Shimla – Queen of Hills and summer capital of British India.

Once the summer capital of British India it was known as Simla

view on shimla mall road indian army

Shimla – Queen of Hill stations is the capital of state of himachal pradesh. Once the summer capital of British India it was known as Simla. Post independence in 1972 it was renamed To Shimla. Shimla is named after Shyamala Mata, one of the fearless avatars of Kali Mata. The largest, historic and beautiful city of the Himachal state, It is situated at an altitude of 7,460 Ft. Shimla is inhabited on top of seven hills, Inverarm Hill, Observatory Hill, Prospect Hill, Summer Hill, Bantony Hill, Elysium Hill and Jakhu Hill. City is the main commercial, cultural and educational center of the state. 

The city centre’s northernmost point is at Jakhoo and the southernmost location is Annadale, eastern point is called Sanjauli and western end point is Chotta shimla. Apart from being a big tourist attraction, Shimla is also an education hub in himachal. Most of the administrative buildings in shimla were constructed in British rule and have their own historical importance. As a capital of state, Shimla accommodates all the major administrative and legislative offices.most of the old and historical buildings are occupied by these offices.

Why Shimla Is So Famous Hill Station ?

Ease of accessibility, comfortable stays, pleasant weather and lots of places to explore makes Shimla a very popular destination for tourists. Shimla is also a popular for many famous temples and people often visit these Temples from nearby towns and cities.

The city is also famous for its art and handicraft. jewellery, shawls, garments,carpets, wood souvenirs and sculptures. At Lakkar Bazaar, a market extending off the Ridge, one can buy all kinds of souvenirs and crafts made of wood. Lower bazaar at mall road is also one the places where you can find shops selling various arts and handicrafts at reasonable rates.

Shimla is also famous for its fruit based products, like Jams, Juices, Sweets made of Fruits, Fruit concentrates, pickles, Wine and Beer of different flavours. With continued efforts and research by HPMC ( Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Produce Marketing And Processing Corpn Ltd ) Himachal Pradesh has become the major producer of Fruit based products in india. With the growth of this industry it also helped in managing surplus fruit production and created a good source of income for locals.

Best Weather For A Perfect Vacation in ShimlaBest Time To Visit Shimla

 At an altitude of 7,467 ft, weather in Shimla is always pleasant in summers and very cold in winters. Although due to global warming and climate change you may find Daytime a bit hotter and humid in June and July. But the temperature at night is always cool and comfortable. It is surprising that you will see Air Conditioners in some hotels and houses in shimla.

Winters and monsoon are very harsh in the mountains so the best time to visit is between March to June and September to october. During this period the weather is pleasant and the risk of landslides is less due to heavy rainfall, so it is a bit on safer side. But May to June is the peak season due to summer vacations. Rush of tourists can be annoying and prices of transport and accommodation are very high. If you are looking to enjoy the most, the best season to visit Shimla is August To October. And after monsoon you can see the perfect lush green side of the mountains and admire nature.

Famous And Must Visit Places In Shimla

christ church shimla evening view in winters banner for article
Ridge Shimla
hanuman mandir at jakhu top in shimla
Jakhu Temple
green golf course in annadale in shimla
Annadale

Mall Road and Ridge

Main tourist attraction in Shimla includes Mall Road, which is the main shopping point and it has restaurants, Bars, Hotels, Banks, Post offices, information centers and Dhabas. Ridge is the upper part of The mall and is a large open space Historical state library and heritage culture complex, Christ church the second oldest church in north India is also situated at ridge. kali bari temple is also situated alongside Mall road.

Jakhoo Temple

Jakhoo hills at an altitude of 8000 Ft is the highest point in shimla. It’s just two kilometers from The ridge and at the top is an old temple of Hindu God Hanuman. A 33 meter tall statue of Bajrang Bali is visible from the ridge and is the main attraction of the tourists. Jakhu temple is connected with a rope way from a ridge and this rope way is first in shimla.

Annadale

Annadale was developed as a horse race course by Britishers. But currently it is under Indian Army and Army Heritage museum, helipad and Golf Course are the main attractions. Did you know in 1888 Motimer Duran organised the first Durand Cup Football tournament at Annadale.

Places of Interest Around The Shimla

1. Mashobra

green mountains dense forest and beautiful house in mashobra shimla

Mashobra, which is roughly 12 kilometers from Shimla, has earned its nickname “Quiet Shimla” through popular culture. Most visitors head to Mashobra to escape the busy and heavily commercialized areas of Shimla. One can unwind the most in Mashobra, which Shimla lacks.

Surrounded by beautiful scenery. The area is filled with everything of the natural beauty that the heart could desire. There are beautiful trees, wide meadows, lovely birds, and the majestic Himalayas complete the scene. The mist never clears from the mountains, and the highest peak of the mountains is always hidden by a thin veil resembling a Christian bride’s veil. The ridges of the hills wonderfully reflect the sun’s aura, which delicately brushes one’s cheeks. this a must visit destination in your trip to Shimla – Queen of Hill Stations.

A quick talk with people living there will disclose the specifics of their easy-going yet routine way of life. The locals are always polite.

2. Kufri

snow covered mountains with tourist in kufri shimla

There are several activities to do in Kufri, especially if you love the outdoors. Kufri is referred to as the winter sports hub of Shimla. Every explorer’s dream comes true in Kufri. Winter is the finest season to visit this stunning hill station since everything is blanketed in pristine whiteness, giving the area a storybook appearance. Whatever you’re looking for—peace, solitude, or an adrenaline rush—Kufri has exactly the right amount of delights to satisfy you.

3. Tatta Pani

view of river temple in tatta pani near shimla

Tattapani, a picturesque village and well-liked tourist spot which is situated 60 km from Shimla. Tattapani, which is tucked away on the banks of the Sutlej River, is well-known for its hot water sulphur spring. Which is thought to have healing and restorative powers for conditions like joint pain, weariness, stress, and skin problems. It is also famous for river rafting. There are many hotels along the river side which provide the inside Sulphur bath system. 

Shiva’s Cave is a must-see location in Tattapani which is 3.5 km from the town centre. It is well known for proclaiming miracles and granting visitors’ wishes and vows. One can visit this place all along the year but for me the best time is in winter as the temperature is between 12 to 20 degrees.

4. Naldehra

highest golf course in naldhera in Shimla - Queen of Hill Stations

A charming little hill town near Shimla – Queen of Hill Stations. Tourists seeking an uncommon location and stunning natural scenery would love it here. Naldehra is well knowned for its lush vegetation, golf course, and unobstructed views of the mountains covered in pine, cedar, and deodar trees. This place came into notice when lord curzon, the british viceroy discovered the place and was completely mesmerized by its  natural beauty. He built a nine hole golf course here which is now the oldest one in India. You can also visit the Kogi Mata and Mahaung Temple Here.

One of the most well-liked places to visit is Shaily Peak which is 23 km from Naldehra. Its steep summit, rocky slopes, and dense forest make it the ideal location for hikers and adventure enthusiasts. Tourists can also use horses or rent a motorbike to go to Shaily top, which gives an entrancing view of the Himalayan Hills. 

5. Narkanda

snow covered narkanda town in himachal pradesh on the way from shimla to sangla

Narkanda is a pure treat for the experienced traveller, with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks spanning from the Shrikhand Range in the east to the Kinner Kailash Range in the northwest. Narkanda’s uniqueness comes from its charm and lack of tourist trappings. Narkanda is famous for winter sports, especially skiing.

6. Fagu Top

view of blue sky mountains from fagu top in Shimla - Queen of Hill Stations

At a distance of just 6 KM from Kufri at an elevation of approximately 2500 meters, Fagu is known for its apple plantations, sowing fields and the snow-covered Hamlets. Fagu is very popular amongst trekkers and nature lovers.

It is believed that Fagu has derived its name from the word ‘fog’. as It remains covered in fog for almost every time throughout the whole year. The place is always covered by lush green pine and cedar trees resulting in most scenic landscapes. 

7. Chadwick Fall

hidden waterfall in Shimla - Queen of Hill Stations chadwik fall

 If you are looking for adventure. Chadwick Falls in Shimla is the place to be.You can enjoy nature. The serenity, lush forests, and tranquil environment while trekking to the waterfall. The best time to visit this site is in the monsoon.

The name Chadwick Falls is associated with a fascinating story. It originates from the phrases ‘Chidku Jhaar,’ where Chidku was regarded as a sparrow and Jhaar as a jharna by the locals. They named it so because they believed that only sparrows could reach the peak of the waterfall and not humans. However, it was impossible for Britishers to pronounce it correctly, so it was renamed Chadwick.

8. Indian Institute of Advanced Studies

indian institute of advanced studies in Shimla - Queen of Hill Stations

The Indian institute is famous among tourists for its architecture. The Institute is built on Observatory Hill, One of the seven hills that Shimla is inhabited on. Many important historic decisions were Taken here. This is the perfect place to click some memorable pictures.

9. Khara pathar

image of temple in khada pathar near Shimla - Queen of Hill Stations

Khara pathar is only for people who love nature and greenery. Connected by recently widened road and is 70 KM from Shimla – Queen of Hill Stations. This is a paradise for nature lovers. Place is quiet and away from the crowd. You can trek to Giriganga, stay in Camps there or just take a stroll to Apple orchards.

10. Rohru Pabbar Valley

view of rohru town in pabber valley near Shimla - Queen of Hill Stations

If you are looking for a less-traveled road and want to experience an indefinable blend of myth and reality, fact and fiction then you must visit Rohru. The ancient and towering temples, legends, charming architecture, and soaring mountains excite you.You plan your vacation in the scrutiny of picturesque hamlets, fruit-laden orchards cradled by thick words and set by swift streams, and if you want to experience a place.

11. Chanshal pass

chanshal pass near Shimla - Queen of Hill Stations

One of the highest passes near shimla, chanshal pass is at an altitude of 14,829 Ft and is just 152 Km from Shimla – Queen of Hill Stations. perfect place to spend some quality time admiring the good views of the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. One of the lesser known places in himachal pradesh. The Pass remains opened from May to November, For the rest of the year it is covered by thick layer of snow.

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