Shimla

Shimla, previously known as Simla, has always been a shining destination on the map of Indian tourism industry. Holiday opportunities in this capital city of Himachal Pradesh are not restricted to a particular theme, but are enjoyed with enthusiasm by honeymooners, family tourists and adventure loving tourists alike. Shimla, from the time of British rule in India, has served as a summer holiday retreat for its moderately warm climate during summer months. Designated as ‘Queen of the Hills’, Shimla has its abundant natural beauty well- complimented by the man-made structures. Architectural wonders, old buildings and religious structures add to the charm of the city set amidst dense forests, fruit orchards and beautiful meanders. With the best tourist information in hand, you can harness the unadulterated glamour of Shimla.

Shimla is well-known as the best North Indian hill town for all seasons and all reasons. Apart from being a summer retreat, it is a popular snowfall destination as it receives heavy snowfall during winter months that experience extreme cold. Spring and autumn seasons in the city bless it with marvelous views and limitless scenic beauty. Shimla is a world-famous resort for adventure sports like trekking, skiing and ice skating. The city is also known as the fruit-bowl of India, as it has many orchards producing fruits like apples, strawberry, plum and litchi. Shimla has successfully retained the colonial aura with its magnificent tourist places that include colonial buildings, churches and monuments. It is a visual delight to explore the Victorian and neo-Gothic architecture excellence of these constructions. Christmas and New Year celebrations in Shimla draw huge flocks of tourists, both Indian and foreigners.

Spring months (March-April), Autumn months (October-November) and Snowfall months (December-February)

A trip to Shimla can help you encounter the old world charm and superlative architecture. In addition, there are temples, monuments, museums and natural splendors that glorify the city as a unique travel destination. The must visit places at Shimla include:

The history of the area that now constitutes Shimla dates back to the time when the Indus valley civilisation flourished between 2250 and 1750 BCE. Tribes such as the Koilis, Halis, Dagis, Dhaugris, Dasa, Khasas, Kinnars and Kirats inhabited the region from pre-historic era. During the Vedic period, several small republics known as "Janapada" existed which were later conquered by the Gupta Empire. After a brief period of supremacy by King Harshavardhana, the region was once again divided into several local powers headed by chieftains, including some Rajput principalities. These kingdoms that enjoyed a large degree of independence and were invaded by Delhi Sultanate a number of times. Mahmud Ghaznavi conquered Kangra at the beginning of the 10th century. Timur and Sikander Lodi also marched through the lower hills of the state and captured a number of forts and fought many battles. Several hill states acknowledged Mughal suzerainty and paid regular tribute to the Mughals. Sansar Chand (c.1765-1823) The Gurkhas, came to power in Nepal in the year 1768. They consolidated their military power and began to expand their territory. Gradually the Gorkhas annexed Sirmour and Shimla. With the leadership of Amar Singh Thapa, Gorkhas laid siege to Kangra. They managed to defeat Sansar Chand Katoch, the ruler of Kangra, in 1806 with the help of many provincial chiefs. However Gorkhas could not capture Kangra fort which came under Maharaja Ranjeet Singh in 1809. After the defeat the Gorkhas began to expand towards the south of the state. However, Raja Ram Singh, Raja of Siba State managed to capture the fort of Siba from the remnants of Lahore Darbar in Samvat 1846, during the First Anglo-Sikh War. They came into direct conflict with the British along the tarai belt after which the British expelled them from the provinces of the Satluj. Thus the British gradually emerged as the paramount powers. The revolt of 1857 or first Indian war of independence resulted due to the building up of political, social, economic, religious and military grievances against the British government. People of the hill states were not as politically active as the people in other parts of the country. They remained more or less inactive and so did their rulers, with the exception of Bushahr. Some of them even rendered help to the British government during the revolt. Among them were the rulers of Chamba, Bilaspur, Bhagal and Dhami. The rulers of Bushars rather acted in a manner hostile to the interests of British.

The Mall, the main street in Shimla is home to many popular restaurants offering relaxing atmosphere and quality food at reasonable prices. Enjoy continental cuisines at The Devcios and authentic Asian dishes at The Oberoi Cecil Restaurant. Ashiana Goofa Restaurant on The Ridge is an ideal option for local cuisines. Indian Coffee House and Barista are good choices for coffee and light snacks. Wines that are brewed at local breweries can be enjoyed at the places like Lobby Lounge and Rendezvous.

Lakkar Bazaar (wood market) on the Mall Road is a paradise for the tourists who love to collect handicrafts and souvenirs. Other noteworthy items that are worth purchase include woolens, shawls and carpets and there are many shops on the Mall selling them. Himachal Emporium, run by the state government, is an ideal venue to purchase local hand-made items. Shimla being home to fruit orchards also produces jams, wines and squashes that can be purchased from any part of the city.

Simla is connected by road to many popular cities like Kalka, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Ambala and New Delhi via National Highway 22. Frequent bus transport and taxi services can be availed to access the city. Shimla also has connectivity by air to the cities like Chandigarh, Jammu, Kullu, New Delhi and Mumbai. Traveling from Kalka to Shimla via mountain train is not only a fun ride, but the track also enjoys the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trains from Chandigarh and New Delhi also reach Shimla. Sightseeing in Shimla can be best done through walking. Professional travel guide can be hired in the city to explore old colonial buildings on foot. Strolling across the Mall Road and other stretches is a great experience. Private cars and taxis services too can be obtained to get around Shimla.

Other popular tourist places in Shimla include Dorje Drag Monastery, Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary and Summer Hill.

Kufri , which is around 14 km. from Shimla, has mesmerizing beauty and is a well-known destination for hikers and skiers. Mahasu Peak and Indian Tourist Park offer amazing views of the natural surroundings. Home to the world’s highest cricket ground, Chail can be reached by traveling 45 km. from Shimla. Chail palace, Chail Sanctuary and Chail Gurudwara are the worthwhile attractions of the town which also hosts hiking expeditions. Tattapani is another popular place 52 km. from Shimla and is known for erupting hot sulfur springs, known to have healing qualities. Many holy temples and adventure activities like rafting can be accessed here. Naldehra is located 22 km. away from Simla and has its imposing beauty defined by lush green forests, relaxing atmosphere and a beautiful golf course. Narkanda , another hill station 60 km. from the city, is a wonderful skiing resort and also accommodates striking scenic beauty. Apple and peach orchards are in plenty at this place. For extremely pleasing natural settings, Kasauli is a perfect getaway from Simla. Located around 75 km. away, the place offers soothing beauty that can be accessed at Monkey Point and Sunset Point.

Hotel Gulmarg and Hotel Woodland are among the known budget hotels in Shimla. Affordable accommodations are available in the form of guesthouses and home stays across The Mall and other areas. Clarke’s Hotel and Ashiana Regency are the popular choices for mid-budget travelers. The most recommended luxury hotels include The Cecil, The Radisson and Woodville Palace.