Shimla Travel Information

Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is one of India’s most popular hill stations known for its colonial architecture, pleasant climate, and scenic beauty. It offers a perfect blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and vibrant markets. Here’s a complete guide for first-time foreign tourists visiting Shimla

The Ridge

  • Description: A large open space in the heart of Shimla, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and colonial-era buildings. It is the hub of all cultural activities and events in Shimla.
  • Timings: Open all day.
  • Entry Fee: Free.
  • Highlights: Christ Church, General Post Office, cultural events, and festivals

Mall Road

  • Description: The main street of Shimla, lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and colonial buildings. It’s a great place for shopping, dining, and enjoying the town’s vibrant atmosphere.
  • Timings: Open all day.
  • Entry Fee: Free.
  • Highlights: Scandal Point, Gaiety Theatre, Lakkar Bazaar

Jakhoo Temple

  • Description: A famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located on Jakhoo Hill, the highest peak in Shimla. It offers breathtaking views of the Shivalik Range.
  • Timings: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
  • Entry Fee: Free.
  • Highlights: Giant Hanuman statue, panoramic views, a moderate hike to the temple

Christ Church

  • Description: The second oldest church in North India, known for its neo-Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. It is located on The Ridge and is a prominent landmark in Shimla.
  • Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
  • Entry Fee: Free.
  • Highlights: Gothic architecture, serene ambiance

Kufri

  • Description: A small hill station located about 16 km from Shimla, known for its picturesque landscapes, trekking trails, and adventure activities such as skiing and tobogganing.
  • Timings: Daytime visits.
  • Entry Fee: Free; activities are charged separately.
  • Highlights: Kufri Fun World, horse riding, and skiing

The Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas)

  • Description: A historic building that was once the residence of the British Viceroy of India. It now houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study and is known for its beautiful architecture and well-maintained gardens.
  • Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
  • Entry Fee: ₹40 for Indian tourists, ₹85 for foreign tourists.
  • Highlights: Guided tours, British-era architecture, historical significance

Shimla State Museum

  • Description: A museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh, including ancient artifacts, paintings, handicrafts, and sculptures.
  • Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays).
  • Entry Fee: ₹20 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners.
  • Highlights: Himachali culture and heritage, ancient artifacts

Annandale

  • Description: A flat terrain located about 4 km from Shimla, used as a playground for sports like cricket, polo, and golf. It also houses an Army Heritage Museum.
  • Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
  • Entry Fee: Free.
  • Highlights: Golf course, Army Heritage Museum, scenic views

Summer Hill

  • Description: A picturesque township on the outskirts of Shimla, known for its serene environment and scenic beauty. It is a popular spot for nature walks and trekking.
  • Timings: Open all day.
  • Entry Fee: Free.
  • Highlights: Nature walks, scenic views, the University of Himachal Pradesh

Tara Devi Temple

  • Description: A popular religious site located on a hilltop, about 11 km from Shimla, offering stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
  • Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM.
  • Entry Fee: Free.
  • Highlights: Peaceful ambiance, scenic location

Where to Stay in Shimla

Luxury Hotels and Resorts

  • The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla: A luxury heritage hotel offering colonial-style rooms, fine dining, a spa, and an indoor heated pool.
  • Wildflower Hall, An Oberoi Resort: Located in Mashobra, a few kilometers from Shimla, this luxury resort offers stunning views, top-notch amenities, and spa facilities

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Hotel Willow Banks: Located on Mall Road, offering comfortable rooms with modern amenities and easy access to major attractions.
  • Honeymoon Inn Shimla: Offers cozy rooms, good food, and beautiful views of the valley, ideal for mid-range travelers

Budget Hotels and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Shingar: A budget-friendly option located on Mall Road with basic amenities and decent facilities.
  • Hotel Gulmarg Regency: Provides affordable accommodation with clean rooms and good service, located close to Mall Road

Homestays

  • Vatsalyam Homestay: A popular homestay offering a homely environment, delicious home-cooked meals, and friendly hosts.
  • North Moon Homestay: Known for its welcoming hosts, comfortable rooms, and beautiful views

Where to Eat in Shimla

Local Restaurants and Cafés

  • Indian Coffee House: A historic café located on Mall Road, known for its classic South Indian dishes and old-world charm.
  • Wake & Bake Café: A popular café on Mall Road serving a variety of cuisines, including Italian, Israeli, and Continental dishes, with a great view from the rooftop

Fine Dining Restaurants

  • The Restaurant at The Oberoi Cecil: Offers a fine dining experience with a mix of Indian, Continental, and Chinese cuisines in a luxurious setting.
  • Ashiana & Goofa: A Himachal Tourism restaurant on The Ridge, known for its Himachali cuisine and scenic views

Multi-Cuisine Restaurants

  • Honey Hut: A café on Mall Road famous for its honey-based desserts, snacks, and beverages.
  • Café Simla Times: Offers a mix of Continental, Italian, and Indian cuisines with a great ambiance and music

Where to Eat in Shimla

Local Himachali Cuisine

  • Himachali Rasoi: Located on Mall Road, this restaurant offers authentic Himachali dishes like “Dham” (a traditional feast), “Siddu” (steamed bread), and “Chana Madra

Activities for Tourists in Shimla

  1. Heritage Walks and City Tours

    • Description: Explore Shimla’s colonial heritage with guided walks along The Ridge, Mall Road, and visits to historic sites like the Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, and Gaiety Theatre.
    • Best Time: March to June, September to November.

  2. Trekking and Nature Walks

    • Description: Shimla offers several trekking trails and nature walks, including the trek to Jakhoo Temple, Summer Hill, and Glen Forest.
    • Best Time: March to June, September to November.

  3. Toy Train Ride

    • Description: Enjoy a scenic ride on the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla toy train, which passes through lush green hills, forests, and tunnels.
    • Best Time: All year round, except during heavy snowfall.

  4. Ice Skating

    • Description: Shimla has the only natural ice skating rink in India, offering ice skating sessions during winter.
    • Best Time: December to February.

  5. River Rafting and Camping

    • Description: Experience river rafting in the nearby Tattapani region and enjoy riverside camping with bonfires and local Himachali meals.
    • Best Time: March to June.

  6. Shopping

    • Description: Explore local markets like Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar (for wooden handicrafts), and Tibetan Market (for handicrafts and souvenirs).
    • Best Time: All year round.

  7. Adventure Sports in Kufri

    • Description: Enjoy adventure activities like skiing, tobogganing, horse riding, and zip-lining in Kufri, a small hill station near Shimla.
    • Best Time: December to February (for snow activities), March to June (for other activities).

  8. Yoga and Meditation Retreats

    • Description: Join yoga and meditation sessions at various retreats and wellness centers in and around Shimla.
    • Best Time: All year round

Tips for Visiting Shimla

Weather: Shimla has a pleasant climate during summers, while winters are cold with occasional snowfall. Pack accordingly.
Permits: No special permits are required for visiting Shimla, but it’s advisable to carry valid identification.
Transportation: Taxis and local buses are the main modes of transport. Walking is also a great way to explore the city.
Local Etiquette: Respect the local culture and traditions, especially when visiting temples and religious sites

Popular Souvenirs to Buy in Shimla

Shimla, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, offers a variety of unique souvenirs that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are some of the popular souvenirs that foreign tourists can buy in Shimla

Woolen Clothes and Shawls

  • Description: Shimla is known for its high-quality woolen items, including Kullu and Kinnauri shawls, sweaters, caps, mufflers, and socks. These are made from pure wool and are handwoven by local artisans, making them perfect for gifts and personal use.
  • Where to Buy: Lakkar Bazaar, Mall Road, Tibetan Market, Himachal Emporium

Handcrafted Wooden Items

  • Description: Lakkar Bazaar in Shimla is famous for its wooden handicrafts, such as walking sticks, small decorative items, toys, kitchenware, keychains, and carved jewelry boxes. These items are made from high-quality wood like walnut and pine.
  • Where to Buy: Lakkar Bazaar

Himachali Caps and Mufflers

  • Description: Himachali caps (known as “Kullu Caps”) are colorful woolen caps with traditional patterns, worn by locals. Mufflers and scarves made from soft wool are also popular.
  • Where to Buy: Mall Road, local markets, Himachal Emporium

Local Fruit Products

  • Description: Shimla is known for its apples and other fruits, and you can buy a range of products like apple wine, jams, jellies, pickles, and juices made from locally grown fruits.
  • Where to Buy: Himachal Emporium, local fruit shops, and government-operated shops

Tibetan Handicrafts and Artifacts

  • Description: Tibetan markets in Shimla offer a wide range of Tibetan handicrafts, including prayer wheels, Thangka paintings, Buddhist masks, prayer flags, and small statues of Buddha. These are great souvenirs that reflect the Tibetan influence in the region.
  • Where to Buy: Tibetan Market, Mall Road

Himachali Handicrafts

  • Description: Handcrafted items like embroidered wall hangings, Chamba rumal (handkerchiefs with intricate embroidery), Himachali dolls, and locally made pottery are popular choices.
  • Where to Buy: Himachal Emporium, local handicraft shops

Local Jewelry

  • Description: Shimla is known for its silver jewelry, traditional Himachali jewelry, and semi-precious stone accessories. You can find items like silver earrings, rings, necklaces, and bangles, often adorned with local designs.
  • Where to Buy: Tibetan Market, Mall Road, local jewelry shops

Pashmina Shawls

  • Description: While Pashmina shawls are more commonly associated with Kashmir, you can also find authentic and high-quality Pashmina shawls in Shimla. These shawls are made from the wool of Pashmina goats and are known for their softness and warmth.
  • Where to Buy: Himachal Emporium, local shawl shops

Dry Fruits and Organic Products

  • Description: Shimla offers a variety of dry fruits like walnuts, almonds, and apricots, as well as organic herbal products, including herbal teas, spices, and natural oils.
  • Where to Buy: Local shops, Himachal Emporium, Mall Road

Himachali Chappals (Shoes)

  • Description: Traditional Himachali leather chappals are another great souvenir. They are handmade and known for their durability and unique designs.
  • Where to Buy: Local markets, Mall Road

Local Paintings and Wall Hangings

  • Description: You can buy locally made paintings, especially Pahari miniature paintings and other wall hangings that depict the culture and natural beauty of the region.
  • Where to Buy: Mall Road, Himachal Emporium, local art shops

Handmade Soaps and Essential Oils

  • Description: Locally made natural soaps, essential oils, and skincare products using Himalayan herbs are popular items among tourists.
  • Where to Buy: Local herbal shops, organic stores on Mall Road

Where to Shop in Shimla

Mall Road: The main shopping hub in Shimla, where you can find a variety of shops selling woolen clothes, handicrafts, jewelry, and more.
Lakkar Bazaar: Famous for wooden handicrafts, decorative items, and souvenirs.Tibetan Market: Ideal for buying Tibetan artifacts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Himachal Emporium: A government-run store that offers authentic Himachali handicrafts, woolen products, and other local items.
Lower Bazaar: Known for its local markets selling everyday items, woolens, and souvenirs

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