Shimla
is one of the popular destinations in India, frequently visited by tourists.
Fascinated by the charms of Shimla, the British made it summer capital of
India in 1819. After the departure of Britishers from India it became the
capital of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla, also spelt Simla, is known for its fast
flowing rivers, tall pine trees, apple orchids, colonial heritage, grand old
buildings, beautiful Lodge, charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names
etc. Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties. This hilly town
is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and green pastures. One can still see the
trail of British Empire in the form of Churches and other buildings.
Shimla is well known for its excellent walks and treks in summer. Winters
of Shimla is known for winter-sports and an ice-skating carnival. Some of
the famous places of Shimla are The Mall, packed with shops and eateries,
and Scandal Point, offers a view of distant snow clad peaks. The main
attraction of Shimla is the Toy Train.
Tourist Attractions
in Shimla
Apart from walks and treks, the hill station of Shimla also has a number of
tourist attractions for you to see and explore. Some of the most popular
tourist attractions in Shimla are as follows.
The Mall - The main attraction in Shimla is The Mall.
This place is a busy shopping area with old colonial buildings, numerous
shops and restaurants. Here one can find narrow cobble-stoned paths through
which you can reach to lower bazaars where tribal from the hills around
gather to sell their quaint and colorful artifacts.
Christ Church - Christ Church is the most prominent
building in Shimla which is situated on the Mall. This is second oldest
church in northern India. It was designed by Colonel J T Boileau in 1844.
There is a large clock fixed on the top and was donated by Colonel Dumbleton
in 1860.
Shimla State Museum - Shimla State Museum is a charming
colonial building situated on the top of the hill that rises above the
Chaura Maidan. This State Museum reflects and displays Himachal's rich
heritage. Museum has the collections of Pahari miniatures, stone sculpture,
local handicrafts, textiles and embroidery.
Jakhoo Hill - Jakhoo Hill is Shimla's highest point from
where one can enjoy watching the superb views of the town and its
surroundings. From the top of this hill at the distance of approximately 2
km, there is an old temple called Hanuman temple.
Summer Hill - Summer Hill in Shimla is a quiet place at
the distance of 5 km from the ridge. This is the perfect place for those who
are here for peace and loneliness. The altitude of Summer Hill is 1,283m. HP
University is also situated over here.
Annandale - Annandale is 2 km below from the centre of
Shimla. Once this place was the playground of Shimla, where racing, polo and
cricket were played during British era. Now a days this place is the
favorite picnic place for tourists.
Sankat Morchan Temple - Sankat Morchan is the place
where a famous and popular Hanuman temple is located. This temple is
situated at an altitude of 1,975m. From this temple one can enjoy watching a
picturesque view of the city below.
Major Attraction of
Shimla - The Toy Train
The Toy Train of Shimla was introduced in 1904 by Lord Curzon. That time a
little steam engine set out from Kalka. This marked a rise in the fortunes
of Shimla because this train made travel much easier in Shimla. This Toy
Train increased more visitors to Shimla. Ride to this small and beautiful
Toy Train is a unique and unforgettable experience. During the journey this
train passes through some of the most exotic terrain.
Activities to Do in Shimla
Shimla is known for its best handicrafts woolen and pashmina shawls,
decorative items, handmade shoes, dolls, woolen caps, carved wooden sticks,
toys and other items. These all items are made from wood and found for sale
in the Lakkar Bazaar. One can find Tibetan jewellery and trinkets in the
small Tibetan shops near the Ridge.
Adventure Activities in Shimla
Shimla is the only place in North India which is known for its natural
ice-skating rink. Every year an Ice-skating Carnival is arranged by the
Ice-skating Club. This carnival is hosted during January. Members of
Ice-skating club display their skill on ice during this carnival and
entertains viewers. Shimla also offers to the visitors riding, trekking,
golfing, fishing, skating and skiing in winter.
How to Reach Shimla
The nearest airport connecting Shimla to other places is at Jubbarhatti.
This airport is just 23 km away from Shimla. Shimla is connected to Kalka by
an enchanting narrow guage railway line. Shimla is well connected by other
major cities like Chandigarh, Manali, Chail and Delhi through road. From all
these major places and destinations, luxury coaches and taxis ply to Shimla.
Hotels/ Resorts in Shimla
Shimla houses several hotels and resorts because of its popularity among
the hill stations of North India. Now a days this hill station has well
developed facilities, easy accessibility and numerous attractions which make
it one of India's most popular hill resorts. Some of the popular hotels and
resorts are:
» Hotel Springfields, Shimla
» The Chalets, Naldehra
» Hotel Gables, Mashobra, Shimla
» Hotel The Cecil, Shimla
» Hotel Silverene, Shimla
» Hotel Kufri Pacific, Shimla
