Shimla: A saga of nature and its beauty!
Built over seven hills of the mighty Himalayas sits the magnificent hill town of Shimla. Picture yourself waking up among the crisp air of the Himalayas with sun soothing your skin and asking you to meet at the small creek across the dense forgotten woods of pine and cedar. The town teleports you to an era of timeless beauty filled with white cascading waterfalls, small glistening creeks, majestic peaks and mystic hidden forests. Waking up in this bliss of a town is so therapeutic that you are forced to erase all the remorseful memories of the city and become one with the mountains. Soaking in all the blessings of nature makes it difficult to depart as this is the charm of Shimla where it attaches you to every element of its being.
Shimla is also the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, naturally making it one of the most visited tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Due to its pleasant weather and endless natural beauty, Shimla was declared as the summer capital of the British Raj. There are heavy chances to the fact that Britishers were homesick and tried to recreate an English village in this town whose evidence can be traced by the colonial-era houses and churches. Since then, tourists have always flocked in large numbers to Shimla to spend their summer & winter holidays and enjoy Shimla at its peak beauty when it is covered with a thick sheet of snow in winters.
Located in Himachal Pradesh, not too far from Delhi and other Punjabi towns by car, Shimla is a charming small hill station. Regarded as the queen of the hills, it is one of India’s most visited hill stations, and for a good reason: the city and its surrounding area provide a wide variety of attractions and recreational opportunities. The best season to visit Shimla is during the summer season to escape the scorching heat. But winter can be a good time if you want to experience snow. The top 10 places to visit in Shimla are listed below, which draw tourists to this portion of India.
List of Top 15 Tourist Places in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
| Name of the Tourist Places | Location |
| 1. The Ridge | Center of Shimla |
| 2. Kufri | National Highway No. 22 |
| 3. Jakhoo Temple | Temple Hanumanji, Jakhu |
| 4. Christ Church | Ridge To US Club, The Mall |
| 5. Chadwick Falls | Shimla, Himachal Pradesh |
| 6. Summer Hill | West of the Shimla Ridge |
| 7. Annandale | 2 km away from Shimla Railway Station |
| 8. Indian Institute of Advanced Studies | Boileauganj, Chaura Maidan |
| 9. Tara Devi Temple | Kachi Ghati, Bagh, Shimla |
| 10. Shimla State Museum | Chaura Maidan Rd, Chaura Maidan |
| 11. Kali Bari Temple | Bantony Hill, Shimla |
| 12. Green Valley | Kufri |
| 13. Mashobra | Tibet road |
| 14. Kiala Forest | Valley of Kotkhai |
| 15. Himalayan Bird Park | Near Advanced University, Chaura Maidan |
The Ridge
The Ridge, in the heart of Shimla, is a lovely pedestrian promenade for beautiful Shimla sightseeing. Shimla’s top hangout spot is located on the famous Mall Road. The Ridge is a gathering place for tourists because of the many eateries, hip coffee shops, and lively pubs that line its streets.
The Ridge is a scenic pedestrian promenade located in the center of Shimla. Situated along the Mall Road, this tourist attraction is the best hangout place in Shimla. With restaurants, trendy cafes and bars lining the Ridge, it serves as a social hub for travelers.It connects all the major tourist attractions of the town such as Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Kali Bari Temple and Annadale among a few others. The Ridge also connects the Mall Road with the Scandal Point.
According to rumors, the Maharaja of Patiala had eloped with the daughter of the British Viceroy from this very point. Thus, giving it the name of Scandal Point.The Ridge offers magnificent views of snow-clad mountains that feel like emerging from the sky. Without any doubts, the Ridge is one of the most important tourist attractions in Shimla.
Kufri
Kufri, a popular hill station, lies around 15 kilometers from the city center. Due to its consistent snowfall during the winter, this hill town is known as the “Winter sports capital of India”. Kufri is a popular Shimla tourist destination because it is a great place to enjoy winter sports like skiing and ice skating. Visitors come to this mountain resort during snowfall time to enjoy two adrenaline-inducing pastimes with a long history: skiing and ice skating.
Located at a distance of around 15 km from the city centre is the hill station of Kufri. It has earned its title as the ‘Winter sports capital of India’ because of the regular snowfall experienced in this hill town during winters. Various winter sports such as skiing and ice skating make Kufri one of the must-visit places in Shimla.
The adventure junkies find peace and thrill altogether in this mystical hill town filled with scenic snow-capped hills, dense cedar woods and green meadows. Tourists visit this hill town to indulge in the centuries-old activities of skiing and ice skating for adrenaline rush.This resort hill town once belonged to the Kingdom of Nepal and has an ancient history attached to it. The locals narrate local folklores of the lives and struggles of people in the past.
Jakhoo Temple
One of the best places to visit in Shimla is Jakhoo Hills. The hill, which stands at a lofty 8,000 feet, is a famous tourist destination in Shimla. It’s not possible to drive all the way to its peak. However, hiking to the top is challenging yet rewarding. The path through the woodland is lined with a dense forest filled with towering pine trees.
The ancient Hanuman temple atop Jakhoo Hill features the world’s largest statue of Lord Hanuman. During his journey to retrieve Sanjeevani Booti, which would ensure Lakshman’s survival, Lord Hanuman is said to have taken a short break here.Nestled among the pine forests, located at a height of 8000 ft. above sea level is the highest peak of Shimla, Jakhoo Hill. Jakhoo Hill houses the ancient Hanuman temple with the tallest statue of Lord Hanuman (108 ft.).
It is believed that it was this very spot where Lord Hanuman rested for a while on his way to get Sanjeevani Booti for Lakshman’s survival. The hill offers majestic views of the Himalayas in its full glory making it one of the tourist attractions in Shimla.One cannot drive all the way upto the hill so a short trek also excites the tourists as it takes them amidst the dense deodar forests. The temple enjoys attention from both nature lovers and pilgrims because of the diversity this attraction offers. Do not forget to visit the serene Jakhoo Temple on your vacation to Shimla.
Christ Church
Among the churches in Northern India, Christ Church is the second oldest. The neo-Gothic style of the building is indicative of its colonial origins. One of the best Shimla sightseeing places is this local Christ Church.
The stained-glass windows, stunning frescos, and clock tower of this architectural masterpiece are among its most recognizable features. Christ Church is perfect if you’re searching for a quiet sanctuary to refocus your attention inside. The building boasts of neo-Gothic architecture that proves its connection with the colonial era. Visiting the Christ Church is one of the top things to do in Shimla.
This marvel of architecture is known for its stained-glass windows, fascinating frescos and the clock tower. If you’re looking for a peaceful place to connect with yourself, Christ Church is what you are seeking.
The big yellow building shines bright in the morning spreading hope and positivity and its silhouette in the night offers assurance and calmness from the insecurities of life. The ideal time to visit this church is either in the morning or during the church prayer.
Chadwick Falls
White cascading beauty nestled among the dense woods of pine and deodar are the Chadwick Falls. This particular attraction is a treat for the eyes as it falls beautifully down the gorge. The falls take a dive from a height of 86 metres creating a real painting out of nature.
Chadwick Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh inviting all the nature enthusiasts to this state of mountains, meadows, waterfalls and streams.
The best time to visit the Chadwick Falls is during the monsoon season between the months of July and September when the falls are in its full glory with the increase in water level.
One can relax and take a dip in the cool waters of the falls to rejuvenate and drift away any fatigue.
Summer Hill
Summer Hill is one of Shimla’s suburbs and is situated 5 km outside the city center. The area is one of the popular Shimla tourist places because of the stunning scenery and the abundance of flora. From its vantage points, visitors may take in sweeping vistas of the surrounding hills and woods, which include pine and deodar trees, as well as the ever-changing hues of the sky. Summer Hill is also known as Potter’s Hill since it was traditionally the location where potters went to get clay.
A suburb of Shimla located at a distance of 5 km from the capital city is the Summer Hill. Known for its exquisite natural beauty of lush greenery, it is one of the best places to visit in Shimla. The viewpoints of this attraction offer uninterrupted panoramic views of hills surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests with color-changing sky in the backdrop.
Summer Hill was where potters used to gather clay to make pots and thus, is also known as the Potter’s Hill. The hill is part of the seven hills that form the hill town of Shimla guaranteeing the majestic beauty of nature in its full bloom to fill your heart with contentment and happiness.
Annandale
A visit to Annandale is a must if you’re looking for top things to do in Shimla. Just another Colonial structure, this one has seen its fair share of British adventure sports fans. These days, sightseers may come here to play mini golf, view the Army Museum, and marvel at the area’s natural beauty. Even though there is no cost to enter, mini golf may cost extra.
Care for a cricket match surrounded by hills and trees? Annandale is one of the best places to visit in Shimla. With its scenic view and lush greenery, this popular tourist attraction is a perfect getaway for your summer vacations.During British Raj, Annandale was a hub for various adventure sports such as polo, cricket and racing. However, now it is SafePlace for all golfers as the race course has been converted to a mini golf-course which is also used as a helipad.
Located at a distance of 4 km from the Ridge, this flat terrain enjoys scenic view among beautiful meadows and lush-green forests. Do not forget to visit the Annandale Army Heritage Museum on your excursion to this magnificent tourist spot.
Indian Institute of Advanced Studies
Historically, the Institute was the official summer residence of the Indian President. The institution was transformed into a research center for the improvement of arts and humanities in India during the presidency of Dr. Radhakrishnan.
The institution and its gardens are a great way for visitors to experience India’s colonial past as one of Shimla’s most popular tourist destinations.A major trace of colonial history of India, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies was originally built as a residence for the then Viceroy of India, Lord Dufferin. At that time, it was known as the Viceregal Lodge that had electricity connection even before the rest of Shimla knew what electricity was.
After the independence, it served as the summer retreat for the country’s President and came to be known as the Rashtrapati Niwas. In 1965, Dr. Radhakrishnan established the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies for the advancement of art and humanities in India.
It is also the iconic building where the decision to create Pakistan and East Pakistan out of India was taken. Rich historical background and classic English architecture make the institute a popular tourist attraction in Shimla.
Other Interesting Blogs to Read
Tara Devi Temple
Located atop a hill called Tara Parvat is the splendid Tara Devi Temple. With a serene landscape of lofty peaks, dense oak woods and clear skies, the temple is one of the must-visit tourist attractions.
The temple is believed to be 250 years old with the wooden idol brought all the way from West Bengal. The presiding deity of the temple is Goddess Tara, a goddess of the Tibetan Buddhists and one of Goddess Durga’s nine incarnations.
With quite a few temples in Shimla, Tara Devi seeks attention not only from the diligent devotees but also from admirers of fine architecture. Nestled in a serene atmosphere, the temple exudes peaceful vibes that let the devotees connect to their souls and find solace in their mere existence. The temple surely cannot be missed on your trip to Shimla!
Other Interesting Blogs to Read
Shimla State Museum
Shimla State Museum, also called the Himachal State Museum, is nestled among the beautifully groomed gardens of Mount Pleasant. The museum, housed in a colonial-style home, was established to preserve the state’s extensive cultural history. Handicrafts, miniature paintings, swords, coins, and more are some of the artifacts found in and around Shimla, and these are all exhibited in the Shimla State Museum. The metal statues from temples all across the Himalayas make up the most interesting collection.
Located on Mount Pleasant among the splendid manicured lawns is the Shimla State Museum also known as the Himachal State Museum. Built as a colonial mansion, the museum protects the rich cultural heritage of the state.
The Shimla State Museum displays a rich collection of handicrafts, coins, miniature paintings, weapons and coins among others discovered in the hill town. The most unique collection is of the metal idols from various temples spread across the Himalayas. History enthusiasts find themselves lost in a paradise among the walls that store the treasures of a time long lost. Various scriptures in the museum tell ancient stories of the life around the villages amidst the Himalayas. Do not miss out on this marvelous storehouse of history on your visit to Shimla.
Kali Bari Temple
Kali Bari Temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh in India on the Bantony Hill. Located on the Kali Bari Road, near the famous Mall Road, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is known as Shyamala, one of the most revered Hindu deities. The temple is believed to be over 150 years old and is visited by thousands of devotees and tourists every year.
The city, ‘Shimla’ is named after the God, who was believed to have existed near the Jakhoo Temple. It was originally built on the Jakhoo Hill, by a Bengali Brahmin, Ram Charan Brahmachari in the year 1845. The temple that’s why resembles the unique architecture of the Dakshineswar Kali Temple of West Bengal. However, the temple was later shifted to Bantony Hill (its present location) by the Britishers.
Apart from its religious significance, Kali Bari Temple is also a popular tourist destination because of its picturesque location. The temple offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and visitors can enjoy a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Green Valley
Green Valley is a picturesque spot located on the outskirts of Shimla, a popular hill station in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is a beautiful valley that is surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped mountains. This place is considered to be one of the most scenic places in Shimla, and it attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world.
The valley is located at a distance of around 7 kilometres from Shimla, and it can be reached by road. The drive to Green Valley is itself an enjoyable experience as the road passes through thick forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
As one approaches the valley, the beauty of the place becomes more and more apparent. The valley is surrounded by dense deodar trees, and the verdant landscape is dotted with colourful wildflowers and shrubs.
Mashobra
Mashobra is a beautiful town located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at an altitude of 2,146 metres above sea level and is known for its scenic beauty and lush green landscapes. It is famous for being home to one of the two presidential retreats in India where the President of India conducts his or her office at least once a year. The building which houses the retreat was built in 1850 and completely made of wood.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Mashobra is the Craignano Nature Park, which is a beautiful park located amidst the dense forests of Mashobra. The park is spread over an area of 600 acres and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The park also has a beautiful walking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Kiala Forest
Kiala Forest, located in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, is a picturesque natural destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of nature in all its glory. This serene forest is spread over an area of 160 hectares and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
The Kiala Forest is known for its dense canopy of oak, pine, and deodar trees, which create a natural habitat for a variety of birds and animals. Visitors to the forest can spot a range of wildlife, including barking deer, monkeys, and wild boar. The forest is also home to several bird species, including the Himalayan griffon, Himalayan bulbul, and yellow-billed blue magpie.
Himalayan Bird Park
Himalayan Bird Park is a popular tourist attraction located in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Spread over an area of four hectares, this bird park is home to a variety of bird species from the Himalayan region, including the colourful Himalayan monal, koklass pheasant, and kaleej pheasant.
The park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, offering visitors a chance to observe these beautiful creatures up close. The park is well-maintained, with natural habitats created for each bird species. There is also a small museum in the park that provides information about the various bird species found in the region. The park also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Thankyou for showing your interest….
Contact for more information:
91+9914019506
[email protected]
Social media
Instagram: safetrip_123
Facebook: RS Travels Agency (Safetrip with RS)
Whatsapp: 91+9914019506
