Top 15 Attractions & Places to Visit in Shimla, India — Complete Travel Guide 2024
Shimla is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Shimla is known for its stunning natural beauty and old colonial architecture. It was the summer capital of British India. It is a must-visit destination in Himachal Pradesh.
Shimla has charming hills, mystic woods, and snow-capped mountains. It also has green pastures and misty clouds. It is a paradise for nature lovers. It offers so much to see and experience that travelers are spoilt for choice.
Best Time to Visit Shimla
Shimla has nice weather all year. But, the best time is from March to June. It’s neither too cold nor too hot.
The average temperature in Shimla in June ranges from 16°C to 25°C. This makes it great for sightseeing and activities. As the monsoon nears, the cool breeze adds to the weather’s charm.
Summer is the peak tourist season. Winters are ideal for honeymooners and families. They wish to enjoy snowfall in Shimla.
Top 15 Places to Visit in Shimla
Here are the best places to visit in Shimla:
1. The Ridge of Shimla
The Ridge is the center point of Shimla located alongside the Mall Road. Tree-lined and surrounded by heritage buildings, it offers spectacular views of the mountains.
The Ridge is ideal for taking a leisurely stroll, shopping, dining, or enjoying cultural events and festivals.
Key Highlights: Scenic views, restaurants, shopping, events
2. Jakhoo Hill
Located at a height of 8,000 ft, Jakhoo Hill is Shimla’s highest point and a famous landmark. The hill is home to the ancient Jakhoo Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and a huge 108-ft statue of Hanuman.
Trekking up the hill is a good hiking opportunity rewarded by panoramic views.
Key Highlights: Trekking, temple, panoramic views
3. Mall Road
Mall Road is the main street in Shimla dotted with restaurants, shops, hotels and bars. Take a walk on this vibrant road, shop to your heart’s content and dine at one of the many eateries.
Key Highlights: Restaurants, shopping, nightlife
4. Christ Church
One of the most prominent landmarks in Shimla, Christ Church is the second oldest church in India. Its imposing design and stained glass windows make it a famous tourist attraction.
Key Highlights: Architectural beauty, history
5. Chadwick Falls
A 15 minute drive from Shimla, Chadwick Falls is a stunning waterfall cascading down a height of 1586 m. The water gushes down gorgeously from an immense height making it a spectacular sight.
Key Highlights: Ideal for nature lovers and photographers
6. Tara Devi Temple
Located 11 kms from Shimla, Tara Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess of stars. Perched on a hilltop, the temple draws devotees from near and far.
The views of the Shivalik ranges and the town from the temple are captivating.
Key Highlights: Sacred temple, scenic location
7. Summer Hill
True to its name, Summer Hill is a suburb of Shimla that offers cool, breezy weather in summer. Its serene atmosphere amidst pine and deodar trees makes it an idyllic spot to unwind.
Key Highlights: Peaceful surroundings, scenic views
8. Shimla State Museum
Take a walk through Shimla’s rich history at the Shimla State Museum. It has a great collection of photos, paintings, artifacts, and sculptures.
Key Highlights: Historical significance, great for history buffs
9. Kufri
Kufri, located 13 km from Shimla, is a popular hill station to visit near Shimla. This skiing destination is surrounded by snow-clad mountains. It offers adventure activities like hiking and wildlife safaris.
Key Highlights: Skiing, hiking, nature walks
10. Chail
Chail was the former summer capital of the Maharaja of Patiala. It is known for the world’s highest cricket ground and a royal palace. Its serene beauty makes it a preferred getaway to unwind amidst nature.
Key Highlights: Tranquil surroundings, palace, cricket ground
11. Annandale
Annandale is a flat ground used for sports, picnics and cultural events. It served as a playground for Britishers during colonial rule. Visitors can enjoy activities like golf, cricket and polo here.
Key Highlights: Outdoor activities, sprawling grounds
12. Hip Hip Hurray Amusement Park
Hip Hip Hurray is an amusement park located in Kufri. It offers fun activities for kids and adults. They include bumper cars, a trampoline, a zip line, and a Burma bridge. The park surrounded by forests promises an adrenaline rush.
Key Highlights: Thrilling adventure activities
13. Shaily Peak
For trekkers and hiking enthusiasts, Shaily Peak is a paradise. The hike involves breathtaking views of forests and valleys. You can also enjoy pony rides up to the peak.
Key Highlights: Hiking, picturesque views
14. Kali Bari Temple
Kali Bari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, is a renowned temple constructed in the year 1845. The intricate architectural style and religious significance attract devotees from everywhere.
Key Highlights: Sacred temple, unique architecture
15. Scandal Point
Scandal Point is a popular viewing point located above The Ridge. It offers commanding views of the valley and surrounding mountains. There is an interesting love legend linked to this place.
Key Highlights: Scenic outlook, intriguing folklore
How to Reach Shimla
By Air: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport located 21 km away. Chandigarh Airport, which is well connected to major Indian cities, is 113 km away.
By Rail: Shimla railway station is connected to Kalka by a narrow gauge railway line. Kalka is the nearest broad gauge railway station.
By Road: Shimla is well connected by road to major Himachal cities like Manali, Dharamshala and Dalhousie. Luxury buses ply to Shimla from Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, etc.
Where to Stay in Shimla
Shimla has accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury suits for tourists of all budgets. Some good areas to stay are Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Summer Hill and Mashobra.
Popular hotel chains like Radisson and Hyatt offer high-end stays with scenic mountain views. There are also excellent mid-range hotels on the Mall Road and nearby locales. You can also opt for a homestay for a local experience.
Ideal time to Visit Shimla
The best time to visit Shimla is during spring and summer, from March to June, when the weather is pleasant. November to February is winter season with snowfall attracting tourists.
Monsoons from July to September are suitable if you love rains. Avoid late December and January as it can get very cold.
Conclusion
Shimla is blessed with marvelous landscapes, adventure options and historic attractions. From nature walks and temple visits to shopping and trying local cuisine, Shimla has experiences for all interests.
Use this travel guide to help you plan your memorable trip to Shimla. With scenic places, activities, transportation and hotel options covered, get ready to explore the best of Shimla!
FAQs about Shimla Tourism
Q1. How do I get from Delhi to Shimla?
You can reach Shimla from Delhi by a comfortable bus journey, driving your own car or hiring a taxi. The distance is 343 km and it takes around 7–8 hours.
Q2. What is Shimla famous for?
Shimla is famous for its colonial architecture and mountains. It has adventure activities like skiing and a rich cultural heritage. The Mall Road, Ridge, toy train and temples are major attractions.
Q3. What can I buy in Shimla?
You can shop for shawls, woolens, and wooden crafts in Shimla’s markets. They also sell Himachali caps, jewelry, and souvenirs. The markets are Lakkar Bazaar, Mall Road, and Tibetan Market.
Q4. What is the best time to honeymoon in Shimla?
The best time for a honeymoon in Shimla is during the summer, from April to June. Or, in winter, from October to February for snowfall. Avoid monsoons as it rains frequently.
Q5. What is there to do in Shimla at night?
At night you can take a stroll on the Mall Road, enjoy shopping and dining out. You can also experience Shimla’s nightlife at bars and lounges of luxury hotels. The Ridge comes alive at night too.