Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and a popular hill station among Indian families and honeymooners. Situated at a height of 2200m, Shimla was the summer capital of British India. Shimla still retains its old-world charm with beautiful colonial architecture, pedestrian-friendly Mall Road, and the ridge lined up with multiple shops, cafes, and restaurants.
The weather is pleasant for most of the months with tourists flocking especially during the summer months. The winters are cold with some days of snow from mid-December till February end.
For crisp, clear skies and temperatures averaging a comfortable 15°C (59°F), October to November, then February to March are ideal times to visit. December and January can be quite cold and, with occasional snow flurries, are best avoided. April to June is the peak season for domestic visitors keen to escape the summer heat before the monsoon rains arrive in July.
Shimla Mall Road, The Heritage Walk, The Viceregal Lodge, The Ridge, Climb up or take the cable car to Jakhu Temple, See the Hanuman Statue in Shimla.
There are many places of interest to visit in and around Shimla. Shimla is known for its mesmerizing beauty and is one of the places that can mesmerize anyone at the drop of a hat. Below are some of the must-visit places in Shimla.
Shimla Mall Road, Shimla
The Heritage Walk, Viceregal Lodge, The Ridge, the cable car to Jakhu Temple, the Hanuman statue in Shimla There are many interesting places to visit in and around Shimla. Shimla is known for its mesmerizing beauty and is one of the places that can instantly captivate anyone. Read more…
The Ridge, Shimla
In the heart of the ‘British Summer Capital’ – Shimla – lies The Ridge, the most photographed sprawling street on Shimla Mall Road. The Ridge offers everything from shops with exclusive artifacts to spectacular views of the snow-capped mountain ranges. Best known for its shopping and as the social hub of the city, the Ridge still holds Shimla’s rich past in its Gothic buildings and prehistoric architecture. Read more …
Jakhoo Temple, Shimla
Amidst the lush green backdrop of the Shivalik Mountains, the highest point of Shimla, lies the Jakhu Temple, an ancient site dedicated to the Hindu god Hanuman. The Jakhu Temple houses the largest statue of Hanuman in the world, which can be seen from most parts of Shimla. Read more….
Known to this day as one of the busiest and most commercial areas of Shimla, this stretch is a mini world in itself. Shimla Mall Road reflects the spirit of the hill town. Apart from houses and hotels, the hills are mostly crowded with tourists. The charm and beauty of Mall Road can be enjoyed by groups of friends, families, and honeymooners alike. The nearest attractions are Scandal Point, Kali Bari Temple, and Gaiety Theatre.
The main street is lined with restaurants, clubs, banks, shops, post offices, and tourist offices. The shops on Mall Road are known for their woolen clothing and exclusively handmade work, in addition to the usual books and jewelry. The shops with wooden furniture are especially famous. So do not forget to buy some exquisite wooden items and antiques.
The Green Valley is a beautiful and breathtaking mountain range located on the way from Shimla to Kufri. The Green Valley is surrounded on all sides by green hills covered with dense pine and deodar forests. It is not uncommon to see some yaks roaming and grazing in the valley.
The place is not yet developed for tourism, yet with its dense deodar and pine forests lining the majestic hills, it is a crowd puller and attracts the attention of tourists. Rare animals are also occasionally spotted here. Thank you to its beauty and grace, the Green Valley has also been featured in numerous Bollywood films.
Known as the second oldest church in northern India, Christ Church is inspired by the neo-Gothic architectural style and features a verandah, church bells, and five stained glass windows depicting various virtues of Christianity. The church, which took 11 long years to complete, commemorates British colonization in India.
The yellow building and its silhouette can be seen from afar in the city of Shimla which is always crowded with architecture lovers and devotees.
Institute of Advanced Studies, Shimla
The Indian Institute of Advanced Studies on Shimla’s Observatory Hill is a majestic Victorian-style structure. It has now been converted into an educational institution offering courses for post-doctoral students. This building was earlier used by the British government to hold important policy meetings.
The Himalayan Bird Park in Shimla is a small aviary and is home to rare and exotic birds as well as the dazzling Monal Pheasant, the former state bird of Himachal. This wildlife park, located in the heart of the city opposite Vice Regal Lodge, is visited by thousands of locals and tourists throughout the year. You can take a walk through the park and explore the rich collection of plants and trees.
The atmosphere of the Himalayan Bird Park has a calming effect on the soul and you can not only bird watch there but also get some fresh air. The collection of pheasants, peacocks and peacocks are a delight for bird watchers as well as wildlife photographers. The park is also a must for nature lovers with its lush green pastures. Summer is the best time to visit the Himalayan Bird Park as the place is covered with snow in winter.
The Kali Bari Temple of Shimla is an ancient place of worship dedicated to Goddess Kali. It was built in 1845 and is of great religious importance to the devotees. The shrine houses a charming idol of Goddess Kali, beautifully adorned with jewellery and colourful flowers.
It is located in Shimla, very close to the Shimla City Mall, and is often visited by large numbers of devotees. The temple premises are kept clean and well-maintained and devotees can sit here for hours and soak up the heavenly atmosphere. Many prefer to chant or meditate here to reflect on problems they face, as they look to Goddess Kali for strength and energy to combat them.
Chadwick Falls is located in the Glen Forests of the beautiful city of Shimla. This stream of water trickles from a height of about 100 metres. Some explorers remember a walk through the forest as an adventurous experience as the surroundings are damp and dark due to the dense forest.
The name Chadwick is derived from ‘Chidku Jhaar’, where ‘Chidku’ means sparrow and ‘Jhaar’ means waterfall in the local language. It was so named because the locals believed that only sparrows could reach the top of the waterfall and not humans. The British found it difficult to pronounce this name and therefore started calling the waterfall Chadwick.
The first wax museum in Himachal Pradesh, Johnnie’s Wax Museum at the Willow Banks estate in Shimla is an ideal attraction for tourists who want to experience Madame Tussauds at a cheaper price. With more than 15 life-size wax figures, the museum features Hollywood and Bollywood personalities, historical and political figures and sportsmen like Mahatma Gandhi, Johnny Depp, Paul Walker, Daniel Craig, Harry Potter and many more. It is the perfect place to visit with the family and take photos with famous personalities.
Located on Shimla Mall Road, the Himachal State Museum houses unique collectibles like ancient coins, paintings and other handicraft items gathered from across the state and the country, with aesthetics influenced by the Pahari art form. One of the major highlights is the library, which houses around 10,000 books, magazines and journals. The Himachal State Museum is frequently visited by art and history lovers.
The museum also has a doll gallery, which includes several bride and groom dolls, which are admired by all visitors. The Himachal State Museum also houses several archaeological artefacts, including stone paintings from the 8th century.
Kalka Shimla toy train, Shimla
The best way to travel the distance from Kalka to Shimla is by toy train, which runs on a narrow-gauge railway and is known for its dramatic views of the hills and surrounding villages. The historic Kalka-Shimla toy train is part of the World Heritage Site UNESCO and takes you on a journey through vast green hills, deodar and pine forests.
Annandale is a famous attraction in Shimla with a beautiful golf course, a playground, a cactus museum and an Indian Army museum. The playground is a beautiful attraction for holidays and recreation. The fascinating place attracts tourists from all over the world, especially sports enthusiasts who often spend their time playing cricket, golf or polo.
Annandale is also a famous picnic spot for the locals. It is often visited by tourists in the summer as the weather remains cool and pleasant, allowing people to explore the area at their leisure and play a sport or two.
Located in the Kotkhai valley on the outskirts of Shimla, Kiala Forest is a dense forest with diverse flora and fauna, including some indigenous animals. The lush green grass, tall pines and deodar trees make for a peaceful environment, while the occasional sighting of leopards makes the visit even more exciting. The Kiala Forest, with its abundant wildlife and beautiful views of the city, is a great place for nature photography. There are trails suitable for walking and toilets are also available.
Scandal Point in Shimla, as the name suggests, is one of the most talked about attractions of this hill station. The titillating title certainly sparks interest and the thrilling story behind it does justice to the intrigue created.
Scandal Point is one such attraction in Shimla, whose captivating scenic beauty adds to its stellar reputation. This point is a paradise for mountain lovers as it offers a picturesque and unobstructed view of gigantic mountains covered by a blanket of dense fir and spruce trees.
Situated at an altitude of 2,123 m, Summer Hill is a suburb of Shimla that happens to be part of the city’s Seven Hills. It is known for its panoramic views of the nearby hills and valleys, especially in the winter months, as well as for its horse riding and trekking opportunities. What attracts visitors to Summer Hill is the opportunity to visit famous landmarks such as Viceregal Lodge, the railway station, Annandale Army Heritage Museum, Kali Bari Temple and the Gaiety Theatre. Not too far from the Hill is The Ridge, where tourists can eat and shop.
Chail is a quiet hill station near (44 km) Shimla, known for the highest cricket ground in the world and the historic Chail Palace Hotel. Chail is surrounded by pine and deodar trees and is situated at an altitude of 2,250 m above sea level.
Tourists usually visit Shimla, Kufri and Chail in one trip and many Shimla packages offer this as well. Chail is great for a day trip from Shimla as it only takes about 2 hours to reach from the Mall Road. However, you can also stay overnight at one of the resorts for an even more enjoyable experience. Solan, another important town, is also nearby, just 45 km from Chail.
Institute of Advanced Studies, Shimla
The Indian Institute of Advanced Studies on Shimla’s Observatory Hill is a majestic Victorian-style structure. It has now been converted into an educational institution offering courses for post-doctoral students. This building was earlier used by the British government to hold important policy meetings.
Narkanda is a picturesque small town in Shimla district, surrounded by forests and used for skiing in winter. Located at an altitude of 9000 feet, the town attracts tourists for its heavenly natural beauty and beautiful apple orchards. Surrounded by tropical forests and majestic hills, this is one place tourists should not miss in Himachal Pradesh. Narkanda also has a lake, Tannu Jabar Lake, which is one of the major tourist attractions here. There is also a temple near the lake which is a must visit for all tourists and devotees who come here. There are also various trekking routes in Narkanda that all adventure seekers should visit. In Narkanda, there is a beautiful hill called Hatu Nag that one can trek up.
Naldehra, Shimla
Naldehra is a small, charming hill station in Himachal Pradesh, located just about 22 km from Shimla. It is ideal for tourists seeking natural scenic beauty and an unusual location. Naldehra is famous for its green surroundings, golf course and views of the mountains with their pine, cedar and deodar trees. With the backdrop of the mountains and the Sutlej River in the background, Naldehra is breathtaking.
Cafe Simla Times, Shimla
This quaint cafe in Shimla is famous for its delicious wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, dishes from around the world, mouth-watering shakes and delectable cocktails. It is one of the best places in Shimla to have a meal, a snack, or just hang out in a perfect ambiance and cozy environment. The café features wonderful art and décor and also offers surreal panoramic views from the windows.
Rothney Castle, Shimla
Rothney Castle is a heritage site located on Jakhoo Hill of Shimla on a steep slope amidst lush green vegetation. The site is a delight for the explorer because of its historical significance and the natural beauty of the place. As you climb the steep slopes of Jakhoo Hill, you are greeted by the enchanting chirping of birds. The beauty of the ruins is magnified tenfold by the colorful wildflowers and wild berries that grow here. Most declare the grounds of Rothney Castle to be ordinary or in a state of disrepair, while many find it to have a unique quality that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Theog in Himachal Pradesh is a quiet retreat and one of the state’s less crowded attractions. Wrapped warmly in the arms of the mighty Himalayas, it offers all that a popular hill resort has to offer without the tourist hustle and bustle. theog is located 32 km from the state capital, Shimla, and is a beautiful weekend getaway in the mountains, nestled comfortably in the lap of nature. The place is also considered one of the most popular campsites for campers.
Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary, Shimla
Known for its rare variety of flora and fauna, this wildlife sanctuary is a must-visit for all animal lovers. Animals like jackals, barking deer, monkeys, and leopards are often spotted here.
The Pir Panjal mountain range of Jammu and Kashmir can also be seen from here, making this an ideal place for treks and picnics.
Tattapani, a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, is a picturesque village located 60 km from Shimla. It lies on the banks of the river Sutlej and is famous for its rafting trips. The hot sulphur spring is believed to have curative properties for health ailments like stress, joint pain, fatigue, and other skin diseases.
If you ask the locals, you will always be told that Shiva’s Cave is a must-visit. Located 3.5 km from the city center, Shiva’s Caves are famous for their stories of miracles and the fulfillment of vows and wishes of their devotees. You can also indulge in the adventurous sports of white river rafting, zorbing, skiing, paragliding, trekking, and camping in Tattapani.
Located on the small road adjoining The Ridge in Shimla, Lakkar Bazar is one of the most popular shopping streets known for its wooden decorative items. Small shops selling woolen goods, pashmina shawls and handicrafts are also lined up along the market, with kullu shawls being the main attraction.
The Lakkar Bazaar is the starting point for the ascent to the popular Jakhoo Peak, and it is not surprising that wooden walking sticks, among other things, are sold here.
The old British-era architecture coupled with the picturesque views of the Himalayan landscape can be enjoyed by the full-on cable car from the bottom of the hill to the top.
The fantastic gondola ride takes you up to 8,054 feet above sea level and covers the distance of half a kilometer in no more than 5-6 minutes, sparing you the usual human traffic jams on the roads. The Jakhoo cable car is one of the four major cable car attractions in the state. The others are Solang Nala in Rohtang, Naina Devi in Bilaspur, and Timber Trial in Solan. Each cable car can carry six people and is one of the safest cable cars in all of India, having been inaugurated recently. The stunning scenery that surrounds you is guaranteed to take your breath away.
Gorton Castle is a heritage building in Shimla that is over a hundred years old and was built during the colonial era. Today, the castle is used as the office of the Accountant General of Himachal Pradesh. It is a perfect example of India’s rich history and heritage during the colonial period. The monument is built in a neo-Gothic style and exudes the atmosphere of a fairy tale with its distinctive features. Gorton Castle is situated on a hilltop and is surrounded by tall, lush green deodar trees. The scenic beauty of the place makes it seem incredibly majestic.
Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, Shimla
The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex in Shimla was built over a century ago in the Victorian or Gothic architectural style and is of immense historical and cultural significance to India. The five-story complex houses an exhibition hall, a multi-purpose hall, an art gallery, and an amphitheater. It is considered an important and famous performing arts center for artists and art lovers from all over the world who visit the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex regularly.
The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex was built in 1887 and designed by British-Indian architect Henry Irwin. The main attraction of the cultural complex is the theatre where legends like Prithviraj Kapoor, Rudyard Kipling, K.L.Sehgal, etc. have given some memorable performances.
Bantony Estate, Shimla
The Bantony Estate is a heritage site built during the British era and is located on Bantony Hill in Shimla. The estate consists of Bantony Castle and Bantony Cottage. The property is now part of the Heritage Zone of Shimla and has been included in the Shimla Heritage Walk for tourists. The beautiful wooden architecture of the building amidst the sprawling lawns is worth a visit.
Gurudwara Sahib, Shimla
The Gurudwara Sahib in Shimla was built in 1907 in the Padhawa hills. It is a small structure, but the exquisite details inside the building make it a must-see for devotees and tourists alike.
Horse riding, Shimla
Horse riding is a popular and much-loved activity in both Shimla and Kufri. In Shimla, horse riding facilities are usually available at the Ridge. In Kufri, one can ride through apple orchards and up to Kufri Zoo. Often horses are the only means of getting anywhere in Kufri.
Naggar Castle, Naggar Shimla
The Naggar Castle is a medieval mansion made of wood and stone overlooking the beautiful valley of Kullu. Built-in 1460 AD, the castle is a unique blend of western and Himalayan architectural styles. The estate of Raja Sidh Singh was converted into a Heritage Hotel by the government in 1978.
Mashobra Tourism, Shimla
Mashobra is a lush green area in Himachal Pradesh, situated at an altitude of about 7,700 feet, ensuring that nature is interfered with as little as possible by man to give you the purest and most liberating experience of your life.
Mashobra’s proximity to Shimla makes it a perfect alternative for those looking for a peaceful little hill station. With enough resorts and enchanting nature, come to Mashobra if you want a lazy weekend getaway or a week-long holiday.
Skating, Shimla
Ice skating is a famous sport in the beautiful city of Shimla. The Shimla Ice Skating Rink is famous because it is a naturally formed ice rink in the city and is also the largest and only naturally formed ice rink in South Asia. It attracts not only the locals but also tourists from all over the world.
The rink has been used for sports and recreational activities since 1920. The Ice Skating Club of Shimla maintains the rink and enthusiastically organizes national-level competitions and the annual carnival.
Fagu, Shimla
Located at an altitude of 2500 meters, Fagu is a quiet, snowy hamlet about 45 minutes drive from Shimla. It is known for its apple orchards, sowing fields and the snow-capped Himalayas in the background. Due to its remoteness, Fagu is a paradise for honeymooners. It is also popular with hikers and nature lovers.
Fagu is believed to have derived its name from the word ‘mist’. It remains shrouded in fog for almost 9 months of the year. There are also a number of apple trees here, adorned with rich red apples. You can also see animals like snow leopards, yaks, and ponies that live in Fagu.
Wake & Bake, Shimla
Cafe Wake & Bake is another one of the famous cafes in tinsel town. With its world-class coffee, pancakes, and bacon, the cafe attracts tourists in large numbers. With its surreal picturesque views outside the window and ornate interiors, a delicious breakfast here is one of the best things to do in Shimla.
Cafe Hide Out, Shimla
Cafe Hide Out is another wonderful cafe in Shimla known for its delicious snacks and even better coffee. Located on the first floor near The Mall, it is run by two brothers and serves delicious food. Moreover, the prices are quite reasonable and the café is a must-visit when you are in Shimla.
Wild Flower Hall Hotel, Shimla
Originally built as the residence of Lord Kitchener of Khartoum, this building is said to have been a favorite retreat of Lord Ripon. However, the building burnt down in 1993 and a new Wild Flower building was built there as a hotel by a joint venture between the government HP and the Oberoi Hotel Group.
Retreat Building, Shimla
Located in Chharabara, just 10 km from Shimla, the Retreat Building is the official residence of the President of India. It was built in 1850 and was part of the estate of the Viceroy of India. The architectural pattern and natural beauty of the place have made The Retreat a tourist attraction in Shimla.
Located about 13 km from Shimla, on a hill of the stunning Mashobra, the highlight of The Retreat’s architecture is a wooden structure with Dajji masonry. The President of India retreats to this oasis once a year with his office team and staff.
Heritage Walk, Shimla
The Shimla Heritage Walk is a guided tour of the Heritage Zone in the hill town. The Heritage Walk starts from one end of the town and participants walk to each heritage site in Shimla. You can hire a guide to get more information and hear exciting stories of the British era.
Almost all the historical monuments in the city are well preserved and tourists from all over the world visit the city to take a Heritage Walk. While exploring the Heritage Zone, you can observe the different architectural styles used in building offices, castles, hotels, and cottages. It is worthwhile to know the significance of these buildings in the past.
Bharara Fair, Shimla
The Bharara Fair is held every year on May 1 at Bharara village in Shimla, which is also called the 1st of Jaishtha. It is held in honor of Lord Koteshwar, known locally as Devta, and is open to people of all castes and creeds. A festival is an event where everyone comes together to celebrate and seek the blessings of the Lord. People come in large numbers to honor Lord Koteshwar. They come beautifully dressed in colorful traditional attire and stunning jewelry and accessories. This site makes the festival a splendid and lively event. Locals and tourists of all ages attend the festival to experience the authentic spirit of Bharara village.
Bhoj Fair, Shimla
The Bhoj fair is celebrated at Gumman village in Shimla, which falls under the Rohru Tehsil. A fair is a three-day event in honor of Lord Banshur/Lord Bansor, Lord Parshuram, and Lord Kilbaru. It is held every year in November and is mainly celebrated in honor of the ruling deity or Kul Devta, Devta Bansor. Devotees from the surrounding regions visit Grumman to offer their prayers to Lord Bansor. During the festival, the village transforms into a colorful and lively place. The devotees come in large numbers and are all dressed in beautiful traditional attire and jewelry. This attraction is a perfect getaway for unconventional travelers.
Located in Chharabara, just 10 km from Shimla, the Retreat Building is the official residence of the President of India. It was built in 1850 and was part of the estate of the Viceroy of India. The architectural pattern and natural beauty of the place have made The Retreat a tourist attraction in Shimla.
Located about 13 km from Shimla, on a hill of the stunning Mashobra, the highlight of The Retreat’s architecture is a wooden structure with Dajji masonry. The President of India retreats to this oasis once a year with his office team and staff.
International Lavi Fair, Shimla
The Lavi Fair is a unique event held in Rampur Bushahr, a municipality in the Shimla district. It is held every year from 11 to 14 November and is attended by small and big traders and businessmen, but is mainly organized to promote the business of locals and shepherds. Locals celebrate the event to commemorate the mutual trade treaty signed between Rampur Bushahr and Tibet. The Lavi Market is held on the banks of the fascinating Sutlej River and one can catch a glimpse of the traditional methods of trading vital commodities like wool, horses, mules, yaks, dry fruits, etc. These items are either sold or bartered and the whole experience at the foot of the Himalayas in November is an exhilarating one.
Chanshal Pass, also known as Chanshal Valley, is a refreshingly beautiful destination in Himachal Pradesh, exactly 160 kilometers from Shimla. Whether you have a busy desk job or just want to escape the pollution and chaos of a big city, this beautiful mountain valley is the perfect place for a weekend getaway-even for travelers on a budget. Relaxing and watching a peaceful sunrise on the mountain peaks will cost you less than a visit to a fancy restaurant or the mall.
These are just a few of the many captivating cities in Himachal Pradesh that you can explore during the summer season. Each city offers its unique charm, natural beauty, and cultural experiences for a memorable vacation. You can plan your trip to Himachal pradesh and explore more destinations.
Kullu-Manali, Shimla, Dharamshala, Kasauli, Bir-Billing, Malana, Dalhousie, Kasol, Khajjiar, Mashobra, Palampur, Kinnaur, Kufri, Chail, McLeod Ganj, Chitkul, Solang Valley, Shoghi, Tirthan Valley, Narkanda, Barot, Chamba, Mandi, Nahan, Kangra, Bhuntar, Bilaspur, Kalpa, Tattapani, Shoja, Manikaran Sahib, Solan, Sangla, Nalagarh, Parwanoo, Naggar, Arki, Sarchu, Rumsu, Paonta Sahib, Keylong, Losar, Lahaul Valley, Jibhi, Theog, Tosh, Sarahan, Spiti Valle, Chandra Taal
