Shimla Tourism & Travel Guide - A Complete Information

Shimla, the ‘Queen of Hills,’ cradled in the Himalayas, invites you into a world of timeless charm. Colonial-era architecture, pine-covered hills, and a vibrant cultural tapestry await, promising an enchanting escape every season.

Shimla is a captivating destination that weaves history, nature, and culture into a seamless tapestry. Once the summer capital during the British Raj, Shimla retains its colonial charm with Victorian architecture, while the surrounding hills offer panoramic vistas. With its scenic promenade and Mall Road, bustling with vibrant markets, the Ridge beckons visitors to soak in the local ambiance. The Kalka-Shimla toy train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, winds through breathtaking landscapes, offering a nostalgic journey. Beyond the historical façade lies a city that hosts lively festivals, celebrates local traditions, and welcomes travelers with open arms. Shimla’s allure is timeless, promising every wanderer a harmonious blend of serenity, adventure, and cultural richness.

Shimla Historical Significance

Shimla’s historical significance is deeply rooted in its colonial past and strategic importance during the British Raj. Initially a tiny village, Shimla gained prominence after it was declared the summer capital of British India in the 19th century. The British developed the town, establishing it as a retreat from the scorching heat of the plains. This era left an indelible mark on the cityscape, evident in the Victorian architecture, neo-gothic structures, and the iconic ViceRegal Lodge. The historical significance of Shimla lies in its transformation from a quiet hill station to a bustling administrative and cultural center, preserving a legacy that resonates through its architecture and landscapes.

Facts About Shimla

Major Attractions	The Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church, Kalka-Shimla Railway
Language Spoken	Hindi, English, and Pahari
Must Buy	Traditional Himachali handicrafts, woolen items, wooden crafts, and local jewelry
Time Zone	GMT+5:30
Experiences	Colonial-era exploration, Toy train rides, Adventure Sports, Vibrant cultural festivals
Cuisines	Sidu, Thukpa, Madra

Festivals in Shimla

Shimla Summer Festival: Celebrated in June, this vibrant festival showcases cultural performances, flower exhibitions, and many traditional and modern events, welcoming summer with music, dance, and local delicacies.

Ice Skating Carnival: Held in January, the Ice Skating Carnival transforms the Shimla ice rink into a spectacle of skill and elegance. Participants nationwide gather for this winter wonder featuring figure skating, ice hockey, and more.

Lavi Fair: Celebrated in November, the Lavi Fair in Rampur is a cultural extravaganza. This historic trading fair blends tradition with commerce, drawing merchants, locals, and tourists to partake in the festivities.

Travel Tips To Visit Shimla

Layered Clothing: Pack layers to stay comfortable throughout the day due to varying temperatures, especially in the evenings.
Advance Booking for Toy Train: If you plan to experience the Kalka-Shimla toy train, consider booking tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Altitude Consideration: Shimla is at a significant altitude. Take it easy initially to acclimate to the elevation, and stay hydrated to minimize any altitude-related effects.
Local Transportation: Explore the city using local modes of transportation like taxis, autos, or the Shimla Heritage Walk. This offers a more immersive experience and helps in navigating hilly terrains.
Book Accommodations in Advance: Tip: During the tourist season, ensure you book your accommodations well to secure a comfortable stay in the preferred location.

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TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN SHIMLA

Kufri

Kurfi is situated at about 20 km from Shimla. It is a beautiful hill station nestled in the foothills of the mighty Himalaya in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Located at a height of 2,290 meters above the sea level, this quaint little hill station offers picturesque views, stunning locales, and adventure activities. Kufri Himachal is famous for its pleasant atmosphere in the summer and beautiful snow-laden peaks in winters. The origin of its name ‘Kufri’ is derived from the local word ‘kufr’ which means 'lake'. The highest altitude in the surrounding area is also known for the Himalayan forest life, where you can easily see the rare Antelope, including the Monal. Further, exciting trekking can be done along the mountain trails here.

Kufri, Shimla Timings: 24 hours

Kufri, Shimla Entry Fees: Nil

Jakhoo Temple

Jakhoo Temple Shimla is a prominent temple located in Shimla in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is the highest point of Shimla, located amidst the lush green backdrop of the Shivalik hill ranges on the Jakhoo hill. Jakhoo Temple is an ancient place that has been mentioned in many mythologies and it gives a mysterious view to the tourists. The Jakhoo Temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Hanuman. The site is one of the most visited temples in Shimla attracting tourists of all ages and religions along with Hindu pilgrims and devotees.

Jakhoo Temple, Shimla Timings: 500 A.M to 12:00 P.M and 4:00 P.M to 9:00 P.M

Jakhoo Temple, Shimla Entry Fees: Nil

The Ridge

The Ridge is located in the heart of the Shimla city, in Himachal Pradesh. It is considered as one of the major tourist destinations. The Ridge Shimla offers a beautiful scenic view of the valley. It is a large open space, which is connected to the Scandal Point in the West and Lakkar Bazar in the east. The tourists can shop for various types of handicrafts made from timber wood. This place is famous for cultural events, fairs, and celebrations. At the Ridge, tourists can enjoy horse riding, ice cream, and photography in Himachali attire. Tourists like to click photos here. The Ridge Shimla has various government buildings such as HP Tourist Info Center, Municipal Office, and Himachal Tourism restaurants and bars.

The Ridge Shimla Timings: 8:00 A.M to 6:00 P.M

The Ridge Shimla Entry Fees: Nil

Summer Hill

There are around 7 famous hills in Shimla and Summer Hill is one of them. If there is any best place to witness the majestic beauty of Shimla then it is the Summer Hill and one of the major tourist attractions. It is also known as the Potter hill. In the Olden Days, the potters made pottery at this place altogether, hence the name. This quaint little town is a distance of around 5km from the famous Ridge. The Summer Hill, Shimla is on the Shimla railway line, at an elevation of 1,283 meters above the sea level.

Summer Hill Shimla Timings: 24 hours

Summer Hill Shimla Entry Fees: Nil

Viceregal Lodge

Viceregal Lodge, Shimla is one of the most prominent tourist attractions. The beautiful building of this picturesque Lodge is situated on the Observatory Hill, and there are lawns and gardens which are very nicely maintained. The surroundings are also filled with beautiful rose plants and pine trees. The European-style building was used mainly during the period of British rule, during the visit of the Indian President and it was therefore called as' Rashtrapati Niwas’. During Professor S. Radhakrishnan’s tenure, it was transformed into the Ministry of Education, Government of India. The Indian Institute of Advanced Study was the first research organization of the country. It was established in the year 1964. It is a six-story building surrounded by green plantations and lawns. The interior and outer design of the building are very fascinating and it represents the renaissance architecture style. The monument has become a witness to the famous historical events such as the Shimla Convention of 1945 and the Shimla Agreement of 1947.

Viceregal Lodge Shimla Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on days starting from Tuesday to Sunday, but it will be closed or will have a holiday on Monday.

Viceregal Lodge Shimla Entry Fees: INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 50 for foreign nationals

SHIMLA TOUR PACKAGES

11 Nights & 12 Days

Himachal & Leh Bike Tour Package

8 Nights & 9 Days

Manali & Leh Vacation Package

9 Nights & 10 Days

Lahaul & Spiti Bike Tour Package

9 Nights & 10 Days

Srinagar-Leh-Manali Bike Tour Package

10 Nights & 11 Days

North India Vacation Package: Amritsar, Dharamshala & Shimla

9 Nights & 10 Days

Golden Triangle with Shimla Vacation Package

THINGS TO DO IN SHIMLA

Hiking

Embark on a hike to Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The trail offers panoramic views of Shimla and the surrounding hills, providing both a spiritual and adventurous experience that will stay in your heart.

Shopping

Indulge in a shopping spree on Mall Road, known for its diverse markets. From traditional handicrafts to modern boutiques, the street offers a mix of shopping experiences against the backdrop of colonial architecture.

River Rafting

Experience the thrill of river rafting in the Sutlej River at Tattapani, about an hour’s drive from Shimla. The river’s rapids provide an exciting adventure, set amidst picturesque landscapes.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SHIMLA

SUMMER SEASON

(March to June)

Experience Shimla’s pleasant summer with temperatures between 15°C and 30°C. This season is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Lush landscapes and vibrant festivals, like the Shimla Summer Festival in June, add to the charm.

MONSOON SEASON

(July to September)

While rainfall rejuvenates the hills, the monsoon season requires caution due to potential landslides. The mist-covered landscapes create a serene ambiance, offering a unique charm. However, trekking and outdoor activities may be restricted during heavy rains.

WINTER SEASON

(October to February)

Shimla transforms into a winter wonderland with temperatures dropping to sub-zero. This season is perfect for snow enthusiasts, providing a tranquil winter experience. Winter sports enthusiasts can indulge in skiing, making it an ideal time for those seeking a snowy retreat amidst the Himalayan landscapes.

HOW TO REACH SHIMLA

By Fight

By Train

By Road

Shimla is accessible by air through Jubbarhatti Airport, approximately 23 km away. Regular flights connect the city to major Indian cities. Taxis and buses are available for the scenic drive, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscapes.

While Shimla doesn’t have a direct rail link, Kalka serves as a major railway station. The scenic Kalka-Shimla toy train journey or road transport from Kalka is a delightful experience, winding through picturesque hills and tunnels.

Shimla is well-connected by road with frequent bus services from neighboring cities. The journey by road offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Private taxis and self-driven vehicles provide flexibility and comfort for travelers exploring the hilly terrain.