Explore Shimla | Things to Do & Places to Visit in Shimla

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh - Top Tour & Travel Destination

Contoured by the Himalayan ranges, Shimla is located in the north-west Himalayan region. Once the Summer Capital of India is now the Capital Himachal Pradesh. The legacy of which are still strewn in form of architecture found in this city. Shimla is one of the most thriving tourist destinations in India and brings blossoming prospects to Himachal Pradesh tourism.

Apparently the name “Shimla” is connected to Shyamala Devi, incarnate of Hindu Goddess Kali. The modern day Shimla shows a much urbanised state, but still retains the pristine beauty for which it is known as the “Queen of Hills”, a coinage of British Empire and still carried on.

A little history of Shimla – Going back to the 17th century, Shimla was ceded by the East India Company after the Sugauli Treaty. Seeing the sober summer climatic conditions, Shimla was established as the summer capital of East India Company. After which fervent development phase for Shimla was undertaken by British regime. During this phase Shimla got classic buildings, architectural heritage, the Kalka Shimla railways and many prominent educational institutes (which Shimla is still famous for).

Visiting Shimla – How To Reach Shimla

Air Travel to Shimla – The nearest airport for Shimla is the Jubberhatti Airport, situated 22 km from Shimla. Daily commercial service is operational at the Jubberhatti Airport to and from Delhi, by Kingfisher. Owing to the runway space only a turboprop Dornier aircraft can land here.

Land Travel to Shimla– There is regular bus and taxi services via road. Shimla is connected by a national highway. Majorly long route government transportation buses are available but you can also travel through Volvo buses.

Train Travel to Shimla – UNESCO has granted Kalka-Shimla Railway the status of World Heritage Site. The meandering narrow gauges railway experience through the toy train will take you back to the British Raj. As the train passes tunnel after tunnel you’ll reach one step closer to your destination “Shimla”. There are four train services per day mainly Kalka Shimla Passenger, Shivalik Deluxe Express, Kalka Shimla Mail and Himalayan Queen Express.

Hotels & Hospitality in Shimla – This list includes nearby hotels of Shimla categorised according to your budget.

Luxury – The Oberoi Cecil and Radisson Hotel Shimla
Mid Range – Hotel Landmark, Hotel Peterhoff, Hotel Combermere, Woodville Palace, Clarke’s Hotel, Hotel Ashiana Regency,
Economical – Hotel Woodland, Hotel City View, Hotel Dreamland, Hotel White, Hotel Mayur, Dalziel, Hotel Gulmarg

Major Eateries in Shimla – Availability of gourmet food is something which makes a destination plus. So here’s a list of major eateries in Shimla found mainly around the Mall Road.

1. Baljees – A great family restaurant
2. The Oberoi Cecil Restaurant – A multi cuisines restaurant, but a bit towards luxury class
3. Silver Oak – Specializes in Mughlai and Chinese
4. Ashiana & Goofa – Cozy eat out and great view of the ridge and local crowd
5. Loveena Restaurant
6. Qilaa
7. New Plaza Restaurant
8. The Devicos
9. Cafe Coffee Day – Great chain for snacks and a hot cup of coffee
10. Indian Coffee House – Enjoy South Indian Food with typical coffee to top the flavor.

Top Tourist Spots in Shimla

Religious & Spirituality – Sankat Mocha, Tara Devi temple, Jakhoo Temple, Nanina Devi, Christ Church, Dorje Drag Monastery
Day Out At – State Museum, Naldehra Golf Course, Hip Hip Hurray Amusement Park (kufri ), Ice Skating Ring (Active in Winters only), The Retreat and Chail.
Camping & Trekking Jaunts – Glen, Potter Hills, Annadale, Mashobra, Kufri
Shopping Spree – There are many brand outlets on mall offering great shopping options, Lower Bazaar (local jam packed market), Lakkar Bazar( antique and wood works)
Architectural Heritage – Christ Church, Vice Regal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study), Gorton Castle, The Railway Board Building (Now AG Office), Gaiety Theatre( recently remodeled), WoodVille Palace(converted into a Hotel)

Why visit Shimla

Shimla has it all – greenery, hilltops with stunning views, indigenous temples, sports and leisure activities, commingle of cultures and exciting shopping spots.

Shimla Facts & City Profile

City Name – Shimla/Simla (Older Version)
Prevalent Language – Hindi/Pahari (local dialect)/ Punjabi
Climate – Subtropical Highland
Altitude – 2,205 meters (7,234 ft) above sea
Clothing & Accessories – Pair of good walking shoes, warm clothes (as weather is unpredictable), heavy winter wear (if visiting between November – Mid March).
STD Code – 0177
Seven Hills – Shimla is surrounded by seven hills known by names of Prospect Hill, Summer Hill, Inverarm, Bantony, Jakhoo, Elysium and Observatory Hill.
World’s Tallest Hanuman (Monkey God) Statue Situated on Jakhoo Hill.
Mall Road connected to cart road through a lift.