Discover the enchantment of Shimla, a hill station in the Himalayas! This stunning destination boasts lush forests, rolling valleys, stunning lakes, a pleasant climate, and colonial charm. With a wealth of natural and man-made wonders, Shimla is a must-visit for travellers of all types. But with so many attractions, choosing what to see can be overwhelming.
Fear not; this blog has got you covered! We’ve curated a list of must-see places in Himachal’s capital Shimla for families, honeymooners, and solo travellers. So, prepare for an unforgettable trip to this former summer capital of British India, one of the most popular destinations near Delhi.
Top Places to Visit in Shimla
The Ridge
The Ridge in Shimla is a bustling hub of tourist activity and lies at the city’s heart. This iconic street stretches east to west along Mall Road and leads to the renowned Scandal Point. The Ridge boasts breathtaking views of the majestic snow-capped mountains and azure sky, making it a popular tourist destination. The area is dotted with historic British establishments, offering a unique shopping and dining experience. The street is lined with a variety of boutiques, bars, cafes, restaurants and shops, making it a social hub for locals and visitors alike. Don’t forget your camera, as The Ridge is one of the most photographed parts of Shimla, featuring stunning natural beauty and Gothic architectural structures that add to its charm.
Jakoo Hill
Discover the beauty of Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla. Covered in alpine trees, Jakhoo Hill offers breathtaking views of the Shivalik Ranges and the neighbouring town of Sanjauli. At an elevation of 8000 ft., Jakhoo Hill is home to an ancient temple dedicated to Hanuman, featuring the world’s tallest statue (108 ft.) of this Hindu deity. Filled with legends and mysteries, the temple draws in both devotees and tourists. According to local tales, the temple stands on the very spot where Lord Hanuman took a rest during his quest to retrieve the Sanjeevani Booti to revive Lakshman in the war of Lanka.
The Mall Road, Shimla
Discover the heart of Shimla’s charm on a romantic stroll through the bustling Mall Road. Ideal for couples and visitors of all ages, this popular location offers a wide range of shopping, dining and entertainment options. Browse through trendy cafes, savour delicious cuisine, and indulge in shopping for unique handicrafts and trinkets. You’ll find everything you need from jewellery to books and wooden souvenirs on this bustling street. Alongside shopping, explore other iconic landmarks like the Kali Bari Temple, Town Hall, Gaiety Theatre and Scandal Point. Enjoy a peaceful evening walk with your loved one, surrounded by stunning views of the hills, as vehicle access to the road is restricted. Experience the true essence of Shimla at the picturesque Mall Road.
Do you know that the number of visitors are on the decline in Shimla? Read more about it here.
Christ Church, Shimla
Discover the architectural beauty of Christ Church, a prominent landmark in Shimla. As the second oldest church in northern India, it showcases an exceptional neo-Gothic style. Founded in 1857 and located on the Ridge, the historic church boasts stunning stained glass windows, a brass bell, and impressive towers. Admire its grandeur during the day and be enchanted by its illumination at night. Don’t miss this must-see attraction, even on a 2-day Shimla sightseeing tour, as it houses India’s largest pipe organ.
Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla
Discover the birthplace of Pakistan and East Pakistan at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study in Shimla. A must-visit for history buffs, this iconic building was once the residence of Lord Dufferin, the Viceroy of India, in the late 1800s. Known as the Viceregal Lodge, it was ahead of its time with electricity connection as early as 1888, before the rest of Shimla. After India’s independence, the building served as the summer retreat of the country’s president and was renamed Rashtrapati Niwas. Today, it is a centre for advanced study and research, attracting visitors with its Victorian-style architecture and grandeur. Don’t miss this historic landmark on your Shimla and Manali itinerary.
- Timings:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (1st July to 30th April)
- Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (1st May to 30th June)
- Closed on Mondays
- Entry fee:
- ₹ 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
Kali Bari Temple, Shimla
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Shimla at the iconic Kali Bari Temple. This temple holds immense religious and architectural significance and is a must-visit for all interested in exploring India’s cultural history. Built-in 1845, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, also known as Goddess Shyamala, and features a mesmerizing idol of the deity. Located near Mall Road, it offers visitors a peaceful retreat to connect with their spiritual side. In fact, it is believed that the name “Shimla” itself originates from the name of Goddess Shyamala. Don’t miss out on this unique blend of spiritual and architectural beauty during your visit to Shimla.
Himachal State Museum, Shimla
The Himachal State Museum, also known as the Shimla State Museum, is a colonial mansion located on Mall Road. It holds a diverse collection of miniature paintings, stone sculptures, coins, weapons, armors, dolls, jewellery, handicrafts, and numismatic articles representing the state’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can admire a captivating assortment of bronze idols collected from various temples throughout the Himalayas. This museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, as it serves as a treasure trove of heritage and knowledge.
Viceregal Lodge
The Lodge served as a residence for the Viceroys who ruled the country from 1888 to 1946 during the hot Indian summers. It is a magnificent structure surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and is considered one of the must-see attractions in Shimla. Located at the city’s second-highest elevation, the Lodge is an iconic destination for visitors.
- Timings: 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Tuesdays to Sundays
Lakka Bazaar
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
Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, Shimla
If you’re staying near Mall Road, the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is bound to catch your eye as you step out of your hotel. This century-old building is an impressive Victorian-style structure that was once the go-to place for social gatherings in Shimla. Although a portion of the original building has been demolished, it remains a magnificent sight. It has hosted performances by renowned personalities like Prithviraj Kapoor, K.L. Sehgal, and Rudyard Kipling. Today, the complex comprises an exhibition hall, art gallery, multipurpose hall, and amphitheatre. It is a well-known hub for performing arts, attracting artists and art lovers from all over the world.
- Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; Monday to Friday
- Entry fee:
- ₹ 10 per person for Indians
- ₹ 25 per person for foreigners
You can find out more about Shimla here.
How to reach Shimla?
By Air: If you are looking to fly to Shimla, we suggest you take a flight to Chandigarh or New Delhi. These flights are much more affordable and well-connected via roads to Shimla. It takes about 8 hours from Delhi and 2 hours from Chandigarh via bus or cab.
By Road: Reach Delhi or Chandigarh and take a bus or a cab to Shimla. Easy peasy!
Need a complete guide or a complete arrangement to Shimla and nearby places? Call us or email us at [email protected], and our experts are there to help you out.
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