Shimla

Located at a distance of 100 kms from Chandigarh and perched at a height of 7000 feet above sea level. SHIMLA – THE CAPITAL CITY is popularly known as “Queen of Hill”. Blessed with all the natural bounties, a scenic location, Green hills and Snow capped Peaks, Shimla is all weather and one of the most popular tourist destinations of India. Being the favourite hill resort and summer capital of India during British raj period Shimla is full of British Era building and still retains its colonial heritage. Major Tourist Attraction of Shimla are – The Ridge, Christ Church, The Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Jakhoo Temple, State Museum etc.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The climate in Shimla is moderately cool during summer (April to July) and predominantly cool and chilly during winters (December to February). There is Spell off snow during December and January. The best time to visit is:

Summer: April to July (15º C to 27º C) 

Winter: December to February (0º C to 17º C)

1. THE MALL AND THE RIDGE

The Majestic Mall road is the top landmark and life line of Shimla. All the popular Showrooms, Departmental Stores, Shops, Restaurants, and Cafes are located on Mall road. The Himachal Emporium which offers handicraft products of Himachal Pradesh like pottery items, Jewellery, designed woollen materials etc is also located on the Mall road. Mall road is also the culture hub of Shimla as the famous Gaiety Theatre and Ladies Park are also located here. In the evening the mall roads becomes one of the main strolling street and major attraction for tourist.

THE RIDGE:

The Ridge is a large open space in the heart of the town and is a popular site as all the tourists converges here, while taking leisurely walks through the Mall and Lakkar Bazaar. Visitors relax here and enjoy the scenic beauty and charm.

2. KALKA – SHIMLA TOY TRAIN

Running on Kalka – Shimla rail track the toy train is the major attraction for tourists. During its journey it covers 96 kms distance in 5-6 hrs. All through the journey, the spectacular scenery along the whole route and marvels of its construction, (Beautiful Bridges and 102 Tunnels) keeps the tourist spell bound. The Kalka – Shimla train is a world Heritage site.

3. JAKHOO HILL

Located at about 2 kms from Shimla, at an altitude of about 8050 feet above sea level. Jakhoo is the highest peak in the area and offers a Panoramic view of the magnificent Shimla. The ancient Lord Hanuman temple at the top of the Jakhoo hill is the major attraction for the tourist. The walk to the temple is through the dense forests of Deodar trees and scenic Shimla heritage. You can either trek, hire a pony or a taxi to go to the Hanuman temple.

4. CHRIST CHURCH

Located on the Ridge the Christ church is the ICON of Shimla. Noted for Gothic architecture, this historic church is said to be the second oldest church in the whole of North India. The beautiful stained glass windows of the church represent faith, hope, charity, gratitude, patience and humility.

5. SHIMLA STATE MUSEUM

Set up in 1974 to protect and preserve the cultural wealth of Himachal Pradesh. The Shimla state Museum has over 10,000 objects. It has got a good collection of ancient historical sculptures, Paintings, Coins, Photos and other items collected from all over the state as well as from outside. It has got a library which houses many historical books and manuscripts.
Visiting Hours 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed: Monday and Gazetted holidays.

6. VICEREGAL LODGE

Built in 1888, the Vice regal Lodge is located at the top of Observatory Hills and was the Summer Seat of British Govt. till 1940. This well maintained six storey Building has now been transformed into the famous Institute of Advanced Studies. The lodge has famous Botanical Gardens and perfectly manicured lawns. The place is a very famous tourist attraction and is a must visit site.

KUFRI:

(16kms) the tiny picturesque hamlet is very popular among tourists. It is also a popular skiing resort during winter. The Himalayan Nature Park here has a good collection of Birds and animals found in the region.

NARKANDA:

(64 kms) the charming skiing resort affords breathtaking views. The Hatu Peak (8 kms) from Narkanda is famous for the ancient shrine of Hatu Mata and 360 spectacular view. Here HPTDC runs Hotel Hatu and organizes short skiing courses in winter.