Shimla- Queen of the Hills

Shimla- Queen of the hills

Shimla is a city located in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is the capital city of the state and is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, colonial architecture, and pleasant weather.

The city is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, at an altitude of around 2200 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by pine and oak forests and has a number of scenic viewpoints from where one can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. 

It's a great destination for those who love the outdoors, as there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, trekking, and mountain biking in the surrounding hills. The city also has a rich culinary scene, with a variety of local and international restaurants offering delicious food.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Shimla is also a popular destination for adventure sports such as skiing, paragliding, and river rafting. The city has a number of adventure sports companies that offer these activities, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.

Whether you're interested in history, culture, adventure, or just relaxing in a beautiful setting, Shimla has something for everyone. Its stunning scenery, pleasant weather, and welcoming locals make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to northern India.

A peek into the history

Shimla has a rich history dating back to ancient times when it was known as Shyamala and worshipped as a sacred site. It was ruled by the Rajput kings, came under the Mughals and Sikh Empire, and became the summer capital of British India in the 19th century. The British built impressive buildings, including the Viceregal Lodge and Christ Church. Shimla played a role in India's struggle for independence with the Shimla Conference in 1945. Today, it's a popular tourist destination known for its history, colonial architecture, and natural beauty.

How to reach Shimla

Shimla is conveniently reachable by road, rail, and air

Airways- To reach Shimla from Delhi by air, you can take a flight to either Jubbarhatti Airport or Chandigarh Airport. Jubbarhatti Airport is closer, but flights are limited. Chandigarh Airport has better connectivity and is about 120 kilometers from Shimla. From both airports, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Shimla.

Railways- To reach Shimla by train, you need to take a train from Delhi to Kalka, and then board the narrow gauge toy train that runs on the Kalka-Shimla railway line. The toy train takes about 5-6 hours to reach Shimla and offers breathtaking views of the mountains. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi or bus from Kalka to Shimla, which takes about 2-3 hours.

Roadways- To reach Shimla by train, you need to take a train from Delhi to Kalka, and then board the narrow gauge toy train that runs on the Kalka-Shimla railway line. The toy train takes about 5-6 hours to reach Shimla and offers breathtaking views of the mountains. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi or bus from Kalka to Shimla, which takes about 2-3 hours.


 

Climate and best time to visit 

The climate in Shimla is mostly cool and pleasant throughout the year. Summers (April to June) are mild with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C, making it an ideal time to visit for those seeking relief from the scorching heat of the plains. Monsoon season (July to September) brings moderate to heavy rainfall and can make the roads and trekking routes slippery.

Winters (October to March) are chilly, with temperatures dropping as low as -2°C, and occasional snowfall, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The best time to visit Shimla is between March to June and October to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. The summer months of May and June are the peak tourist season, and the town can get quite crowded.  

Ideal days to stay

The ideal number of days to stay in Shimla depends on your travel plans and interests. For a relaxing trip, 2-3 days are enough to explore the major attractions of Shimla such as the Mall Road, the Ridge, and Christ Church. However, if you plan to visit nearby places such as Kufri, Chail, or Mashobra, you may want to extend your stay to 4-5 days. If you are a nature lover and enjoy trekking, then you may want to spend more time in Shimla to explore the surrounding mountains and valleys. Ultimately, the ideal number of days to stay in Shimla will depend on your personal preferences and travel plans.  

Top attractions to explore

The city is known for its scenic beauty, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. It has a number of attractions that make it a must-visit place for travelers.

1. One of the most popular attractions in Shimla is the Mall Road. It is a bustling shopping area lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. The road is closed to traffic, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the picturesque views.


2. The Ridge is another popular spot in Shimla, located in the heart of the city. It is a large open space that offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills. The Ridge is also the site of several cultural events and festivals, including the Shimla Summer Festival and the Ice Skating Carnival.


3. Christ Church is a beautiful colonial-era church located on the Ridge. The church is known for its stunning stained glass windows, which depict scenes from the Bible. It is also one of the oldest churches in North India, dating back to the mid-19th century.


4. Kufri is a scenic hill station located just 16 km from Shimla. The town is known for its beautiful landscapes and winter sports, including skiing and ice skating. Visitors can take a horse ride or a yak ride to explore the beautiful surroundings.


5. Chail is another beautiful hill station located 45 km from Shimla. It is known for its beautiful forests, meadows, and ancient temples. The town is also home to the Chail Palace, which was built in the 19th century by the Maharaja of Patiala.
   
   


6. Jakhu Temple is a popular temple located on Jakhu Hill, which is the highest point in Shimla. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can reach the temple by taking a short trek from the Ridge.


7. Viceregal Lodge is a beautiful colonial-era building that served as the residence of the British Viceroy of India. The building is now known as Rashtrapati Niwas and is home to the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, a prestigious research institute that conducts research in the humanities and social sciences.


8. Annandale is a picturesque meadow located just outside the city. It is known for its beautiful landscapes and stunning views. Visitors can enjoy a game of golf or a picnic in the meadow.


9. Shimla State Museum is a fascinating museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage and history of Himachal Pradesh. The museum has a collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and photographs that provide an insight into the region's history and culture.

Overall, Shimla has a lot to offer to visitors. Its rich cultural heritage, colonial architecture, and stunning natural beauty make it a popular destination for those seeking a glimpse into India's past.  

Accommodation recommendation  

There are numerous accommodation options in Shimla ranging from budget to luxury hotels, resorts, and homestays. Some popular options include The Oberoi Cecil, Wildflower Hall, Clarkes Hotel, and The East Bourne Resort & Spa. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.