Oktatabyebye

Aging queen as Shimla is aptly called is among few hill stations in India that hardly needs an introduction. A British discovery; Shimla was nothing more than a stopover on the way to the temple of Goddess Shamla. But as the British realised the beauty, climate and easy accessibility of Shimla from the northern plains, it became a hub for summer breaks and relaxed holidays.

Since then, Its character has not changed much. Today, Shimla is just not a summer getaway but more of a year-round destination that witnesses continuous flow of tourists year after year. Though it gets really crowded during summer holidays, when hordes of tourists make a beeline to Shimla but its charm as a popular weekend getaway has not faded with time.

Shimla is capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh. The hill station has been blessed with all the natural bounties that one can think of in a hill station - a pleasant climate, lovely views of snow-covered mountains, beautiful trails, and a number of sightseeing points.

No matter what you do, you cannot miss the Mall, perhaps the most important landmark and the main shopping centre of Shimla. It also has many restaurants, clubs, banks, bars and shops lined-up. This is the place, where you’ll find people walking up and down, enjoying the views, and stopping to gossip, as it is the main meeting place for everyone. The Ridge and Scandal Point are the two main meeting points at the Mall.

Situated on the Ridge is Christ Church, the second oldest church in Northern India. The church looks majestic and inside there are stained glass windows which represent faith, hope, charity, fortitude, patience and humility. Jakhu Hill, 2 km from Shimla offers a beautiful view of the town and of the snow-covered mountains around. At the top of the Jakhu Hill is an old temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, where you may come across countless playful monkeys waiting to be fed by visitors.
Shimla State Museum opened in 1974, has cultural wealth of the state on display. Indian Institute of Advanced Studies housed in the Viceregal Lodge, is another important landmark in Shimla.  It was built in 1884-88 during the British period. It has spacious gardens that have beautiful pine trees around.

Summer Hill, 5 km away is where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during his visits to Shimla. Himachal Pradesh University is situated here. Annandale, 4 km away from the Ridge is a favourite spot for cricket, picnics and the princely game of polo.

A traveller needs a full day or perhaps two to explore gems that lay around Shimla.  
Tara Devi, 11 km from Shimla has a temple dedicated to the goddess of stars on top of the hill. Sankat Mochan, a popular Hanuman temple is also located here. The temple offers excellent views of Shimla. Mashobra, 13 km away from Shimla is a popular picnic spot and ideal for leisurely walks amidst oak and pine trees. Naldehra, 23 km from Shimla has a well groomed nine-hole Golf course. Lovely views and giant deodars make it a perfect place for picnics. Wildflower Hall has sylvan surroundings and a must visit in winter, when the place wears white sheet of snow. It is 13 km away from Shimla.

Accommodation at Shimla is easy to find, for the hill station has a number of hotels, resorts, and guest houses - ranging from budget to luxury category. Hotels in Shimla are comfortable and well equipped with modern facilities. Check hotels in Shimla

By Rail: Nearest metre gauge railhead is at Shimla, nearest broad gauge railhead is at Kalka (80 km/ 3 hrs). Kalka is well connected to Delhi by the Kalka Shatabdi and Himalayan Queen; to Kolkata by the Howrah-Delhi-Kalka Mail and to Mumbai by the Paschim Express.

By Road: Shimla is well connected by road to Delhi and other neighbouring cities. Regular service of HRTC and state-run buses of different states is available from Delhi’s ISBT Kashere Gate.

Check Driving Directions from Delhi to Shimla

Best time to go: March – June & Nov- January