nearby places in shimla to visit

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Tourist Places near Shimla

Here is a list of all the places to visit near shimla:, quick navigation.

The major attraction in Chail is Chail Palace, which was built by the Maharaja of Patiala in 1891 to serve as a summer retreat. Besides, Chail is also famous for housing the world’s highest cricket ground at an elevation of 2250 metres.

Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 52 km

How to reach: You can reach Chail from Shimla by bus, cab or private vehicle.

Top Experiences To Do in Chail

Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 15.6 km

How to reach: You can reach Mashobra from Shimla by cab or private vehicle via historic Hindustan-Tibet Road.

Top Experiences To Do in Mashobra Greens

As Kufri is located at a higher elevation than Shimla, the chances of catching a snowfall here are higher. There are some excellent resorts here where you can find accommodation and feel the essence of hills.

Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 19 km

How to reach: You can reach Kufri from Shimla by bus, cab or private vehicle.

Top Experiences To Do in Kufri

Located at an elevation of 9060 feet, Narkanda is a beautiful town in Himachal Pradesh. The lush green forests on the hills of Narkanda and its cherry and apple orchards make it an excellent option for those looking for a peaceful holiday destination in Himachal Pradesh. 

Narkanda offers mesmerizing views of some prominent Himalayan peaks, however, for the best vistas, you are recommended to go 2000 feet above to Hatu Peak. Narkanda, owing to its altitude, receives fairly good snowfall during winters, so you can enjoy skiing here.

Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 62 km

How to reach: You can reach Narkanda from Shimla by bus, cab or private vehicle.

Top Experiences To Do in Narkanda

Another hill station in Himachal Pradesh that is popular for its proximity to both Shimla and Chandigarh. The small hill town still has some remarkable buildings from the British India era that serve as prominent tourist attractions here. 

Boasting an elevation of 5900 feet, Kasauli is surrounded by scenic foothills of Himalayas which appear magical during twilight hours. Kasauli also features a rich variety of flora and avifauna. Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 71 km

How to reach: You can reach Chail from Shimla by cab or private vehicle.

Top Experiences To Do in Kasauli

Apart from lush green vegetation that shrouds its hills, the town also houses some revered Hindu temples. The temple of Shoolini Devi, after whom the town is named, is among the major attractions here. Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 45 km

Top Experiences To Do in Solan

Besides, there are some exquisitely beautiful locations nearby which are perfect for the purpose of photography and soothing nature walk, making Shoja one of the most rewarding places to visit near Shimla.

Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 90 km

Best of Manali

When you are here, you can take idle strolls into the woods or visit Hindu temples here to bask in the air of divinity.

Location: Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh

Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 14 km

How to reach: Hiring a private cab is the most preferred way to reach Shoghi from Shimla.

Best of Nainital

A small town located in Himachal Pradesh, Nahan once served as the capital of the princely state of Sirmaur. Featuring a relaxing atmosphere appropriate for mountain vacation, Nahan is one of the offbeat places to visit near Shimla. 

Excellent places like Renuka Sanctuary and Suketi Fossil Park in Nahan are a delight for wildlife lovers. And if your soul craves adventure, Churdhar Trek is a must try experience while you are here.

Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 132 km

How to reach: You can reach Nahan from Shimla by bus, cab or private vehicle.

Best of Rishikesh

Tirthan Valley

Since there are some popular trekking trails in the region, this place also enjoys fame among trekkers, and is excellent for camping. This place is far from commercialized so it makes for a perfect destination for the lovers of offbeat.

Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 178 km

How to reach: You can travel till Kullu by bus and hire a private cab to reach Tirthan Valley from there.

Top Experiences To Do in Tirthan Valley

Best of Dehradun

It is a hill resort located just a one hour drive away from Shimla, and is quite exquisite in appearance. Being away from human interference and chaos, Naldehra is among the most recommended places to visit near Shimla. Naldehra was discovered by Lord Curzon who was awestruck by the beauty of this place. The major attraction that Naldehra owes its fame to is an 18-hole high altitude golf course located here. If you are planning a vacation with your family or your partner, Naldehra is worth staying a couple of days at. Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 25 km

Places to see/things to do: Golf Course, Mahunag Temple, Nature Walk, Horse Riding.

Also Checkout & Book:  Bali Bird Park Tickets

Best of Kullu

If you prefer to take the road less travelled, Fagu might be the place you are looking for in Himachal Pradesh. It is a tiny Himalayan hamlet tucked away at an elevation of 8300 feet with beautiful scenery all around. 

Since it is a small, not-so-commercialized village, you cannot expect man-made tourist spots here, but it is an ideal place if you want to enjoy the company of nature. If you are a snow-lover, visit Fagu during winter season for an unforgettable experience.

How to reach: You can reach fagu from Shimla by bus, cab or private vehicle.

Best of Mcleodganj

A small hill station in Himachal Pradesh you may not have heard of before, Kiarighat is a perfect recipe for a peaceful weekend escape. Whether you are travelling with family or friends, this place will give you the much-needed break from fast-paced city life and will let you relax in its soothing realm. 

If you are visiting Shimla, you should definitely visit Kiarighat and breathe in the untainted air in its forests teeming with oak, pine, and deodar trees. Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 28 km

How to reach: You can reach Kiarighat from Shimla by Toy Train, bus, cab or private vehicle.

Best of Kasol

Dive right into the magical realm of Himalayan greens by visiting Karsog on your next vacation. It is a small town in Himachal Pradesh, ideal for a relaxing holiday with family. If you are travelling with family, you can find some excellent resorts here. 

Opting for a homestay is also a great way to get familiar with the culture of the region. Karsog is also famous for its apple orchards, so make sure to bring back home some fine quality apples from here. Distance from Shimla Bus Stand (ISBT): 108 km

How to reach: You can reach Karsog from Shimla by cab or private vehicle.

Best of Bir - Billing

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The Town Hall's design reflects a harmonious fusion of Gothic and Tudor architectural styles, showcasing intricately detailed facades, elegant arches, and ornate moldings. The building has not only served as a central gathering point for social and cultural events but has also witnessed numerous historical milestones that have shaped the region's identity.Visitors to the Town Hall are greeted with an enchanting blend of heritage and modernity. The building houses a treasure trove of historical artifacts, memorabilia, and artwork that offer insights into Shimla's evolution over the years. Its well-maintained interiors resonate with echoes of the past, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the stories of Shimla's colonial past and its transformation into a bustling hill station.As a cultural hub, the Town Hall often hosts exhibitions, seminars, and cultural events that celebrate the local arts, crafts, and traditions. The backdrop of the majestic Himalayan landscape, coupled with the Town Hall's historical significance, creates an unforgettable experience for both tourists and locals alike. In essence, the Town Hall in Shimla stands not only as an architectural marvel but also as a living testament to the town's enduring charm and captivating history.

From ancient sculptures and traditional costumes to intricate woodcarvings and historical documents, the exhibits vividly portray the state's evolution over the centuries. The museum serves as a repository of knowledge, preserving and celebrating the traditions, customs, and lifestyles of the local communities. Visitors are treated to a captivating journey through the past, gaining a deeper appreciation for the heritage that has shaped the identity of Himachal Pradesh. The Himachal State Museum stands as a testament to the region's cultural vibrancy and serves as an educational and inspirational resource for both residents and tourists.

Located in the heart of Shimla, Mall Road is the vibrant hub of this hill station. Popularly called “The Mall,” it offers a unique blend of colonial charm and modern hustle, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Shimla tour packages. This bustling promenade was established during British colonial rule. It is flanked by historic buildings, shops, and eateries, making it a popular attraction among tourists and locals alike. Its strategic location, a level below The Ridge, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The 1-kilometre-long road comes alive with its array of local handicraft shops, woollen clothing outlets, and antique stores. Amidst these, the Gaiety Theatre stands as a tribute to Shimla's cultural heritage, hosting performances that captivate the hearts of art enthusiasts. As evening descends, the ambience shifts to a leisurely pace. During this time, you can enjoy the cool mountain breeze, sumptuous local and international cuisines, and the warm glow of streetlights that illuminate the night. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in its enchanting atmosphere.

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Places To Visit In Shimla

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1. 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

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

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

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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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

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.

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7. 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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. 

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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54 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Shimla

• Shimla Overview
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#1 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 2 km from Shimla Railway Station and 1.2 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, The Ridge is a large open space located in the heart of Shimla. It is among the most visited Shimla tourist places and among the prime place to visit on a Shimla tour . The Ridge is situated along the Mall Road which is the famous shopping center of Shimla. Several major places of Shimla like Lakkar Bazaar, Mall, Scandal Point, Jakhu Hill, etc. are connected through the Ridge. The movement of vehicles is strictly prohibited here. The Ridge in Shimla always remains crowded with hundreds of people. Tourists from all over the country visit this awesome place for the view of the sunset. The Ridge at Shimla also provides the tourists a view of the age old Christ Church built in the Neo-Gothic style of architecture as well as the new Tudor library. The statue of YS Parmar .....

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Jakhu Temple / Jakhu Hill

#2 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 7 km from Shimla Railway Station, Jakhu Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated on Jakhu Hill in Shimla. It is one of the famous religious Shimla places to visit . Jakhu Temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Hanuman, and is located at an altitude of 2455m on Jakhu Hill, the highest point in Shimla. According to mythology, a deadly arrow injured Lord Rama's brother Lakshmana when he was fighting the battle with the demon king Ravana. To save his life, Lord Hanuman came to the Himalayas to get the Sanjeevani herb. Upon reaching the Himalayas, Hanuman couldn't make out as to which herb was the Sanjeevani. So he dug up the entire mountain and flew back to where Lakshmana was lying injured. After Lakshmana was cured, Hanuman went back to place the mountain in its original site. He rested on top of the Jakhu hill for some time. It is said that the top of the hill got flattened due to Hanuman's .....

Kali Bari Temple

#3 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 1.5 km from Shimla Railway Station and 1 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Kali Bari Temple is one of the popular pilgrimage places to visit in Shimla . The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali who is locally known as 'Shyamala'. The name Shimla is said to have originated from the name 'Shyamala'. The original temple belonged to goddess Shyamla-which was converted into Kali Bari by some Bengali devotees. The temple of Kali Bari was constructed in 1845 by Ram Charan Bhramachari, a Bengali Brahmin on Jakhu Hill. This is one of the oldest temples in Shimla and is held in high veneration by the town's Hindu community. Later the British rulers relocated the temple to the present site. A blue wooden idol of Goddess Shyamala at an original altar was installed by some Bengali devotees. Along with the rituals the Kali Bari provides accommodation to its tourists who visit the shrine. One can see the .....

#4 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 2 km from Shimla Railway Station and 2 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Mall Road is the main street and the busiest commercial areas of Shimla. The Mall extends from Barnes court on the eastern side to Vice Regal Lodge on the western side. Shopping in Mall Road is one of the top things to do in Shimla . Built by the British during the colonial rule in India, the Mall Road was constructed keeping in mind the traffic on this route. Entry of vehicles was banned though cycle rickshaws were allowed. It has been built in a very strategic and planned way. The Mall Road has located a level below the ridge. The offices of the Municipal Corporation, fire service, and police headquarters are located here. The Mall Road also has all major hotels, restaurants, and recreation centers of Shimla. The Mall Road is full of shops that sell woolen clothes, branded clothes, handicraft items, pottery items, .....

Kufri Ski Resort

#5 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 16 km from Shimla Railway Station, Kufri is a small hill station in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. Positioned at an elevation of 2,510 m on the National Highway 22, it is one of the best places for skiing in India, and among the must-include places in Shimla tour packages . Kufri is quite famous as a ski resort. Kufri derives its name from 'Kufr' which means lake. It is especially popular among trekkers and it is a popular place for adventure sports in Himachal Pradesh. The British discovered it in 1819. As Shimla gained importance, Kufri also began to be recognized as an important place to visit near Shimla as part of honeymoon tour packages . Kufri is known for its pleasant climate and picturesque beauty. It is popular for its trekking and hiking trails. Kufri is also renowned for other adventurous activities such as skiing, tobogganing (sliding .....

Vice Regal Lodge

#6 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 2 km from Shimla Railway Station and 3 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Vice Regal Lodge also known as Rashtrapati Niwas is located on the Observatory Hills of Shimla , Himachal Pradesh, India. The lodge is one the best places to visit in Shimla city. It was formerly the residence of the British Viceroy of India Lord Dufferin. The Vice Regal Lodge was designed by British architect Henry Irwin and built in the Jacobethan style during the regime of Lord Dufferin. Its construction was started in 1880 and completed in 1888. Only the local woods like pine and cedar were used to construct this marvel. Vice Regal Lodge is the only building of Shimla that occupies an entire hill by itself. The building now serves as the center for the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS). The entrance opening to South leads one to the reception hall which stands adorned by a splendid fireplace and a grand spiraling staircase. The building .....

Tara Devi Temple

#7 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 17 km from Shimla Railway Station, Tara Devi Temple is situated near Shogi village on Shimla - Kalka National Highway. Known for its breathtaking location and beautiful valleys around the hill, the temple is one of the top pilgrimage sites in Shimla. The Temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara (goddess of stars) and stands on Tara Devi hilltop lies at an altitude of 1851 m above sea level between Shimla and Shoghi. The lush green environs surrounding it give the temple a very peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. It is one of the famous places for sightseeing in Shimla . According to the legend, Goddess Tara Devi's idol was brought to Himachal Pradesh from West Bengal. The history of this temple dates back to about 250 years when this temple was built here. Hundreds of years ago a king from the Sen Dynasty visited this area. He was in the habit of carrying his family idol around the upper torso .....

#8 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 2 km from Shimla Railway Station and 3 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Annandale is a historical playground located at an altitude of 6,117 feet in Shimla. It is one of the prime Shimla tourist places . Annandale is located in a deep wide valley in the suburban village of Kaithu, Shimla west. This playground rests on a small patch of table-land about three-quarters of a mile in circumference. This place was named by Captain Charles Pratt Kennedy, one of the first incomers to the place. Annandale is a favorite spot for playing cricket and polo. It is quite a scenic spot as it gives a picturesque view of Shimla city and its surroundings are occupied by deodar trees, oak trees, etc. Since the 1830s, Annandale has been an important center of Anglo-Indian playful activities, amusement, and entertainment. The round playground, at present hosts army exercise, parades, sports, and Dussehra celebrations. .....

Kalka - Shimla Railway

#9 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 84 km from Shimla, Kalka is a town located in Haryana State. Kalka Railway Station is the northern terminus of the Delhi -Kalka line and the starting point of the legendary Kalka-Shimla Railway. This railway was added to the UNESCO world heritage list in July, 2008. A ride in the toy train is one of the top things to do in Shimla and it is extensively used in promotion of Himachal tourism . The Kalka-Shimla Railway was built by the British in 1903 to provide access to their summer capital of Shimla. The distance of 96 km between Shimla and Kalka passes through 102 tunnels, 864 bridges and an incredible 900 curves. There are more than 20 stations in this route. It connects Kalka at an altitude of 656 m to Shimla at 2076 m. The five hour journey is one of the best train journeys operated by Indian Railway. .....

Christ Church

#10 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 2 km from Shimla Railway Station and 1.3 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Christ Church Shimla is the second oldest church in North India. The majestic appearance of the church and its stunning location makes it one of the top places to visit in Shimla . The church was designed in neo-gothic style in 1844 by J.T. Boileau but it was consecrated after 1857. The Christ Church is situated on The Ridge where is stands out as one of the prominent landmarks of Shimla. Colonel Dumbleton in 1860 donated the giant round clock that adorns the front facial of the church. The porch was added to the structure in 1873. It started as a shrine to serve the Anglican British community in Shimla and hence is considered as one of the most visited places of worship in the country's most celebrated hill town. It is governed under the diocese of Amritsar belonging to the Churches of North India. The interior .....

Dorje Drak Monastery / TDAC Nyingmapa Monastery

#11 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 8 km from Shimla Railway Station, 7 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Dorje Drak Monastery, also known as TDAC Nyingmapa Monastery is located at Kasumpti, Shimla . Dorje Drak Monastery in Shimla is a famous tourist place in the city. It is a beautiful Buddhist monastery that displays the prevalence of Tibetan culture in the state. The monks meditating in the monastery is quite a sight to watch. The calm ambience of this place is a delight for people seeking moments of repose. Dorje Drak monastery is run by the Tibetan exiles. The Monastery is one of the biggest monasteries of the Nyingmapa School. His Highness Kyabje Taklung Tsetrual Rinpoche who is the head of Dorje Drak monasteries in India decided to set up this temple at Shimla after he migrated from Tibet in 1959. The Solid Square and rectangular structure of the monastery is a perfect example of Buddhist architecture in the Himalayan Region. After the destruction .....

Hatu Peak, Near Narkanda

#12 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 7 km from Narkanda Bus Station, Hatu Peak is a mountain peak located in Narkanda. It is one of the highest peaks in Himachal Pradesh and among the significant Narkanda places to visit for skiing lovers and trekking enthusiasts. Located at an elevation of 3400 m above sea level, the Hatu Peak is the highest peak in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. The peak is a paradise on earth as it is surrounded by the snowcapped Himalayas and dense forest. The forest is a mixed one, comprising a varied population of deodar, fir, spruce, cedar, and blue pine. For the rulers of the erstwhile hill states, Hatu Peak was of great strategic importance because of its commanding position and was accepted as a boundary between the states. The Gorkhas captured it early in the 19th century and established a fort at the top of Hatu Peak. Later, the British dismissed them from the Hatu heights. The ..... Distance (From Shimla): 67 Kms Trip Duration (From Shimla - Including Travel): 4-6 Hours .....

Shaily Peak

#13 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 30 km from Naldehra and 44 km from Shimla, the Shaily Peak or Shali Tibba is a mountain peak situated near Khatnol in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the popular places to visit near Shimla, and among the best places for trekking in Himachal . Perched at an altitude of 9,423 feet, the Shaily Peak is one of the most beautiful trekking destinations near Shimla. The peak provides a 360-degree magnificent view of Shimla, Mashobra, Kufri, Fagu, and Narkanda. It looks exceptionally stunning during the sunrise and the sunset. There is a temple at the top dedicated to Bhima Kali, a goddess, who is highly revered by locals. Devotees flock to the top regularly, especially during Navratri. The temple has been constructed with wood and stones, typical of rural Himalayan architecture. A trail to the temple was constructed in 1936 by the Raja of Faridkot. The same trail exists today and is in a good shape. Surrounded .....

Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary

#14 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 9 km from Shimla Railway Station, Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary situated on the eastern exit of the Hindustan Tibet Road in Shimla. Also known as Reserve Forest Sanctuary, it is one of the best Shimla tourist places , especially for wildlife buffs and nature lovers. The erstwhile property of the famous Rana of Koti, the Water Catchment Sanctuary is an important wildlife sanctuary having a great conservation value. The area of the Water Catchment Sanctuary was declared as a protected forest in 1952 and became a wildlife sanctuary in the year 1990. The altitude of the sanctuary varies from 1900 to 2600 m. Till 2006, the sanctuary was taken care of by the Shimla Municipal Corporation but in 2009, Shimla Wildlife Division got charge of the place. Covers over an area of approximately 10.25 sq. km, the catchment area is rich in biodiversity, home to an intriguing .....

Himalayan Nature Park / Kufri Zoo

#15 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 17 km from Shimla, Himalayan Nature Park is a zoological park situated in the outskirts of Kufri near Shimla. Popular known as 'Kufri Zoo', it is one of the best places to visit in Shimla. Nestled amidst verdant Himalayan Landscape, the Himalayan Nature Park was established in the year 1992. Since 1965, the area used to be a Musk Deer Farm managed with the objectives to breed musk dear in captivity, to study its behavior, and to conduct research on methods to extract musk without causing injury to the animal. The altitude of the park varies from 2,350 m to 2,730 m. The site renowned for its ski slopes is a natural habitat of rich flora and fauna with about 140 species. Spread over an area of 90 hectares, the Zoo has been divided into two sections for the better management of the animals. Section I comprises of Musk deer, Barking deer, Himalayan Tahr, Goral, and Sambar while Section II comprises of Black Bear, Brown Bear, Leopard, Leopard cat, Himalayan griffon, .....

St Michaels Cathedral

#16 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 1 km from Shimla Railway Station, St. Michael's Cathedral is a catholic church situated near Shimla Bus Stand. It is one of the popular churches in Shimla and among the popular Shimla Tourist Places. Opened for the public in 1886, St. Michael's Cathedral is the first Roman Catholic church in Shimla. It comes under the diocese of Shimla-Chandigarh. The church is famous for its architecture splendor showcasing French-Gothic Style designed by Henry Irwin, a famous architect who was the then Superintendent Engineer and Architect of PWD in Shimla. The place of worship was often referred to as the 'Ripon Place' as this site for building the cathedral was selected by Lord Ripon, the then Viceroy of India. This majestic church incorporates a nave, a vestry, a confessional room, a baptistery room, and two aisles. Greystones have been used to build the outer part of this cathedral while the interiors have fine mirror work that attracts devotees and tourists alike from .....

Army Heritage Museum

#17 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 3 km from Shimla Railway Station, Army Heritage Museum is a museum located in the Annandale area of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the popular museums in Shimla and among the best tourist places in Shimla. Set up in 2006 by the Army Training Command of Shimla, the Army Heritage Museum is one of the astonishing museums of its kind in India. It is dedicated to the Indian Army and has all the collectibles that take you back to 2500 BC. The motto and culture of the Indian Army are very well represented through the various items organized in various sections of this museum. Right from the ancient day Indian Army to the technologically developed Indian Army, visitors will get to know about all. Positioned at an altitude of 6,117 feet, the museum is divide into various sections that holds a vast collection of modern and traditional weapons, uniforms, flags, armoury, the relation between army and the nation, information about UN peacekeeping forces, the numerous .....

Rothney Castle

#18 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 3 km from Shimla Railway Station, Rothney Castle is a heritage monument located on Jakhu Hill in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Also known as Sheeshe Wali Kothi, it has an immense historical and architectural significance in India and also one of the beautiful places to visit in Shimla. Rothney Castle was once the abode of a British officer A.O. Hume, who is also known as the Father of Ornithology and the founder of the Indian National Congress. Hume shifted from Etawah, Uttar Pradesh to Shimla during the Revolt of 1857. He spent many thousand pounds and employed a European gardener to convert the house into a beautiful castle. The castle is surrounded by lush greenery that resembles an overgrown or a rarely maintained garden. Hume assembled the world's largest collection of stuffed Asiatic birds here before donating it to the British Museum. Although in ruins at present, this property appears like a beautiful garden with many blooming flowers and birds. Comes .....

#19 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 2 km from Shimla Railway Station, Hawa Ghar is a vantage point located in Lakkar Bazar, Shimla. It is one of the wonderful places to visit in Shimla. Situated at an elevated point at the Ridge, Hawa Ghar is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Shimla and is a hub for many activities in winters. Fondly called as the 'Mall View Balcony', this beautiful place offers some splendid views of the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas, the lush greenery, the several heritage buildings, and temples in Shimla. Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM Entry: Free

Luturu Mahadev Temple

#20 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 38 km from Shimla Railway Station, Luturu Mahadev Temple is a religious shrine located at Arki in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Situated near Arki Fort, it is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Himachal and among the top places to visit near Shimla. Perched atop a lofty mountain, the temple was dedicated to Lord Shiva and was constructed in the year 1621 by the king of the princely state of Baghal. According to legend, Lord Shiva appeared in the king's dream and asked him to construct a temple on top of the hill. This temple is built in a huge cave, which is about 61 feet in length and 31 feet in width. Swayambhu Shivling is built inside this cave. There are licks of Shiva on the Shiva Linga. A circular hole of about 5 meters is made just above the cave on the right from where the rays of the sun come from the Shivling also. The 16th CE temple is one of the most revered religious sites in Solan. The specialty of the temple is that the devotees .....

Arki Fort And Palace

#21 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 38 km from Shimla, Arki is a small town situated at 4100 ft above sea level in the Solan district of Himachal. Arki Fort is one of the famous places to visit near Shimla , and among the best places of heritage in Himachal . Arki was the former capital of the ancient hill-state of Baghal, which was founded by Raja Ajai Dev, a Panwar Rajput during 1660-65 AD. The state of Baghal was founded around 1643 and Arki was declared as capital by Rana Sabha Chand in 1650. The Arki Fort was built between 1800 and 1805 by Rana Prithvi Singh, a descendent of Sabha Chand. The fort was captured by the Gurkhas in 1806. Rana Jagat Singh, the ruler of Baghal had to take refuge in Nalagarh. The Gurkha General Amar Singh Thapa made use of Arki to further the advances in Himachal Pradesh, from 1806 to 1815. Rana Jagat Singh got back the control of Arki afterward. The .....

Baba Bhalku Rail Museum

#22 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 1 km from Shimla Railway Station and 190 m from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Baba Bhalku Railway Museum was inaugurated on 7th July, 2011 as a tribute to the man who guided the construction of the rail line with his super natural powers. Bhalku worked as a labourer on the rail line and when there were problems in getting the right alignment of the track, he just guided the engineers and marched ahead of them. In fact, H.S. Harington, the agent of the Railways highly appreciated the supernatural powers of the man and the rail line took exactly the path shown by Bhalku, which made the project possible. The museum has some very interesting parts from the pages of history in the form of a 1930 lost property register. The register has details of the lost properties like bags, umbrellas, caps and coats left in the waiting rooms of the station or the train. The museum also has on display several items and parts used in the trains dating back to early 20th century. An interesting .....

Bhimakali Temple - Sarahan

#23 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 165 km from Shimla, Bhimakali Temple is a Hindu temple located at Sarahan in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Himachal Pradesh , and among the must-include places in Shimla Trip . Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan is 800 years old and it is regarded as one of the 51 sacred Shakti peethas. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga known locally as Bhimakali. This is one of the popular pilgrimage sites near Chandigarh . The present Bhimakali Temple is a new one, built-in 1927. The old temple nearby has a fascinating story to it. It got tilted slightly in the 1905 earthquake and then miraculously straightened back with a subsequent tremor. It is said that the foundations of this temple are very deep and that there is a disused tunnel that connects this to the village of Ranwin, .....

Chadwick Falls

#24 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 5 km from Shimla Railway Station, Chadwick Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Shimla region and also one of the top tourist places to visit in Shimla . This is one of the top attractions you must include in Shimla packages . The Chadwick Falls is located at an altitude of 1586 m above sea level and the water cascades down a deep gorge at a height of 86 m. This fall can be approached through Summer Hill. Approach road is available and vehicles can get close to the entry point of waterfall from where about 10 minutes walk through thick vegitation will lead to the waterfalls.Trekking to the falls from Summer Hill is also an exciting experience. The water in Chadwick falls is very cold, chilly and refreshing as it flows down with forceful rapidness from the Himalayas. The best time to visit the Chadwick Falls is after monsoons during .....

#25 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 43 km from Shimla, Chail is a Hill Station located at an altitude of 2250 m above sea level in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. This is one of the popular places to visit in Shimla and also one of the top Himachal places to visit . According to the History, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala incurred the wrath of the Commander in Chief Lord Kitchener, who banned his entry into the British summer Capital of Shimla in 1891. This incensed the Maharaja and he vowed to build a new summer retreat for himself. So he rebuilt the place Chail as per his requirements. The picturesque hill station located amidst scented forests of pine and gigantic deodars. Chail is built on three hills, the palace is on Rajgarh Hill, the Residency Snow View once occupied by British resident is on Pandhewa Hill and on .....

Carigneno / Craignano - Mashobra

#26 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 13.5 km from Shimla and 1.5 km from Mashobra Bus Stand, Carigneno is situated at an altitude of 7700 ft (2149 m) above the sea level. This beautiful place is well known for its beautiful Italian Villa which was built by Chevalier Peliti. He named this site after the Craignano Town in Italy. The villa is situated on a huge hillock and is surrounded by many small streams. The villa is built of wood and is surrounded by a dense forest of oak and pine trees. It has spacious lawns, night lamps and stone benches that represent the architectural style of the colonial period. From the lawns one can see the beautiful valley below and the mountains beyond. Carigneno is a lovely picnic place surrounding with many type of flowers, the fruit research station is also nearby has apple orchids and many types of beautiful flowers. The site is also known for the world's highest water lift situated at a height of around 7657 ft. The water lift was constructed by the .....

Chapslee Palace

#27 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 3 km from Shimla Railway Station, 3 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Chapslee Palace is situated at an altitude of 7100 ft above sea level, between Lakkar Bazaar and Longwood next to Auckland School, Elysium Hill, Shimla. Chapslee, formerly the summer residence of the late Honorable Raja Charanjit Singh of Kapurthala, is now a heritage Hotel. Chapslee Palace in Shimla was originally built in 1835 and acquired by Lord Auckland then Governor General of the East India Company. Raja Charanjit Singh of Kapurthala purchased the estate after the demise of Sir Arthur Ker. He converted it to his summer residence and refurnished the interiors. Raja Charanjit Singh died in 1970. Kanwar Ratanjit Singh, the grandson of the Late Raja Charanjit Singh of Kapurthala is the present owner. He started a school known as Chapslee School on the premises in 1973 and converted the estate to a hotel in 1976. Chapslee was one of the first heritage hotels in India. The hotel was opened .....

Durga Temple - Arki

#28 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 38 km from Shimla, Durga Mata Mandir is located at Arki. The temple of Durga is located on the main market of Arki and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. This Durga Temple is one of the highly revered sites in Shimla. The temple is situated parallel to the Lutru Mahadev Temple between Batal Ghati and Arki on the Kunihar-Solan Road. This Temple is flocked by thousands of Hindu devotees all through the year. The blessings and happiness you will receive after paying homage to Goddess Durga. Nature enthusiasts will surely fall in love with the location of this shrine, surrounded by lofty mountains and awe-inspiring landscapes. The temple was constructed in Shikhara Style of architecture, the interior and exterior both represent the greatness of the shrine. It is believed that by visiting this temple once, the goddess will eliminate all your sufferings and release you from all kinds of fear, filling your life with happiness and prosperity. Navaratri .....

Fagu Ski Resort

#29 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 6 km from Kufri, and 20 km from Shimla, Fagu is the ski resort situated in Himachal state. It is one of the secluded snowy retreats in Himachal state. It is one of the best ski resorts in India, and among the prime place to visit on a Shimla trip . Fagu is a famous site for adventure sports in Himachal state. It is situated on the Hindustan Tibet Road at a height of about 2500 m above sea level. It is well known for its swaying green fields with the snow-covered Himalayas at its backdrop. Fagu surprises vacationers with its splendor, charm, and serenity. It is one of the top places to visit near Delhi for skiing lovers. The town is surrounded by greenery and is rich in flora and fauna. Fagu is a perfect place for nature lovers and a must-visit place for those fond of scenic beauty. The place serves as a good base camp for trekkers and naturalists. .....

Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex

#30 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 1.5 km from Shimla Railway Station and 1 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is situated on Mall road, Shimla. The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is a heritage building and was a centre for all the theatrical, cultural and literary events of the British. The complex is a Government building currently and renovated recently to conserve the building and protect its beauty. Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is a significant tourist hot spot opened on 30th of May in 1887. The Complex is a Gothic Victorian style theatre designed by renowned architect Henry Irwin which also happens to be the oldest cultural complexes in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Initially, it was a five-story building with a theatre, ballroom, armoury, police office, bar and galleries. After nearly two decades from its date of establishment, it was found that the building was structurally unsafe. It was partially demolished but the Gaiety theatre remained untouched. The .....

Gorton Castle

#31 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 1 km from Shimla Railway Station and 1.5 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Gorton Castle is one of the most striking buildings of the British Empire in Shimla. Gorton Castle is a three storey Heritage Building in Shimla built in 1904. This was designed and constructed in a Gothic style; the foundation of the building was laid by Sir Swinton Jacob, a renowned British architect. Sir Swinton Jacob was working as a consulting engineer in Jaipur. He earned fame for his masterpiece architectures and also produced some fine work ''in the Indo-Sarcanic style, which combined Hindu, Muslim and Western traditions'', including the Lalghar Palace in Bikaner and the Albert Hall in Jaipur. He was also responsible for the original red sandstone buildings of St Stephen's College at Kashmir Gate in Delhi. Gorton Castle is positioned on the hilltop, spread across an area of 400 ft x 100 ft. The three storey building comprises 125 small and big rooms. Gorton Castle is encircled by .....

Grave Of Barog

#32 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 51 km from Shimla, Grave of Barog is located in Barog Village of Solan District, Himachal Pradesh. Dating back to 20th century, the foundation of narrow gauge Kalka-Shimla Railway was laid by Colonel Barog as per the orders of government. He commenced digging the tunnel from both sides of the mountain, which is quite common as it speeds up construction. While constructing the tunnel, some errors in the calculation occurred, due to which two ends of tunnel did not meet. As a punishment, he was fined by the British Government. He was feeling so disgraced by the entire incident that he committed suicide. His body was buried at a place close to the incomplete tunnel and thus this area was named after him. It is believed that according to the design laid out by Barog, this tunnel would have been the world's longest of its kind, if successfully constructed. People from places near and far come here to witness the grave and its scenic surroundings. The Grave of .....

Green Valley

#33 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 8 km from Shimla Railway Station, 8 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand and 7.5 km from Kufri, Green Valley lies on National Highway 22, on the way to Kufri from Shimla. It is surrounded by verdant hills that are covered with dense forests of pine and deodar. Enjoy a breath-taking view here as you look around at a huge expanse of green forests. You will also find some local shacks and markets here. Sometimes rare animals like Yaks can be seen wandering and grazing here. It is a popular point where people come to witness and enjoy the picturesque lush green environs. Green Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Shimla. It is noted for its elite beauty. The place is ideal for photographing as it offers some of the most mesmerizing sights that nature has to offer. Verdant hills with lush green forests and the backdrop of distant snow-capped Himalayas demand a snapshot.

Gurkha Gate

#34 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 1.5 km from Shimla Railway Station and 2.5 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, The Gurkha Gate is one of the oldest Gateways of Shimla. It is the main gateway to the historical Vice Regal Lodge. The Lodge has a historic significance. It served as the residence to the Viceroy of India during the British rule and now houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. The Gurkha Gate is situated on Chaura Maidan Road in Shimla. The gate was built as a tribute to the Gurkhas in honour of their bravery and loyalty to the British Empire. Lady Curzon, the then Vicereine was so impressed by their heroism that she admired the sacrifice of the Gurkha soldiers as a contribution to the country. It was she who conceived the idea of building a gate in their name and got it implemented. The building of the stone structure offers an interesting view to the visitors. The gateway building had timber-framed Dhajji houses that were built for soldiers. The carvings on this imposing gate .....

Habban Valley

#35 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 83 kms from Shimla and 51 kms from Solan, Habban Valley is situated at an altitude of 6770 ft above sea level. The Habban Valley is surrounded by forests of deodar and is located in the hills of Sirmaur; a lush green village besides one can also find huge orchards of apples and peaches surrounding the valley. The wildlife consists of peacocks, deer, tiger, kastura and ghol. Though the climate is friendly and pleasant all round the year, it occasionally snows in Habban Valley. There are also various trails within Habban Valley which include a 7 km trek to Banalidhar or take a longer trek (15 km) to Churdhar. Walking in the dense deodar forest of Habban is thrilling and rejuvenates mind and body. The silence that prevails around is just perfect to enjoy the beauty of the valley. There is also one temple of the most revered Shrigul Devta. It is located at Shiya village around 10 km from Habban. The temple has an interesting traditional structure built mainly of .....

Hatkoti Temples

#36 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 97 km from Shimla & 84 km from Kufri, Hatkoti Temples are located in Hatkoti village of Jubbal. The Hatkoti temples are a group of temples located on the scenic banks of River Jabbar. Hatkoti is one of the popular pilgrimage places in Himachal Pradesh. The Hatkoti Temple is an abode of goddess Mahishasurmardini, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The statue of the goddess is 1.2 m in height and made of eight precious metals. The idol depicts the goddess with ten arms, riding a lion, carrying weapons and slaying the demon Mahishasura. There is an inscription on both sides of the idol that no one has been able to decode so far. The complex also has a separate temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temples also boast of five idols, which ideally represent the five Pandava brothers of the Mahabharata period. These idols are arranged in accordance to their size with the first one being the largest. According to the .....

#37 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 23 km from Sundar Nagar, 24 km from Rewalsar, 70 km from Kullu, 107 km from Manali, 126 km from Dharamshala, 138 km from Shimla, 156 km from Bilaspur, 186 km from Chandigarh, 207 km from Pathankot, 235 km from Dalhousie, and 431 km from New Delhi, Mandi (formerly known as Mandav Nagar), also known as Sahor, is a major town and district headquarters of Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh. Lying on the banks of River Beas, it is one of the best offbeat tourist places to in Himachal , and among the prominent places to visit near Chandigarh . Situated at the junction of Kullu and Dharamshala, the town of Mandi is a gorgeous mountainous region filled with surreal landscapes and innumerable ancient shrines. It is often referred to as 'Varanasi of Hills', or 'Choti Kashi', or 'Kashi of Himachal' as the town has as many as 81 temples spread across its area. Offering ..... Distance (From Shimla): 138 Kms Trip Duration (From Shimla - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Himachal State Museum

#38 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 1 km from Shimla Railway Station and 2 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Shimla State Museum is situated at the top of Mount Pleasant. Also known as Himachal State Museum and Library, it was built in the year 1974. The Himachal State Museum is a colonial building that was built with the aim of preserving the state's rich cultural and archaeological artifacts. The colonial style building amidst marvelous lawns in itself is an inspiring sight. It is one of popular Shimla tourist places. It gives you an in depth view of the city's glorious past. Himachal State Museum has a rich display of the cultural, artistic and archaeological heritage of Himachal Pradesh. The various galleries in the museum are Pre-Historic Gallery, Wood-Carving Gallery Archaeology Gallery, Wall Painting Gallery, Coin Gallery, Pahari Painting Gallery, etc. The lifestyle and culture of the people of the Himalayas are reflected in the paintings. Rajasthani and Mughal paintings are awe-inspiring. .....

Himalayan Aviary / Himalayan Bird Park

#39 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 1.5 km from Shimla Railway Station and 2.5 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Himalayan Bird Park is also known as Himalayan Aviary is situated at an altitude of 2210 m above sea level, near Vice Regal Lodge, Shimla. It is a famous among Shimla places to visit, especially for bird lovers. The park is a wonderful place for bird watchers and nature lovers. The park is blessed with natural beauty and different types of plants and trees. The Himalayan Bird Park boasts of an impressive variety of birds from the Himalayan region such as the Himalayan Monal, peafowls, pheasants and peacocks. The large collection of birds including rare species attracts many nature and bird lovers. It is a wonderful place contains wide variety of birds which are exclusive in this region and that one would not find them anywhere else. The summers are the ideal time to visit the park as the temperatures here never exceed above 25�C. Winters are cold and the place fully gets covered with .....

Image Art Gallery

#40 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 4 km from Shimla Railway Station and 5 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Image Art Gallery or Photo Art Gallery is located in the scenic location of Potter's Hill, Shimla. The gallery is located near the summer hill in a beautiful preserved jungle. It is a popular tourist attraction of Shimla. The gallery is a famous place where the beauty, culture, flora and fauna of Himachal Pradesh can be explored. The gallery exhibits 20,000 photographs of the state taken by the famed photographer Inder Pal. The gallery also includes amazing photos of the heritage and historical buildings of the state. The theme of the photographs on display varies from nature to wildlife and travel to fine art. Some of the highlighting works are Bhimakali Temple Shimla, Christ Church, Vice Regal Lodge and Chandratal Lake Shimla. Tourists can take photographs inside the gallery but use of flash is strictly prohibited. Timings: 9 am - 5 pm on Weekdays and 9 am - 6:30 pm on .....

#41 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 90 km from Shimla & 76 km from Kufri, Jubbal is a hill town located on the banks of the River Pabbar in Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 1901 m above sea level. It is famous for apple orchards and the Jubbal Palace. Jubbal is one of the wellknown Places to visit in Himachal . The princely state of Jubbal was founded in 1800. The place offers a panoramic view of the natural landscape. It was occupied by Nepal from 1803 to 1815 and by the British from 1832 to 1840. The rulers who belonged to the Rathore clan took the title of Rana. The last ruler Rana Baghat Chandra took the title of Raja in 1918. Jubbal was founded by King Karam Chand and was merged with the Indian Territory on the 15th of April, 1948 during the reign of King Digvijay Singh. Jubbal State had an area of 288 square miles and was famous for its dense forests of 'deodar' trees. The hill station has managed to keep alive its princely elegance through .....

Jubbal Palace

#42 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 90 kms from Shimla & 76 km from Kufri, Jubbal Palace is among the most prominent places to see in Jubbal. The Palace situated at an altitude of 7000 ft above sea level is one of the popular heritage sites in Himachal state. Designed by a French architect in 1930, the Palace architecture is a blend of Chinese, Indian and European styles. The Jubbal Palace is colored in cream hue and is admired with sloping roofs and red chimneys. The lower portion of the Palace known as Rana's abode consists of sandstone and is noteworthy for the vast stacks of deodar timber used in its structure. The modern wing of the Palace has an Indo-European design and feel with convoluted wooden ceilings and the works. The deodar wood from the surrounding forest was used for the construction of the Palace structures. Another beautiful aspect is the stunning display of the collection of ancient guns used by the royal families of Jubbal. In the interiors, visitors will find intricately carved .....

Scandal Point

#43 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 2 km from Shimla Railway Station and 1 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Scandal Point is located to the western edge of Shimla where The Ridge and Mall Road converge. The spot is considered to be the highest point of the Mall area. According to the history Bhupinder Singh, the Maharaja of Patiala fell in love with the daughter of the viceroy. It is believed that the king and viceroy's daughter eloped from this point way back in 1892. Therefore, he was banned from entering Shimla. Later on, he founded the new summer capital of Chail for himself. The intersection between the Mall and the Ridge from where they eloped was named Scandal Point. The most observable feature of this place is a statue of Indian freedom fighter Lal Lajpat Rai. Scotland Church is also one of the attractions of this place. The famous Alfa restaurant having some mouthwatering Indian food as well as western food, the picturesque view of the valley and the surrounding milky White Mountain peaks .....

Shoolini Temple - Solan

#44 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 43 km from Shimla and 1.5 km from Solan Railway Station, Shoolini Devi Temple is one of the famous temples located in Solan. The Shoolini temple is dedicated to Goddess Shoolini Mata an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The town of Solan was named after the Shoolini Devi. Shoolini Mata Temple is one of the prime attractions of Solan. The temple is said to be built on the remains of an older temple believed to precede the town of Solan. The shrine is surrounded by wide views of beautiful landscapes thus creating a magical environment for devotees. The temple looks beautiful in the night when it is completely illuminated and is crowded on holidays and festivals. Shoolini Devi Temple is famous for the annual Shoolini Utsav celebrated on the last week of June every year. The festival and fair which lasts for 3 days attracts thousands of tourists and devotees from the state. Also known as Solan Fair, the highlight of Shoolini Devi Utsav at Solan are dancing, singing .....

Summer Hill

#45 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 4 km from Shimla Railway Station, 4.5 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand and 1 km from Summer Hill Railway Station, Summer Hill is a small town on the outskirts of Shimla. It is a well know sightseeing place in Shimla. The Summer Hill is an extremely beautiful tourist spot situated at an altitude of 1283 m above sea level. It is located on the way of Shimla to Kalka and is part of the seven-hill cluster. The famous Georgian Mansion of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur is located here. Once, Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Himachal Pradesh University stayed at this Georgian House which stands adorned with its remarkable architecture. The Summer Hill is a perfect place for taking a leisurely walk amidst the tranquility of Mother Nature. The Summer Hill is situated in between groups of green hilly trees like the pine and deodar. The splendid view of the snow covered mountain terrains is simply unforgettable. The Summer Hill of Shimla is also known as the Potter's Hill as .....

Kuthar Fort

#46 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 52 km from Shimla and 33.5 km from Solan, Kuthar Fort is located in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Kuthar Fort is about 800 years old and it is one of the main places to visit near Solan. Kuthar Fort was originally built by the Gurkha Kings 800 years ago when they ruled over this part of the land. Some portions of the fort are 80 years old. Sprawling over an expanse of 52.8 sq km, this fort features beautiful gardens, fresh-water springs and ancient temples within the complex. Fresh water springs flowing within the fort are a rare sight that every visitor admires. You can also visit several scenic attractions like Kunihar, the Gurkha fort of Subathu and the hill station of Kasauli. Situated at an altitude of about 1300 m, the Kuthar fort is set at the hilltop of the Kuthar Mountains and commands a magnificent view of the snow-capped peaks of Shimla, Subathu fort and a wide range of Himalayas. The fort exhibits impressive Rajasthani architecture and is .....

Lakkar Bazaar

#47 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 2 km from Shimla Railway Station and 1.6 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Lakkar Bazaar is a shopping place famous for its wooden handicrafts in Shimla. Lakkar Bazaar is also known as the wood bazaar is the marketplace and one of the special attractions in Shimla. Lakkar Bazaar is known for wooden toys made by a small group of Sikh carpenters who settled there a century ago from Hoshiarpur. This is the best place for the people who want to buy wooden goods at a cheaper price than in other cities. Wooden walking sticks are quite famous here. The Bazaar is also popular for its Kullu Shawls and dry fruits. Lakkar Bazaar has all the great buys that a tourist is looking for. The shops in Lakkar Bazaar also sell handmade shoes, woolen caps and dolls which are unique in its kind. The Lakkar Bazaar is the base from where the trek starts to the Jakhu peak. The market area also has an ice skating rink which is one of the special attractions in Lakkar Bazaar.

Kamna Devi Temple

#48 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 3 km from Shimla Railway Station and 4.2 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Kamna Devi Temple also known as Creeda Devi Temple is situated on Prospect Hill lies at an altitude of 2200 m. The Kamna Devi temple takes about a 10 minutes walk from Boileauganj located on the Shimla-Bilaspur national highway. The presiding deity of Kamna Devi temple is Goddess Kali, an incarnation of Goddess Durga and was built by Rana of Junga. It is believed that Goddess Kali fulfills the desires of all her devotees who travel up the hill and offer prayers in the temple. This temple is visited by countless devotees every year. The temple was surrounded by tall deodar and pine trees. The temple offers glorious view of the surrounding hills. It is also an ideal base for trekkers, nature lovers and bird watchers. The picturesque view of Tara Devi and southern Shimla from here is mesmerizing. People can also indulge in adventurous activities like trekking and rock-climbing at the .....

Sankat Mochan Temple

#49 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 5.5 km from Shimla Railway Station and 6.4 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, Shri Sankat Mochan temple is situated at Taradevi on the Kalka- Shimla National Highway 22. It is situated at an altitude of 975 m. Sankat Mochan Temple is mainly dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is located in a picturesque site and is visited by a large number of devotees throughout the year. This is a perfect place for meditation as it offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere to the devotees visiting this temple. The background of the temple consists of the imposing and lofty Himalayan ranges. Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj came to this beautiful place in 1950 and discovered the perfect spot for meditation. After staying here for 10 days, he desired that a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman should be built here. Baba's faithful devotees included the governor of Himachal Pradesh, who along with Bhagvan Sahai took up the task of building the temple and fulfilling their Guru's wish.The temple .....

Sidh Baba Ka Mandir

#50 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 47 km from Shimla and 2 km from Chail, Sidh Baba Ka Mandir is a temple dedicated to the Hindu saint named Sidh Baba. This is a revered religious site in Chail. This shrine is located atop a hill between Rajgarh and Pandhawa. According to the History, Sidh Baba ka Mandir was built in the year 1891 by Maharaja of Patiala Bhupinder Singh in Chail where he was about to build his Palace as his summer residence when he was exiled from Shimla by Lord Kitchener. One day, Sidh Baba came in Maharaja's dream and asked him to stop the construction of the Palace. Sidh Baba informed that he used to perform meditation on that hill and was cremated there. The saint also said that the hill is pious and not suitable for residential purposes. Subsequently, the king stopped the construction of his Palace and ordered to start the construction of temple in the honor of the saint. Timings: 7 am to 6 pm.

Kharapathar

#51 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 77 km from Shimla, 62 km from Kufri and 14 km from Jubbal, Kharapathar is a small village situated at an altitude of 8,770 ft. This place is known for its scenic beauty and several trekking trails. Kharapathar derived its name from a huge egg shaped rock. Kharapathar is a perfect leisure destination. It is surrounded by apple orchards and lush green forest. Kharapathar is a hotspot for tourists because of its natural beauty and picturesque landscape in Shimla district. Kharapathar's lush green slopes together with apple orchards, wide views, excellent walk and hike trails make this a perfect leisure. Visitors can also enjoy delicious food, including local dishes at the food stalls. The source of River Giri Ganga is just 7 km away from here. The trekking trail to Giri Ganga is an enjoyable one through thick deodar forest.

Gurkha Fort - Subathu

#52 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 46 km from Shimla and 12 km from Kuthar, Gurkha Fort is located on a small hillock with an altitude of 4500 in Subathu, near Kasauli in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. The Gurkha Fort is bounded by a dense forest and is connected to Parwanoo by National Highway 22. The Parwanoo town serves as a regimental centre for the Gurkha Rifles and has several buildings reminiscent of the British Era. The Subathu Gurkha Fort is now under the Indian Army's 14 Gurkha training centre. The fort still houses some cannons that are believed to be 181 years old. These cannons because of their historic value are the center of attraction for the visitors. According to the history, the fort was built in the beginning of 1900 AD by the Gurkha Army Chief Amar Singh Thapa to fight against the British Army. There are various tales linked with this fort like one story states that the Gurkhas captured this fort while it was in the custody of Patiala King. Subathu is considered .....

#53 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 25 km from Shimla and 13 km from Mashobra, Naldehra is a picturesque hill station situated at an altitude of 2044 m above sea level. This is one of the top Tourist places in Himachal . Naldehra is famous for its beautiful natural surroundings including lush green valleys and magnificent mountain peaks and fresh water springs. Naldehra derives its name from Nag and dehra meaning the abode of the King of Snakes. The Mahunag temple dedicated to the Serpent Lord is one of the most well known religious shrines of the region. The most famous attraction of Naldehra hill station is the 18 holes golf course that is considered to be the most challenging golf course. The golf course was built under the supervision of Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India in the early 1900s. Initially a 9 Hole Course, it was expanded to 18 holes. Maintained and run by Himachal Tourism, it is well groomed golf course and perhaps one of the finest .....

#54 of 54 Places to Visit in Shimla

At a distance of 47 km from Kufri, 60 km from Shimla, 132 km from Kasauli, 163 km from Kullu, 167 km from Chandigarh, 171 km from Mandi, 201 km from Manali, 285 km from Dehradun, 341 km from Rishikesh, and 414 km from New Delhi, Narkanda is a quaint little hill town in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. Situated on the India - Tibet Road, it is one of the offbeat hill stations in Himachal Pradesh , and among the must-visit tourist places near Chandigarh . Situated at an altitude of 8600 ft, Narkanda is surrounded by tropical forests and the mighty Shivalik Range. This opulent town is known for its exquisite natural beauty with scenic views of snow-clad mountains, and dense forests. The area around Narkanda is also called the orchard region of Himachal, where cherry, apple, etc. are grown abundantly. Narkanda is popularly known as the 'Getaway to Apple Country' ..... Distance (From Shimla): 60 Kms Trip Duration (From Shimla - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Most Asked Questions on Shimla

Shimla can be vistited through the year, however, winter & summer from October to June are the best seasons to visit Shimla . Summer is the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season. If you would like to experience the snow fall, December is the best season to visit Shimla.

Shimla usually requires around 3 days to visit the most important attractions. There are several wonderful destintions around Shimla like Manali, Dalihousie, Kasauli which can be visited by adding few additional days to the trip.

Budget of Shimla trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Shimla tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5250 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 7750 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Shimla like The Ridge, Kufri, Jakhu Hill, Taradevi Temple, etc. Experience the toy train that runs between Kalka & Shimla is also a wonderful activity.

Shimla usually experiences snow during peak winter around mid of December month. It depends on weather condition and the dates may vary and the level of snow fall may vary as well.

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15 places to visit in Shimla – Queen of Hill Stations

The majestic snow-capped mountains, the incredibly rich vegetation and the magnificent lakes of the village of Shimla welcome you to enjoy its eternal beauty. We have listed these 15 places to visit in Shimla is the main attractions, which necessarily find a place on any tourist’s itinerary.

Shimla has magic in the air and is also the most visited tourist spot in Himachal Pradesh. No wonder Shimla is called Queen of Hill stations. Shimla was the Summer Capital for the Britishers who were fascinated by the land when they ruled India. The influence of the British presence is notoriously evident in its buildings. One of the best features of Shimla is that you can visit it at any time of the year.

Table of Contents

1. The crest

In the center of the city lies Shimla Ridge, which offers spectacular views of the earth’s mountain peaks.  The ridge is a large open space that extends from east to west along the shopping center, which is another popular tourist destination.  It connects to the scandal point to the west.  If you love the mountain view, this is the destination of your dreams.  The magnificent view of the snow-capped mountain ranges will fascinate you.

2. Jakhoo Hill

Located 2 km from Shimla, Jakhoo Hill is the highest peak in the entire mountain resort and offers panoramic views of the city and the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas. Visited by nature lovers and pilgrims, the 8000 foot Jakhoo Hill is a popular tourist attraction.  It was said to be home of Jakhoo and has a large statue of Hanuman – his main deity.

3. Mall Road

Located under The Ridge, Mall Road offers an overview of Shimla at a glance.  It has numerous shops, cafes, restaurants, bookstores, and many tourist attractions. Take a walk along Mall Road and be amazed at every step by the things this place has to offer. The scenic beauty of Shimla can also be seen here making it one of the must-visit places.

4. Kalka-Shimla railway

The Kalka- Shimla Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the Indian Mountain Railways which was built in 1898 to connect Shimla to other railway lines in India by the British.  The railway line extends from Kalka (a city of Haryana) to Shimla. It stops at many tourist places such as Summer Hill, Solan, and many others.  A train journey through this line will offer the visitors breathtaking views and the journey through many tunnels and bridges would make up for an unforgettable experience.

5. Church of Christ

An exquisite example of neo-Gothic architecture, Christ Church has been an irreplaceable part of Shimla’s landscape.  Located on the Ridge, it was built in 1857 and it took almost 3 years to complete this architectural wonder.  The stained-glass windows, the clock tower, and the frescoes are some of the attractions of this church.  It also houses the largest pipe organ in India and has been part of many Bollywood films such as Black and 3 Idiots.

6. Indian Institute for Advanced Studies

The Indian Institute of Advanced Studies or Rashtrapati Niwas, located in the famous viceregal lodge located on top of the Observatory hill is one of the places in Shimla one should visit. The building was built between 1880 and 1888 during the British kingdom.  The year 1965 the Indian institute for advanced studies here was inaugurated by Dr.  Radhakrishnan.

7. Summer Hill

A picturesque town on the outskirts of Shimla, Summer Hill is also called Potter’s Hill.  In the past, this was the place where potters collected clay to make pots.  At a height of 1,283 meters above sea level, Summer Hill offers spectacular views of the valley and surrounding vegetation.  It is located 5 km from the famous ridge, frequented by numerous tourists.  The hill is part of a group of seven hills, which form Shimla and therefore you will surely have a breathtaking view from above.

Kufri is located 17 kilometers from Shimla.  At 2,510 meters above sea level and the foot of the Himalayas, the mountain resort delights nature lovers and adventurers.  Kufri and some places around Shimla belonged to the kingdom of Nepal. This is one of the must-visit places for anyone visiting Shimla because of the impressive views it offers and also because of its status as an adventure center.

9. Annandale

Annandale, also known as Annadale, is one of Shimla’s top attractions.  It is about 4 km from the ridge.  This flat field was once the playground of the British, who played cricket and polo here. A popular sport also practiced here was Running. Today, the track turns into a small golf course, which is also used as a helipad.

10. The Shimla State Museum

Built-in 1974, the Shimla State Museum is located on top of Mount Pleasant and is also known as Himachal State Library and Museum, It was built to preserve the state’s cultural wealth and record its rich past.  The colonial-style building amidst beautiful gardens is an inspiring sight.  It gives you an in-depth look at the city’s glorious past.  It has an impressive collection of various objects related to art, cultural anthropology and archeology. Some of the classic collections found here are Sculptures, paintings, crafts, and coins.

Maharaja Bhupinder Singh from Patiala founded Chail – a picturesque hill station.  According to the story, Bhupinder Singh fled with the viceroy of India’s daughter at that time, from a place now known as Scandal Point.  This sparked the wrath of Lord Kitchener, who then banished Shimla’s partner.  This place has the highest cricket ground in the world and is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing holiday.

Popularly known as “The Mushroom City of India” and “City of Red Gold” for its production of mushrooms and tomatoes. Solan is a city that will never cease to amaze you. Its history goes back to the Pandavas who lived here during their exile. The British can be credited with its initial economic development as they are responsible for Solan’s evolution.  The temperature here remains good all year round, the panoramic views here will continually surprise you and the kitchens here will satisfy gourmets.

13. Daranghati Shrine

Located 150 km from Shimla, the Daranghati Shrine, which covers 167.40 km, is one of the most important tourist attractions.  It is in the upper region of ​​Shimla.  In the past, it was a game reserve for the royal family of Rampur Bushahr. This wooded area was declared a sanctuary in 1962 for being rich in fauna.

14. Naldehra and Shaily Peak

Naldehra is a picturesque mountain resort at 2044 m above sea level and an irresistible natural wealth has led Lord Curzon to establish a golf course.  Dense cedars and impressive vegetation create magic in the atmosphere.  The snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas are a pleasure to see from here.  It is so peaceful and calm that you would hear the sounds of the winds.  You can go horseback riding to cover the forest area.  One of the advantages of horseback riding is that you can go a little further in the woods.  You would like to see the sunrise and sunset from Naldehra.  In summary, it is a perfect destination to relax.

15. Fort Arki

Built with a fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture, Arki Fort is a must for all history buffs.  It was built in 1660 AD. and was passed through numerous rulers.  This fort is perhaps best known for the Kangra paintings that adorn it, which are supposedly around 200 years old but still retains their beauty.

When you find a land of infinite natural beauty, it is as difficult to write about its main attractions as to cover the whole place in one go.  Shimla is a place that needs a lot of visits before one can claim to have seen Shimla. 

You may also like to read about the Experience in the Mystical and Magical Manali here. 

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One thought on “ 15 places to visit in Shimla – Queen of Hill Stations ”

Very informative.Tq so much.

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26 Best Places to visit in Shimla 2024, ✔ List of Tourist places

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Shimla > 26 Best Places to visit in Shimla 2024, ✔ List of Tourist places

Evergreen forests, rolling valleys, breathtaking lakes and the pleasant Shimla weather are only a few reasons that lend this hill station a unique charm. No doubt, the best places to visit in Shimla will leave you with memories of a lifetime. With a varied range of attractions – natural splendors as well as man-made wonders – Shimla truly lives up to its reputation.

In this blog, we give you a rundown of the best Shimla tourist places that will never fail to entice you, whether you are a family holidaymaker, a honeymooner or a solo traveler.  So, on your mark and get set, because it’s time to pack your bags and gear up for an exciting trip to Shimla, one of the most visited hill stations near Delhi. Check here the list of best places to visit in Shimla in 2024 with location, images, entry fee & timing.

Best Places to Visit in Shimla in 2024

1. the ridge, shimla.

The Ridge | #1 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

The Ridge may well be defined as the heart of Shimla in terms of location and tourist attractions. This Shimla tourist spot is actually a wide-open street that runs along the Mall Road from east to west and connects it to the famous Scandal Point. What makes it such a popular destination is that it offers gorgeous views of the snow-capped mountain ranges that rise against the blue sky to border this paradise of a destination. The place is dotted with long-standing British establishments that beckon visitors to indulge in feel-good shopping and binge-eating. Lined with boutiques, bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops, the Ridge serves as the social hub in the region. Remember, this place is among the most photographed parts of the city, thanks to its rich natural beauty and the Gothic structures that define its exquisiteness.

• Best Places to visit: Christ Church, Mall Road, Scandal Point, Gaiety Theatre, Kali Bari Temple
• Top Things to do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along The Ridge, Explore the shops, cafes, and restaurants, Witness a cultural performance or play at Gaiety Theatre
• Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (22 km)
• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (2 km)
• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (2 km)
• Timings : 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day

2. Jakhoo Hill and Temple, Shimla

Jakhoo Hill and Temple | #2 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

Covered in a blanket of alpine trees, Jakhoo Hill is the highest point of Shimla and offers scenic views of the snow-covered Shivalik Ranges as well as the sister town of Sanjauli. Situated at a height of 8000 ft. above the sea level, Jakhoo Hill is the location of an ancient Hanuman temple that boasts of having the world’s tallest statue (108 ft.) of this Hindu deity. Shrouded in legends and mysteries, it attracts devotees and the tourists alike. If the local legends are to be believed, the temple stands at the very spot where Lord Hanuman had rested for a while during his journey to bring the Sanjeevani Booti for Lakshman’s revival during the war of Lanka.   

• Best Places to visit: Jakhoo Temple, Rashtrapati Nilayam (The Retreat), Scandal Point, Ridge, Christ Church  
• Top Things to do: Trekking, Visit the Jakhoo Temple, Sightseeing, Photography, Explore the local markets, Enjoy the scenic views
• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (4 km)
• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (4 km)
• Timings : 7:00 am to 8:00 pm; every day

3. Mall Road, Shimla

Mall Road | #3 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

When it comes to Shimla places to visit for couples, you can’t give a miss to the Mall Road. Otherwise, also, the place is a hip and happening location in this hill station and attracts visitors of all ages. With a plethora of cafes, restaurants, showrooms, departmental stores, and shops selling trinkets and exclusive handicraft works, this is one place where you can soak in the spirit of Shimla in all its touristy delights. From jewelry and books to intricately crafted wooden articles, you can shop for a variety of items here. At the same time, you can explore a number of other attractions in the vicinity, like the Kali Bari Temple, Town Hall, Gaiety Theatre, and Scandal Point. What’s more, since the road is closed to vehicles, taking a stroll here during the evening hours while overlooking the scenic beauty of the hills is a pleasure in itself. The best hotels in Shimla are located around Mall Road.

• Best Places to visit: Scandal Point, Ridge, Lakkar Bazaar
• Top Things to do: Shopping, Dining, Scenic Walks, Horse Riding
• Timings : 9:00 am to 9:00 pm; every day

4. Kalka-Shimla Railway, Shimla

Kalka-Shimla Railway | #4 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

The Kalka to Shimla toy train ride is a high point of Shimla tourism and for a good reason. Built in 1898, this narrow-gauge railway has recently been added to the mountain railways of India’s World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Winding through the extremely scenic and mountainous route from the Shivalik Range foothills at Kalka to Shimla train ride offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and villages. On the way, it stops at a number of tourist destinations, like Solan, Dharampur, Summer Hill, Salogra, Taradevi, and Barog, among others. The ride will take you through no less than 864 bridges, 919 curves, and 102 tunnels. The toy train Shimla ride in itself may not count as a ‘place’ to visit in the region, but missing the ride means missing out on some of the splendid sights that Shimla has to offer.

If you belong to Haryana, you can also plan a trip to some of the other enticing hill stations near Chandigarh .

• Timings and charges : Check the official website for train timings and fare

Suggested Read: Best Places to visit in April in India

5. kufri, shimla.

Kufri | #5 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

A ride of about 40 minutes from the city center will bring you to Kufri, another must-visit place in the region. Located at an elevation of 8607 ft., this small hill station promises you panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. But Kufri is not just about Shimla sightseeing. It is also an adventure hub that offers training and facilities for exciting winter sports like ice skating and skiing. That is why it is also known as the winter sports capital of India. Since Kufri experiences regular snowfall in winter, it ranks top among the Shimla visiting places in December.

• Best Places to visit: Himalayan Nature Park, Kufri Fun World, Mahasu Peak, Indira Tourist Park, Fagu Valley, Green Valley
• Top Things to do: Skiing,  Scenic Walks, Horse Riding, Hiking
• Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (24 km)
• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (18 km)
• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (16 km)

6. Christ Church, Shimla

Christ Church | #6 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

One of the prominent landmarks in Shimla, Christ Church, Shimla, is the second oldest church in North India, after St John’s Church in Meerut. It boasts of exceptional architectural beauty. It is a remarkable example of the neo-Gothic style of architecture. The historic church is located on the Ridge and traces its origin back to 1857. An enduring legacy of the colonial rulers, the silhouette of this imposing edifice is visible from far away. With stained glass windows, brass church bell, and arresting towers, it presents a picture of matchless beauty. While the church looks majestic during the day, it turns into an enchanting sight when illuminated at night. Moreover, it houses the largest pipe-organ in India. Even if you are planning a quick itinerary of the Shimla sightseeing places in 2 days, do not miss out on this splendid attraction.

7. Green Valley, Shimla

Green Vally | #7 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

A breath-taking natural dale near Shimla and Kufri, Green Valley stands true to its name. Set against the backdrop of snow-covered mountains and lush green forests of pine and deodar, the valley is carpeted in greenery. Away from the touristy crowd, the serene Green Valley is where you can witness nature in all its grandeur, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Shimla for honeymoon. Given its pristine beauty, the place also counts among the favorite Bollywood locations in India and has been featured in a number of Hindi movies. Although you can visit Green Valley all year through, the best time to visit it is during the summer months.

• Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (30 km)
• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (10 km)
• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (11 km)

8. Rashtrapati Niwas or Viceregal Lodge by Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla

Indian Institute of Advanced Study | #8 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

Do you fancy visiting the historic location where the decision to create Pakistan and East Pakistan out of India was taken? Then you must trace your path to the Indian Institute of Advanced Study in Shimla. One of the iconic places to visit in Shimla and Manali, the building was initially built as a residence for Lord Dufferin, who served as the Viceroy of India from 1884 to 1888. At that time, it was known as the Viceregal Lodge and the impressive edifice had electricity connection in as early as 1888, which was way before the rest of Shimla came to use electric power in any form. After India gained independence, the place served as the summer retreat of the country’s president and was known as Rashtrapati Niwas before being turned into a center for advanced study and research. The structure draws attention due to its majestic Victorian style of architecture and grandeur

• Top Things to do: Guided Tours,  Enjoy the Serene Environment, Attend Lectures and Seminars
• Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (28 km)
• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (12 km)
• Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (1 st July to 30 th April)
• Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (1 st May to 30 th June)
• Closed on Mondays
• ₹ 40 per person for Indians
• ₹ 85 per person for foreigners
•  ₹ 20 per person for Garden Visit
• Free entry for government school students in groups with their teachers

9. Kali Bari Temple, Shimla

Kali Bari Temple | #9 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

Some temples are known for their religious or historic significance while others draw in visitors due to their architectural beauty. But there are some temples that score high on both counts. The Kali Bari Temple in Shimla is one such place!  Believed to have been built in 1845, the temple boasts of architectural beauty as well as religious significance in equal measures. As the name indicates, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and houses a captivating idol of the deity. Located very close to the Mall Road, it is an ideal spot to spend some serene moments connecting with your inner self. An interesting thing to note is that Goddess Kali is known here as Goddess Shyamala and it said that Shimla derived its name from Goddess Shyamala.

• Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (20 km)
• Timings : 6:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day

10. Himachal State Museum, Shimla

Himachal State Museum | #10 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

Located on the Mall Road, the Himachal State Museum (also known as Shimla State Museum) is housed in a colonial mansion. It has a rich collection of miniature paintings, stone sculptures, coins, weapons, armors, dolls, jewelry, handicrafts, and numismatic articles discovered in the valley. All of the articles preserved here serve as remnants of the grand cultural heritage of the state. An assortment of bronze idols collected from various temples spread across the Himalayas is of particular attraction at this place. If you are a history buff, you will find the place a treasure trove of heritage and information.

• Best Places to visit: Ancient Art Gallery, Philatelic Museum, Pahari Miniature Paintings Gallery, Himachal Archaeology, Ethnology, and Cultural History Gallery
• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (1 km)
• Timings : 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays
• ₹ 10 per person for Indians
• ₹ 50 per person for foreigners

11. Tara Devi Temple, Shimla

Tara Devi Temple | #11 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

You may or may not be a religious soul, but while in Shimla, you must not miss out on visiting the Tara Devi Temple. Located atop the hill called Tara Parvat, this shrine is believed to be about 250 years old. Goddess Tara, a goddess of the Tibetan Buddhists and one of Goddess Durga’s nine sisters, is the presiding deity here. According to the local belief, the wooden idol installed in the temple was brought from West Bengal. While the temple exudes a serene vibe, what draws tourists to this destination is its fine architecture.

• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (14 km)
• Timings : 7:00 am to 6:30 pm; every day

12. Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, Shimla

Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex | #12 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

If you are staying near Mall Road Shimla , the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is likely to attract your attention when you step out of your hotel. A century-old building, the cultural complex is an imposing structure built in the Victorian style of architecture and was once the most preferred venue for various social meets in Shimla. Though a portion of the original building has been demolished, even today the structure is a grand visual treat. At one point in time, the building had played host to notable performances by personalities like Prithviraj Kapoor, K.L. Sehgal, Rudyard Kipling, etc. Today, the complex comprises an exhibition hall, an art gallery, a multipurpose hall, and an amphitheater. A renowned center of performing arts, it is visited by artists and art enthusiasts from across the world.  

• Best Places to visit: Gaiety Theatre, Town Hall, Victorian-style Ballroom, Shimla Heritage Museum
• Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (23 km)
• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (6 km)
• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (5 km)
• Timings : 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; Monday to Friday
• ₹ 25 per person for foreigners

13. Mashobra

Mashobra | #13 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

If you are a thrill seeker looking for places to visit in Shimla during December, make sure to include this destination in your itinerary. During the winter season, Mashobra, a small town in Shimla, turns into a paradise for winter game enthusiasts. The lush green expanse is covered with a glistening blanket of snow that becomes an excellent base for skiing. Among less crowded places to visit near Shimla, Mashobra enchants visitors with a cool ambiance and lots of fun activities, minus the mob. Whether you want to zoom down the slopes on your ski or engage in snow fights with your beloved or build a snowman with your kids, you can have all the fun at this place.

• Best Places to visit: Reserve Forest Sanctuary, Craignano Nature Park, Mahasu Peak, Wildflower Hall, Tattapani Hot Springs
• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (10 km)

Read also – Places to Visit in January

14. Chadwick Falls, Shimla

Nestled within the Glen Forests, Chadwick Waterfall is one of the most delightful sights that nature has bestowed upon Shimla. The waterfall makes a dive from a height of 86 meters and cascades down a huge gorge. Surrounded by a blanket of greenery formed by the deodar and pine trees, it presents an enticing sight. The best time to visit it is during monsoons (from June to September) when the water level increases and Chadwick seems to take on a life of its own. If you are not daunted by the idea of taking a dip in the cold waters, you can go ahead and splash around.   

• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (3 km)
• Timings : 6:00 am to 6:00 pm

15. Annandale, Shimla

Annandale| #15 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

Are you up for a round of polo or a game of cricket in a scenic spot? Then you will love exploring Annandale. A flat terrain in the hilly base of Shimla, Annandale has been serving as a playground since the time of the British rulers. Today, the destination is popular for a number of sports, including polo, cricket, and racing.  Surrounded by oak and deodar trees, Annandale stands within a deep valley in the western part of Shimla. The place is also known for its splendid beauty and is one of the best places to visit in Shimla in November. While you are here, do not forget to check out the Annandale Army Heritage Museum, which counts among the main attractions of this location.

• Best Places to visit: Annandale Army Heritage Museum, Annandale Golf Club, Annandale Ropeway, Annandale Helipad
• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (3 km)
• Timings : 24×7; every day
• Army Museum Timings :  10:00 am to 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays
• Entry fee : No entry free

16. Himalayan Bird Park 

Himalayan Bird Park | #16 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

The Himalayan Bird Park is right opposite the Viceregal Lodge and has a small collection of exotic birds you will love. You can spot the Monal pheasant, peafowls, and peacocks in their full glory here. The place is lush green and great to relax in too.

• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, every day

17. Viceregal Lodge

Viceregal Lodge | #17 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

Viceroys who governed the country between 1888 and 1946 have all stayed here in the lodge during the hot Indian summers. This iconic structure is among the must-visit places to visit in Shimla and is a majestic structure surrounded by well-manicured gardens. This is located at the second-highest point in the city.

• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (5 km)
• Timings: 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Tuesdays to Sundays

18. Summer Hill

Summer Hill | #18 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

Summer Hill is a suburb of Shimla and is about 5 km away from the Shimla Ridge. This picturesque terrain houses the Himachal Pradesh University and has a lot of cosy eateries and guest houses. The summer hill is a perfect spot if you want to stay away from the regular crowd.

• Timings: All through the day

19. Shaily Peak

Shaily Peak | #19 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

Shaily Peak is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Shimla. You will have to trek your way through the Naldehra Hills to reach the peak. The view makes it worth your effort though. Don’t forget to visit the temple dedicated to Sage Manu here. This is the only temple in the world built for this Sage.

• Things to Do: Trekking, Nature walks, Photography, Enjoying panoramic views, Visiting the temple, Taking a dip in the hot springs
• Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (34 km)
• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (29 km)
• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (27 km)
• Timings: All day until sunset

20. Lakka Bazaar

Lakka Bazaar | #20 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

The Lakka Bazaar is the place to go if you want to experience shopping from quaint stores and meet the amiable locals. The bazaar is located on the foothills of the Jakhoo Peak and is an interesting place to spend a couple of hours in.

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, all days of the week

21. Manjathal Sanctuary

Manjathal Sanctuary | #21 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

Located on the Shimla-Bilaspur Highway, Manjathal Sanctuary is a moderately-sized wildlife sanctuary you should definitely visit. This natural reserve is on the list of famous places in Shimla as it houses rare and exotic species of animals, including the endangered Goral.

• Best Places to Visit: Manjathal Waterfall, Majestic Himalayan Peaks, Dense Forests and Nature Trails
• Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (38 km)
• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (20 km)
• Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (22 km)
• Timings: All through the day (the best time to spot animals is between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM)

22. Gorton Castle

Gorton Castle | #22 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

Located on the Mall Road, this neo-gothic style castle is a very interesting place to check out in Shimla. Built in the 19 th century, the castle is made of grey stone walls and is surrounded by sprawling grounds.

• Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (21 km)
• Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (1.5 km)
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, all days of the week

23. Scandal Point

Scandal Point | #23 of 23 Places to Visit in Shimla

In the list of visiting places in Shimla, one must not forget Scandal Point. Located between Mall Road and the Ridge, this place is always busy. It is said that this is the location from where the Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh and the daughter of a British Viceroy had eloped together. There are many hotels in Shimla around Scandal Point.

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, all days of the week

This is just a handpicked list and Shimla, of course, has many more wonders in store for you.  This place witnesses a steady stream of visitors all year round, so book a room in one of the best hotels in Shimla well in advance. Those planning a trip to Shimla as well as Manali can also opt for hotels in Manali.  You can also drive or take a cab as the Manali to Shimla distance time is just 6 hours by road. So, start planning your trip and surrender to the call of the hills!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shimla.

Q. When is the best time to visit Shimla?

A. Weather in Shimla is pleasant during the summer season, lasting from March to June, which makes it the best season to visit Shimla. However, if you wish to witness snowfall, you should plan a trip to Shimla during winter, i.e. between November and February.

Q. How to reach Shimla?

A. The best way to reach Shimla is to travel to Chandigarh by flight or train and from thereon, continue the 4-hour-long journey to Shimla by road. You can also reach Shimla via Kalka Railway Station on a toy train. Chandigarh to Shimla distance is approx 113 km, so there are multiple cab options as well for traveling.

Q. What are the different things to do in Shimla?

A. Take a leisurely walk along the Ridge, shop at Lakkar Bazaar, explore the shops and eateries along the Mall Road, go for trekking, camp under the stars, enjoy a session of ice skating or golf, watch the sunset at Scandal Point, gain an insight into the Himalayan wildlife and soak in the mesmerising views during the Kalka-Shimla toy train ride.

Q. Are there any good places to visit near Shimla?

A. If you have time, don’t forget to cover Kufri on your trip to Shimla. This small hill station promises the most beautiful views of snow-capped mountains and a chance to indulge in exciting winter sports like ice skating and skiing. If you’re visiting Kufri during winter, there’s a high possibility that you’ll get to experience snowfall.

Q. How to reach Shimla from Delhi?

A. Delhi to Shimla distance is approximately 350 kilometers. You can board a Delhi to Shimla bus from the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) in Delhi. The nearest railway station to Shimla is Kalka, which is well-connected to Delhi. The Kalka to Shimla distance is 96 km approximately, there is no direct Delhi to Shimla train. The nearest airport to Shimla is the Shimla Airport (also known as Jubbarhatti Airport). There are many direct Delhi to Shimla flights.

Q. In which state is Shimla located?

A. Shimla is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh at the elevation of 2276 m above sea level. It is well connected with all the major cities as Shimla to Delhi distance is 350 km which can be covered by bus, train, or flight.

Q. In which month does snowfall in Shimla?

A. October to February is a popular season for Shimla snowfall. The Shimla temperature in December remains around an average of 4°C, making it the best time to visit Shimla for snowfall.

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14 Places to Visit in Shimla for First-Timers

Planning a trip and looking for places to visit in Shimla? This list includes all of the most iconic spots in Shimla and popular nearby destinations just outside the city. Enjoy this picturesque town on the foothills of the Himalayas for a fun and peaceful escape!

Shimla is a small city on the edge of the Himalayas and is a popular destination in Himachal Pradesh! It is absolutely stunning with breathtaking views of the mountains, lush valleys, and forests. The city is calm and inviting, and it’s the perfect spot for travelers looking to see the mountains!

There are a lot of remarkable places to visit in Shimla. During colonial times, the British saw Shimla as a great destination to escape the heat in many other parts of the country. As such, there is a lot of colonial-style architecture that makes the city unique and beautiful!

While many people enjoy spending a few days in Shimla, it’s also a great base to take day trips or travel to nearby hill stations. The nature surrounding the city is stunning and there are many small villages outside the city for travelers to stay and enjoy the scenery.

I spent 2 weeks traveling to Shimla and nearby areas with my husband and friends, and it was one of my favorite regions to travel in Himachal Pradesh! The city is so cute to walk around and explore, and we also had a relaxing time on the outskirts of the city. I’d highly recommend Shimla for people wanting to travel in north India and be near the Himalayas!

This post is all about places to visit in Shimla.

Best Places to Visit in Shimla

#1 the ridge.

The Ridge is the most popular and iconic spot in Shimla! It’s a beautiful overlook with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The Ridge is the perfect area to take pictures, take a stroll or sit and relax while enjoying the views. There are a lot of little cafes and shops to see as well.

#2 Mall Road

Right near the Ridge is Mall Road. This is a pedestrian-only road that’s full of small shops and eateries. It’s the perfect place to look for any souvenirs, do some shopping, or enjoy a little treat! The architecture along the road is also colonial-style and beautiful!

#3 Christ Church

Christ Church is one of the most famous landmarks of the city. It was built in 1857 by the British and is a beautiful structure with stained glass windows. It continues to be used as a church today but is also a popular tourist attraction and is worth seeing!

Christ Church is at the end of The Ridge and Mall Road. Since they are all so close, a great plan is to walk around the area and enjoy all three!

#4 Lakkar Bazaar

Lakkar Bazaar is also near the Ridge and is a fun area to walk around. It’s famous for selling various wooden items like toys, decor, instruments, and a lot of other random, cool things! You can do a little shopping here or just enjoy looking at the variety of items in the small shops and stands.

#5 Shri Hanuman Mandir Jakhoo

West of the popular city area is the Shri Hanuman Mandir Jakhoo. This is a temple dedicated to Hanuman, the famous monkey god.

There is a nice small trek to get to the temple. It’s well-paved but a bit steep up a big hill. The walk is beautiful and full of greenery. It’s a great way to enjoy nature and also see a popular sight in Shimla.

At the temple, there is a HUGE statue of Hanuman which is the highlight of the temple. There is a lot of space to walk around the area and enjoy the viewpoints as well. (Walking up and seeing the temple was my favorite thing to do in Shimla!)

#6 Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex

The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is one of the best places to visit in Shimla for anyone interested in art or seeking a cultural experience! It’s a huge, beautifully designed building that is a landmark in Shimla and has been operating for well over 100 years. You can tour the building, attend an exhibition or enjoy a performance!

#7 Rashtrapati Niwas (Previously called Viceregal Lodge)

Rashtrapati Niwas is towards the western side of the city and is a stunning building surrounded by gardens. It was built in the 1880’s and was used by prominent British figures during colonial rule. Now it’s used by the Indian Institute of Advanced Study.

While tourists can’t enter the building, it’s a breathtaking sight to see. You can also walk around the well-kept gardens that are full of various flowers and plants. It’s perfect for a stroll and to relax.

#8 Himachal State Museum

Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh and holds a lot of history! This museum is a nice spot for travelers looking to learn more about the cultural heritage and the region’s past.

The museum has various exhibits and artifacts that includes sculptures, photographs, coins, traditional clothing and artworks. There are also a lot of preserved tools and daily utensils from tribal communities in the state.

The Museum is open every day (except Monday and holidays) and costs a small fee.

#9 Cafes and Restaurants like Cafe Simla Times, Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar and Himachali Rasoi

All of these eateries are in the downtown area of Shimla near the main tourist attractions, and they are all unique in their own way! There are so many options for great food around the city, but these are some of the most popular.

• Cafe Simla Times – This cafe is famous for its cute interior design and outdoor terrace that has a stunning view of the city and surrounding mountains! They have a wide variety of foods like Italian, Chinese and Indian.
• Eighteen 71 Cookhouse and Bar – This is one of the best known restaurants in Shimla and is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a drink! It’s got a cozy vibe and serves a mix of different types of food. They are most famous for their unique cocktails and Chinese options on the menu!
• Himachali Rasoi – If you’re looking to try the best of local Himachal food, you have to check out Himachali Rasoi! They offer thalis (plates that full meals a variety of foods) and local cuisines. You have to try the sidhus! This is one food I’ve never been able to find outside of Himachal but forever miss.

Nearby Places to Visit in Shimla (not directly in the city, but within 25km)

Shimla is a cute little city, but it’s also a hub for travelers to take day trips from or short trips nearby to be surrounded by the stunning nature.

#10 Chadwick Falls

Chadwick Falls is one of the most popular places to visit in Shimla and is only 7 km from the city center. It’s a beautiful waterfall where you can spend a few hours in nature. To get to the waterfall, there is a short walk surrounded by forests. It’s a nice getaway from the city where you can be a little active and enjoy the views of the waterfall!

#11 Tara Devi Temple

Tara Devi Temple is 11 km from Shimla and is a beautiful temple located high up on a hill. There are stunning views overlooking the valleys and mountains. The temple is also beautiful and has traditional Himachali architecture with a lot of wooden designs.

Fagu is 22 km from Shimla and is famous for its apple orchards. This was my favorite place to stay near Shimla because it was so peaceful and relaxing. No matter where you look, the views of the hills and mountains are stunning. We had great luck and saw a double rainbow over the mountains there!

#13 Kufri & Green Valley

Kufri is a picturesque hill station 13 km from Shimla. It’s famous for its scenery, tails for trekking, and skiing in the winter. It’s a beautiful escape from the city and perfect to relax in nature.

Green Valley is a famous scenic area on the way between Shimla and Kufri. You can stop your car to get out and enjoy the views and take pictures. Green Valley (also called Hassan Valley) is a place where several Bollywood movies have also been filmed!

#14 Naldehra

If you enjoy golfing, then Naldehra is one of the best places to visit in Shimla! It’s 20 km from the city and is famous for its golf course which is one of the oldest in India. It’s also surrounded by mountains so the scenery is breathtaking.

Shimla was definitely one of my favorite places to travel to in India! The surrounding areas are also perfect for relaxing and connecting with nature. If you’re planning a trip and thinking of what to pack, be sure to check out this extensive India packing list !

You can also see thee best places to travel in India by state for more destinations! Happy traveling!

This post was all about the best places to visit in Shimla.

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Places to Visit in Shimla

The erstwhile British ‘Summer Capital’ is packed with colonial-era architectural marvels, picturesque hilly hotspots, and a toy train tagged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things To See & Do

Christ Church

Soaked in colonial charm.

Suggested Time

Viceregal Lodge

A colonial pride.

Kalibari Temple

Ancient kali temple.

2 to 3 hours

The Ridge of Shimla

Hub of cultural activities.

4 to 5 hours

Green Valley

Oozes scenic magnificence.

Jhakoo Hill

Steeped in religious history.

1 to 2 hours

Johnnie's Wax Museum

Features celebrities' wax statues.

A Famous Playground

1 to 2 Hours

Best Time To Visit Shimla

All-year-round destination, peak season, moderate season.

• What To Expect : Pleasant weather throughout the day followed by colder nights.
• Things You'll Love : Sightseeing, paragliding, hiking, camping, and trekking.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Ice Skating Carnival Shimla December

Shimla Summer Festival May

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Best places to visit in shimla.

Shimla is the capital town of Himachal Pradesh. In addition to the Lakkar Bazar, which is a market that specialises in wooden toys and crafts, it is also well-known for the handicraft shops that line The Mall, which is a pedestrian avenue. Activities like forest camping and cycling are also present in this stunning town. All in all, you can find plenty of places to visit in Shimla for a memorable vacation.

Top Places to visit in Shimla

Christ Church is said to be the second-oldest church in North India. Both Hindi and English are used during worship services. It is among the most revered places to visit in Shimla.

This spot, which is revered by both residents of Shimla and tourists to the city for its spiritual significance, spectacular panoramas, and picture-perfect sunrises and sunsets, can be found perched on the tallest mountain in the city. If you are looking for outdoor places to visit in Shimla, then you can hike to this hill. Not to mention, it is also among the top 10 places to visit in Shimla.

The Ridge is at the centre of Shimla's vibrant cultural scene. It is situated in the middle of Shimla, right on the lively Mall Road in the city's commercial district. Due to the fact that it plays host to a large number of formal events and fairs, The Ridge is commonly referred to as the “Spirit of Shimla Town” and is among the most popular places to visit in Shimla.

The Rashtrapati Niwas, which was formerly called Viceregal Lodge, can be found perched atop the Observatory Hills in Shimla. This home was once occupied by a British Viceroy of India. Through the exhibition of artefacts, photographs, and other relics from the time period of the British Raj in this building, visitors are given the opportunity to experience what it was like to live in India during the time of the British Raj. It is one of the most stunning places to visit in Shimla.

The Hindu temple known as Kali Bari Temple can be found atop Bantony Hill in Shimla and is among the holiest places to visit in Shimla. This region is frequented by a significant number of people as a result of the religious importance it holds. It is also among the Shimla places to visit in May .

Best Time to visit Shimla

The month of March marks the beginning of summer in this breathtaking hill station, which lasts all the way through June. The maximum values often hover around 15 degrees Celsius, but they can occasionally exceed 30 degrees Celsius. Depending on how lucky you are, snow might still be seen at higher elevations even well into the beginning of summer. It offers the ideal time to explore places to visit in Shimla.

The city looks forward to the beginning of the monsoon season, which begins in July and continues until September. The rainy season has arrived, and July is often the wettest month of the year.

The month of October marks the beginning of Shimla's winter season, which normally lasts until the month of February. The temperature rarely drops below -2 degrees Celsius in this amazing hill station. The weather remains pleasant and temperate throughout. If you want to see places to see in Shimla covered under a thick blanket of snow, you must plan your trip during the winter season.

Places to visit in Shimla with family & friends

Counted among the top places to go in Shimla, it offers a gorgeous setting in addition to outstanding facilities for golf, polo, and cricket, which makes it a heaven for sports fans who enjoy competing in these activities. If you are looking for places to visit in Shimla in 2 days, then add Annandale to your list.

Johnnie's Wax Museum

Gurgaon-based BM Brothers were responsible for the planning of the museum as well as its location on the Willow Bank Estate. It features wax statues of notable persons from both the United States and other countries. This is among the most popular places to visit in Shimla in 3 day.

Himachal State Museum

You can find works of art and antiques from a number of different time periods here. These pieces include toys, coins, dolls and traditional clothing. It is among the best places to visit in Shimla in December.

Best Places Shimla for couples

Several tourists travel to Green Valley in order to take photographs of the breathtaking surroundings. Beautiful forests of deodar and pine can be seen all around the mountains in this area. It is among the top places to visit in Shimla.

Himalayan Bird Park

A straightforward park that is only accessible during the warm summer months and features a mix of native and non-native avian species. This is among the most popular place to visit in March .

Bantony Castle

This palace, which was originally constructed during the colonial era by a Maharaja, features a design in the style of the Tudor period and huge grounds. It is among the top Shimla places to visit in December.

Good Places to visit at Night in Shimla

The brew estate.

The Ridge is home to Brew Estate, one of the earliest microbreweries in all of Himachal Pradesh. The menu features both American and international fare. People of all ages find it entertaining. It is among the most famous places to visit in Shimla for premium drinks.

Devicos Restaurant & D Lounge Bar

This is a two-story building with a laid-back atmosphere that serves both quick meals and traditional dishes from India and China. If you would like to cool yourself down, then it is among the best Shimla places to visit in June .

Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar

It is a buzzing hotel restaurant with accents of wood and metal, providing Indian and Asian cuisine as well as creative cocktails.

Best places to visit near Shimla

In the Shimla region of India, you'll find the town of Kufri, which is known for being a famous tourist attraction. At Kufri Avenue, which is the main strip, you'll find a wide selection of boutiques and restaurants, in addition to hotels decorated in an Indian style. It is among the most famous nearby places to visit in Shimla.

One of the most well-known hill towns in all of India, Chail can be found in the Solan district of the state of Himachal Pradesh. Because of its untouched natural beauty, it has gained widespread recognition.

Mashobra is located at an altitude of 2246 metres. In the year 1850, Lord Dalhousie built the old Hindustan-Tibet Road, which connects Mashobra City to Shimla. It is one of the most attractive places to spend some quiet time in nature.

If you would like to enjoy a few tranquil moments amid the Himalayas with all the opulent facilities, then the best places to visit in Shimla offer the perfect opportunity. In addition to the tourist attractions, the bustling markets, trendy cafes and lavish accommodation options will truly add charm to your vacation.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Shimla

What are the activities you can explore during the peak season and moderate season in shimla.

In the peak season months March, April, May and June you will experience pleasant weather throughout the day followed by colder nights wherein around moderate season i.e. October, November, December, January and February you will enjoy chilly weather with temperatures ranging between 8°C and -6°C. Whatever that suits your calendar, Shimla awaits you for a good time.

How is the weather of Shimla in peak season?

The weather of Shimla in peak season is pleasant weather throughout the day followed by colder nights. It means you can easily plan a trip to Shimla in the months of ​​​​​​​​March, April, May and June to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

What are some of the best places to stay in Shimla?

Shimla has a large variety of resorts and stays that you can select from ranging from budget to luxurious stays. Some of the most popular places to stay in Shimla are The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla, Wildflower Hall, An Oberoi Resort and Radisson Jass Shimla.

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Similar places to visit in other destinations, more places & things to explore in shimla, explore more, best places to visit in months.

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Top 27 Places to Visit in Shimla: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is a picturesque hill station nestled in the scenic beauty of the Himalayan range. If you’re planning places to visit in Shimla, you’re in for a treat. With its charming colonial architecture, panoramic views, and natural allure, Shimla attracts tourists from all over the world.

Whether you’re seeking tranquility, adventure, or a cultural experience, Shimla has something to offer for everyone. Don’t forget to explore the many places to visit in Shimla and consider booking Himachal trip packages for the ultimate travel experience.

Exploring The Charm of Shimla

If you’re planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh, be sure to include Shimla on your list of must-visit places. With so many incredible places to visit in Shimla, you’ll never run out of things to see and do. From the bustling Mall Road to the serene beauty of Green Valley, there’s something for everyone in this charming hill station.

Whether you’re interested in exploring historical landmarks, visiting religious sites, or immersing yourself in natural wonders, Shimla has it all. So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Shimla and the best places to visit in Himachal .

1. Unraveling the Beauty of The Ridge, Shimla

Looking for the best places to visit in Shimla? Look no further than The Ridge! This picturesque spot boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys and is a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Here, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Himachal , from exploring the lush green meadows and vibrant flowers to visiting the historic Christ Church and beautiful town hall. And if you’re visiting during the winter, don’t miss the chance to go ice skating on the open-air rink. The Ridge is one of the top places to visit in Shimla; add it to your must-see list today!

2. Discovering the Spirituality at Jakhoo Hill and Temple

Looking for the best places to visit in Shimla? Don’t miss Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in the city. This spot offers stunning views of the landscape and is home to the famous Jakhoo Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, making it a must-see for anyone interested in historical places in India .

As you climb the hill, you’ll also encounter a giant statue of Lord Hanuman, which is a popular spot for visitors to take photos. Keep an eye out for the playful monkeys that call the hill home, adding to the unique charm of this spiritual retreat. Overall, Jakhoo Hill is one of the best places to visit in Shimla for a spiritual and historical experience.

3. The Bustling Life at Mall Road, Shimla

Looking for the best shopping in Himachal ? Look no further than Mall Road, one of the top places to visit in Shimla. This bustling street is packed with shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering a shopper’s paradise. Don’t miss out on the street food either, with a variety of delicious treats to satisfy any craving. Mall Road is a must-visit destination in Shimla, offering scenic beauty and cultural charm.

4. A Journey through Kalka-Shimla Railway

If you’re looking for breathtaking views and a nostalgic ride back in time, the Kalka-Shimla Railway is a must-visit on your list of places to visit in Shimla. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a scenic journey through tunnels, forests, and quaint hill stations in the Himalayan mountains.

As the train chugs along the narrow-gauge railway, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s no wonder why this railway is a favorite among train enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Don’t miss out on this offbeat place in India that’s sure to be a memorable experience.

5. The Tranquility of Kufri, Shimla

Looking for the best places to visit in Shimla? Don’t miss Kufri, a small hill station just a short drive away. Known as the “Winter Sports Capital of India,” it’s perfect for adventure enthusiasts who love skiing, ice skating, and snowboarding in the winter. Come summer, Kufri transforms into a peaceful retreat with green meadows, gentle slopes, and a cool climate—ideal travel destinations for introverts seeking nature’s tranquility.

6. The Historical Significance of Christ Church, Shimla

Christ Church in Shimla is a magnificent Gothic-style structure with rich historical and architectural significance. It is the second oldest church in North India and a prominent landmark. Inside, you’ll find stunning stained glass windows, intricate wooden carvings, and a serene ambiance.

This church, dating back to the British Raj, is not only a place of worship but also a popular tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into Shimla’s colonial heritage. Whether you’re a history buff or appreciate architectural marvels, Christ Church is one of the must-visit places to visit in Shimla.

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The Allure of Shimla’s Scenic Beauty

If you’re looking for places to visit in Shimla, you won’t be disappointed by the city’s natural beauty. With lush green valleys, towering deodar trees, and picturesque pine forests, Shimla offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts.

Some top places to visit in Shimla include Kufri’s green meadows, Summer Hill’s serene paths, and Shaily Peak’s majestic views. It’s no wonder that Shimla is one of the top places to visit in India in June for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst stunning scenery.

7. The Greenery of Green Valley, Shimla

Green Valley in Shimla is a natural marvel with lush greenery, dense deodar forests, and breathtaking views. Explore this picturesque valley to experience its serene ambiance and pristine beauty. It offers panoramic views, making it popular for nature photography.

The fresh mountain air, chirping birds, and swaying trees create a tranquil atmosphere, providing a retreat from city life. Green Valley is a must-visit for nature lovers seeking solace in nature’s lap.

8. The History of Rashtrapati Niwas or Viceregal Lodge by Indian Institute of Advanced Study

When it comes to top places to visit in Shimla, the Rashtrapati Niwas, or the Viceregal Lodge, is definitely a must-see. This majestic architectural marvel is a reminder of Shimla’s historical significance and its colonial past.

Today, it houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, making it one of the best historical places in the world for scholars and researchers to conduct in-depth studies. So make sure to add the Rashtrapati Niwas to your list of top places to visit in Shimla.

9. The Divine Aura of Kali Bari Temple, Shimla

One of the best places to visit in Shimla is the Kali Bari Temple. This historical site is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali and is a popular pilgrimage destination. The temple’s serene environment and spiritual atmosphere attract visitors seeking solace and those curious about local religious customs.

Upon entering, the soothing hymns and incense create a divine ambiance, and the panoramic views of the surrounding hills add to its allure. If you’re looking for an enriching experience in Shimla, a visit to Kali Bari Temple is a must-see among historical places in the world .

10. Preserving History at Himachal State Museum, Shimla

Looking for unique places to visit in Shimla? Look no further than the Himachal State Museum, also known as the Shimla State Museum. This museum boasts an extensive collection of artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and archaeological finds that provide insights into the rich history of Himachal Pradesh.

Among the displays are miniature paintings, traditional costumes, weapons, and musical instruments, each offering a glimpse into the vibrant traditions and artistic expressions of the people of Shimla. It’s no wonder that this museum is considered one of the most unique museums in the world .

11. The Serene Tara Devi Temple, Shimla

One of the top places to visit in Shimla is the Tara Devi Temple, located on Tara Parvat. Dedicated to the goddess Tara, this serene temple offers breathtaking views of the valleys and mountains. As you climb the hill, the sound of bells and chants creates a peaceful ambiance.

The tranquil surroundings make it an ideal place for meditation, allowing visitors to connect with their inner selves. A visit to the Tara Devi Temple is a must for those seeking spiritual solace and a unique cultural experience in Shimla.

The Cultural Richness of Shimla

Looking for the top places to visit in Shimla? Look no further than the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex. This hub of local art, music, and theatrical productions hosts a variety of cultural events, including live performances, exhibitions, and workshops.

It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Shimla’s rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the vibrant artistic spirit of the city and participate in local traditions. There’s no shortage of things to do in Shimla , and the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex should be at the top of your list.

12. The Artistry at Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, Shimla

The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is one of the best places to visit in Shimla for art and culture lovers. It hosts various cultural events, such as music concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions, and dance recitals.

It’s an excellent platform for local artists to showcase their talents and for visitors to experience the city’s artistic vibrancy. The complex’s vibrant ambiance and captivating displays make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to soak in the cultural richness of Shimla.

13. The Natural Bliss of Mashobra

Mashobra, a hidden gem near Shimla, offers a retreat into nature’s bliss. This hill station boasts scenic landscapes and peaceful surroundings. Explore lush green meadows, dense pine forests, and panoramic Himalayan views. Nature lovers can enjoy leisurely walks, birdwatching, and photography in this tranquil getaway. Indulge in the natural beauty of Mashobra during your visit to Shimla.

14. The Mesmerizing View of Chadwick Falls, Shimla

Chadwick Falls in Shimla is a natural marvel. The gushing water cascading down the rocks creates a mesmerizing spectacle. Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic beauty, it’s a popular spot for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking solace. Chadwick Falls offers a picturesque retreat and panoramic views, making it a must-visit destination in Shimla.

15. The Sporting Legacy of Annandale, Shimla

Annandale, in Shimla, has a rich sporting legacy. The grounds have hosted numerous sports and cultural events, making it a hub for athletics. It is home to a historic golf course and an Army Heritage Museum that showcases the Indian Army’s history and traditions. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or curious about the city’s heritage, Annandale offers a unique perspective on Shimla’s sporting legacy and cultural heritage.

16. The Exotic Himalayan Bird Park

The Himalayan Bird Park in Shimla is a paradise for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. It is home to a diverse range of exotic bird species, including colorful parrots, graceful peacocks, and rare Himalayan birds.

Explore the park and enjoy the sights and sounds of these beautiful creatures, creating a serene experience. The park is perfect for birdwatching, nature photography, and eco-friendly tourism. Connect with nature and witness the rich biodiversity of the Himalayan region here.

The Lesser-Known Gems of Shimla

While popular tourist attractions in Shimla captivate visitors, the city also boasts lesser-known gems that offer a unique and offbeat experience. From the peaceful Summer Hill to the majestic Shaily Peak, there are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered by the intrepid traveler. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Lakka Bazaar, explore the wilderness of Manjathal Sanctuary, marvel at the architectural splendor of Gorton Castle, or soak in the panoramic views of Scandal Point. These offbeat places in Shimla promise to unveil a different side of the city, away from the tourist crowds.

17. The Peaceful Summer Hill

Summer Hill, a quiet suburb of Shimla, offers a peaceful retreat amidst natural beauty and tranquility. This picturesque hill station, located at an elevation of around 6,500 feet above sea level, is known for its scenic surroundings and panoramic views. Summer Hill holds historical significance as it served as the retreat for Mahatma Gandhi during his visits to Shimla. The suburb’s charm lies in its colonial-style buildings, lush green forests, and winding paths that invite leisurely walks. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and embrace the serenity of Summer Hill, a hidden gem in Shimla.

18. The Majestic Shaily Peak

Located at an altitude of 2,800 meters, Shaily Peak offers majestic views of the Shimla district and surrounding landscapes. This scenic hill station is ideal for nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and adventure seekers.

Its pristine beauty, dense forests, meadows, and breathtaking views make it perfect for trekking and nature walks. Explore the trails to enjoy panoramic vistas of the Himalayan range and experience tranquility and awe-inspiring beauty. Shaily Peak is a must-visit spot for an adventurous escape in Shimla.

19. The Vibrant Lakkar Bazaar

Lakkar Bazaar in Shimla is a vibrant marketplace where local artisans showcase their traditional woodcraft. Wander through the lively lanes and indulge in a shopping spree, picking up unique souvenirs, colorful textiles, and handicrafts that reflect the rich culture of Shimla. It’s a treasure trove for authentic Himachali craftsmanship and a great way to explore the city’s local markets and vibrant atmosphere.

20. The Wilderness of Manjathal Sanctuary

Manjathal Sanctuary in Shimla district is a biodiverse haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare bird species and elusive mammals. Explore the sanctuary to see deer, leopards, langurs, and various birds.

The dense forests, gushing streams, and panoramic views make it an ideal retreat for nature lovers. Enjoy birdwatching, photography, and nature walks in this serene sanctuary that showcases Shimla’s biodiversity and scenic landscapes.

21. The Architectural Marvel of Gorton Castle

Gorton Castle in Shimla is an architectural marvel that showcases the city’s colonial heritage. Built in the Gothic style, it features intricate carvings, a grand facade, and an imposing structure, all of which highlight its rich past.

While now serving as a government office, Gorton Castle still mesmerizes visitors with its historical importance and stunning architecture. History buffs and architecture enthusiasts can explore the city’s colonial past and admire its heritage buildings here.

22. The Popular Scandal Point

Scandal Point in Shimla is a popular meeting spot with panoramic views, a lively atmosphere, and local culture. The point has historical significance as the site of a scandalous elopement in the 19th century. Today, it serves as a hub for social gatherings, cultural events, and leisurely strolls. It’s the perfect place to watch the world go by, explore nearby attractions, or soak in the energy of Shimla’s city center.

Shimla: A Paradise for Food Lovers

Shimla is a food lover’s delight with a variety of culinary experiences. Influenced by Himachali traditions, the local cuisine offers a mix of flavors and textures. From savory dishes like channa madra and rajma chawal to sweet treats like badaam barfi and gur jaggery, there’s something for everyone.

Explore Shimla’s street food scene with favorites like momos, tikki, and buns served with hot tea. With its picturesque surroundings and vibrant food culture, Shimla is a paradise for gastronomic adventurers.

23. Savouring Shimla’s Local Delicacies

When exploring the top places to visit in Shimla, don’t forget to indulge in the local delicacies. Himachal Pradesh’s flavors and traditions are showcased in dishes like dham, siddu, chha gosht, and patande. These are a must-try for anyone looking to experience the city’s culinary delights. So, add these unique culinary experiences to your list of things to do while visiting Shimla!

24. The Charm of Shimla’s Street Food

Shimla’s street food is a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and aromas. You’ll find numerous stalls and vendors offering delicious treats. Try piping hot momos, crispy pakoras, and steaming maggi noodles bursting with local flavors.

Indulge in spicy tikki chole, buttery paranthas, and creamy kulfi for a taste of Shimla’s street food culture. The simplicity, authenticity, and warmth of the vendors make it a memorable gastronomic experience.

Shopping in Shimla: A Shopaholic’s Delight

When it comes to shopping in Shimla , visitors are spoiled for choice. The city offers a variety of shopping experiences, from traditional handicrafts to fashionable clothing. The vibrant shops along Mall Road are a must-visit for unique souvenirs, local artifacts, and stunning jewelry.

Lakkar Bazaar is known for its wooden crafts and traditional artifacts, while the Tibetan Market offers colorful handicrafts and textiles. Don’t miss out on these top places to visit in Shimla for a memorable shopping experience.

25. Shopping at Mall Road: A Shopper’s Paradise

Mall Road in Shimla is a shopaholic’s delight. With its picturesque surroundings, charming ambiance, and breathtaking views, shopping here is a memorable experience. Explore boutiques, souvenir shops, and departmental stores offering a wide selection of clothing, accessories, and handicrafts.

From stylish winter wear to traditional artifacts, Mall Road has something for everyone. Take a leisurely stroll, soak in the atmosphere, and pick up unique souvenirs to cherish your memories of Shimla.

26. Exploring the Traditional Artefacts at Lakkar Bazaar

Lakkar Bazaar in Shimla is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and collectors. This vibrant marketplace showcases traditional artefacts and wooden crafts, reflecting Himachal Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage. Witness artisans at work and bring home a piece of Shimla’s authentic crafts. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, home decor, or souvenirs, Lakkar Bazaar celebrates the city’s artistic traditions.

27. The Unique Finds at Tibetan Market, Shimla

The Tibetan Market in Shimla is a vibrant destination for shoppers, offering unique finds and handicrafts. Explore colorful textiles, woven shawls, jewelry, and handmade artifacts. The bustling atmosphere immerses you in the local shopping culture.

Find traditional handicrafts, fashion accessories, and home decor in this treasure trove of authentic finds. Support local artisans and take home a piece of Shimla’s vibrant markets.

Tips for Travelling in Shimla

Here are some important travel tips to keep in mind before embarking on your journey to Shimla:

• Decide on the best time to visit, depending on your preferences. The summer season is perfect for sightseeing, while winter is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.
• Take advantage of Shimla’s well-connected public transportation system, which includes taxis, buses, and the iconic toy train.
• Plan your trip well in advance, considering the best time to visit, local transport options, and the key attractions you wish to explore.
• Make sure to visit the top attractions in Shimla, such as the Mall Road, Kufri, Jakhoo Hill, and Christ Church, among others.
• To make the most of your visit, try local delicacies, shop for souvenirs, and take part in cultural activities.
• Remember to pack warm clothes if you’re visiting in the winter and comfortable shoes for sightseeing.

Best Time to Visit Shimla

Looking for the best places to visit in Shimla? This travel guide has got you covered! Check out these top attractions and activities to make the most of your trip:

• Visit during the summer season (April to June) for pleasant weather and outdoor activities like sightseeing and nature walks.
• Explore Shimla’s winter wonderland during the winter season (November to February) and enjoy winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
• Take in the scenic beauty and panoramic views of Shimla, regardless of the season you visit.
• Don’t miss out on Shimla’s rich cultural heritage, which is sure to leave you spellbound.
• Make sure to add these top places to your itinerary: The Ridge, Jakhu Temple, Christ Church, Kufri, and Mall Road.

Navigating through Shimla: A Transportation Guide

• Shimla has a variety of transport options, including taxis, buses, and the iconic toy train.
• Navigating the narrow lanes and bustling streets of Shimla is part of the charming experience of this small hill station.
• The city’s well-connected public transportation system makes it easy for travelers to explore the city and surrounding areas.
• The nostalgic toy train ride offers a unique way to soak in the scenic beauty.
• Shimla’s transportation network ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable travel experience for visitors, with easy access to popular attractions and viewpoints.

Is Shimla ideal for a family vacation?

Shimla, with its family-friendly attractions like nature parks and museums, is the perfect destination for a memorable family vacation. From horse riding to ice skating and nature walks, there are plenty of activities for all age groups to enjoy. With its serene environment and scenic beauty, Shimla offers a welcoming atmosphere and diverse experiences that cater to families seeking a retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q: is 2 days enough in shimla, q: what are the best places to see in shimla, q: which are the best places to visit near shimla within 200 km, q: is shimla worth visiting.

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• Top 25 Hill Stations Near Shimla That Are Perfect For A Himalayan Getaway In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Are you one of those people who often feel like attending to the mountain’s call? Then these 25 famous as well as yet-to-be-explored hill stations near Shimla will not fail to impress you at all. Take a look at these amazing getaways, and include a one or two in your next plan to Himachal. Happy Tripping!

7 Hill Stations Near Shimla Within 50 km

Wish to know where to plan a mini holiday near Shimla? Well, we’ve got you covered! This list of best hill stations near Shimla are hardly an hour’s drive from Shimla. Check it out!

1. Mashobra

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If you wish to spend some time amidst mesmerizing lush greenery at a very less crowded place, then this is your kinda holiday destination. Be it a week-long trip or a mere weekend getaway, this place offers perfect balance of serenity! Also known as ‘the Quieter Shimla’, a soothing hill station like this has much peace for all kinds of travelers around. It is definitely one of the best tourist places near Shimla. 

Places to stay: Club Mahindra Mashobra, Wood Stay Hotel, Hotel Rock Heaven, Ridge View By Upvan, Mountains View Mashobra Things to do: Camping, Bird Watching, Quad Biking, Shopping Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best time to visit: April to June Distance From Shimla: 13 km Must Experiences: Visit Mahasu Peak and Fair, Reserve Forest Sanctuary How To Reach: The nearest railway station is Shimla railway station, which is at a distance of 11 kilometres from the city. The nearest airport is Chandigarh airport.

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Translating literally into “lake”, Kufri is one of the most scintillating hill stations near Shimla. Offering the perfect respite in summers and totally snow-bound in winters, it is one of the must visit hill stations for those who’re looking forward to the best alternative for Shimla.

Places to stay: Hotel Willow Bank, Clarkes Hotel, Hotel Ekant, Hotel Grand Sunset, Kasauli Hills Resort Things to do: Encountering Wildlife, Encountering Wildlife, Shop Your Heart Out, Elated Yak Ride Ideal Duration: 1 Day Best time to visit: November to March Distance From Shimla: 18 km Must Experiences: Wildlife watching at Himalayan Nature Park, have fun at Kufri Fun World, stay at one of the unique treehouses, and more. How To Reach: Jubbarhatti Airport is the closest airport to Kufri located just 20 kilometres away. Broad Gauge railway station is the nearest railhead to Kufri located at a distance of about 100 kilometres.

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Big surprises come in small packages and it is totally true when it comes to Fagu – the most serene of all hill stations close to Shimla. A quaint little town located in the heart of Himachal Pradesh and not so far from Shimla, the refreshing green fields with Himalayas in the background, will offer perfect peace and quiet that you need on a relaxing vacation.

Places to stay: The Tikker, Countryside Apple Orchard, Karam Vidhata Resorts Ideal Duration: 1 Day Distance From Shimla: 21 km Must Experiences: Explore the Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary, visit the Water Catchment Sanctuary, explore Old Gurkha Fort and Temple, and more. How To Reach: Shimla Airport is the nearest airport which is located at a distance just a 20-minute drive from Kufri. The nearest railhead is also that of Shimla which is located about 18 kilometres away.

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4. Kiarighat

Encircled by the beauty of pine, deodar, and oak trees, Kiarighat is one of the best hill stations near Shimla to spend some quality time with family, and friends. Attracting thousands of visitors every year, the beauty and charm of Kiarighat also makes it one of the best places to visit near Delhi for the nature lovers.

Places to stay: Ramshehar Fort Resort, Turquoise Resort Distance From Shimla: 25 km Must Experiences: Explore the ancient British settlement of Dagshai, visit the Maharaja’s Palace, explore the famous Apple Cart Inn, and more. How To Reach: Jubbarhatti airport is the nearest airstrip located at a distance of just 32 kilometres away from Kiarighat. The nearest railway station is that of Kandaghat which is located just 8.5 kilometres from Kiarighat.

5. Naldehra

In a nutshell, Naldehra is one of the small hill stations near Shimla which is the most apt getaway for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the main city. Much famed for its 9-hole golf course, Naldehra serves as the best place to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul, amidst natural delights.

Places to stay: The Kutir, The Manor Hotel, Marigold Sarovar Portico Shimla Distance From Shimla: 26 km Must Experiences: Hot water springs at Tattapani, visit the Kogi Mata Temple, enjoy river rafting in Chabba, trek the Shaily Peak, and more. How To Reach: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti Airport which is located about 45 kilometres from Naldehra. The nearest railhead is that of Shimla which is just 1 kilometre away from Naldehra.

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Image Credits: Sunil Sharma for Wikimedia

Theog is a small municipality and the best hill station near Shimla with an average elevation of 1965 metres. It is a town of five ‘Ghats’ (or ridges) including the Rahi Ghat, Deori Ghat, Prem Ghat, Janoghat,and Bagaghat. It is a beautiful little escapade from the main town and wrapped beautifully in the laps of the Himalayas. It is an amazing weekend getaway for the locals as well as people visiting Shimla.

Places to stay: Treebo Trend Snow View Resort, Sarion Cottage by Vista Rooms, Snow King Retreat Distance From Shimla : 28 km Must Experiences : Go for a camping trip in Theog and explore the several hiking trails! How To Reach : Theog is 1 hour by bus or car from the city of Shimla.

Much famed to be the Mushroom capital of India, Solan is also considered to be one of the best places to visit around Shimla during any time of the year. Boasting of an amazing climate, Solan is the perfect amalgamation of mountains, hills, and forests.

Places to stay: Sundar Kakkad Hotel and Resort, Hotel Avas, Hotel Ambusha, Hotel City Heights, Hotel Havemore Things to do: Karol Tibba, The Menri Monastery, The Mall Road, Shoolini Devi Temple Ideal Duration: 1 Day Best time to visit: Throughout the year Distance From Shimla: 46 km Must Experiences: Hiking at Sanawar Nature Camp, explore the Mohan Shakti National Heritage Park, visit the Jatoli Temple, enjoy scenic views from Karol Tibba, and more. How To Reach: Chandigarh Airport is the closest airstrip located at the distance of just 67 km. The nearest railhead is that of Kalka railway station which is 44 km away from the city.

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4 Hill Stations Near Shimla Within 100 km

An hour or two is sufficient to have an extravagant cozy getaway with your loved ones near the charming land of Shimla! Take a look to know what all awaits you here.

Image Credits: Nikk Singh for Wikimedia

It lies on the Kalka-Shimla highway and the famous Kalka–Shimla Railway passes through the hills station. What makes it the best hill station near Shimla are the ardent people, the mystic nature and the typical feel of a quaint hill town. One that is meant to relax and keep the hustle and bustle away. With plenty of attractions to tour around Dagshai, Renuka Lake and Mohan Shakti National Heritage Park are some top ones. with such great surroundings and beauty, this is definitely one of the best places to visit near Shimla. 

Places to stay: The Pinewood, Dunn Perk Manor, Barog Times Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Distance From Shimla : 54 km Must Experiences : Camping in the jungles, exploring the culture, visiting the Mohan Shakti Temple are some of the best experiences in Barog. How To Reach : The town is very well-connected to the rest of the world via air, rail and road.

A counterpart of Shimla, Chail is one of those hill stations near Shimla which offers postcard-like views with the massive Himalayas in the backdrop. Famous to having served the state of Patiala as its summer capital, Chail forms the most vital part of Himachal’s Golden triangle along with Shimla and Kufri, and can give any hill stations in Himachal a run for their beauty and charm.

Places to stay: Hotel Grand Sunset, Hotel Ekant, Deventure Hotel, Hotel Comfort Inn, OYO 14958 Hotel Purnima Things to do: Rock climbing, Camping, Nature walk in pine forests, Kufri horse riding Ideal Duration: 1 Day Best time to visit: Throughout the year Distance From Shimla: 56 km Must Experiences: Visit the Chail Palace, witness panoramic views from Kali Tibba, visit the Sidh Baba Ka Mandir, discover the charm of Junga Fort, Stoned Kumbh Shiv Temple, and more. How To Reach: Jabarhatti Airport is the closest airport to Chail located just 72 km away. Kandaghat is the nearest railway station to Chail located about 30 km away.

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10. Kasauli 

Image Credits: Ankit for Wikimedia

Another one on our list of best tourist places near Shimla is Kasauli . The small hill town of Kasauli dares to give you refreshing vibes and a quaint environment the moment you step foot in it. It is mostly a cantonment town built during the British period and hence is the best colonial hill station. There are some amazing places to visit in Kasauli like the sunset point, monkey point, temples, churches and nature trails, Kasauli is a must-visit and the best hill station near Shimla.

Places to stay: Radisson Blu Hotel, Hotel Mountview, Hotel Honeymoon Inn, Hotel Sapphire, Hotel President Things to do: Trekking Tours – For Adventure Buffs, Toy Train Ride, Hangout Bar, Christ Church – Serene Ambiance Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best time to visit: Throughout the year Distance From Shimla : 70 km Must Experiences : Hike around all the nature trails, visit the temples and Pine Hills Eco Camp. How To Reach : Kalka is the nearest railway station, around 40 km away. State buses are the best way to travel within the city. 

11. Parwanoo

Image Credits: Shyamal for Wikimedia

Why consider Parwanoo as the best hill station near Shimla? It is a picturesque hill station with plenty of hills and orchards and a whole lot of attractions to choose from. The answer checks ‘yes’ f, or all three! The town also has a ropeway, some markets, gardens and temples, exploring which are probably the best things to do in Parwanoo .

Places to stay: The Oberoi Sukhvilas Spa Resort, The Fern Surya Resort Kasauli Hills, Jungle Lodge Resort, Forest Ville Hotel & Resort, The Baghban Hotel & Resort Things to do: Take a cable car ride at Timber Trail Resort, Watch the sunset from Timber Trail Resort, Explore the fruit orchards, Seek blessings at Kali Mata Temple Ideal Duration:  1 Day Best time to visit: March to May and October to November Distance From Shimla : 83 km Must Experiences : Taking the ropeway across the timber trail resort, gazing at the sunset and exploring the orchards. How To Reach : To reach Parwanoo, the Kalka railway station is the nearest, just 4 km away. 

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5 Hill Stations Near Shimla Within 200 km

If you wish to explore places near Shimla which can be covered within a time span of 4 hours, you will surely want to check out this list of best hill stations that follows!

Karsog is the only hill station which showcases the most impressive green landscape in the whole of Shimla. Surrounded by dense forests and apple orchards on all sides, make sure you don’t miss out on trekking to Dhamoon Peak on your visit to Karsog, one of the many activities there that make it one of the finest hill stations to visit near Shimla.

Places to stay: Hotel New Spring View, Hotel Sood Distance From Shimla: 109 km Must Experiences: Visit the Mamleshwar Mahadev Temple, explore the paradise of Chindi, trek to the Dhamoon Peak, and the Shikari Devi Temple, and more. How To Reach: The Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airstrip located at a distance of 62 km. Also, the Summer Hill railway station is the nearest railhead located at a distance of 33 km.

13. Sirmaur

Located in the south-eastern part of Himachal Pradesh, more than a three-fourth of Sirmaur is ruled by mountains. Home to the famous city of Nahan, Sirmaur takes much pride in housing the Shivalik Fossil Park where fossils aged more than 85 million years were discovered. Still in its pristine form, Sirmaur happens to one of the offbeat hill stations to visit near Shimla.

Places to stay: Writers Hill, The Sirmour Retreat, Bantony Cottage Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Distance From Shimla: 155 kilometres Must Experiences: River rafting on Yamuna, explore the Asan Barrage, enjoy a jungle safari in Kalesar National Park, spot a tiger at Simbalbara Sanctuary, and more. How To Reach: Jubbarhatti Airport is the nearest airstrip located at a distance of 102 km. The nearest railhead from Sirmaur is that of Ambala which is located just 100 km away.

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14. Sarahan

Rising above its reputation of being a pilgrimage site, Sarahan is one of the remotest hill stations near Shimla which has gained much fame in the recent past. Housing the famous Bhimakali Temple, Sarahan is also famous for having served the Bushahr Kingdom as their summer capital.

Places to stay: Hotel Shrikhand, Sarahan, Hotel Nau Nabh Heritage Distance From Shimla: 162 km Must Experiences: Trek to the Shrikhand Peak, explore the serene environs of Bhima Kaali temple, drive to Sangla valley, and more. How To Reach: The Jubbarhatti Airport is the nearest airport to Sarahan located at a distance of 182 km. Shimla railway station is the closest railway station to Sarahan which is just 175 km away.

Often confused with Auli in Uttarakhand, this one is a hidden treasure for those looking for offbeat hill stations near Shimla. If you want to unwind in a place far away from tourists’ radar, this would be perfect for you! There is nothing grand when it comes to accommodation, but surely nature’s beauty is verdant and will refresh your senses whether you visit Auli in summer , winters, or any given season.

Places to stay: The Himalayan Abode, Hotel Manik Resort Auli, Hotel Mount View, Hotel Auli D, The Sleeping Beauty Things to do: Skiing, Camping, Bird Watching, Hiking, Trishul Peak Ideal duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best time to visit: Throughout the year Distance From Shimla: 170 km Must Experiences: Relax and connect with nature How To Reach: The Shimla Airport is the nearest airport located at a distance of about 188 km. Shimla railway station (toy train) is the nearest railhead located at a distance of about 187 km from Auli.

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Image Courtesy: Madhuri

Chances are high that most of you might not have heard of this beautiful hill station, but its untouched environs is what makes Shojha the most fascinating hill stations near Shimla. Located in the heart of Banjar Valley, this paradise is famous for housing the most beautiful temples carved out of wood.

Places to stay: Banjara Retreat and Cottage, Dreamland Homestay, The Hosteller Jibhi, The Bluestream Cottage Jibhi Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best time to visit: April to June Distance From Shimla: 175 km Must Experiences: Enjoy your visit to Waterfall Point, trek to Jalori Pass, explore Serolsar Lake, discover Raghupur Fort, and more. How To Reach: The Bhuntar Airport in Kullu is the nearest airport located about 80 km away from the town. Also, the Joginder Nagar Railway Station happens to be the nearest railway station to Shoja, located just 164 km away.

9 Hill Stations Near Shimla Within 350 km

While you may be wondering, where to head to from Shimla for an extended vacay or to simply soak in more of the blissful hill station vibes, here is a list to answer your questions!

17. Tirthan Valley

Famous for being the most suitable spot for experience river crossing at its best, Tirthan Valley is indeed a hidden gem which is yet to be explored to its greatest potential. With adventure sports like that of trekking, rock climbing, and trout fishing, Tirthan Valley is indeed rising as the adventure capital of Himachal Pradesh.

Places to stay: Trishla Resort, JJ Resort, Sharda Resort, Green Alpine, Nature’s Lap Resort Ideal Duration: 4 Nights/5 Days Best time to visit: March to June and October to November Distance From Shimla: 203 km Must Experiences: Enjoy the thrills of the river crossing, explore the Great Himalayan National Park, enjoy trout fishing, trek from Jalori Pass to Serolsar Lake, and more. How To Reach: The nearest airstrip is that of Bhuntar airport located just 48 km away from the town. Kalka railway station is the nearest railhead located about 240 km away.

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18. Palampur 

Image Credits: Sumeet Jain for Wikimedia

Palampur is considered by many tourists as one of the best hill stations around Shimla! They say the mesmerizing views of the Himalayas grapple them. And the vast plantations of tea make them feel warm. The forested trails and several attractions make way for one of the best holiday experiences of a lifetime. 

Places to stay: RS Sarovar Portico, WelcomHeritage Taragarh Palace, Hotel Orchid Resort, The Bliss, Beyond Stay Fresco Hotel Things to do: Bir: Go Paragliding , Naam Art Gallery: Appreciate Art, Neugal Khad: Enjoy A Picnic, Baijnath Temple: Seek Blessings Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best time to visit: Throughout the year Distance From Shimla : 210 km Must Experiences : Exploring the birds and picnicking at the Saurabh Van Vihar and enjoying the views of the snow-capped Dhauladhar range How To Reach : Buses are the best mode of transportation to reach Palampur. Local and state buses ply regularly from Bhuntar and Shimla. Nearest airports are in Dharamshala and Kullu.

19. Kangra  

Image Credits: John Hill for Wikimedia

It does not make one bit of difference if you visit Kangra in summer or winter, you will always be amazed.  In summers, the pleasant weather and alpine meadows surround your breath. Lovely misty views and snowfall in Kangra definitely dominate the winters. The dynamic nature of the landscape does make it one of the top hill stations around Shimla. Let’s not forget the century-old traditions and culture that the place has preserved.

Places to stay: Hotel Sai Villa, Misty Woods, OYO Hotel Sagar, Welcome Heritage Judges Court, Raadballi Retreat Things to do: Trek to Triund, Go Paragliding in Bir Billing, Try Mountain Biking, Flock in for Navratri Celebrations Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best time to visit: September to June Distance From Shimla : 217 km Must Experiences : Visiting the Kangra fort, Nagarkot fort museum and Ambica Devi temple How To Reach : A road trip is the best possible way to reach Kangra. So, buses and cabs/taxis, if you feel like, make for an amazing road trip.

Shimla Summer Festival: An Extravaganza For A Vibrant And Festive Atmosphere

20. Sangla 

Image Credits: Sushant for Wikimedia

A small town nestled within the rising mountains and located in the Baspa valley serves as an awesome weekend getaway. One of the most offbeat yet one of the best hill stations around Shimla, the quaint town will win you over naturally rich charm. To spend a couple of days in the valley and sit by the serene Baspa river is the best out of the rest experiences. 

Places to stay: Banjara Camps and Retreat, Prakash Regency Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best time to visit: April to June and September to December Distance From Shimla : 220 km Must Experiences : Camping along the river, fishing and hiking the mountains How To Reach : The nearest railhead is in Kalka. Regular buses – local and state regularly ply.

21. Dharamshala

Home to beautiful monasteries, scenic views, and mighty mountains, Dharamshala is one place which is all about peace, and good vibes. Serving as the proud home of his highness Dalai Lama, Dharamshala is the place to be for those who want to relish the best of Himalayas and the majestic, Dhauladhar range. But apart from the spiritual element, it also serves as one of the most beautiful hill stations near Shimla.

Places to stay: The Pavilion, The Divine Hima, Welcome Heritage Grace Hotel, The Quartz, Hotel Inclover Things to do: Paragliding, Try Tibetan Food, Explore McLeodganj, Trekking Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Best time to visit: February – June Distance From Shimla: 237 km Must Experiences: Visit the HPCA stadium, trek to Dharamkot, explore the Tibetan Museum, and Kangra Valley, trek to Kareri Lake, camp at Lahesh caves, and more. How To Reach: Gaggal airport is the nearest airstrip located 13 km away. Also, the Pathankot railway station is the closest railhead located just 85 km away.

Top 12 Waterfalls In Himachal Pradesh That Treat Your Eyes To The Best Sights Ever!

22. Chitkul

Located at a distance of approximately 28 km from Sangla, this enchanting place in the lap of Himachal, offers the most scenic views to soothe your soul. Set in the backdrop of beautiful mountains and meadows, this place has a rough population of 600 locals who are known for their warm and welcoming attitude. This is surely a perfect spot to treat your soul with some calming nature vibes and tops the list of unexplored hill stations near Shimla !

Places to stay: The Wanderers Nest, Zostel Chitkul, Rattan Guest House Chitkul, Rani Guest House, Vanshika Homestay Things to do: Mathi Temple, Charang Chitkul Pass Trek, Kagyupa Temple: Learn About Buddhist Schools, Buddhist Monastery: Confront The Kindness In Existence Ideal Duration: 1 Day Best time to visit: March – September Distance From Shimla: 246 km Must Experiences: Trekking and camping How To Reach: You can reach Chitkul via cab boarding from Reckong Peo, which will cost about INR 2500 to 3000 for a round trip.

Image Credits: Atul Shishodia for Wikimedia

A silent village located in the Parvati valley and across the Parvati river, Tosh is a place to relieve all the stress. With an exotic range of flora including the Himalayan blue poppies, irises, marsh marigolds and Himalayan balsam flowers, Tosh has a very relaxed culture. What makes it the best hill stations around Shimla is its access to amazing trek trails, views of the Mantalai Glacier and other peaks like Papasura, Angduri and Devachan.

Places to stay: Sunrise Guest House, Olive Garden Guest House, Whoopers Hostel, Paradise Holiday Resort, Tosh Camping Distance From Shimla : 249 km Must Experiences : Trekking through the Kheerganga route is one of the best things to do in Tosh How To Reach : The closest town of Bhuntar has several local buses that flock regularly. And Bhuntar is well-connected to the rest of India.

The First-Ever Glass Roof Train From Kalka To Shimla Is Set To Be On Tracks Soon!

24. Kanatal

Serene and breathtaking in nature, Kanatal is comfortably located on the crossroads of Chamba and Mussoorie. Boasting picture-perfect views, refreshing greens, and high-on adrenaline adventures, Kanatal is one of the must-visit hill stations near Shimla.

Places to stay: Bliss of Nature, Himalayan Roots, Hotel Pine Queen, Kanatal Resorts & Spa, Hotel Whyt Things to do: Sightseeing, Trekking, Camping, Jungle Safari Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best time to visit: Throughout the year Distance From Shimla: 295 km Must Experiences: Visit the New Tehri Dam, trek to Kodia Jungle, enjoy nature walks, visit the Surkanda Devi Temple, and more. How To Reach: The nearest airbase is that of Jolly Grant Airport which is 32 km away. Rishikesh is the nearest railhead located at a distance of just 75 km.

25. Dalhousie

Image Courtesy: Kanika Saxena

One of the most gorgeous hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie holds a surprise for everyone and anyone who comes in contact with this natural marvel. Much famed as the “Little Switzerland of India”, the old-world charm of Dalhousie will never fail to cast a magical spell on you, the reason it’s called one of the most beautiful hill stations near Shimla.

Places to stay: Grand View Hotel, Aamod Resorts, Alps Resort, Snow Valley Resorts Dalhousie, Hotel Shangrila Dalhousie Things to do: Panch Pulla, Khajjiar – Go Paragliding, Chamera Lake – Go Boating, Dainkund Peak – Go For A Scenic Hike Ideal duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best time to visit: Throughout the year Distance From Shimla: 324 km Must Experiences: Witness a lush green paradise at Khajjiar, visit the Panch Pulla, and the Satdhara Falls, trek to Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, trek to Daikund Peak, and more. How To Reach: Pathankot is the nearest airport located at a distance of just 75 km. Also, Pathankot railway station is the nearest railhead located just 80 km away.

Shimla In Winter: An Ultimate Guide

Can’t wait to pack your bags? Well, then don’t! If all you can think about is visiting these fascinating hill stations near Himachal, we say it’s time to plan a thrilling trip to Himachal , and gear up for your own great adventure! Are you ready to start that much-awaited journey yet?

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hill Stations Near Shimla

Is Jodhpur worth visiting?

The blue city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is adorned with stunning forts, impeccable gardens, and eminent temples. If you are a traveler who has an interest in getting acquainted with the history and culture of all the marvelous cities spread throughout the world, then Jodhpur is undoubtedly worth visiting. Innumerable tourist places and the beauty of the city will make your vacation a memorable one.

What is Jodhpur famous for?

Jodhpur is famous for its rich history, grand forts, astounding temples, and enticing shopping markets. The city is also famous as the Blue city as its buildings were painted blue to denote that the buildings belonged to the Brahmins.

How many days should I spend in Jodhpur?

Jodhpur has a lot of forts and historical attractions that you should definitely visit on your vacation. You must plan a 3 or 4 days trip as there are a lot of ravishing places to visit in Jodhpur that you shouldn't miss out on your vacation.

What should I buy from Jodhpur?

Jodhpur has terrific markets from which you can buy amazing things like Tie and Dye Sarees, Leather shoes, Handicraft items, and traditional spices.

Which is the best area to stay in Jodhpur?

The most popular area to stay in Jodhpur is the Clock Tower as all the luxurious hotels are located in this area. The Clock Tower has a remarkable location as all the major tourist attractions are also located near it. If you want to stay at a place which is located in the heart of the city and is in close proximity to the famous forts and restaurants, then Clock Tower is an ideal choice for you.

What is the best time to visit Jodhpur?

The best time to visit Jodhpur is in the winter season as the weather is pleasant and you can easily explore all the forts and temples without sweating and getting tanned.

Why is Jodhpur called the Blue City?

Jodhpur is called the Blue City as a lot of buildings in the city are blue in color. It is believed that the Brahmins colored the building in blue color as the buildings belonged to them

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Top Things to Do in Shimla, India

Places to visit in shimla.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for a Rainy Day
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

31. Kamna Devi Temple

32. Kufri Ski Resort

33. Kotkhai Palace

34. Shoolini Temple

35. Luturu Mahadev Temple

36. Kiala Forest

37. Shimla Heritage Museum

38. Hip Hip Hurray Amusement Park

39. Tarna Devi Temple

40. Rothney Castle

41. Mahamaya Temple

42. Baba Bhalku Railway Museum

43. Prantika

44. Bantony Castle

45. Manorville Mansion Shimla

46. Gurkha Gate

47. Rashtrapati Niwas, Mashobra, Shimla

48. Himalayan Bird Park

49. Image Art Gallery

50. Indira Tourist Park

51. Kogi Mata Temple

52. SkyJumper Trampoline Park - Shimla

53. Derthu Mata Temple

54. Shrikhand Mahadev

55. Baragaon

56. majathal wildlife sanctuary.

57. Padhai Kali Mata Temple

58. arya samaj mandir temple.

59. Daulat Singh Park

60. Monument Rani Jhansi

What travellers are saying

Mesmerizing Places to Visit in Shimla on your Next Vacation

• Travel Tips
• February 1, 2019 in City Tours , Shimla , Travel Tips
• Places to visit in Shimla Shimla Tourism

Shimla, the beautiful capital of Himachal Pradesh is one of the most popular tourist destinations of the country. Especially during the summer months, this marvellous location stays jam-packed with visitors. There are a number of tourist places in Shimla that can be visited on a vacation. It is quite a popular destination for its Victorian architecture, which can be witnessed in a certain section of the Ridge and the Mall. Shimla is also known as one of the ideal places of interest for the honeymooners. The cool and pleasant climate of Shimla makes it a renowned summer retreat. It is nestled at an elevation of around twenty-two hundred meters above sea level. The region of Shimla is a beautiful hilly terrain covered with lush greenery all around. Although this place is mostly visited during the summers there are also a number of vacationers who prefer visiting Shimla in the autumn months owing to the less amount of crowd and the mesmerizing views.

Find Best Hotels In Shimla

Top 25 Places To Visit In Shimla

• The Ridge of Shimla
• Green Valley
• Jakhoo Hill
• Kiala Forest
• Himalayan Bird Park
• Christ Church
• Viceregal Lodge
• Summer Hills
• Indian Institute of Advanced Studies
• The Shimla State Museum
• Naldehra Peak
• Kali Bari Temple
• Chadwick Falls
• The Scandal Point, Ridge
• Shaily Peak
• Johnnie’s Wax Museum
• Jubbal Palace
• Rothney Castle
• Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary

1. The Ridge of Shimla

The Ridge of Shimla is renowned for arranging various governmental fairs and functions. For all the various festivals and celebrations the Ridge of Shimla is a major location. One of the major festivals held here is the colourful Summer Festival.  

Location – The Ridge of Shimla is situated in Shimla’s heart. It is located along the popular Mall Road which is the main shopping centre in Shimla. Therefore you would not require to invest much time to reach the destination.  

Highlights – The Ridge is the main hub of all the various festivals and cultural activities of Shimla. Some of the major Shimla sightseeing places including the Lakkar Bazaar, Jakhoo hill, Scandal Point etc. are situated in the close vicinity of the Ridge of Shimla.  

Best time to Visit The Ridge of Shimla – Although the Ridge of Shimla is open all throughout the year, it is mainly visited by most of the tourists during the summer months. Therefore, you can plan your trip to Shimla during the month of April or May in case you wish to witness the amazing Summer Festival.  

Kufri is a well-known destination for its amazing surroundings and mesmerizing views. Kufri is also popular by the name of the Switzerland of the East amongst the travel enthusiasts. The beautiful Kufri Hill is for sure to bring a smile on your face. Kufri features a number of adventure things to do in Shimla including hiking and skiing. You would enjoy these activities to the core while in Shimla. The major attraction of Kufri is the snow-laden hills where the skiing activity is carried out by the enthusiasts.  

Location – Kufri is situated at a distance of nineteen kilometres from the centre of Shimla and one can easily reach it. The best way to reach Kufri is by taking the road to Kufri as it is situated quite close to the National Highway twenty-two.  

Best Time to Visit Kufri – The best time to explore Kufri is during the winter months. The winter months ranges from November to February. During these months you can easily enjoy skiing. Additionally, for the ones who are not interested in adventure sports like skiing then you can plan your trip during the months ranging from April to June.  

3. Green Valley

The Green Valley is another famous attraction of Shimla that is also a renowned photography point. Green Valley also brings forward endless beauty of Mother Nature. It has been beautifully described in various tourism books and articles.  

Location – It is situated close to Kufri and is conveniently surrounded by the verdant hills.  

Highlights – A highlight of Green Valley is that one can spot various animal species like yaks wandering and grazing in the spot. Plus, the exceptionally picturesque surroundings of the place is worth your praise.  

Best Time to Visit Green Valley – This place is open all around the year and you can visit it whenever you desire. But the ideal most time to explore Green Valley is after the months of the monsoons or in the summer months. These are the times when the place features lush greenery. Therefore, the ideal time to visit Green Valley is from February to April and from July to October.  

4. Hike to Jakhoo Hill

The highest point of Shimla is Jakhoo Hill. It is packed with brilliant looking Alpine trees. The hilltop is flat, the top of which features the recently built Hanuman statue as well as the coloured Jakhoo Temple. It is said to be one of the calmest escapes that Shimla owns. The visitors must be beware of the monkeys of the location as they tend to skilfully rob things and food from the various travellers.  

Location – To reach the topmost spot of the hill one requires to take a long walk of around thirty minutes after which there is another pleasant way leading to the Jakhoo Hill.  

Highlights – Jakhoo Hill’s summit is about two thousand four hundred and fifty-five meters high. It is also two hundred meters higher than Shimla’s central ridge. The temple nestled on the hilltop is dedicated to the Hindu monkey god called Lord Hanumana. Therefore, undoubtedly playful monkeys rule the Jakhoo Hills. Hiking is one of the major highlights of the Jakhoo Hill. Many hiking enthusiasts can be spotted here all round the year.  

Best Time to visit Jakhoo Hills – One can visit the Jakhoo Hills every day in a week. But the ideal most time to pay a visit during the winter months ranging from November to March.  

Have you ever wondered how exciting would it be to set up camps in a town that is laden with snow? If you desire to experience the same then Chail must be your place to be. It is a hilly slope in Shimla that was developed to help people escape the scorching summer heat. And with time it has turned out to one of the most popular tourist destinations in Shimla. In fact, the place is a resort offering its guests a convenient exposure to the beautiful deodar forests that stay scattered all around the hilly region. Along with the deodar, the place also boasts fir and pine forests for the tourists to explore and adore.  

Location – It is situated at a distance of forty-five kilometres from Shimla at the hills lying at the foot of the Himalayan ranges.  

Highlights – This place is an ideal spot for people who seek calm environments for a vacation that keeps them away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan. Besides being immensely close to Mother Nature one can also dine at the renowned Lake Restaurant or take a stroll at the world’s highest cricket ground.  

Best Time to visit Chail – The ideal most time to pay a visit is from March to June. Additionally, in case you desire to witness snowfall then make sure to explore Chail in the months ranging from December to March.  

6. Kiala Forest

One of the perfect tourism locations in Shimla is the Kiala Forest. It is nestled in the Kotkhaai Valley and is beautified with rich green vegetation along with an ample number of indigenous animal species. It is considered as an ideal spot for all the nature loving travellers and wildlife enthusiasts. The forest welcomes a number of travellers each year from near to distant places.  

Highlights – Kiala Forest features rich vegetation and wildlife. This is also an ideal place for photographers as they can capture both wildlife in their natural home and nature itself. The place also features restroom facilities. There are also locker and storage facilities available for anyone who wishes to use the same.  

Best Time to visit Kiala Forest – Kiala Forest is open to visit all around the year. But the ideal most time for the same ranges from the month of March to the month of October.  

7. Himalayan Bird Park

Himalayan Bird Park is quite a famous tourist destination amongst photographers and bird admirers. While Shimla is quite popular for its beautiful scenic surroundings, its beauty is further enhanced by the wide range of wildlife that thrives in the forests and hilly slopes. The Himalayan Bird Park is a spot that features a wide range of captivating birds that you might haven’t spotted ever before.

The park also features variously endangered and exclusive birds species. Additionally, in order to give them home like feel the park also features calm and soothing trees, fauna, and flora. You can spot various beautiful and colourful birds including the Himalayan monals, pheasants, peacocks and so much more.  

Location – The Himalayan Bird Park is situated in the close vicinity of Shimla’s Vice-Regal Lodge.  

Highlights – The Himalayan Bird Park of Shimla is one of the rare locations that would impart serenity to its guests. It would play a major role in escaping reality and feeling calmness to the core.  

8. Christ Church

The very renowned Christ Church is one of the top ten visiting places of Shimla. It is quite a popular destinations amongst the travelers and the locals. It is an outstanding monument that was developed back in the era of the British. It is an excellent architectural monument and people pay a visit in order to serve the almighty or even otherwise just to adore its beauty. In case you wish to get a taste of the Christian religion from the colonial times then this is your place to be. It was crafted in such an elegant manner that it portrays hope, faith, patience, charity, patience, as well as humanity such that people get aware of the classy and rich Christian culture. Additionally, the surroundings of the Christ Church are also quite pleasing.  

Location – Christ Church conveniently occupies a spot on the Ridge Road which is one of the busiest roads of Shimla.  

Highlights – The Christ Church boasts the excellent art of the British times which makes it unique in itself. The church has also been inspired by the Neo-Gothic style, a glimpse of which can be captured while exploring the place.  

9. Viceregal Lodge

The most captivating building of Shimla is the Viceregal Lodge. It also holds great historical significance. It boasts outstanding architecture of the ancient times and one might take up to half a day to explore the entire setup in depth. Back in time, from the year 1888 to the year 1946, this beautiful setup was the residing place of the Indian Viceroy during the summer months. The Viceroy is responsible for quite a lot of significant developments in the Lodge.  

Location – The Viceregal Lodge is at around a distance of two kilometers from Shimla. Situated in the west, on the Observatory Hill summit this Lodge look mesmerizing amidst the breath-taking surroundings. In order to reach the Lodge, one needs to take the Chaura Maidan Road from Shimla and travel for up to a distance of five hundred meters along the road.  

Highlights – Other popular names for the Viceregal Lodge include the President’s House or the Rashtrapati Nilayam. The reference is to the era ranging between 1947 to the middle of the year 1960. This was the time when the Indian Presidents used the logo as their summer retreats.  

Entry Fee – The Viceregal Lodge charges an entry fee of 20 INR.

10. Summer Hills

Summer Hills is a beautiful township and suburb, just 5 kilometres from the famous Ridge of Shimla. Part of the seven-hill cluster, it is one of the best tourist places to visit in Shimla, owing to its breathtaking natural views amidst profuse greenery of Pine, Oak and Deodar trees, and offers a splendid view of the magical sunrise or sunset. It is an ideal spot for trekking, paragliding, nature walks and other adventure sports. The spot is a photography haven for anyone looking to capture the hues of colours of natural grandeur. The serene district is situated at an altitude of about 2,123 meters above sea level and is ideal for those who wish to take a leisurely walk amidst the tranquility of Mother Nature. During the yester years, when Mahatma Gandhi used to visit Shimla, he stayed in these calm surroundings at the elegant Monorville Mansion, belonging to erstwhile freedom fighter, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur.

Location: 5 kilometres from Shimla, on the way from Shimla to Kalka

Best time to visit: October to February (for snowfall) and March to June

11. Indian Institute of Advanced Studies

If you have an interest in history, art, and education, then the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies has to be on your list of famous places to visit in Shimla. Built in the British era, the institute primarily served as the summer retreat of Indian viceroy and was passed on to the nation by the then president, Dr. Radhakrishnan as an institute to promote advanced studies in humanities and arts in India. The building has a classical architectural design and features photographs and stories of moments of key historical events between Indian leaders and Britishers, and takes you on a journey through the modern Indian history.

Location: Rashtrapati Nivas, Chaura Maidan, next to Birds Zoo, Shimla

Timings: Daily except Mondays, 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Entry fees: 40 INR for Indians and 85 INR for foreign nationals

12. Annadale

This historical masterpiece was a favourite amongst Britishers, who used to enjoy several thrilling entertainment sports like racing, golfing and horse riding during their rule. Annandale is a flat terrain that has now been developed as a playground of Shimla for hosting various sports like Golf, cricket and Polo, and is located at just about 3.5 kilometres from the popular Ridge. At the altitude of about 1,864 meters, the area falls under the authority of the Indian Army. It is covered with beautiful deodar and Oak trees, and offers one of the best views of the city and its surroundings.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM

Best time to visit: November to February

13. Jakhoo Hill

Believed to be the highest peak in Shimla, Jakhoo Hills is one of the best places to visit in Shimla and a hamlet for all nature lovers and pilgrims who come to take blessings from the holy God Hanuman, standing tall at an altitude of 108-feet at the Jakhoo Temple. The hill is 8,000-feet high and is a major tourist attraction in Shimla. Located at just about 2 kilometres from Shimla, the statue offers a magnificent view of the scenic vistas of surrounding lofty mountains of the Shivalik ranges and the nearby town of Sanjauli.

It is believed that during the battle of Ramayana, Lord Hanuman stopped at this spot to take some rest before resuming his search for the much acclaimed Sanjeevani Booti, to revive Lakshman, who was seriously injured by Indrajit’s (Ravana’s son) arrow. To reach the temple, you have to trek through the dense Deodar and Alpine forests, or you can hire a pony or a taxi instead to reach there. Large number of monkeys can be found roaming around the temple complex, and you can feed them and enjoy their company.

Timings: Daily, 07:00 AM to 08:00 PM

Best time to visit: November to March

14. Shimla State Museum

Located on Mount Pleasant, the Shimla state museum is one of the many charming places to visit in Shimla round the year. The sprawling lawns and the magnificent British architecture makes a visit to this place totally worthwhile. The museum was opened for public in 1974 and houses historical artefacts, paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts from the Colonial rule showcasing the glorious past of the state with its rich culture and heritage. The building also serves as a residence of Indian government officials.

Timings: All days, except Mondays, 10:00 AM to 01:30 PM and 02:00 PM to 05:00 PM

Entry fees: 20 INR for Indians and 100 INR for foreigners

15. Naldehra Peak

Witness the gorgeous sunrise and sunset views from the small scenic Himachal town of Naldehra. The place is widely known for its nine-hole Golf course and is one of the famous places to visit near Shimla, offering the most picturesque sunrise and sunset views. With verdant expanses of hills, dense Deodar and Pine trees and naturally rich flora and fauna, the quaint town has amazing forest cover to be enjoyed on a pony ride. The stunning view, serene ambience and fresh air are sure to leave you gasping for more.

Location: Post Office, Durgapur, Naldehra, Shimla

Timings: Sunrise to sunset

16. Kali Bari Temple

Constructed in the year 1845, this temple has been one of the favourite locations of the tourists who visit the place to admire its sheer beauty along with its culturally rich architecture. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali who is also popularly known as Shyamala, and hence the name Shimla. When in Shimla, make it a point to visit the place for witnessing a blissful journey. The place also draws attention from tourists for the beauty of nature that can be witnessed very closely from here. For those who are in pursuit of peace, this temple is a paradise and a perfect place to spend some time alone. To make the most of your holiday, visit the place in the morning or during the evening prayers.

Location: Kali Bari Road, Shimla

Timings: 07:00 AM to 06:30 PM

17. Chadwick Falls

Chadwick Falls are amongst the must visit tourist attractions in Shimla for those seeking to escape the daily humdrum of city life. The fall scales from a height 90 meters, and is surely a sight to behold! Its base is surrounded by small streams merging into a deep gorge, and a lush green valley surrounding it which gives the place its scenic beauty and makes it just picture perfect. This peaceful waterfall is one of the must places to visit near Shimla. The fall is majestic soon after the rainy season when the cascading water feels magical! Rainy season is also a good time to visit the place as it will be completely green and appealing. Food and water are easily available from small shops located in the village, that also serve piping hot chai, Maggi, samosas or other quick snacks.

Location: 5.4 kilometres from Shimla

Best time to visit: July to October

18. Mall Road

Of all the Shimla tourist places, Mall Road is one place, which you can’t go wrong with. It is not only an attraction for the tourists and visitors but is also one of the most favourite shopping places of the locals. From warm woollens and traditional footwear to beautiful handicrafts, jewellery and show pieces, this famous shopping street is a haven for shopaholics and one of the famous places to visit in Shimla. It also features several restaurants, banks, cafes, clubs, tourist information centres, and post offices. Tourists love to stroll along the Mall, explore the many shops or watch a movie at the Gaiety Theatre, a replica of an old British theatre.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 09:00 PM

The amazing town of Shimla is a haven for you to marvel at the untouched natural beauty and buzzing market places. The hill station continues to enthral its visitors with open hands round the year. Make sure to explore all the beauties of the location while on your trip to explore Shimla. The place being a hotspot amongst tourists from all across the country stays jam-packed during most of the months of the year. Hence, a pre-planned trip with all the bookings done in advance would be no less than a cherry on the cake.

19. The Scandal Point, Ridge

The Scandal Point is the intersection between the Mall Road and the Ridge marked by the statue of Indian freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai. The exact reason why it was named so remains a mystery, usually associated with romantic folklore.

Perfectly poised against the stunning mountains, its strategic location forms an ideal base from where you can make visits to nearby tourist attractions. Dotted with numerous shops and cafes, this is an excellent place for enjoying horse-riding or just relaxing on the benches.

Go for: Horse-riding and views.

20. Shaily Peak

A two-hour drive from Shimla to Khatnol followed by a five-kilometre steep trek leads one to the Shaily Peak. The steep trail crosses dense forests and perpendicular trails covered in foot-deep snow.

Stranded on an isolated rock-face amidst green deodars and pure-white snow, this point attracts countless adventure seekers every year for its splendid views of the expansive landscape. Those not good at steep treks can ride on ponies available at the base.

Do carry charged batteries to capture the breathtaking views in your camera.

Go for: Views and photography.

21. Johnnie’s Wax Museum

A must-visit place in Shimla, this museum is located within the historic Willow Banks estate on the Mall Road. It has 16 life-size wax figures of icons from Bollywood, Hollywood and politics standing side by side, all imported from London.

Mahatma Gandhi’s idol is installed right at the entrance with statues of Johnny Depp, James Bond, Robert Downey Jr, Harry Potter, Michael Jackson, Steve Jobs, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan and others completing the display at the museum.

This spot provides for a somewhat unusual experience for visitors who come to this hill station expecting the regular sightseeing routine.

Go for: A museum tour.

22. Jubbal Palace

At a distance of 5.8 kilometres from the heart of the city, this mansion is inarguably the grandest structure present in Shimla. Coloured in a cream hue with sloping roofs and red chimneys, it stands tall between the dense forests of pine and cedar, along with terraced gardens and Virginia vines adding to the finesse of the building.

History has it that Raja Rana Sir Bhagat Chandra demolished the original Victorian structure in 1938 to build this summer palace in its place. A unique blend of Indian and Chinese architectural styles was used to put it together. The exteriors are all about elaborate citadels and artistically designed walls, while intricate carvings, suspended attics, signed photographs and paintings of eminent people fill its interiors.

A massive wooden door covered with copper and studded with coins marks the entry to the palace. Old furniture and other artefacts from the time of the Kings are still well retained along with a rich library.

Go for: A heritage tour.

23. Rothney Castle

On the road that goes up to the Jakhu Temple near Lakkar Bazar, you can peep through the gates of this 19th-century mansion to lay your eyes on its intricate glass and wooden work.

This house was built for colonial reformer and naturalist Allan Octavian Hume who spent most of his time here working for political reforms and documenting birds of the Indian subcontinent. After more than a hundred years, the house is now in shambles with moss growing on its walls, looking more or less like a garden.

Entry inside the property is restricted, but it is still worth a visit for those who love history.

Go for: The architecture and history.

Theog is a reserved little place sitting snugly in the arms of the lofty Himalayas. Here you will find nothing but a mix of wooden and concrete houses, with apple trees hugging their walls. There isn’t much chatter and movement and that is precisely its charm.

The village forces you to slow down, and to shift your attention to the little details around you, like the way sunlight falls on the leaves of the trees across the window of your room. But you can work up an appetite for local delicacies like sidu (steamed bread stuffed with seeds), and saag, and interact with the locals about the joys of simple living.

32 kilometres away from Shimla, Theog is blissfully far from its madding crowds.

Go for: A peaceful break.

25. Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary

This reserve is home to the usual suspects like leopards, deer and jackals. Go for surreal views of Deo Tibba, Bandar Poonch, Pir Panjal and other peaks. Monkeys and langurs occupy the canopies of trees like deodar, pine and oak. The abundance of weeping willows and maple provide ample cover to stalking animals. During monsoons, wild strawberries grow to add colour to the forest.

Apart from its aesthetic appeal, it is an important corridor that connects Shimla Reserve with the Chail Sanctuary in the south. Home to a variety of birds, species like the Himalayan eagle, chikor, partridge and pheasant can be seen flitting about the low canopy.

Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, the Forest Sanctuary is spread over an area of 951 hectares at a distance of 11 km from Shimla.

Go for: Wildlife and photography.

Happy Holidaying!!!

P.s. You might like these related resources:

• Best Time to Visit Shimla – Shimla Tourism & Seasons
• 9 Best Tourist Places to visit Near Shimla – Popular Weekend Getaways
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What to See in Shimla & Manali in 5 Nights 6 Days?

Prepare to be captivated by the charm of Shimla and Manali, the jewels of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh . These iconic destinations beckon travelers with their blend of breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. Shimla , with its colonial elegance and bustling markets, offers a glimpse into a bygone era, while Manali, a haven for adventurers, is enchanted with its lush valleys and thrilling outdoor activities.

Ideal for any traveler seeking a memorable escape, Shimla and Manali promise an unforgettable adventure through the heart of India’s most scenic landscapes. Join us as we unveil the best these hill stations have to offer in a 5-night, 6-day itinerary crafted for explorers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.

Table of Contents

Discover Shimla & Manali: A 6-Day Guide to the Best Attractions and Experiences

Day 1: arrival in shimla.

• Morning: Upon arriving in Shimla, check into your hotel. For those looking for luxury accommodations, consider some of the best 5-star hotels in Shimla .
• Afternoon: Explore the Mall Road and visit the historic Christ Church. Dive deeper into Shimla’s spiritual side by reading about its famous temples , including a special mention of the Jakhu Temple and Tara Devi Temple .
• Evening: As the sun sets, take a stroll along the Ridge. Interested in more offbeat locations? Here are some offbeat places near Shimla that can add a unique twist to your visit.

3 Nights 4 Days Shimla Package

Day 2: Exploring Shimla

• Morning: Head out early to the Jakhu Temple, and maybe plan a trek in the surrounding hills. Discover the top trekking places near Shimla for adventure enthusiasts.
• Afternoon: Visit the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies and learn more about historical places in Shimla .
• Evening: Interested in shopping? Check out what to buy in Shimla with our guide on shopping in Shimla .

5 Days Shimla Trip Itinerary

Day 3: Shimla to Manali

• Morning: Depart from Shimla to Manali. The journey itself is scenic and you can read about your travel options from Delhi to Shimla for reference on getting there efficiently.
• Afternoon/Evening: Check into your hotel in Manali. If you’re on a honeymoon, consider staying at one of the luxury hotels in Manali for a romantic experience.

5 Nights 6 Days Shimla Manali Itinerary

Day 4: Discovering Manali

• Morning: Visit the Hadimba Temple, a prime example of the famous temples in Manali .
• Afternoon: Relax in the Vashisht Baths and explore the local area. Looking for more? Here are the best places to visit in Manali during your stay.

4 Nights 5 Days Manali Package

Day 5: Adventure and Nature in Manali

• Morning: Head to Solang Valley for adventure sports. Get the most out of your visit with this detailed Solang Valley travel guide .
• Afternoon: If Rohtang Pass is open, don’t miss it. Prepare by reading about the best time to visit Manali for snowfall .

8 Days Shimla Manali Trip Package

Day 6: Departure

• Morning: Spend some quiet time in Manali, visiting places like the Manu Temple.
• Afternoon: Depart for home, carrying memories of a wonderful trip.

Manali 3 Nights 4 Days Itinerary

Best Time to Visit Shimla & Manali

Shimla and Manali, nestled in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, offer distinct seasonal experiences, making them year-round destinations. However, the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience during your trip.

• Summer (April to June): This is the peak tourist season in Shimla, as the weather is pleasantly cool, making it a perfect escape from the heat in other parts of India. Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C. It’s ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty.
• Monsoon (July to September): Although it sees fewer tourists due to the rain, the landscape becomes lush and green, which is perfect for those who enjoy rainy, misty conditions. Just be prepared for occasional landslides that might disrupt travel plans.
• Winter (October to February): If you enjoy cold weather and snow, winter is a magical time to visit Shimla. Temperatures can drop below freezing, and the area often receives snow in December and January, making it great for winter sports and enjoying the snowy landscape.
• Summer (April to June): Like Shimla, Manali is also pleasant during the summer months, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. This season is perfect for trekking, paragliding, and river rafting.
• Monsoon (July to September): The rainfall enhances the beauty of the landscape but can also lead to travel disruptions. It’s a good time for those who don’t mind the rain and prefer a quiet vacation with fewer tourists around.
• Winter (October to February): Winter in Manali is noted for its snowfall, especially from December to February, when the entire area is covered in snow. It’s the best time for snow sports like skiing and snowboarding.

How to Reach Shimla & Manali

Reaching Shimla:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Shimla is the Shimla Airport at Jubbarhatti, located about 22 kilometers from the city center. However, flights to this airport are limited. The more practical nearest major airport is in Chandigarh , 116 kilometers away.
• By Rail: The most scenic way to reach Shimla is by the Kalka-Shimla Railway, a narrow-gauge railway line that offers stunning mountain views. Kalka, the nearest broad-gauge station, is well-connected to major Indian cities.
• By Road: Shimla has good road connections with nearby cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. Regular bus services, including luxury and Volvo buses, are available from these cities.

Reaching Manali:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, about 50 kilometers from Manali. Limited flights connect Bhuntar with Delhi and Chandigarh.
• By Rail: The closest broad-gauge railheads are at Chandigarh and Ambala , which are well-connected with major Indian cities. From there, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to Manali.
• By Road: Manali is well-connected by road to Delhi, Chandigarh, and other major cities in North India . The drive through the scenic Kullu Valley is quite popular among travelers. Regular bus services, including overnight buses, are available from Delhi and Chandigarh.

Additional Information

Include sections on local cuisine recommendations, cultural insights, and tips on travel and accommodations. Mention the best time to visit, how to dress according to the weather, and any permits required, especially for places like Rohtang Pass.

Wrap up the blog by summarizing the experiences that await in Shimla and Manali, encouraging readers to explore these hill stations not just for their natural beauty but for their rich history and vibrant local life.

• 20 Best Places to See in Himachal Pradesh
• Places to Visit Himachal Pradesh in May
• Himachal Travel in June for Best Places

About The Author

Satnam Singh

Related posts.

The Top 10 Places to Visit in Shimla

10 Best Places to Visit in Kullu

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Richa Singh

Shimla To Spiti Valley: Top Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh

The city’s location is at the foothills of the Himalayas. It is one of the most popular hill stations in India.

Known for its pleasant climate and scenic beauty. It is the natural spring located in Karelanu, which has medicinal properties.

This charming hill station is a paradise with plenty of flora and peace.

Kufri is a tiny hill station in Himachal Pradesh known for its trekking and hiking trails.

Extracted coconut palm tree flower buds, coconut sugar lower fructose content.

It is known as the tea capital of northern India, has aromatic tea gardens spread over a vast area, and produces the famous Kangra Tea.

 Khajjiar is called the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’. It is a hill town known for its cedar forests, ancient temples, and lakes.