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Skiing in Kufri

Skiing in Kufri

Jakhoo Ropeway

Jakhoo Ropeway

Kalka Shimla Toy Train

Kalka Shimla Toy Train

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Ice Skating

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1. Mall Road, Shimla

Mall Road, Shimla

0 km from city center 1 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Shopping in Shimla revolves around the heart of the town- The Mall Road. One can shop for local handicrafts, shawls, woolens, exquisite jewelry etc. here. Known as one of the busiest and commercial areas of Shimla, this stretch is a mini-world in itself lined up with a bunch of restaurants, clubs, banks, post offices and so on.

2. The Ridge

The Ridge

0 km from city center 2 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

The Ridge is the most photographed wide-open street that runs from east to west on the side of the Mall Road and connects it to the famous Scandal Point on the west end. The road is lined with cafes, bars, boutiques, and shops selling some exclusive artefacts with the spectacular view of the snow-capped mountain ranges.

3. Jakhu Temple

Jakhu Temple

1 km from city center 3 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Set amidst the lush green background of the Shivalik hill ranges, the highest point in Shimla, the Jakhu Temple is an ancient site dedicated to the Hindu god - Hanuman. Jakhu Temple has the world's largest Hanuman statue, which is visible from most parts of Shimla.

4. Green Valley

Green Valley

5 km from city center 4 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

The Green Valley is a beautiful and breathtaking mountain range that falls on the way to Kufri from Shimla. It is not uncommon to sight some Yaks wandering and grazing around in the valley. The place is undeveloped for tourism, nevertheless, it continues to be a crowd puller and capture the attention of tourists with its dense deodar and pine trees that line the majestic hills. Best Time to Visit: July to October and from February to April.

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Kufri

9 km from city center 5 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Popular for its snow-laden peaks, skiing and Zoo, Kufri is a quaint little destination nestled 20km away from Shimla. Mahasu Peak and Fagu Valley are the main attractions in Kufri but are accessible via pony ride. On your visit to Kufri, don't forget to enjoy Go karting on one of the highest Go-karting tracks in the world.  Snowfall experience: November to March

6. Kalka Shimla Toy Train

Kalka Shimla Toy Train

3 km from city center 6 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

The Kalka Shimla Toy Train is an enjoyable train ride connecting both the cities and made it to the UNESCO world heritage list as one of the most picturesque train routes in the world. It passes through more than a hundred tunnels and takes individuals on a ride amongst vast green hills and deodar and pine forests.

Top Hotels In Shimla

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7. Summer Hills

Summer Hills

4 km from city center 7 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Located at an altitude of 2,123 m, Summer Hill is a suburb of Shimla. It is known for its panoramic views, activities like horse riding, and trekking, especially during the winter months. It's closely located to the other famous attractions in Shimla like the Viceregal Lodge , the Railway station, Annandale Army Heritage Museum, Kali Bari Temple , and Gaiety Theatre. Not too far from the Hill is The Ridge, where tourists can eat and shop.

8. Scandal Point

Scandal Point

0 km from city center 8 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

The Scandal Point, as the name suggests, is one of the most talked about attractions in Shimla. Located on the Mall Road, this point is a mountain lover's haven because it enjoys a picturesque and unobstructed view of gigantic mountains covered in a blanket of dense fir and spruce. Don't forget to hop on for a horse ride, enjoy some hot maggi and play some arcade games when you visit.

Chail

15 km from city center 9 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Chail is a quaint little village located 4.4 km away from Shimla. Situated at an altitude of 2,250m above sea level, Chail is known for the world's highest cricket ground, heritage hotel and Chail Palace. It is surrounded by pine and deodar trees and bound to give you a memorable travelling experience. Not to mention, it is a hiker's paradise. 

10. Visceral Lodge

Visceral Lodge

1 km from city center 10 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Built in 1888, the Viceregal Lodge in Shimla is a six story building constructed in Scottish Baronial style once served as the residence of Lord Dufferin, the British Viceroy of India. Today, this lodge houses several articles and pictures of the British empire and is popularly known as the Rashtrapati Niwas.

11. Christ Church, Shimla

Christ Church, Shimla

0 km from city center 11 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Known as the second oldest church in North India, the Christ Church is inspired by the neo-gothic style of architecture and is complete with a front porch, church bells and five stained glass windows that represent different virtues of Christianity. The church has appeared in several Bollywood movies such as 3 idiots, Black etc, making it one of the most popular attractions in Shimla.

12. Himalayan Bird Park

Himalayan Bird Park

2 km from city center 12 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

A little aviary, Himalayan Bird Park in Shimla is home to rare and exotic birdlife. Located at the heart of the city, it is home to the colorful and vibrant Monal Pheasant which is Himachal's former state bird. A must-visit for nature lovers and bird watchers, the Himalayan Bird Park is best visited in Summers.

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13. Tara Devi Temple

Tara Devi Temple

6 km from city center 13 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

As old as 250 years, the Tara Devi Temple lies on the top of Tara parvat. Built in the 18th century, the temple is devoted to Tibetan Buddhists Goddess Tara. She is believed to be one of the nine sisters of Goddess Durga. There's a special pooja conducted on the Ashtami during Sharad Navratri which is a must-see sight.

14. Kali Bari Temple

Kali Bari Temple

1 km from city center 14 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Built in 1845, the Kalibari Temple is an ancient place of worship dedicated to Goddess Kali. The shrine houses a captivating idol of Goddess Kali beautifully adorned with jewellery and colourful flowers. Closely located to the Shimla City Mall, it is frequented by devotees in a large number. The evening of Navaratri is the best time to visit the temple as you'll be able to witness the aarti, and the chanting of the holy verses.

15. Himachal State Museum

Himachal State Museum

2 km from city center 15 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

The Himachal State Museum is adorned with unique collectibles like ancient coins, paintings and other handicraft items, the aesthetics of which are influenced by the Pahari form of art. Located on the Shimla Mall Road, one of the major highlights is the library housing around 10,000 books, magazines and journals. 

16. Chadwick Falls

Chadwick Falls

4 km from city center 16 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Plummeting down 100 metres, amidst the dense Glen Forest, the Chadwick Falls is an adventurous experience in Shimla. Frequented by picnickers, this waterfall is located 7 km away from the city. The best to visit Chadwick falls is during monsoons from June to September. 

17. Johnnie's Wax Museum

Johnnie's Wax Museum

0 km from city center 17 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Known to be the first wax museum in Himachal Pradesh, the Johnnie’s Wax Museum  is located at the Willow Banks estate in Shimla. With more than 15 life-size wax statues, the museum boasts Hollywood and Bollywood personalities, historical and political figures, and sports players like Mahatma Gandhi, Johnny Depp, Paul Walker, Daniel Craig, Harry Potter, and more. 

18. Annandale

Annandale

2 km from city center 18 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Annandale is a mesmerising location that draws tourists who'd love some recreational activities. With a splendid golf course, cactus museum, indian army museum, this attraction is also a popular picnic spot. Today, the ground is mostly used as a helipad and for events organized by the Indian Army. However, people still come here to try a hand at golf, polo and cricket. 

19. Kiala Forest

Kiala Forest

10 km from city center 19 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Situated in the the Kotkhai valley on the outskirts of Shimla, Kiala Forest is dense with a  diverse flora and fauna, including several indigenous animals. The lush green grass, tall pine, and deodar trees creates the perfect ambience for leopard spotting. The rich wildlife and beautiful views makes it an excellent place for nature photography too. There are hiking and trekking trails with restroom facilities within the forest area. 

20. Narkanda

Narkanda

20 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Surrounded by forests and woodlands, Narkanda is a quaint little town in Shimla district which is popular for skiing in winters. Situated at a height of 9000 feet, this town attracts tourists for its ethereal natural beauty and its beautiful apple orchards. Surrounded by tropical forests and majestic hills, this is one place that tourists to Himachal Pradesh should not miss.

21. Naldehra

Naldehra

9 km from city center 21 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Naldehra is a small enchanting hill station in Himachal Pradesh, located just around 22 km from Shimla. It is perfect for tourists looking for natural scenic beauty and an offbeat location. Naldehra is famous for its greenery, golf course and plain view of the mountains filled with pine, cedar and deodar trees.

22. Cafe Simla Times

Cafe Simla Times

0 km from city center 22 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Famous for its mouth watering wood fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, world cuisine meal platters, sumptuous shakes and fuzzy cocktails, this quaint cafe in Shimla is one of the best place to go to for meal or a snack or just to hang out in picture perfect ambiance and cozy setting. Boasting of wonderful art and decor, the cafe also offers surreal panoramic vistas outside the windows.

23. Rothney Castle

Rothney Castle

1 km from city center 23 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Rothney Castle is a heritage monument located on Jakhoo Hill on a steep slope amidst lush green natural vegetation. The site is a treat to the explorer due to its historical significance and the natural beauty of the location.

Theog

17 km from city center 24 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

A quiet escape, one of the less crowded attractions of the state, Theog in Himachal Pradesh, warmly wrapped in the arms of the mighty Himalayas, has everything a popular hill station can give you minus the tourist rush.

25. Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary

Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary

7 km from city center 25 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Popularly for its rare variety of flora and fauna, this wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for all wildlife enthusiast. Animals such as jackals, barking deer, monkeys and leopards are commonly sighted here.

26. Tattapani

Tattapani

22 km from city center 26 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Tattapani is a small village located 51km away from Shimla. Literally translating to hot water in Hindi, Tattapani known of its hot water spring that is believed to have curative properties for health ailments like stress, joint pain, fatigue and other skin diseases. Situated on the banks of river Sutlej, it is famous for rafting and other adventurous sports like Zorbing, Skiing, Paragliding, Trekking and Camping.   

27. Skiing in Kufri

Skiing in Kufri

9 km from city center 27 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Located 16 km away from Shimla, Kufri is famous for its ski slopes and snow clad mountain views. Known for its ski runs Kufri attracts some of the largest numbers of travellers from far and wide who comes to visit Shimla. From the first snowfall of the year to the time the snow melts it is flocked by hundreds of skiers. Skiing is Kufri's primary allure. Best time to roll into the snow: Mid- December to early February.

28. Lakkar Bazar

Lakkar Bazar

0 km from city center 28 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Located on the tiny road adjoining The Ridge in Shimla, Lakkar Bazaar is one of the popular street shopping places famous for the wooden decorative paraphernalia. There are also small shops lined along the market selling woollens, Pashmina shawls and handicrafts, with the Kullu shawls being the prime attraction.

29. Jakhoo Ropeway

Jakhoo Ropeway

29 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

The Jakhoo ropeway is one of the four major ropeway attractions in the state, with the other being - Solang Nala at Rohtang, Naina Devi in Bilaspur and Timber Trial in Solan. The vintage British-era architecture coupled with the scenic views of the Himalayan landscape is thoroughly enjoyed by the ropeway cable car from the bottom of the hill to the top. Each ropeway cabin can carry six people and is one of the safest ropeways in all of India. 

30. Gaiety Theatre Heritage Cultural Complex

Gaiety Theatre Heritage Cultural Complex

0 km from city center 30 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Built in the Victorian or Gothic style of architecture over a century ago, this heritage monument is of immense historical and cultural significance in India. The complex had a theatre, several galleries, offices, bar, ballroom etc.

31. Gorton Castle

Gorton Castle

1 km from city center 31 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Gorton Castle is a heritage monument which is over a century old and was built during the Colonial era. Today, the castle is used as the office of the Accountant General of Himachal Pradesh. It is a perfect illustration of the rich history and heritage of India during the colonial era.

32. Bantony Castle

Bantony Castle

0 km from city center 32 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

The Bantony estate is a heritage site built during the British era and is located on Bantony Hill in Shimla. The estate consists of the Bantony Castle and the Bantony Cottage. The estate now comes under the Heritage Zone of Shimla and is included in the Shimla Heritage walk for tourists.

33. Gurudwara Sahib

Gurudwara Sahib

0 km from city center 33 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Constructed in the year 1907, the Gurudwara Sahib at Padhawa hills is a small gurudwara known for the exquisite details in the interiors of the structure. It is a must-visit for devotees and tourists alike.

34. Pabbar Valley

Pabbar Valley

34 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Pabbar Valley is a quaint little region of Himachal located 80km away from Shimla. One of the popular attactions here is the Pabbar River that cuts through the Chanshal Mountain Range, apple orchards, majestic mountains, lush green meadows, dense oak & deodar forests. The valley terrain with dense lush slopes of the mountains provide for exciting trails and is a trekkers paradise.

35. Horse Riding in Shimla

Horse Riding in Shimla

0 km from city center 35 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Horse riding is a popular and much loved activity in both Shimla and Kufri. In Shimla, Horse Riding Options are generally available at the Ridge.

36. Kasauli

Kasauli

36 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Located on the way from Chandigarh to Shimla, Kasauli is a hilly cantonment town which makes for an ideal peaceful holiday location, especially for a weekend getaway. Nestled amidst beautiful woody forests of pines (Chir Pine), herbs (Milk Thistle) and cedar trees, Kasauli owes its mystical and serene ambience to the lavish Victorian buildings built by the Britishers who resided here years back.

37. Naggar Castle

Naggar Castle

112 km from city center 37 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

The Castle in Naggar is a medieval mansion of wood and stone that overlooks the beautiful valley of Kullu. Built-in 1460 A.D, the castle is a unique blend of the Western and Himalayan style of architecture. This property of Raja Sidh Singh was converted into a heritage hotel by the government in 1978. 

Solan

38 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Solan is a more low-key hill station ideal for travellers looking just some time away from city rush. A beautiful city in Himachal Pradesh, Solan has ancient temples and monasteries that attract hundreds of tourists and devotees every year.

39. Mashobra

Mashobra

6 km from city center 39 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Mashobra is a small and relatively less explored town, at a distance of mere 10 km from Shimla. Tucked away at a height of about 7700 feet makes it a perfect alternative for people who are looking for a peaceful little hill-station. With just about enough resorts and enchanting natural bounty, come to Mashobra if you have a for a lazy weekend outing or a week long vacation.

Fagu

12 km from city center 40 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Situated at an elevation of 2500 meters, Fagu is a serene snow-clad hamlet, located around 45 minutes drive from Shimla. It is known for its apple plantations, sowing fields and the snow-covered Himalayas in the backdrop. Since it is secluded, Fagu is a honeymooner's heaven. It also popular amongst trekkers and naturalists.

Shoghi

41 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

While Shimla is being flooded by tourists every year, a serene, calm and epitome of beauty lies near it, waiting to be discovered. Shoghi, a small hill station just 13 Kms. from Shimla is abundant in natural scenic beauty and a large variety of flora and fauna.

42. Ice Skating in Shimla

Ice Skating in Shimla

0 km from city center 42 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Ice Skating is a famous sport in the beautiful city of Shimla. The Shimla Ice Skating Rink is well-known because it is a naturally formed rink found in the town and is also the largest and the only naturally formed rink found in South Asia. It draws not just the locals but tourists from across the globe. The experience of indulging in a sport at the foothills of the Himalayas is a breathtaking one.

43. Wake & Bake

Wake & Bake

43 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Cafe Wake & Bake is another one of the famous cafes in the tinsel town. With world class coffee, pancakes and bacon, the cafe attracts tourists in large numbers. Boasting of surreal picturesque views outside the window and artsy ones indoors, having a delicious breakfast here is one of the best things to do in Shimla.

44. Cafe Hide Out

Cafe Hide Out

0 km from city center 44 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Cafe Hide Out is one other wonderful cafes in Shimla popular for its delicious snacks and even better coffee. Situated on the first floor near The Mall, the place is run by two brothers and offer finger licking food. In addition to that, the food is priced at fairly cheap rates and is a must stop cafe when in Shimla.

45. Wild Flower Hall Hotel

Wild Flower Hall Hotel

7 km from city center 45 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Originally built as a residence of Lord Kitchener of Khartoum, this building is said to have been a favorite retreat of Lord Ripon. However, the building got burnt in 1993 and a new Wildflower building was built as a hotel there by joint venture between HP government and Oberoi group of Hotels.

46. Retreat Building

Retreat Building

7 km from city center 46 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Located in Chharabara, just 10 km from Shimla, this is the official retreat residence for the President of India. It was built in 1850 and was part of the Viceroy of India property. The architectural pattern and the natural beauty of the place have made The Retreat a tourist attraction in Shimla.

47. Shimla Heritage Walk

Shimla Heritage Walk

3 km from city center 47 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Heritage walk is a guided tour of the Heritage Zone located in Shimla. These walks require exploring the heritage zone on foot to get a glimpse into the rich history of the ancient British town. One can choose to hire a guide to get more information and hear exciting stories from the British era. Almost all of the historical monuments in the city are well preserved, and tourists from all over the world visit the city to take a heritage walk. Besides the several other things to do in Shimla, this definitely tops the charts.

48. Bharara Fair

Bharara Fair

0 km from city center 48 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Bharara Fair is held every year in the Village of Bharara held in the honour of Lord Koteshwar, locally known as Devta and is open for people belonging to all caste and creeds. It is an event where everyone comes together to celebrate and seek blessings from the Lord.

49. Bhoj Fair

Bhoj Fair

0 km from city center 49 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Bhoj Fair is celebrated in the Gumman Village in Shimla. It is a three-day event celebrated in the honour of Lord Banshur/ Lord Bansor, Lord Parshuram and Lord Kilbaru. Held in November every year, it is dedicated primarily to the commanding deity or the Kul Devta, Devta Bansor.

50. Chanshal Pass

Chanshal Pass

78 km from city center 50 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Also known by the name of Chanshal Valley, the Chanshal Pass is a refreshingly beautiful destination located in Himachal Pradesh, precisely 160 kilometres in distance from Shimla. Whether you work a tiring desk job or simply want to get away from the pollution and chaos of a metropolitan city, this gorgeous mountain valley is the perfect spot for your weekend getaway.

51. Lavi Fair

Lavi Fair

5 km from city center 51 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Lavi Fair is a unique event held in Rampur Bushahr which is a municipal council in the district of Shimla. It is celebrated every year from 11th to 14th of November and is attended by small and large-scale merchants and businessmen, but is majorly organised to encourage business amongst the locals and the shepherds.

52. Kharapathar

Kharapathar

43 km from city center 52 out of 63 Places To Visit in Shimla

Khara Pathar is located at a height of 8770 feet above sea level, making it the highest point on the Shimla route. The staggering height of the village makes the view here a thing of the legends, especially at night when all the scattered houses on the hill are lit up like tiny specks. Although, the road that leads to Khara Pathar from Shimla is an extremely off track road, this never dims the place's charm.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

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Queen of the hills

  • Destinations

Explore Shimla city and its best places to visit

Enveloped in mist, nestled within dense forests and silhouetted against snowy peaks of the mighty Himalayas, Shimla is a paradise in the hills. From its British-era lodges that take you back to the old-world to the bustling 12-km-long Ridge, the heartbeat of the city, Shimla, in Himachal Pradesh, is among the most popular hill stations in India. Ringed by seven lofty hills, Shimla is an ideal summer holiday destination and equally popular in winter, when a blanket of snow covers it. An ideal getaway to experience thrilling and adrenaline-pumping sports like skiing, trekking, paragliding and ice skating,

Shimla has one of the oldest golf courses in the country. Almost perfectly preserving its legacy, as the erstwhile summer capital of the British in India, Shimla is dotted with sprawling colonial bungalows and is also renowned as the official retreat of the President of India.

It is said that attracted by the pleasant weather of the city, many Europeans flocked to this city, building houses for themselves in order to escape the summer heat of the plains. They brought with them their cuisine and their culture of parties, balls, games of golf and elite clubs. Later, the hill station attracted filmmakers, who were charmed by its gorgeous landscapes.

Attractions

Explore the mesmerising shimla, viceregal lodge and botanical garden.

Drenched in colonial vibes, this majestic building is one of India's best and well-maintained British-era buildings. Surrounded by a lush green botanical garden, Viceregal Lodge once served as the summer residence of the Indian viceroy when the...

Viceregal Lodge and Botanical Garden

With kids enjoying horse rides, tourists taking group pictures,...

Tara Devi

Perched atop the Tarav Parvat, the much revered Tara Devi Temple is...

Shoghi

Set amidst rhododendron and oak forests, Shoghi is a peaceful suburb...

Sankat Mochan Temple

Sankat Mochan Temple

Sankat Mochan Temple is the most visited spiritual site in Shimla...

Immersive Experience

Food-and-Cuisine

Food-and-Cuisine

Nature

  • Experiences

Viceregal Lodge and Botanical Garden

Drenched in colonial vibes, this majestic building is one of India's...

The Ridge

The Mall is where most of Shimla's shops and people converge. It is a...

Tara Devi

Summer Hill

Lying at a height of about 2,100 ft above sea level, Summer Hill is...

Solan

Bordered by lofty hill slopes, the quaint town of Solan is a...

Shoghi

Lying on the banks of the meandering River Sutlej, Sarahan is soaked...

Sankat Mochan Temple

Located on the peaceful banks of River Sutlej on the old...

Prospect Hill

Prospect Hill

One of the seven hills that surround the city of Shimla, Prospect...

Narkanda

Drawing tourists from far and wide, Narkanda is noted for its scenic...

Naldehra

A paradise for nature lovers, Naldehra is famous as one of the oldest...

Mashobra

Nestled amongst the lush environs of the Shimla Reserve Forest...

Manali Wildlife Sanctuary

Manali Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated approximately 250 km from Shimla, Manali Sanctuary forms the...

Kufri

A haven for skiing enthusiasts, this picturesque retreat lying at the...

Kotgarh

Known as the apple bowl of India, Kotgarh is a quaint and picturesque...

Jakhu Temple

Jakhu Temple

Perched atop the Jakhu Hill, the Jakhu Temple is a popular tourist...

Jakhu Hill

The highest peak of Shimla, Jakhu Hill is known for the Jakhu Temple,...

Himachal State Museum and Library

Himachal State Museum and Library

The Himachal State Museum is located at the peak of Mount Pleasant in...

Hatu Peak

The second-highest peak in Shimla district, Hatu, about 3,400 m high,...

Fagu

A secluded snowy retreat near Shimla, Fagu serves as a basecamp for...

Elysium Hill

Elysium Hill

One of the seven hills that ring the hill station of Shimla, Elysium...

Christ Church and St Michael's Church

Christ Church and St Michael's Church

The magnificent Christ Church is the most popular landmark of Shimla...

Chail

One of the most gorgeous and popular hill stations in India, Chail is...

Annandale

Surrounded by dense deodar forests, this historic site once served as...

Kalka Shimla Railway

Kalka Shimla Railway

One of the most popular railway lines in the hills, Kalka Shimla...

Kasauli

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Manali

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Chamba

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How to get there

The airport, located in Jubbarhatii, is about 23 km away from Shimla. Daily flights connect it to New Delhi and Kullu.

By bus, Shimla is connected to Kalka (about 88 km), Chandigarh (about 113 km) and New Delhi (about 360 km).

Broad gauge trains take visitors up till Kalka, which is connected by regular rail services to New Delhi, Kolkata and Amritsar. From Kalka, one can take narrow gauge trains to Shimla using the Kalka-Shimla UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed railway line.

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Explore Shimla

Plan your trip to shimla: best of shimla tourism.

Looking up the steps towards the main temple

Essential Shimla

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Shimla Is Great For

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The great outdoors

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  • The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla
  • The Orchid Shimla
  • The Hosteller Kufri, Shimla
  • Snow Valley Resorts Shimla
  • Radisson Hotel Jass Shimla
  • Himachali Rasoi
  • The Restaurant
  • Sol The Brew House
  • Jakhu Hanuman Temple
  • Kufri Fun World
  • Viceregal Lodge
  • Guided Heritage Walk Tour in Shimla
  • 2-Days Private tour to Shimla
  • Private 6 Hrs Shimla City Tour
  • Private tour of Shimla city & Kufri
  • Walk Around Shimla And Visit Kufri

Shimla

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Strung out along a ridge with steep forested hillsides falling away in all directions, the Himachal capital is one of India's most popular hill resorts, buzzing with a happy flow of heat-escaping Indian vacationers. Traffic is banned from the central part of town, so walking is pleasant – even when huffing and puffing uphill. The long, winding main street, The Mall, runs east and west just below the spine of the hill. South of it, the maze-like alleys and stairways of the bustling bazaar cascade steeply down to Cart Rd.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Viceregal Lodge is the official residence of a Viceroy, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India . (Photo by: IndiaPictures/UIG via Getty Images)

Viceregal Lodge

A cross between Harry Potter's Hogwarts and a Scottish baronial castle, this 1888 pile was the official summer residence of the British viceroys until…

The Ridge

Along the central ridgetop, this broad pedestrian esplanade diverges from The Mall at Scandal Point, guarded by a fancifully hatted policeman. Thronged…

Jakhu Hanuman Statue

Jakhu Hanuman Statue

A 108ft (33m) vermillion-pink statue of monkey-god Hanuman pokes his head above the treetops on Shimla’s highest hilltop. Appropriately, hundreds of…

Gaiety Theatre

Gaiety Theatre

Lovingly restored between 2004 and 2009 and hoping for Unesco status, this remarkable 320-seater theatre opened in 1877, originally as part of a bigger…

Bantony

Whimsical and photogenically dilapidated, this 1880 red-brick mansion looks like a place for a Scooby Doo adventure. There's a wobbly central spire-turret…

Himachal State Museum

Himachal State Museum

On a hilltop some 2.5km west of Scandal Point, the state museum sits right at the base of the prominent TV Tower. Rich if somewhat static displays include…

Ripon Hospital

Ripon Hospital

One of Shimla's most atmospheric timber-framed buildings, the green-and-white Ripon Hospital building (1885) has a couple of exterior wooden stair-spirals…

Town Hall

Shimla's half-timbered old town hall building originally dates from 1908–10, but has been so restored that it looks essentially new.

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Latest stories from Shimla

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Apr 11, 2019 • 9 min read

‘Run, run faster, run FASTER!’ shouted my instructor. I could feel a hint of panic rising as I pushed against the wind with all the strength I could…

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  3. Attractions In Shimla: 10 Best Places to Visit In Shimla (2023)

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