located around Scandal Point, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

The Mall road

The Ridge in Shimla, often referred to as the heart of the city, is a wide-open street running parallel to the Mall Road. It connects the Mall Road to the Scandal Point and offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountain ranges. Dotted with enduring British-era establishments, this bustling social hub is a haven for shoppers and food enthusiasts, featuring boutiques, bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops. The Gothic architecture graces its landscape. Reknowened for its natural beauty, the Ridge is one of Shimla’s most photographed areas. Beyond its scenic charm, The Ridge also holds historical significance and serves as the epicenter of Shimla’s cultural activities, hosting events like the annual Summer Festival. It’s a perfect starting point for exploring other attractions in Shimla, including the Mall Road, Scandal Point, and Lakkar Bazaar, known for its wooden crafts. Among the notable landmarks at The Ridge is Christ Church, a neo-Gothic masterpiece dating back to 1857, making it the second oldest of its kind in northern India. With its captivating landscapes, lush greenery, and numerous architectural wonders, The Ridge makes one of truly enchanting destination in Shimla.

A vibrant lane enfolding hotels, restaurants, shops, ATM’s, banks, offices, clubs, bars, money exchange portals,book shops,post office is the main street and the busiest commercial lane in Shimla, a true haven for everyone visiting Shimla.The Mall Road was constructed by the British during the colonial rule in India in a very planned way.It is a level below ridge and vehicles are restricted to enter the market.While there on the Mall Road, don’t forget to eat the famous momos from Krishna Bakery.

The Jakhoo Temple

Perched at an elevation of 8000 feet above sea level, Jakhoo Hill, Shimla’s highest point, is a renowned tourist attraction. Graced with a lush cover of alpine trees and offering stunning vistas of the snow-clad Shivalik Ranges and the nearby town of Sanjauli, it’s a must visit place in Shimla. It houses the iconic Jakhoo Temple, known for its Monumental 108-foot Hanuman statue, the world’s tallest one. The hill serves as a tranquilizing escape from the hustle and bustle of Shimla’s city center, and visitors can undertake a short but exhilarating trek along a winding forest path adorned with majestic pine trees to reach its Pinnacle. Once there, they can revel in uninterrupted panoramic views that capture the surreal beauty of this Himalayan hill station. This Esteemed site, holds cultural and spiritual significance, attracting both pilgrims and tourists alike.

The temple is dedicated to Hindu Deity Hanuman. Legend has it that Hanuman Ji took some rest here while he was carrying a hill of special herb(Sanjivani Booti) on his little finger to save the life of Lakshmana, the younger brother of Lord Rama and the top of the hill got flattened due to Hanuman’s weight.The temple is built around the hill and is said to have his footprints. A huge statue of Hanuman Ji was also built later in 2010. The way to the temple can be covered either by trekking or on ponies and offers great views of Alpine trees surrounding the path to the temple which further offers the beautiful views of Shivalik Mountains and a town of Sanjauli.The route to the temple follows a 2.5 km footpath with long sections of steps.

Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/e38UkGAokQdyDPGcA

Indian Institute of Higher Studies

A perfect example of Victorian-style architectural beauty with history attatched to its site is The famous Viceregal Lodge. Viceregal Lodge, standing as the most historically significant structure in Shimla, was once the summer residence of the Indian Viceroy who governed India from 1888 to 1946. Viceregal Lodge was formerly used by the British Government for political meetings. This significant building has witnessed several important decisions including the partition of India, in this Lodge. Mimicking the features and characteristics of the Tudor architectural style, this Mock-Tudor state mansion, Situated amid meticulously maintained gardens, is a treasure trove for history and architecture enthusiasts, making it a top attraction on the list of places to visit in Shimla.  Later in 1965, the structure was converted to Indian Institute of Advanced Studies by Dr. Radhakrishnan for further studies. Now serving as an advanced university complex, the Lodge allows limited access to select staterooms as part of guided tours. Perched atop Observatory Hill, it offers unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and is also known as the Rashtrapati Niwas (the President’s residence), claiming the second-highest point in Shimla. It’s now dedicated to promoting arts and humanities in India and is a top Shimla tourist attraction. A visit to this institute is a journey through India’s modern history, solidifying its place as one of the top places to visit in Shimla.

Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/HEJqZ7oATQQWoUoU7

 

Tattapani

Tattapani situated on right bank of river Sutlej, around 53 km from Shimla, is famous for its hot water springs and river rafting. The hot water springs being higher on the sulphur level, is said to have curative powers.Tattapani itself means “Hot Water” and is said to ail skin cancer and joint problems.River rafting against the strong currents in river Sutlej is the most famous and exciting activity for fun lovers. Rafting amidst the beautiful mountains is a not to be missed adventure.

Location :- https://maps.app.goo.gl/6Zb5xnLAZE7NsNan9

Naldehra

Located around 22 km from Shimla, Naldehra is a beautiful hamlet located amidst green mountains nestled with long and dense pine trees, occasional rainbows after the rains, the step fields with cows grazing, portrays more like a canvas painting. It was discovered by British Viceroy Lord Curzon. Mesmerized by its natural beauty, he was so awe-struck with its beauty that he decided making a Golf course here and leveled an entire hilltop to make one as the main attraction of Naldehra. Naldehra resorts are a perfect getaway from hustle and bustles of city and provides serene and gorgeous stretches of this offbeat destination and each window of every room helps you witness a promising view be it of forest or rainbow or steps of fields or beautiful sunrise.

Location :- https://maps.app.goo.gl/YTrMrts2vxTFm7Fz6

Mashobra

Mashobra, situated at around 10 km from Shimla is a complete kit fulfilling all encounters one could expect on a himachal one day trip. You can explore nature in its best form and explore jungles with tall lush green pine trees and experience history and relive the British era. Its a peaceful getaway from the hustling and ever busy streets of Shimla. For the avid adventure seekers, Mashobra is also famous for Trekking,camping,paragliding,rappelling, and skiing(December to February).

Location :- https://maps.app.goo.gl/YDkWQamwT2fYJN1g9

The Glen

To explore the dense surroundings of Shimla, the famous spot located around 4 km from the Mall road, near to Annadale and Summer Hill forest, the glen is a beautiful hiking trail extending towards Chaura Maidan. It is covered with Deodar and Palm trees and a small stram of water flows through it which mysteriously widens or narrows at some point.The stream falling from height famously known as the Chadwik Falls offers a tranquilizing view and has become a famous tourist picnic spot. It can be reached by car.

Lakkad Bazaar

 Lakkar Bazaar, a renowned marketplace in Shimla, is celebrated for its exquisite wooden items and handicrafts. Nestled near the Ridge area, it ranks among the top tourist places to visit in Shimla. Here, visitors can purchase souvenirs, beautiful wooden toys, and traditional items. The market also offers a taste of local delights, with stalls serving Indian snacks like Aloo Tikki and Chole Bhature, making it a delightful place for a leisurely stroll and shopping. Established near The Ridge in Shimla, Lakkar Bazaar is a bustling hub for street shopping, known for its wooden decorative accessories. The market also features small shops offering a variety of products, including woollens and Pashmina shawls, with Kullu shawls being a notable highlight. Furthermore, Lakkar Bazaar serves as the starting point for the journey to the popular Jakhoo Peak, and it’s no surprise that wooden walking sticks are among the most sought-after items here. The market’s origin can be traced back to a group of Sikh carpenters who migrated from Hoshiarpur and crafted stunning items from deodar and walnut wood in the region.

Summer Hill

 

Within the enchanting town of Shimla, there are numerous places to explore, but only a few offer uninterrupted panoramic views that truly capture the surreal beauty of this Himalayan hill station. One of Shimla’s standout attractions is Summer Hill, a charming town situated just 5 kilometers away from the renowned Ridge and at a distance of 4 km from Shimla Railway station, earning its spot at the top of the list of must-visit places in Shimla. The views here provide an opportunity to capture the unadulterated essence of the Himalayan landscape. Its a gateway to serenity. Summer Hill is th eplace where Mahatama Gandhi stayed at the beautiful Geogian Mansion of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur. A leasure walk in the quiet surroundings on the carpeted hill by greenery is totally tranquilizing. It is also known by the name ‘the potter’s hill’ because the potters used to collect clay from here for making pots. Summer Hill is also home to the famous Himachal Pradesh University. Adorned with lush greenery, summer hill provides visitors with breathtaking panoramic views from its summit. Summer Hill is also one of the seven hills that collectively define Shimla and contribute to making Shimla a top-notch destination, and its sheer beauty is bound to leave you in awe.

Fagu

22 km from the city of Shimla, Fagu is an ideal trekking location.The town of Fagu is surrounded bt greenery.The picturesque views of hills from Fagu are really enthraling.Fagu Ski resort is one of the best ski resort in Shimla and attracts a lot of tourists during winters as the surroundings looks even more beautiful during this time. Fagu is a perfect place for nature lovers and a must visit place for those fond of scenic beauty.

Tara Devi Temple

Tara Devi Temple, perched atop a hill near Shimla, stands as one of the renowned and revered religious destinations in the city. Located just a 20-minute drive from Shimla on the Kalka-Shimla highway, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara and holds immense significance for both visitors to Shimla and the local inhabitants. Like the Jakhoo Temple, it is situated on one of Shimla’s seven majestic hills and can be conveniently visited en route to Shimla from Kalka, as it is accessible from the main highway. The temple’s serene aura, nestled on Tara Parvat, resonates with spirituality, and it showcases exquisite architectural beauty. The wooden idol of Goddess Tara, believed to have been brought from West Bengal, adds to the temple’s cultural and religious allure, making it a must-visit destination in Shimla.

Shimla State Museum

Situated at a distance of 1 km from Shimla Railway Station, Shimla State Museum is a colonial building built in 1974 with the aim of preserving state’s rich culture.It is also known as Himachal state Museum and Library.Gives you a deep knowledge of city’s glorious history.
The lifestyle and culture of the people of the Himalayas are reflected in the paintings. Rajasthani and Mughal paintings are awe-inspiring. Stone works of Bajaura and Masrur belonging to 8th century are seen here. The museum also features a doll gallery that showcases a collection of Himachali bride and tribal dolls while the collection which is worth a look. There is also a separate room dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, displaying his photos when he visited Shimla and his political cartoons that comment on his relations with the British. The museum houses a library, which has a wide range of collections of historical books. Various manuscripts are also found in the library. It is a perfect place for art lovers and people who want to know about the history and culture of Himachal Pradesh.A visit to Shimla is incomplete without seeing this museum, which offers a peep into Himachal’s grand past.

Johnnie’s Wax Museum

Johnnie’s Wax Museum, Himachal Pradesh’s inaugural wax museum, is a popular attraction in Shimla. This family-friendly museum features lifelike wax replicas of famous movie stars and prominent figures from India and around the world, including Mahatma Gandhi, Steve Jobs, Harry Potter, James Bond, and Tony Stark. In addition to these impressive figures, visitors can have a wax replica of their hand made, adding a unique touch to their museum experience. The wax Museum is Himachal’s own Madame Tussauds. The museum houses a diverse collection of statues, making it a delightful place to pose alongside your favorite icons. Situated at the Willow Banks estate in Shimla, Johnnie’s Wax Museum is home to more than 15 life-sized wax figures, encompassing Hollywood and Bollywood stars, historical and political figures, and renowned sports players such as Daniel Radcliffe, Mahatma Gandhi, Narendra Modi, Lionel Messi, Tony Stark, and more. Most of these statues are crafted by artists who work in the famous museum of Madame Tussauds, London. It’s a must-visit destination for families and friends in Shimla.

Kali Bari temple

The majestic temple of Kali Bari was built in the year 1845 by Ram Charan Bhramachari, a Bengali Brahmin on Jakhu Hill.The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali who also is called Shyamala from whose name Shimla’s name was originated.The temple holds a special place in Hindu religion and thus is said to be of religious importance.Travellers visiting Shimla do not miss offering prayers to the temple as they believe praying here takes all their worries away and brings prosperity into their lives also because it is spread amidst beautiful lush green forest and the tranquilizing views of Himalayas.

Kufri

Located around 16 kms fro Shimla Railway station, Kufri, famously called the winter sports capital is a well known small hill station famous for its ski resort. It is one of the top adventure site for skiing and thus a very famous tourist spot around Shimla. Its magnificent landscapes of snow all around makes it a not to miss site around Shimla.

Chail

Located around 43 kms from Shimla, Chail is a small town. It has the highest cricket ground in the world.Chail is home to famous Chail Palace which was built by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala as his summer capital after his entry was banned by the British after he incurred the wrath of the Commander in Chief Lord Kitchener. The Palace has now been converted to Luxury hotel.The beautiful dense cover of deodar trees and scented forest of pine trees around the town gives it a calming spectacular view. To witness snowfall at Chail, the ideal time to visit is between December to February. Perched higher than Shimla, the majestic view of Shimla Kasauli well lit at night can be seen from Chail.

Christ Church

Situated on the Ridge,Christ Church stands as a prominent landmark of Shimla. It was designed in neo-gothic style in 1844 by J.T. Boileau but it was consecrated after 1857.This monument is perfect for the people who want to get a taste of religious Christianity from the colonial time.

Ride on Toy Train

 

At around 84 kms from Shimla, a ride in toy train is one of the top things to do in SHimla. The Kalka-Shimla railway track was laid during British reign in1903 to provide access to summer capital of India. The beautiful journey from Kalka to Shimla which is around 95 kms passes through 102 tunnels, 864 bridges and 900 curves crossing green forests,achient post office,hill slopes and many more which takes about 5 hours to complete.If you don’t have 5 hours to spare but still want to enjoy the serenic journey on Toy-train, the best alternative is to enjoy the ride from Shimla to Taradevi which takes about 45 minutes or Shimla to Shoghi which is about an hours journey.

Annadale

Situated around 3 km from the Ridge, Annandale, a must-visit spot in Shimla, particularly in November, has a rich history and offers a range of recreational activities. During the British era, it was a hub for adventure sports and horse racing. Today, it’s a paradise for golf lovers, with the former racecourse transformed into a charming mini-golf course that also serves as a helipad, providing stunning meadow views. Set amidst oak and deodar trees in a valley on Shimla’s western side, Annandale’s natural beauty is particularly enchanting in November. It’s a hub for sports like polo, cricket, and racing. Don’t forget to explore the Annandale Army Heritage Museum, a significant attraction in the area. Whether you’re interested in golf, polo, or just a leisurely picnic, Annandale offers something for everyone and stands as one of Shimla’s top tourist destinations.

Christ Church 

Christ Church, the second oldest church in all of North India is a prominent attraction in Shimla, is often listed among the top ten places to visit in the city. This architectural masterpiece, built during the British colonial era, stands as a testament to the enduring Christian faith.  To offer people visitors a glimpse into the rich Christian culture, its construction aimed to showcase values like faith, hope, humanity, patience, fortitude, and charity.  Set against the backdrop of majestic landscapes, the church, second oldest in North India, is a renowned tourist destination and a tranquil haven amidst the bustling Mall Road. The church’s Humble interiors hold a wealth of historical tales, making it an ideal spot for those seeking moments of serenity, reflection, or quiet contemplation amid the echoes of the past.

Himalayan Bird Park

Nestled serenely in the heart of Shimla, the Himalayan Bird Park is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and bird lovers. This Humble birdhouse aviary, often regarded as one of the cherished tourist places in Shimla, offers a sanctuary for a variety of rare and exotic bird species, including the resplendent peacocks, vibrant pheasants, and the iconic Himalayan Monal. Located opposite the Viceregal Lodge, another prominent Shimla tourist attraction, the park also boasts an exquisite collection of rare plants and trees. Open exclusively during the summer months, the Himalayan Bird Park provides an ideal setting for bird watching, nature appreciation, and photography amidst lush green surroundings. It’s a must-visit spot for those seeking a refreshing and tranquil experience in Shimla, and it leaves an indelible impression on every nature lover and bird enthusiast who visits this charming avian haven.

Chadwick falls

Chadwick Falls, one of Shimla’s primary tourist draws, descends from an altitude of 1586 meters and is enveloped by dense forests, rich with deodar and pine trees. The allure of the falls is significantly enhanced during the monsoon, with a surge of sparkling waters. Nestled within Glen Forests, this captivating Shimla destination offers a visual feast and a peaceful ambiance, making it a must-see attraction for all nature enthusiasts.