Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, was declared the summer capital of British India in 1864. After India’s independence, it first became the capital of East Punjab and later the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla grew from a small village into a significant city due to its appealing climate, drawing many British officers to build their homes here. Important historical events like the Simla Agreement of 1972 took place in this city.
Shimla has a rich cultural heritage with a cosmopolitan vibe. The annual Shimla Summer Festival on the Ridge is a major event featuring performances by popular artists. The city boasts well-preserved British-era buildings like the Viceregal Lodge and the Christ Church. Local arts and crafts, including embroidered shawls, wooden carvings, and leather items, are popular among tourists.
Situated at an altitude of 2,206 meters, Shimla is located in the southwestern ranges of the Himalayas. The city extends along a ridge and covers about 9.2 kilometers from east to west. Shimla experiences cool winters and mild summers, with the average summer temperature ranging from 16 to 25 °C and winter temperatures between 3 and 11 °C. The city receives moderate snowfall in January or early February. Shimla offers a variety of local Himachali dishes that reflect its cultural diversity, with popular foods including Chana Madra and Dham.
Shimla has many wonderful spots to explore, like the lively Mall Road with its shops and cafes, and the picturesque Ridge with stunning mountain views. Visit the serene Christ Church and the Jakhu Temple, home to a giant Hanuman statue. The historic Rashtrapati Niwas and the scenic Kalka Shimla Toy Train ride offer unique glimpses into the past and beautiful natural scenery.
Mall Road is one of the busiest and most commercial areas in Shimla, offering a lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot for groups of friends, families, and honeymooners. You can explore nearby attractions like Scandal Point, Kali Bari Temple, and Gaiety Theatre. The main street is full of restaurants, clubs, banks, shops, post offices, and tourist offices. The shops are famous for woollen clothes, handcrafted items, books, and jewellery. Wooden furniture shops are popular too, so don’t miss out on some unique wooden pieces. Vehicles aren’t allowed here, making it a perfect place for a relaxed evening stroll. Mall Road is also known for its cafes and tasty food, with plenty of options to choose from.
The Ridge is the heart of Shimla and one of its most photographed spots. This wide-open street is next to Mall Road and offers stunning views of the snow-capped mountains. It’s a social hub and a great place for shopping, lined with cafes, bars, boutiques, shops, and restaurants. The Ridge connects to Scandal Point on the west and Lakkar Bazaar, a famous market for wooden crafts, on the east.
Jakhu Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Hanuman, is located at the highest point in Shimla. It features the world’s largest Hanuman statue, visible from many parts of the city. Surrounded by beautiful Deodar trees, the temple area is home to many monkeys. It’s about 2 kilometers from the Ridge, a 30-minute walk. According to legend, Lord Hanuman rested here while searching for the Sanjeevani Booti to revive Lord Lakshman.
The Kalka to Shimla toy train ride is a must-do for its breathtaking views of the hills and surrounding villages. This narrow-gauge train is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and takes you through lush green hills and forests of deodar and pine. The journey, lasting about five and a half hours, offers a glimpse into the history and natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh. It’s a scenic and historic way to travel through the mountains of the North.
Shimla offers various hotel options for every budget. Enjoy a stay in a hill fort with Himalayan views, a comfortable hotel in a mountain village near Mall Road, a budget-friendly place with valley views, or a relaxed hotel close to the Simla railway station and Himalayan Nature Park.
in a hill fort surrounded by 800 hectares of forest, and offering views of the Himalayas, this refined hotel dating from 1893 is a 14-minute walk from Simla train station.
₹2,310
3 Star Hotel
₹2,900
4 Star Hotel
In a hill station offering views of valleys and the Himalayas, this modest budget hotel along a major thoroughfare is 2 km from Taradevi train station and 13 km from Jakhu.
₹1,893
3 Star Hotel
This relaxed, brightly coloured hotel is 2.4 km from the Simla railway station and 15 km from the Himalayan Nature Park.
₹1,590
3 Star Hotel
Shimla has a variety of hotels near the railway station to suit all budgets. Enjoy a simple stay in the town center, a cozy hotel in a lively commercial area, a rustic retreat surrounded by forest, or a well-rated hotel with great views.
Set in the centre of town, this straightforward hotel is a 13-minute walk from Shimla Old Railway Station. It’s also 7 km from ancient, colourful Jakhoo Temple.
₹1,104
2 Star Hotel
This simple hotel in a lively commercial area is 3 km from National Highway 5 and a 17-minute walk from scenic heritage rides at Shimla train station.
₹990
3 Star Hotel
In wood-and-stone buildings set on a hillside, this rustic, laid-back hotel is flanked by forest. It’s 1 km from Summer Hill railway station and 3 km from Chadwick Falls.
₹2,662
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Green View | Rooms & Restaurant is a great choice for travellers looking for a 3 star star hotel in Shimla.
₹1,405
3 Star Hotel
Shimla offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Enjoy cozy casual dining with a mix of global dishes, or immerse yourself in rich Indian cuisine with aromatic spices. You can also experience delicious North Indian and Mughlai dishes in a warm, rustic setting.
Tripti is a F&B-Casual Dining outlet that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a menu that features a variety of dishes from around the world. The menu includes a selection of appetizers, entrees, desserts, and drinks. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
₹200–400
New Plaza Restaurant is a F&B-Casual Dining outlet located in the heart of the city. It offers a wide variety of delicious dishes from around the world. The restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. The menu features a variety of appetizers, entrees, and desserts.
₹400–600
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine, where aromatic spices dance on your palate, transporting you to the heart of culinary bliss.
₹200–400
The Great Urban Dhaba is a F&B-Casual Dining outlet that offers a unique dining experience. It serves a variety of delicious North Indian and Mughlai dishes. The ambience is warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that is sure to make you feel at home.
₹200–400
You can reach Shimla by air, rail, or road. The nearest airport is 25 km away, but it’s better to fly to Chandigarh or Delhi and take a cab or bus. By train, Kalka is the closest broad gauge station, offering a scenic 5-6 hour journey to Shimla. Buses and taxis from nearby cities and states also provide convenient access.
The nearest broad gauge railway station is Kalka, 90 km away. The train ride from Kalka to Shimla takes about 5-6 hours and offers stunning views with many tunnels.
Shimla Airport, also known as Jubbarhatti Airport, is about 25 km from the city. It’s a small airport with a bumpy landing experience.
Shimla is a popular tourist spot with buses running from cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and various places in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Shimla’s bus services start at 7 AM and run frequently until 9 PM, covering most areas where vehicles are allowed. The buses are timely and well-distributed throughout the town.
Starting at Only 5₹/KM
Navigating the vibrant city of Shimla has never been easier. Whether you’re a resident, a student, or a tourist, TransRentals cab services provide the perfect solution for all your local transportation needs.
Starting at only 9₹/KM
Due to the hilly terrain and narrow roads, auto-rickshaws are not common in Shimla as they are in other towns and cities in India.
Auto-rikshaw is starting From 10.Rs/km
For a hassle-free transport option, you can rent a car or bike in Shimla. Both self-driven and chauffeur-driven cars are available, and bike rentals are great for enthusiasts looking to explore the city on two wheels.
Starting at only ₹1499.
The best time to visit Shimla is from May to June and December to January, when the place is at its most beautiful. In summer, you’ll enjoy clear blue skies and in winter, the town is dusted with powdery snow. The fresh, earthy scent from the pine, fir, cedar, and oak trees adds to the charm. From March to June, the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, making it a great time to explore. For those who love snow, November to January is perfect for activities like skiing and admiring the snow-covered scenery. Shimla is lovely throughout the year, except during the monsoon season from July to September.
Shimla’s picturesque landscapes, old Elizabethan architecture, charming cafes, and friendly locals make it a vacationer’s paradise. The steady, temperate climate means you can visit any time of the year without facing extreme weather changes. Summers attract tourists escaping the heat, while winters draw crowds to the snowy wonderland, especially during Christmas and New Year. No matter when you visit, Shimla offers an enchanting experience that seamlessly blends natural beauty and historical charm.
The Distance of Shimla to Mumbai is (1,732.6 km) via NH 48.
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The Distance of shimla to Delhi is (340.7 km) via NH 5 and NH 44.
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The Distance of Shimla To Bangalore is (2,534.6 km) via NH 52.
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The Distance of Shimla to Chennai is (2,529.2 km) via NH 44.
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To fully enjoy your trip to Shimla, plan your bookings ahead of time, especially during peak seasons. Hotels and transport can fill up quickly, so securing your tickets and accommodations in advance ensures a smooth journey. Maintaining the city’s charm is important, so avoid actions that disturb heritage sites or monuments. Such behavior is punishable, so respect the local culture and history.
For a healthy trip, be mindful of what you eat. Choose reputable places for meals and avoid unhygienic or uncooked food, as it can upset your stomach and spoil your vacation. While there are no strict dress codes in Shimla, it’s wise to dress modestly to respect the local culture. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing will help you enjoy exploring the city. Safety is key, so always stay with a group rather than wandering alone, especially in unfamiliar areas. Many tourist spots in Shimla require an entry ticket, so ensure you purchase one to avoid any issues. Enjoy the historical sites and beautiful landscapes by following the rules and embracing the local customs, ensuring a pleasant and memorable visit.
Manali is a high-altitude Himalayan resort town in India’s northern Himachal Pradesh state.
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