Location:
Himachal PradeshDistance: Approximately 280 km from Delhi
Altitude: Around 2100 m
Best Time to Visit: April to August and December to January
Main Attractions: The Mall, St. Michael's Cathedral, The Ridge, Jakhu Temple
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Perched at an altitude of approximately 2100 m above sea level, at the foothills of Shivalik, this quaint little town boasts of striking beauty and salubrious climate. The journey to this serene destination takes you through stirring loops and high arched bridges. Once the retreat of British officers, Simla today serves as the perfect getaway for the people living in plains and is one of the major travel & tourism destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Take a peek at the snow-capped Himalayas, walk through swaying oak trees or go for golfing, skiing or any other adventure sport - Shimla will always keep you busy.
Shimla Tourist Attractions
The Mall
Be it shopping lovers or sightseers, everyone loves to take a walk along the 'Mall'. The main shopping center of Shimla, Mall is reached through a passenger lift taken from the Cart Road. Those who love to walk can also take a trek to the shopping place. Lakkar Bazaar (Wood Market), situated nearby, is popular for its wood-crafts and souvenirs.
Christ Church
One of the most popular churches of Shimla is the Christ Church, which was built in 1846-1857. The church, which stands over looking the Ridge, is said to be the second oldest church in North India.
St. Michael's Cathedralbr>Another church in Shimla that is worth having a look at is the St. Michael's Cathedral. It is a Roman Catholic Cathedral, located just off the Mall.
Prospect Hill
Prospect Hill is one of the excellent points in Shimla, to have a look of the panoramic surroundings. With the Kamna Devi temple adorning its crown, the hill promises to enthrall you with breathtaking views of the entire Simla city. Situated on Shimla-Bilaspur road, it is hardly 15-min walk from Boileauganj.
The Ridge
Ridge is the open spans of land, situated right in the center of Shimla. It is the perfect place in the town to get a clear look of the snow-clad mountain ranges.
Jakhu Temple
Jakhu Temple is hardly 45 min walk from the Mall. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and at an altitude of 2,455 m; it lies near the highest point of Shimla ridge. It is one of the best lookout points in Shimla, from where you can have a view of mountains, valleys as well as the changing skyline at dusk and dawn.
Chadwick Falls
Chadwick Falls can be reached after undertaking a 7 km walk from Summer Hill Chowk. Situated amidst lush greenery, the falls definitely present a mesmerizing sight.
Summer Hill
Summer Hill is a 1,283 m hill, situated on the Shimla-Kalka Railway line. One of the best places in Shimla to undertake treks, the hill houses Georgian House of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur - where Gandhji used to live during his visits to Shimla.
Tattapani
Tattapani is a very small village, situated near Shimla. The main attraction of the village is formed by hot water sulphur springs. The springs are not only situated amidst stunning locales, but also provided the much-needed tranquility.
Accommodation
Shimla offers the perfect haven to the holiday seekers, in the form of numerous hotels and resorts. The hotels in Shimla, range from high-end five star to economical budget ones, do not let anyone go away disappointed. Amongst the most popular five star and four star hotels in Shimla are Shilon Resort, The Cecil Oberoi Resort, Hotel Asia the Dawn, Springfields Hotel, etc.