bigtravelbuzzShimla is a popular hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. It was once the summer capital of British India and is now a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, colonial architecture, and pleasant climate.
Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Shimla:
Mall Road: Mall Road is the main street of Shimla and is lined with shops, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings. It’s a popular spot for strolling, shopping, and people-watching.
Christ Church: Christ Church is a beautiful colonial-era church located on the Ridge in Shimla. It’s one of the oldest churches in northern India and is known for its stained-glass windows and Gothic architecture.
Shimla Heritage Museum: Shimla Heritage Museum is located in the Viceregal Lodge, which was once the residence of the British Viceroy. The museum displays exhibits on the history and culture of Shimla and Himachal Pradesh.
Jakhoo Hill: Jakhoo Hill is the highest point in Shimla and is known for its panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It’s also home to the Jakhoo Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu deity Hanuman.
Kufri: Kufri is a small town located about 16 km from Shimla and is known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities, such as skiing and trekking.
Shimla State Museum: Shimla State Museum is located near the Mall Road and displays exhibits on the history, culture, and art of Himachal Pradesh.
Annandale: Annandale is a picturesque meadow located about 4 km from Shimla and is known for its golf course, picnic spots, and panoramic views.
Shimla is easily accessible by road and rail and has a range of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and luxury resorts. Overall, Shimla is a great destination for a relaxing and scenic holiday in the mountains.
Places to Visit in Shimla
Shimla is a picturesque hill station in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. Here are some of the top places to visit in Shimla:
The Ridge: The Ridge is the heart of Shimla and is a large open space that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and shopping.
Mall Road: Mall Road is the main street of Shimla and is lined with shops, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings. It’s a popular spot for strolling, shopping, and people-watching.
Christ Church: Christ Church is a beautiful colonial-era church located on the Ridge in Shimla. It’s one of the oldest churches in northern India and is known for its stained-glass windows and Gothic architecture.
Shimla Heritage Museum: Shimla Heritage Museum is located in the Viceregal Lodge, which was once the residence of the British Viceroy. The museum displays exhibits on the history and culture of Shimla and Himachal Pradesh.
Jakhoo Hill: Jakhoo Hill is the highest point in Shimla and is known for its panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It’s also home to the Jakhoo Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu deity Hanuman.
Kufri: Kufri is a small town located about 16 km from Shimla and is known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities, such as skiing and trekking.
Shimla State Museum: Shimla State Museum is located near the Mall Road and displays exhibits on the history, culture, and art of Himachal Pradesh.
Annandale: Annandale is a picturesque meadow located about 4 km from Shimla and is known for its golf course, picnic spots, and panoramic views.
Chadwick Falls: Chadwick Falls is a beautiful waterfall located about 7 km from Shimla and is surrounded by dense forests and scenic beauty.
Mashobra: Mashobra is a scenic town located about 14 km from Shimla and is known for its apple orchards, forests, and trekking trails.
Overall, Shimla is a great destination for a relaxing and scenic holiday in the mountains, and these places offer a glimpse into its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
Best Time To Visit Shimla
The best time to visit Shimla is between March and June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and mild, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 30°C. The skies are clear, and the air is fresh, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities, sightseeing, and nature walks.
The summer months of March to June are the peak tourist season in Shimla, and the city is crowded with tourists. The weather during this time is ideal for adventure sports, such as trekking, paragliding, and camping.
The monsoon season in Shimla begins in July and lasts till September. The city receives moderate to heavy rainfall during this time, which may cause landslides and disrupt travel plans. However, the lush green surroundings and misty weather make it a good time to visit for those who love monsoon tourism.
The winter season in Shimla starts from November and lasts till February. The weather during this time is chilly, with temperatures dropping as low as -5°C. The city experiences heavy snowfall during this time, making it an ideal destination for snow lovers and winter sports enthusiasts.
Overall, the best time to visit Shimla depends on one’s preferences and interests, but the months of March to June and September to November are generally considered to be the best time to visit the city.
Things to Do in Shimla
Shimla is a picturesque hill station in northern India, known for its scenic beauty, colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top things to do in Shimla:
Take a stroll on the Mall Road: The Mall Road is the heart of Shimla and is a great place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the scenic views, and shop for souvenirs.
Visit Christ Church: Christ Church is a beautiful colonial-era church located on the Ridge in Shimla. It’s one of the oldest churches in northern India and is known for its stained-glass windows and Gothic architecture.
Explore the Shimla Heritage Museum: Shimla Heritage Museum is located in the Viceregal Lodge, which was once the residence of the British Viceroy. The museum displays exhibits on the history and culture of Shimla and Himachal Pradesh.
Trek to Jakhu Temple: Jakhu Temple is located atop Jakhu Hill, the highest point in Shimla. The trek to the temple is steep, but the panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains are worth the effort.
Enjoy adventure sports: Shimla is a popular destination for adventure sports, such as trekking, rock climbing, camping, paragliding, and skiing.
Visit Kufri: Kufri is a small town located about 16 km from Shimla and is known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities, such as skiing and trekking.
Take a toy train ride: The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a scenic ride through the mountains and valleys of Shimla.
Explore Shimla State Museum: Shimla State Museum is located near the Mall Road and displays exhibits on the history, culture, and art of Himachal Pradesh.
Visit Chadwick Falls: Chadwick Falls is a beautiful waterfall located about 7 km from Shimla and is surrounded by dense forests and scenic beauty.
Relax in Mashobra: Mashobra is a scenic town located about 14 km from Shimla and is known for its apple orchards, forests, and trekking trails. It’s a great place to relax and unwind amidst the natural beauty of Shimla.
Overall, Shimla offers a variety of activities and experiences for tourists, ranging from adventure sports to cultural and historical tours.
How to get around in Shimla
Shimla is a small hill station, and most of the popular tourist attractions are located within walking distance from each other. However, if you want to explore the city at your own pace or visit places that are farther away, there are several modes of transportation available:
Taxis: Taxis are easily available in Shimla, and you can hire them for local sightseeing or to travel to nearby towns and cities.
Buses: The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) operates regular bus services to major tourist destinations in and around Shimla.
Toy Train: The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train is a popular tourist attraction and offers a scenic ride through the mountains and valleys of Shimla.
Local buses: Local buses are available for commuting within the city, and they are a cheap and convenient mode of transportation.
Walking: Shimla is a pedestrian-friendly city, and walking is a great way to explore the city and its many attractions. Many of the streets are narrow and crowded, so it’s best to wear comfortable shoes and be careful while walking.
Overall, getting around in Shimla is easy and convenient, and you can choose the mode of transportation that suits your budget and travel preferences.
where to eat in Shimla
Shimla is known for its rich culinary traditions, and there are several great restaurants and food joints that offer a variety of cuisines to suit every taste and budget. Here are some popular places to eat in Shimla:
Café Sol: Café Sol is a popular café located on the Mall Road and offers a range of continental, Italian, and Indian dishes.
Devicos: Devicos is a rooftop restaurant located on the Mall Road and offers stunning views of the city along with a range of Chinese, Italian, and Indian dishes.
Sher-e-Punjab: Sher-e-Punjab is a popular restaurant located near the Mall Road and is known for its delicious Punjabi cuisine.
Hideout Café: Hideout Café is a cozy café located in the heart of Shimla and offers a range of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages.
Indian Coffee House: Indian Coffee House is a popular café chain located on the Mall Road and offers a range of snacks, beverages, and Indian-style coffee.
Sita Ram and Sons: Sita Ram and Sons is a famous eatery located near Lakkar Bazaar and is known for its delicious chole bhature and other North Indian dishes.
Baljees: Baljees is a popular restaurant located on the Mall Road and is known for its delicious Indian and Chinese cuisine.
The Oberoi Cecil: The Oberoi Cecil is a luxury hotel located in Shimla and offers a range of dining options, including Indian, continental, and Italian cuisine.
Overall, Shimla offers a range of dining options to suit every taste and budget, and you can choose the place that best fits your preferences.
famous street stalls in Shimla
Shimla is famous for its street food, and there are several street stalls and vendors that offer a variety of delicious snacks and treats. Here are some popular street stalls in Shimla that you should definitely check out:
Sita Ram and Sons: Sita Ram and Sons is a popular eatery located near Lakkar Bazaar and is known for its delicious chole bhature, samosas, and kachoris.
Baljees: Baljees is a popular restaurant located on the Mall Road, but it also has a small street stall that sells hot and crispy jalebis and gulab jamuns.
Sharma Chaat Corner: Sharma Chaat Corner is a popular street stall located near the Ridge and is known for its delicious chaat, a popular Indian street food.
Krishna Bakers: Krishna Bakers is a small bakery located near the Scandal Point and is known for its delicious cakes, pastries, and cookies.
Chai Wala: Chai Wala is a popular tea stall located near the Ridge and is known for its delicious chai, served with crispy biscuits.
Daulat ki Chaat: Daulat ki Chaat is a unique and rare dessert that is available only during the winter months. It is a light and airy dessert made with milk and topped with saffron, pistachios, and sugar.
Overall, Shimla’s street food scene is vibrant and diverse, and you can find a variety of delicious snacks and treats on the streets of the city. Be sure to try out some of these popular street stalls on your visit to Shimla.
where to stay in Shimla
luxury accomodation
Shimla offers a range of luxury accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some popular luxury hotels in Shimla:
The Oberoi Cecil: The Oberoi Cecil is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Shimla and offers stunning views of the valley. The hotel has elegant rooms and suites that are equipped with modern amenities.
Wildflower Hall: Wildflower Hall is a luxury resort located on a hilltop near Shimla and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The resort has luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar.
Clarkes Hotel: Clarkes Hotel is a historic luxury hotel located on the Mall Road and offers stunning views of the valley. The hotel has elegant rooms and suites that are equipped with modern amenities.
The Cedar Grand Hotel & Spa: The Cedar Grand Hotel & Spa is a luxury hotel located near the Mall Road and offers stunning views of the valley. The hotel has elegant rooms and suites, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar.
Radisson Hotel Shimla: Radisson Hotel Shimla is a luxury hotel located near the Mall Road and offers stunning views of the valley. The hotel has luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar.
Overall, Shimla offers a range of luxury accommodation options that provide the perfect blend of comfort and elegance, making your stay in the city a memorable one.
where to stay in Shimla
budget accomodation
Shimla has many budget-friendly accommodation options for travelers who are looking for a comfortable and affordable stay. Here are some popular budget accommodation options in Shimla:
Hotel Silverine: Hotel Silverine is a budget-friendly hotel located near the Mall Road and offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities.
Hotel Crystal Palace: Hotel Crystal Palace is a budget-friendly hotel located near the Ridge and offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities.
Hotel Gulmarg Regency: Hotel Gulmarg Regency is a budget-friendly hotel located near the Mall Road and offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities.
Hotel Shubham: Hotel Shubham is a budget-friendly hotel located near the railway station and offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities.
Hotel Sangeet: Hotel Sangeet is a budget-friendly hotel located near the Mall Road and offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities.
Overall, Shimla has many budget accommodation options that offer comfortable and affordable stays for travelers. These hotels provide basic amenities and services at reasonable prices, making them an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Travel Tips Shimla
Here are some travel tips for visiting Shimla:
Plan your trip during the off-season: The peak season in Shimla is from March to June and from October to December, which can be crowded and expensive. Consider planning your trip during the off-season to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices.
Dress appropriately: Shimla can get quite chilly, especially during the winter months. Make sure to pack warm clothes, including sweaters, jackets, and gloves, to stay warm and comfortable during your stay.
Book your accommodation in advance: Shimla is a popular tourist destination, so it’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.
Carry cash: While most establishments in Shimla accept credit and debit cards, it’s advisable to carry some cash as well, especially if you plan to visit smaller shops and street vendors.
Explore the city on foot: Shimla is a pedestrian-friendly city, and walking is the best way to explore the city and its various attractions. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk uphill and downhill as the city is built on a series of hills.
Try the local cuisine: Shimla is famous for its food, and there are several local delicacies that you should try, including Channa Madra, Tudkiya Bhath, and Auriya Kadoo. Be sure to visit local eateries and restaurants to taste these delicacies.
Respect the local culture: Shimla has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly while visiting temples and other religious sites and avoid behavior that may offend local sentiments.
Overall, Shimla is a beautiful and charming destination that offers a range of attractions and experiences. By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your trip to this stunning city.