Shimla

Shimla is one of the most visited hill stations in India, famous for the beauty of the Himalayan landscape, the colonial architecture, its pleasant climate and the charm of the mountain town. Shimla, situated at an altitude of about 2200 m in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, was established as an important summer retreat by the British and was the summer capital of British India. The city today is a mix of the colonial past, Himachali culture, vibrant markets, pine-covered hills and breathtaking mountain views. Its most recognisable attractions include the historic Mall Road, Ridge, Christ Church and Viceregal Lodge. Shimla is also the hub for nearby places like Kufri, Mashobra, Naldehra and Chail, where you can do nature walks, adventure activities and find it peaceful. Handicrafts, woollen items, wood and wooden items, Himachali textiles and colourful markets are the main attractions of the city. In the winter months, Shimla becomes a scenic place to visit, and the snow transforms its landscape into a charming wonderland. There's a wonderful mix of heritage, nature, leisure, and adventure available in Shimla – from walking the Mall Road to visiting colonial sites, hiking up to the mountains or tasting local cuisine, or enjoying nearby nature trails, there's a lot to see and do.

Best Time to Visit Shimla
March to June provides a good weather window for visiting Shimla as the outdoor sightseeing is pleasant. The summer season is perfect for exploring the city, taking nature walks and visiting nearby hill destinations. December to February is a favourite time for travellers to look for something to do as it brings snow and winter weather, but temperatures may be extremely cold. There are heavy rains, and sometimes road conditions are affected during monsoon season (July to September).

Shimla: Places, Experiences & Food
Places to Visit in Shimla

Mall Road
The Ridge
Christ Church
Jakhu Temple
Jakhu Hill
Viceregal Lodge
Shimla State Museum
Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex
Kali Bari Temple
Annandale
Scandal Point
Kufri
Green Valley
Chadwick Falls
Summer Hill

Things to Do in Shimla

Walk along Mall Road
Enjoy the views from The Ridge
Visit Christ Church
Hike to Jakhu Temple
Explore Viceregal Lodge
Visit Shimla State Museum
Explore the historic colonial buildings
Enjoy snowfall during winter
Take a day trip to Kufri
Enjoy horse riding in Kufri
Explore local markets
Shop for Himachali handicrafts and woollens
Enjoy scenic nature walks
Ride the historic toy train
Experience Himachali culture and cuisine

What to Eat in Shimla

Sidu
Chana Madra
Dham
Rajma Chawal
Tudkiya Bhath
Chha Gosht
Himachali Dham
Babru
Aloo Palda
Kullu Trout
Momos
Thukpa
Mittha
Patore
Chai with Himachali snacks

How To Get There

By Air

The airport, located in Jubbarhatii, is about 23 km away from Shimla. Daily flights connect it to New Delhi and Kullu.

By Road

By bus, Shimla is connected to Kalka (about 88 km), Chandigarh (about 113 km) and New Delhi (about 360 km).

By Rail

Broad gauge trains take visitors up till Kalka, which is connected by regular rail services to New Delhi, Kolkata and Amritsar. From Kalka, one can take narrow gauge trains to Shimla using the Kalka-Shimla UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed railway line.

Chail

One of the foremost gorgeous and popular hill stations in India, Chail may be a perfect resort area that draws tourists with its unmatched beauty, royal palaces and sprawling cricket grounds. Capitol Hill town once served because the summer capital of the princely state of Patiala and is spread across the Rajgarh, Sadh Tiba and Pandewa hillocks. blessed dense forests of chir, pine and deodars,...

Jakhu Temple

Perched atop the Jakhu Hill, the Jakhu Temple may be a popular tourist site. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, it houses a 108-foot-tall idol of the deity. thanks to its location on the very best point of Shimla, it offers sweeping views of the Shivalik ranges. Legend has it that Lord Hanuman stopped here in his go after the sanjeevani plant, which was the herb needed to cure Lord Lakshmana as he was...

Kalka Shimla Railway

One of the foremost popular railway lines within the hills, Kalka Shimla Railway boasts a toy train that gives a singular experience to riders. Winding through the mighty Himalayas, the train takes one through picturesque sceneries, thrilling twists and turns and panoramic landscapes dotted with oak and pine trees. The train also passes through the gorgeous Solan city and it’s considered...

Kufri

A haven for skiing enthusiasts, this picturesque retreat lying at the foothills of the Himalayas, makes for an excellent one-day-trip from Shimla. Kufri is one among the foremost popular tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh that pulls large crowds with its stunning views and serene environment. a well-liked activity in Kufri during the summer season is taking an exciting horse ride amidst narrow w...

Solan

Bordered by lofty hill slopes, the quaint town of Solan may be a prominent camping and trekking site. Located at an elevation of 1,467 m above water level , Solan is surrounded by the Matiul Peak to its east and therefore the Koral Peak to its north. Solan is home to some ancient temples including the foremost visited Shoolini Mata Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Shoolini, it’s one among the...

Viceregal Lodge and arboretum

Drenched in colonial vibes, this majestic building is one among India’s best and well-maintained British-era buildings. Surrounded by a lush green arboretum , Viceregal Lodge once served because the summer residence of the Indian viceroy when the executive centre shifted from Delhi to Shimla. The lodge is additionally referred to as the Rashtrapati Nilayam or President’s House becau...

The Mall

The Mall is where most of Shimla’s shops and other people converge. it’s a pedestrian street, about 7 km long, and is analogous to an English Home County’s market. The bustling Mall Road is lined with handicraft shops, branded stores and little shops selling a good range of things . From shawls and woollen items to modern jewellery and toys for teenagers , it’s something...