Disclaimer: The author of the article has vacationed in Shimla several times since her childhood. Most of the recommendations in this article are from her personal experience. Also, this post contains a few affiliate links. If you click on them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read about our editorial policies.
I was just a little girl when I traveled to Shimla for the first time. I was with my parents and my most vivid memory of the trip was witnessing the magic of snowfall from a toy train. Since then, I have been in awe of Shimla and have visited it innumerable times.
Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, the capital of Himachal Pradesh is always buzzing with activities amidst its lush natural vistas. The shops, restaurants, and cafes here are full of life and filled with locals and tourists throughout the day. Especially in Winters, the place transforms into a white wonderland with snow-covered mountains and buildings all around. Plus, Shimla offers several sightseeing spots and things to do. If you are a shopaholic or foodie, Shimla will certainly leave you spoilt for choice!
In this article, I will take you through a detailed travel guide for the place, including what Shimla is famous for, the best places to visit, activities to do in Shimla, the top food recommendations, and a lot more. By the end, you will surely know how to plan a perfect trip to this paradise. Let’s begin.
Contents
Top 5 Highlights Of My Shimla Trips
# Extreme Adventure
I am an adventure enthusiast and always looking for ways to get an adrenaline rush. In Shimla, partaking in thrilling activities such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and sledging were the highlight of my trips. Moreover, if you are fit and up for it, you can choose to trek up to the temples here through the woods, situated at short distances from the city center.
# Delectable Food
Besides modern world food, Shimla offers some mouth-watering traditional delicacies that are a must-try while holidaying here. We’ll discuss more about Shimla’s food in sometime, but here are some local dishes that are a must-try:
- Sidu (a type of bread)
- Patande (fried pancakes)
- Madra (a curry made with dal and yogurt)
- Chana Madra (a curry made with chickpeas and yogurt)
- Chutney, Chana Bhatura (a curry made with chickpeas and deep-fried bread)
- Chana Aloo (a curry made with potatoes and chickpeas)
- Bhagjery (a type of sweet pastry)
- Chikki (a type of sweet made with sesame seeds)
- Mittha (a type of rice pudding)
# Spiritual & Architectural Attractions
Shimla has several temples, the most popular ones being Jakhoo Temple, Tara Devi Temple, and Mansa Devi Temple. In addition to that, you can also see captivating buildings with brilliant neo-Gothic architecture. The Institute of Advance Learning, Gorton Castle, Bantony Castle, and Christ Church are some of the many splendid buildings with a unique, old-world charm.
# Shop Till You Drop
Shopping is one of the activities I thoroughly enjoy in Shimla. There are a variety of stores to choose from, ranging from souvenir shops and traditional handicraft emporiums to high-end boutiques. A popular shopping hotspot is Mall Road as it is home to a number of stores selling clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, and more. Lakkar Bazaar, famous for its wood carvings and other handicrafts, is also a must-visit for anyone traveling to Shimla.
Did You Know?
Shimla is home to the second oldest church in north India. Christ Church was built in 1857 and is an incredible landmark of the town. This well-designed structure features glasswork and is beautifully lit up every night.
# Snow Haven
Shimla is world-famous for its unearthly beauty. During the winter season (December to February), the hill station turns into a haven for snowfall enthusiasts, further enhancing the aura of this scenic town. No wonder, it is considered among the best snow places in India. One of my favorite things to do here was to take a stroll on the snow-covered paths.
Brief History Of Shimla
Shimla has a long history, dating back to the 17th century, when it was a small village. The British East India Company acquired the village in 1817 and soon, it became a popular summer retreat for British officials. In the year 1864, Shimla became the summer capital of the Britishers.
That is why the picturesque town is home to many British structures such as the Viceregal Lodge, Auckland House, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Gorton Castle, Peterhoff House, and Gaiety Theater, which are the vestiges of colonial times.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Shimla experienced a period of rapid growth. New roads were built and a railway line was opened in 1903. In 1906, the Kalka-Shimla railway line increased its accessibility and boosted its popularity. With wide streets and elegant buildings, the town was developed.
The Mall, a new town center, was opened in 1920. After India gained independence in 1947, Shimla became the capital of the newly formed state of Himachal Pradesh.
Did You Know?
Shimla is located on top of 7 different hills, which are called Jakhu Hill, Elysium Hill, Prospect Hill, Bantony Hill, Summer Hill, Observatory Hill, and Inverarm Hill.
Best Time To Visit Shimla
If your goal is to see snowfall in Shimla, then the best time to travel to the hill town are the months from December to February. You can also plan your trip during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
However, if you are more interested in cherishing the clear green landscapes and more tolerable weather, then the summer months of April, May and June are the best for you. During this time, the earthy scent of the pine, fir, cedar, and oak trees will be a treat for your senses!
To sum up,
- Peak Season: May to Mid-July and December-January
- Shoulder Season: September & October
- Off-Season: Mid-July to late September
Things To Pack For Your Shimla Trip
If you are planning a trip to the scenic hill town of Shimla, it becomes crucial to pack certain essentials to have a hassle-free vacation, besides your usual water bottle and snacks. In this section, I will give you practical tips and valuable insights on what to pack for your Shimla trip. Here you go:
- Comfortable Shoes – Comfortable walking shoes are essential for your Shimla trip as you might want to hike up the hills.
- First Aid Kit – Owing to the extremely cold weather, it is advisable to pack medicines for cough, cold, and headaches. You might also want to carry a first aid kit with all the essentials like:
- Bandages
- Antiseptic creams
- Painkillers
- Digital thermometer
- ORS Tetra Packs
- Pain relief spray or gel
- Betadine
- Savlon or Dettol
- Crocin or Paracetamol
- D-Cold Total or Vicks Action 500
- Crepe Bandage
- Nasivion
- Hat/Cap – If you thought a cold place like this may not be sunny, it’s far from the reality. The sun here can be extremely harsh & lead to a strong tan. So a wide-brimmed hat will help you in protecting your face and eyes during the day.
- Sunscreen – A 50 spf sunscreen stick is also essential to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun when you venture out during the day.
- Raincoat/Umbrella – Sometimes, the weather in Shimla is unpredictable. So it is best to carry a raincoat or an umbrella.
- Warm Clothes – Winters are extremely cold here and thus, you must be completely prepared. Carry warm clothing like heavy jackets, coats, full body thermals, thick socks, gloves, caps, mufflers, long overcoats, high-cover boots, windcheater, etc.
- Thermal Tiffins & Bottles – When you are exploring Shimla’s splendid landscapes, it is recommended that you carry thermal tiffin boxes to keep your food warm. Also have a thermal flask if you want to keep your drinks (coffee, tea, water) hot for a long time.
- Cash – Almost everywhere in Shimla you can make payments online, but it’s always good to carry some loose cash in case of an emergency situation.
How To Reach Shimla?
Shimla is easily accessible and you can choose any of these modes as per your convenience:
By Air: Located 120 km away, Chandigarh Airport is the closest major airport to Shimla. The route from Chandigarh to Shimla can be covered by road. In addition to that, Shimla has a smaller airport in Jubbarhatti, which is 23 km away. However, it has limited operations based on the season or weather.
By Train: Shimla and Kalka are connected by a 96-kilometer-long meter-gauge railway line. It takes around 6 hours to cover this distance. Three to four trains run every day between the two cities, with the Shivalik Express being the most luxurious. Take the Rail Car if you are seeking a truly unique experience. It’s an exclusive train that runs only on the Shimla-Kalka route in India.
By Road: Offering an incredible road trip experience, Shimla is well-connected to its neighboring cities, including New Delhi (350 km), Dehradun (230 km), and Chandigarh (115 km) via national highways like NH 1 and NH 22. Tourists and weekenders prefer traveling by car to this hill town as it’s a convenient mode and you get to cherish the scenery on the way. You can also opt for private buses from these cities.
Where To Exchange Your Foreign Currency?
There are many banks and money exchange companies that offer foreign currency exchange and withdrawal services from their branches in Shimla. All you have to do is visit Mall Road and visit any of these outlets to get your currency exchanged:
- State Bank of India
- Axis Bank
- HDFC Bank
- ICICI Bank
- Thomas Cook
- Western Union
My Top Food Recommendations In Shimla
If you are a foodie like me who is always looking to explore new delicacies on trips, Shimla will turn out to be quite an interesting place for you. It is filled with incredible eateries that will satisfy your culinary cravings, ranging from the busy markets of Mall Road to the famed Jakhoo Hill. Here are some of the best places to eat at when you are in Shimla:
1. Cafe Simla Times: Cafe, Biergarten & Bar – Its multi-cuisine menu offers a variety of dishes for all types of palates. My top picks include scrumptious Tiramisu, savoury wood fire pizzas, and continental and Indian platters.
Timings: 1:30 pm to 10:30 pm
Address: The Cafe, within Hotel Willow Banks premises, Mall Road, Shimla
2. Wake and Bake – It’s a simple café where you can enjoy cakes and bakes with a hearty cup of tea or coffee on a winter afternoon. French crepes, Lebanese hummus, walnut pie and indulgent cheese toasties are must-try here.
Timings: 9:30 am to 10 pm
Address: 34/1, Mall Road, Middle Bazar, The Mall, Shimla
3. Cafe Sol – Overlooking beautiful hills, it is a multi-cuisine cafe in the center of town. It is located on the terrace of Hotel Combermere. Don’t forget to try cheesy lasagna, freshly-baked warm cookies, spiced thali platters, etc.
Timings: 11 am to 11 pm
Address: Mall Road, The Mall, Shimla
4. Himachali Rasoi – A must-visit if you are looking for an authentic pahadi thali curated by age-old chefs in Shimla! Try their classic delicacies such as Sidu, and Chana Madra.
Timings: 12:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Address: 54, Mall Road, Middle Bazar, The Mall, Shimla
5. Hotel Marina – A 4-star property in Shimla featuring alfresco seating coupled with the pristine vistas of the mountains, it’s a must-visit for every barbeque lover. The menu has multiple cuisines and a live barbeque section along with a bar. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic dinner in Shimla.
Address: Near Kamla Nehru Hospital, Milsington Estate, The Mall, Shimla
6. Cecil Restaurant – Fascinated by colonial culture and dining? Visit this restaurant in the heart of Shimla. The place is known for its delectable Thai recipes and is a must-visit if you like fine dining.
Timings: 9:30 am to 10 pm
Address: The Mall, Mall Road, Chaura Maidan, Shimla
7. Indian Coffee House – Want to enjoy a cup of refreshing coffee or tea over some good conversations? Visit this iconic coffee house in Shimla that has been popular for ages! You can see a glimpse of the old Shimla with the rustic ambience and the classic coffee house seating here.
Timings: 8 am to 9 pm
Address: 1, The, Mall Road, Lower Bazar, Shimla
8. Goofa Ashiana Restaurant- Perfect place to try Himachali cuisine, it is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Its rich, creamy tomato soup is the speciality here. Do try their vegetarian pakodas when it rains!
Timings: 9 am to 10:30 pm
Address: Ridge, Middle Bazar, The Mall, Shimla
9. Devicos Restaurant & D Lounge Bar – It is a casual, dark gastropub that features a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for partygoers, this place offers an international range of food and drinks.
Timings: 10:30 am to 10:30 pm
Address: 5, Mall Road, Vijaya Bank, The Mall, Shimla
10. Honey Hut – Shimla – A popular café now situated in Mall Road, Shimla, Honey Hut was a 1920s colonial-era building! It is a small but nice place to enjoy coffee, pizza, and dessert.
Timings: 9 am to 9:30 pm
Address: Khadi Bhawan, 70, Mall Road, Middle Bazar, The Mall, Shimla
Where I stayed + Shimla’s Best Hotels
I stayed at the Woodville Palace Hotel in Shimla, a former summer residence of the Raja Rana of Jubbal, which has been a heritage property since 1938. Set against the backdrop of Himalayan mountains, the spectacular property offered the perfect combination of classic luxury, timeless elegance and modern hospitality. It is located just a short walk away from Mall Road, making it quite convenient for sightseeing and other activities.
Other Top-Rated Accommodations In Shimla:
This magnificent retreat was once the esteemed abode of Lord Kitchener, the former commander-in-chief of the British army. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views from the indoor and outdoor dining areas, or indulge in a personalized spa experience. The property’s attentive service makes it one of the top choices of resorts in Shimla.
Price: INR 27,500-1,75,000 (USD 330-2,100)
Address: Charabra, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
The Oberoi Cecil, a Heritage Grand hotel, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with its rich wooden floors, glowing fireplaces, grand atrium lobby and breathtaking mountain views. There is also a special area for kids and a dedicated children’s activity center. The property continues to maintain its exclusivity with a colonial charm and classic elegance.
Price: INR 15,000-75,000 (USD 180-900)
Address: Chaura Maidan Rd, Nabha, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Offering a unique experience with its architecture and design, Taj Theog Resort and Spa, Shimla showcases the splendor of Himachal Pradesh. Guests are treated to majestic views of snow-capped peaks from every corner of this stunning resort. Bringing a breath of fresh air to the city of Shimla, this luxurious property is truly a retreat like no other.
Price: INR 30,000-1,20,000 (USD 360-1440)
Address: Tehsil, Taj Theog Resort & Spa Shimla, Theog, Himachal Pradesh
Offering a completely modern take on the iconic hill station of Shimla, WelcomHeritage Elysium is nestled in a tranquil corner surrounded by vibrant greenery. Instead of the colonial-style ambience usually associated with the hill station, this property offers a luxurious and contemporary experience. Rich, luxurious wood creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, which is sure to capture the hearts of all guests.
Price: INR 7,000-30,000 (USD 85-360)
Address: Near Geeta Mandir, Tutikandi, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Radisson Jass Shimla is snuggled in the Himalayan mountains and provides guests with convenient access to the city center and stunning views from its rooms and suites. Popular attractions like the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, Jakhu Temple, Christ Church and the former Viceregal Lodge at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study are located within minutes of the property.
Price: INR 9,000-22,000 (USD 110-265)
Address: Goodwood Estate, Lower, Bharari, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Surrounded by lush, evergreen forests, Welcomhotel Shimla is a tranquil oasis in the lower Himalayas and is situated just 10 km from the hustle and bustle of Shimla. It combines the best of Shimla’s culture, art, and recreation with its renowned hospitality, offering you memorable experiences of culture, food, and nature. Here, you can indulge in the tranquility of a forest bath and the beautiful chorus of birdsong, or choose to relax and be revitalized with spa treatments.
Price: INR 13,500-22,000 (USD 160-265)
Address: Village Patengali, Tarapur P.O, Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh
The Radisson Kufri offers a magnificent view of the snow-capped Himalayas and lush green valleys that make up the gorgeous northern Indian hill station of Himachal Pradesh. This lavish property is perfect for those looking to enjoy picnics, skiing, and trekking. Additionally, it is conveniently located near the vibrant leisure hub of Shimla, Mall Road, and other attractions.
Price: INR 8,250-21,700 (USD 100-260)
Address: 0 km Milestone Kufri, Highway, Fagu, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
At The Orchid Hotel Shimla, luxury is redefined as the guests are provided with a truly unique experience. The hotel is nestled in the hills of the picturesque city and the grandeur of its structure is a sight to behold. Its cozy rooms offer travelers the ideal blend of modern comforts and natural beauty. Moreover, there is a plethora of amenities like parking, a spa, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, etc.
Price: INR 4,900-16,800 (USD 60-200)
Address: Shimla Bypass, Frood, Sanjauli, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
This resort in Kufri offers 16 luxurious rooms, all with plush interiors. Four of these rooms also feature attics, ideal for families or groups who want to stay together and enjoy some quality time. The property offers a full dining experience with multiple cuisines as well as local Pahari delicacies to tantalize your taste buds. Also, there is an open seating area with a bonfire and a lovely garden to enjoy.
Price: INR 9,500-12,500 (USD 115-150)
Address: NH-22, near amusement park Dochi, Lambidhar, Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
Budget Accommodations In Shimla
If you are looking for a pocket-friendly yet comfortable stays in Shimla, you can consider the following homestays and hostels:
- G.S. Cottage
- The Hostelers Homestay
- Vatsalyam Home Stay
- Hanu Vatika
- The Kufri Uphills
- Treebo Trend Daak Bangla Retreat
- The Hosteller Shimla
- Together Shimla
- Abuzz Oxfordcaps Simla
- The Hosteller Kufri
TWT Tip: It is highly recommended that you book your stay in advance. Shimla is a popular weekend getaway for people living in Delhi and Chandigarh. So it’s quite crowded at all times. You might want to book a hotel in advance to avoid any last-minute chaos.
Sightseeing Recommendations For Shimla
1. The Ridge – One of the most popular Shimla things to do is visiting the Ridge, the epicentre of all tourist activities in this Himalayan hill town. It has easy accessibility from all other important spots like Mall Road, Scandal Point, and Lakkar Bazaar. The Ridge, Shimla is also the location for the most-awaited Summer Festival, which is held every year in April or May in Shimla.
Suggested length of visit: 3 to 4 hours
Timing: 8 am to 6 pm
Location: The Ridge is located in the centre of the hill station, right by Mall Road.
Entry fee – Free
2. Mall Road – Mall Road in Shimla is dotted with a number of shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, street food stalls, banks ATMs, and money exchange shops. It is a vibrant lane and is a must-visit when you are here. One of the main attractions in Shimla, it is lined with several colonial-era buildings as well.
Suggested length of visit: 2 to 3 hours
Timing: All day
Location: Mall Road is located at a distance of 6 km from Shimla bus stand.
Entry fee – Free
TWT Tip: Mall Road is the best place to shop for souvenirs along with local handicrafts, hand-woven shawls, and warm clothes.
3. Jakhoo Hill – One of the most popular tourist attractions, Jakhoo Hill is the highest point in Shimla. It is covered with alluring alpine trees. The most famous spots of this hill are Jakhoo Temple and Hanuman statues. Visit this lovely hill if you are seeking a peaceful break from the busy touristy vibes of Shimla’s downtown.
Suggested length of visit: 2 to 3 hours
Timing: 6 am to 11 am and 4 pm to 8 pm
Entry fee – Free
TWT Tip: While walking to reach the summit of the peak, be careful and try not to draw attention from the wild monkeys here.
4. Christ Church – An excellent architectural monument built in the British era, Christ Church is visited by tourists who want to know about Christianity from the colonial time. It is an excellent architectural monument built in the British era and is the second-oldest church in North India. This magnificent monument stands as a testament to the region’s colonial past with its brilliant Neo-Gothic style of architecture.
Suggested length of visit: 1 hour
Timing: 8 am to 6 pm
Location: Ridge To US Club, The Mall, Shimla
Entry fee – Free
5. Kufri – Located at a distance of 15 kilometers from Shimla, Kufri is known for its spellbinding views of the Himalayas. It is a picturesque town that is especially popular among newlyweds visiting Shimla on their honeymoon. This tranquil place features lush greenery during the summer season and a thick blanket of white snow in the winter season. Dense pine and deodar forests, along with a myriad of local flora and fauna further enhance the beauty of Kufri.
Suggested length of visit: 4 to 5 hours
Timing: 6 am to 6:30 pm
Entry fee – Free
6. Chadwick Waterfall – Tucked away in an undisturbed corner of Glen Forests, visiting Chadwick Waterfall is among the best things to do in Shimla. The water cascades from a height of only 100 meters, but it makes for a pleasing sight. The trek through the dense forests, surrounded by pine trees, exotic flowers, calm breeze, and the fragrance of the wild, is sure to uplift your senses.
Suggested length of visit: 1 to 2 hours
Timing: All day
Location: New Summer Hill, Shimla
Entry fee – Free
7. Johnnie’s Wax Museum – The first wax museum in the state, Johnnie’s Wax Museum is your best bet if you are vacationing with your kids. You can see several lifelike wax replicas of famous Indian and international movie stars along with other influential personalities such as Mahatma Gandhi, Steve Jobs, Harry Potter, James Bond, and Tony Stark
Suggested length of visit: 1 to 2 hours
Timing: 10 am to 10 pm
Location: Near Willow Bank, Mall Road, The Mall, Shimla
Entry fee: INR 250, free entry for children below 5 years of age
8. Indian Institute of Advanced Study – A popular tourist attraction in Shimla, this place houses photos of the interaction between Indian leaders and Britishers. Once the summer home to the Viceroy of India, now you can take a guided tour of the galleries here. You can also witness important historical events like the Shimla conference at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study.
Suggested length of visit: 2 hours
Timing: 9 am to 5:30 pm on all days except Monday
Location: Rashtrapati Nivas, Chaura Maidan, Near Birds Zoo, Shimla
Entry fee: INR 20 for the garden visit, INR 40 for Indians and USD 1 for foreigners
9. Green Valley – One of the top things to see in Shimla, Green Valley is a great spot to stroll around and click lovely photos. A few Bollywood movies are also shot here, owing to its pristine landscape and endless beauty. Its splendor has earned a place in several travel articles and books. Green Valley is a hotspot for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and peace seekers due to the views of magnificent snow-capped mountains and lush green deodar and pine trees.
Suggested length of visit: 1 to 2 hours
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm
Location: Near Kufri
Entry fee: Free
10. Tara Devi Temple – If you love the calm vibes of temples, then visit this famous temple in your itinerary when in Shimla. Situated just a 20-minute drive from Shimla on the Kalka-Shimla highway, Tara Devi Temple is perched atop a hilltop. It is highly revered by tourists as well as the locals.
Suggested length of visit: 1 to 2 hours
Timing: 7 am to 6 pm on all days of the week.
Location: NH.22, Kachi Ghati, Bagh, Shimla
Entry fee: Free
TWT Tip: The best way to explore Shimla is by taking a leisurely stroll and trekking. As Shimla is a hilly destination, it becomes very important that you wear only comfortable shoes that provide good grip and support. Don’t carry any fancy footwear here as they are absolutely unsuitable for this place.
Activities To Enjoy In Shimla
1. Toy Train Ride
Counted among the top-rated activities in Shimla, enjoying the Kalka-Shimla toy train ride is the first thing that comes to everyone’s mind. The old railway line along the mountains displays a stunning sight. I enjoy watching the train moving like a snake on the curved tracks. And oh boy, you are going to be lucky if a snowfall starts during your journey!
Price: INR 225 (USD 3 onwards)
2. Ice Skating
Indulging in snow activities is a must in Shimla during peak winters. At its open-air ice skating rink, you can show off your skills (or not!). Every year, thousands of tourists come here to have this lively experience. The skating rink is located on Mall Road, which is the main street of the old town.
Price: INR 200 (USD 2)
Timings: 8 am-11 am and 5 pm-8 pm (December to March)
3. Nature Walk In Pine Forests
There are many short hikes from Shimla that take you through dense pine forests in and around the city. Whether you are vacationing with your partner or traveling solo, taking nature walks here is a wholesome experience.
Price: Free
Timings: Open 24/7
4. Camping
Staying at a luxurious hotel is nice for sure, but have you ever thought about camping in Shimla under a billion stars? Imagine being in the lap of nature and resting amidst nature’s finest setup! This hill town is a paradise for trekkers and is home to a number of incredible spots for setting up camps and spending the night in the woods.
Price: Free
Timings: Open 24/7
5. River Rafting
Shimla is not all about peace and natural beauty only; it offers a few adventure activities as well. One of them is river rafting in the free-flowing rivers. River Sutlej, flowing near the city, is a common place for river rafting. Stretched across an area of 12 km, the most sought-after river rafting spots are available between Chabba and Tattapani. It takes nearly 2 hours to finish it.
Price: INR 1,200 (USD 15 onwards)
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
6. Paragliding
A must-try for adventure enthusiasts, paragliding in Shimla is something you should definitely try. Gliding across the crystal blue skies of Shimla and looking down at the lush greenery is a heavenly experience. The hill station’s fine landscape makes it an ideal place to take the plunge!
Price: INR 3,500 (USD 40 onwards)
Timings: 6 am to 10:30 am and 5 pm to 7 pm
7. Cycling
Cycling is quite a popular activity in Shimla and many tourists rent bicycles to explore the town. Pedaling around the Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary is your best bet on a lazy day. Far from the hustle-bustle of city life, this place is home to wildlife.
Price: INR 100 (USD 2 per hour)
8. Golfing
Golfing in Naldhera is an interesting thing to do when in Shimla. The golf course here is surrounded by natural beauty all around. Try your hand at golfing and have a memorable experience at this 18-hole golf course.
Timings: 7 am to 7 pm from April to September and 8 am to 5 pm from October to March
Price: INR 400 (green fee) for Indians and USD 7 (green fee) for foreign nationals
9. Trekking
Shimla is home to beautiful natural trails and thus, trekking is a popular activity here, especially among adventurers. The majestic and exquisite ranges of the Himalayas serve as the best spots for hiking in this town. There are many untouched terrains as well as hills for you to climb on. A sought-after starting point for trekkers in Shimla is the Bhuri Singh Museum. You can trek up to the Ridge and then to Jakhu Hill if you are looking for a day tour.
10. Skiing
Head to Shimla during the winter season for a remarkable skiing experience! This exquisite snow hotspot of India is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts. Make the most of your winter vacation by visiting this premier destination, and indulge in its captivating white beauty. The valley transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland when it’s covered with a blanket of snow.
Price: INR 1500 (USD 20 per person)
Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
Shopping In Shimla
Shimla is a great place to go shopping, dotted with quaint shops and stores offering a myriad of items, ranging from traditional handicrafts to modern fashion and electronics. Here are some options:
1. The Mall Road – The most popular shopping location in Shimla, the Mall Road is lined with a number of shops that sell everything from traditional items like woolen shawls and pashminas to trending clothes, accessories, jewelry, souvenirs, and a lot more.
2. Lakkar Bazaar – The oldest and the most crowded shopping area in Shimla, Lakkar Bazaar is your best bet when you want to buy traditional Himachali handicrafts such as wooden toys, artefacts, wooden masks, carvings, etc. You can also purchase souvenirs from here.
3. Tibetan Market – This authentic market in Shimla is the best choice if you are looking to shop for some ethnic Tibetan items like prayer flags, Tibetan incense, and other colorful items.
4. Lower Bazaar – A great place for buying different kinds of items at affordable rates — food items, household items, clothing, accessories, etc.
5. The Ridge – My favorite in Shimla, The Ridge is an open public area located in the heart of the town. I love buying traditional items, handicrafts, and handmade goods from here.
6. Himachal Emporium – If you love shopping in solitude, then Himachal Emporium is the place to be. Offering a Pahari collection and vintage handicraft products, this shop is completely different from the town’s pulsating markets and streets. Stepping inside the store will transport you to a world of traditional Himachali craftsmanship. The exotic products at the Himachal Emporium include beautiful clothes woven with silk, wool, and other fabrics, along with pottery, earthenware, etc.
Complete 3-Day Itinerary Of Shimla
Shimla is a quaint place and one can spend as much time as they want in this natural marvel. However, if you don’t have much time on your hands, then I would suggest making a plan for at least 3 days if you want to see the best of this hill town. Here is a 3-day Shimla travel itinerary:
DAY 1
- Start your day by exploring the Mall Road. Take a leisurely stroll. Shop for local handicrafts and indulge in mouth-watering food at its popular restaurants and cafes.
- Visit Christ Church, a prominent landmark of Shimla.
- Enjoy the panoramic views from Scandal Point.
- Hike to Jakhu Temple in the afternoon. Cherish the magnificent views from the top.
- Wind up your day by witnessing the beautiful sunset at Ridge Maidan.
DAY 2
- Located about 16 kilometres (10 miles) from Shimla, take a day trip to Kufri, a pristine hill station. If you are visiting in the winter season, then enjoy snow activities like skiing, sliding down the snow-covered slopes on a tube, and throwing snowballs at your travel companions.
- After returning to Shimla in the evening, head to the vibrant local markets and shop for souvenirs. Enjoy traditional Himachali cuisine at a local restaurant.
DAY 3
- Visit the Viceregal Lodge, also known as Rashtrapati Niwas. The grandeur of this colonial-era building and its gardens is outstanding!
- Head to Annandale, a well-known tourist attraction in Shimla. It is a scenic ground offering opportunities for picnicking and outdoor activities.
- Take the Kalka-Shimla toy train ride in the afternoon and admire the breathtaking views of mountains and valleys along the way.
- At last, visit Tara Devi Temple, which is located on a hilltop. Soak in the serene beauty of the atmosphere.
How Much Can A Shimla Trip Cost?
Depending on the length of your stay, type of accommodations, activities you want to do, choice of conveyance, and other factors, the cost of your Shimla trip can vary greatly. Generally speaking, the most basic 3-day Shimla stay will cost you nearly INR 10,000 to 15,000 (USD 120 to 180) for two people. This includes hotel accommodations, meals, and transport. The cost will go higher if you plan to stay longer, add activities, and splurge on lavish accommodations.
Pros & Cons Of Shimla
Pros
- Pleasant weather in summer
- Lovely landscapes and views
- Easy access to nearby attractions
- Great accommodation and shopping options
- Rich local culture, natural heritage, and cuisine
- Tons of adventure activities
Cons
- Crowded tourist attractions
- Limited options for public transport, medical facilities, and nightlife
- Winters can be quite cold
TWT Experience Summary Of Shimla Trip
Shimla is truly a vacationer’s paradise. By now, I have lost count of the number of times I have escaped to this hill station. For me, it’s a weekend escape and my go-to place whenever I have a writer’s block. Just taking a stroll amidst Old Elizabethan architecture, the town square, charming cafes, and heartwarming locals smoothens my thought flow.
Set amidst the picturesque Himalayan ranges, Shimla should be on top of your list if you are constantly seeking natural beauty, pleasant climate, and colonial charm.
Now, here’s the call for the Shimla Express. Let’s embark on an enthralling journey to the Queen of the Hills.
Frequently Asked Questions On Shimla Travel
1. What is the best time to visit Shimla?
If you want to experience pleasant weather and moderate temperatures, then the best months to visit Shimla are from April to June. But if you are an adventurer and want to indulge in snow activities, then travel there between November and January.
2. What are the must-see attractions in Shimla?
The top places to visit in Shimla are Mall Road, The Ridge, Summer Hill, Jakhoo Temple, Chadwick Falls, Glen, and Lakkar Bazaar.
3. How can I reach Shimla?
Shimla is easily accessible. The most popular mode is via train as the town has its own railway station. You can reach here via bus, taxi, or flight as well.
4. What kinds of accommodations are available in Shimla?
There are a number of accommodation options in Shimla, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. In addition to that, there are homestays and guest houses as well.
5. Which are the best things to do in Shimla?
There are different kinds of outdoor activities available in Shimla such as trekking, paragliding, skiing, ice skating, camping, cycling, etc. You can also indulge in shopping and visiting historical sites. For nature lovers, the best activities would be exploring the splendor of this hill town by going on scenic drives and walking tours.
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4 thoughts on “Shimla Travel Guide 2024: Things To do, Places To Visit, Famous Eateries & Stays”
Excellent writing with all required information for travelers.
Thank you very much for taking the time to leave your valuable feedback on our content. 🙂
Your detailed Shimla guide is a godsend for travelers seeking a memorable mountain retreat! With a perfect balance of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation, you’ve curated an experience that caters to every wanderer’s desire. Your breakdown of trip costs and insider tips ensure a hassle-free journey, making it easier for adventurers to immerse themselves in the charm of Shimla. Thanks for crafting this invaluable guide—I’m already planning my next getaway!
Thank you very much for taking the time to leave your valuable feedback on our content. 🙂