Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh situated on the Himalayan foothills. Shimla used to be the summer capital of British India. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and later on, it was made the capital of Himachal Pradesh. It is the principal commercial, cultural as well as the educational center of the Himachal Pradesh. It is the terminus of the narrow-gauge Kalka to Shimla Railway which was completed in the year 1903.
Places to visit in Shimla
Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh situated on the Himalayan foothills. Shimla used to be the summer capital of British India. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and later on, it was made the capital of Himachal Pradesh. It is the principal commercial, cultural as well as the educational center of the Himachal Pradesh. It is the terminus of the narrow-gauge Kalka to Shimla Railway which was completed in the year 1903.
Shimla is located at an altitude of 2200 meters. Shimla Himachal Pradesh is also popularly known for its handicraft shops that are lined at The Mall which is a pedestrian avenue and the Lakkar Bazaar which is a market that specializes in wooden toys and crafts. It is a popular hill station that attracts tourists in thousands. The city has an old-world charm with its colonial architecture and beautiful churches.
The weather here is mostly pleasant and much of the crowd comes here during the summer months. On the other hand, winters are cold here and sometimes it snows as well. There are so many places to see in Shimla. Some of these are:
The Mall
The Mall is the main shopping area of Shimla. It is a long road lined up with several restaurants, cafes, clubs, banks, bars, post offices and the tourist offices. The Gaiety Theatre is also found there. The Mall Road in the heart of the town and a shoppers paradise. You can buy local handicrafts, shawls, woolens, exquisite jewelry and so much more.
The Ridge
The Ridge is a large open area located alongside the Mall Road. It is the most famous point in the city. All of the cultural activities are hosted here. The Christ Church, The State Library, and Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex are some of the popular buildings situated here. Visitors often come here to enjoy the beautiful views of the surroundings.
Christ Church
Located on the Ridge, the Christ Church is the second oldest church in North India. The interiors and the neo-gothic architecture of the Church are absolutely beautiful and attractive. It is one of the most famous attractions in Shimla. In the inside of the church, there are stained glass windows that are a representation of faith, hope, charity, fortitude, patience, and humility.
Places to visit in Shimla
Jakhoo
Jakhoo is located at a distance of 2 km from Shimla, at an altitude of 8,000 ft. Jakhoo Hill is the highest peak in Shimla and the view of the city from there is spectacular. There is an old Hanuman temple at the top of the hill which is popular among the tourists. There is a 108 feet tall magnificent statue of Lord Hanuman, at an altitude of 8,500 feet above sea level. Ice Skating in Shimla
Ice Skating is a popular sport in Shimla. The Shimla Ice Skating Rink is famous because it is a naturally formed rink. It is the largest and the only naturally formed Ice Skating Rink in the South Asian continent. Ice skating is a fun sport, especially during the winter season.
Shimla State Museum
The Shimla State Museum was opened in the year 1974. This museum has protected the cultural wealth of the state. They have a unique and beautiful collection of miniature Pahari paintings, sculptures, bronzes wood-carvings, costumes, textiles and other jewelry of the Himalayan country. The Museum is located on Mall Road. It also has a collection of ancient coins and other handicraft items.
Cafe Wake & Bake
Cafe Wake and Bake are one of the most popular cafes in this town. The cafe offers world-class coffee, pancakes, bacon, and several other delicacies. A large number of tourists come here often. A plus point is the picturesque views outside the windows of the Cafe. If you're in Shimla, do visit the cafe for a hearty breakfast.
Shimla tourist places
Annadale
Annadale is a popular tourist attraction in Shimla with a splendid Golf Course, a Playground, a Cactus Museum, and an Indian Army Museum. It is a beautiful place for vacationing and rejuvenating. The place is developed as the racecourse of Shimla. It is located at a height of 6,117 ft.
Places to visit in Shimla
The Scandal Point
The Scandal Point is located on the Mall Road of Shimla. There is a story behind this interesting name. The King of Patiala had kidnapped the daughter of the Viceroy because he was in love with her from this point.
Himalayan Bird Park
The Himalayan Bird Park is a perfect place to take a pleasant walk while capturing the beautiful, colorful and vibrant species of the Himachal state bird, the Monal Pheasant.
Tara Devi Temple
The Tara Devi Temple is located at a distance of 11 km from the Shimla bus-stand. The temple has been dedicated to the goddess of stars on top of the Tara Devi hill. There is also a military Dairy Town here and the headquarters of Bharat Scouts and Guides. There are some legends and tales about the origins of the Tara Devi Temple which makes it a simple and fascinating place.
The Chadwick Falls
Chadwick Falls is located in the Glen Forests which is not very far from the city of Shimla. The place is frequently visited by people who come here for a picnic or hangout. The stream of water that drops down from a height of approximately 100 meters. It is not a very huge waterfall but the tranquillity of the place is something people love about it amidst the forests.
Kufri
The small town of Kufri is located at a distance of 13 km from Shimla at an altitude of 8,600 ft. Kufri is a hub for local winter sports and even has a small zoo. Kufri is a colder, higher, and less crowded place located near Shimla. The views of Kufri are mesmerizing and the landscapes are really flattering.
Chail
Chail is located at a distance of 45 kilometers from Shimla. The small town of Chail was built as a summer retreat by the Maharaja of Patiala during the British Era. Chail has the highest cricket ground in the world at an altitude of 2250 meters located in the cantonment area. Chail is also known as a hiker's paradise. It is full of lush green trees everywhere and mesmerizing views. It is the perfect little place to spend time with your loved ones.
The Kalka to Shimla Toy Train
The Kalka to Shimla Toy Train ride is one of the most popular things to do in Shimla. It is an enjoyable train ride that takes you through the towns of Kalka and Shimla. While you're in Shimla, this toy train ride is a must-do. The route of this train ride is one of the world's most picturesque train routes. The train also passes through over a hundred tunnels. It is a narrow-gauge train route.
Places to visit in Shimla
Badi ki Dhar
Badi ki Dhar is located at a height of 6781 feet above the sea level. You will get to see some beautiful views of the city of Shimla from the top of the hill. It is famous for its Lord Shiva temple and an annual fair which is organized every year on 14th and 15th June.
Anand Vilas
The "Sarva Dharma Mandir" is situated midway between Shimla and Junga. It is the Temple of all faiths. This is a spiritual group dedicated to Mother Nature. Devotees and visitors come here in thousands every year. There is also an "Art is Values" school with students coming from all over India. Classes here are provided free of cost.
The Green valley
The Green Valley is located about five minutes away from a bus stand on the way to Kufri. It is a spectacular mountain range. People here say that this valley is God's gift to the Shimla. The greenery of this place is really mesmerizing and makes you feel at peace.
Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary
The Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is famous for its rare variety of flora and fauna. This is a wildlife sanctuary where you will find animals such as jackals, barking deer, monkeys, and leopards. It is a must-visit place for wildlife enthusiasts.
The Bantony Castle
The Bantony Castle is a heritage site built during the British Raj. It is situated on the Bantony Hill in Shimla. The estate has both the Bantony Castle and the Bantony Cottage. It is under the Heritage Zone of Shimla.
Also read:- Explain the Magical Narkanda In Shimla
