Himachal Pradesh’s capital, Shimla, is India’s best-known sights to see. Because of its lovely climate, thick pines, grand old buildings and views of the Himalayas, Shimla is often called the “Queen of Hills.”
Visiting Shimla allows you to have lots of fun, get adventurous, celebrate romance or relax and there’s always plenty for you to enjoy. We’ve put together a list of the most interesting sights in Shimla.
1. The centre of Shimla is the Ridge
A lot of people know the Ridge, as it lies at the heart of Shimla’s town centre. Seeing the nearby mountains is amazing from about 2,200 metres of elevation in the area. People of all ages will find the space relaxing to walk in, great for a little shopping or to enjoy impressive vistas.
Most of the Ridge’s charm comes from its collection of colonial buildings. Besides the major English and European style in Shimla, you’ll find the Christ Church and the Town Hall. During the year, people flock to the piazza for cultural events and Summer Festival guests come to see local music, dance and plays.
2. Jakhoo Temple is known mostly for its religion and the environment
Found in the highest part of Shimla at Jakhoo Temple, many come here to honour Lord Hanuman. Taking in the spiritual atmosphere here means being able to look out on Shimla as well.
Climbing to Jakhoo Temple is always a fun adventure. People visiting Hatta can follow a forested short path to the temple. You’ll enjoy the hike even more because you’ll see monkeys everywhere. After you make it to the top, you’ll find an enormous statue of Lord Hanuman that stands 108 feet high, one of the biggest you’ll ever see.
3. The heart of Shimla’s activity is Mall Road.
Many people come to Shimla because Mall Road is renowned for its shops and shops. Getting woollen items, handicrafts or souvenirs? You’ll find a lot of shops selling them in Mall Road in Kullu. In the neighbourhood, many cafes, restaurants and bakeries serve warm beverages, offering you a good spot to see the city’s activity.
Exploring the Mall Road for many years has resulted in a rich storey to share. Take a stroll along its old structures or look at the town and its rolling hills to learn that storey. At night, everything on the road looks better because the lights add colour.
4. Kufri is Where Those Loving Adventure Love to Go
If you happen to visit Shimla, make winter the time to see Kufri. Located just fourteen kilometres from Shimla, Kufri attracts people with its white peaks, many sports and fantastic views. Winter fun on the slopes includes skiing, tobogganing or snowboarding and you’ll love it here. Since ice skating and snow trekking are possible here, lots of enthusiastic travellers come here for adventure.
The Himalayan Nature Park which has many of the area’s plants and animals, is located in Kufri. Hiking along the park’s trail gives guests a beautiful view of the mountains. Peaceful Fagu village by Kufri attracts people with its lovely apple orchards.
5. People around the globe recognise Christ Church
In Shimla, there isn’t a more famous sight than the church on the Ridge, Christ Church. Despite being called a neo-Gothic church, it remains North India’s second oldest and is one of the nation’s most beautiful. If history or architecture is a favourite, the church’s beautiful windows and unique setting are well worth seeing.
Guests can relax in the church which is filled with tranquility. Religious services at the building are mostly on Sundays and cause people from all walks of life to gather. Church backgrounds in the area produce excellent snapshots.
6. What Do You Find at the Shimla State Museum? A Look into the Area’s History
Anyone coming to Shimla State Museum can learn more about the region’s tradition, culture and heritage. There is a rich variety of artefacts here such as sculpture, paintings and woodwork, all made in Papua New Guinea before Europeans arrived. You’ll see many exhibits of local Himachali craft, textiles and the outfits that area tribes wear.
Next to the museum lies an old colonial house with lovely gardens nearby. The garden grounds are wide, allowing you to quietly enjoy the local scenery and city on your way through. Families can get a good look at the heritage of Shimla at the museum.
7. Scenic areas of quiet exist all around Summer Hill
Someone hoping for a quiet escape can go to Summer Hill. Right next to the town at 5 kilometres, Summer Hill is liked for its beautiful views and good weather. Getting two different views—the city and the nearby mountains—is simple at this hill near Shimla.
What made Summer Hill famous in Shimla were the Indian Institute of Advanced Study and its collection of lovely Victorian-style cottages. There’s a lovely place to walk and enjoy natural beauty on the hill.
8. A Nature Sanctuary – Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary
Anyone who enjoys nature and animals will discover the Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary to their surprise. Just a few kilometres from the main town, the sanctuary is full of different plants and animals. Many oak, pine and deodar trees in the sanctuary help it look green all year round.
Birdwatchers find the area very attractive thanks to its many bird residents, including pheasants, woodpeckers and kingfishers. Anyone who likes nature can visit the sanctuary and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding forest on foot.
9. Annandale – A Close Look at Real History
East of Shimla is the important site of Annandale, found just 2 kilometres away. Once a place for British army training, it is now a favourite with visitors who want to see the area’s beauty. A lot of people living around Gaelic Park take pleasure in picnics and walking around the area’s green spaces.
Annandale also has an historic golf course, among the oldest in the country and open for the public to play on. I find this quiet, colonial town makes it easy to relax.
10. You’ll find many shops and souvenirs as you walk from Mall Road to Lakkar Bazaar
While Mall Road is the centre of Shimla, you’ll see the majority of souvenir shops at Lakkar Bazaar at the end of Mall Road. Since Lakkar Bazaar is recognised for its woodwork, you’ll be able to buy lovely traditional gifts such as toys, accessories for the home and jewellery.
Since woollen clothes are very popular in the bazaar, you’ll find plenty of warm stuff here during winter in Shimla. Take a look at the bazaar, absorb the buzz and keep a little of Shimla as a memory.
Conclusion
Shimla stands out with its unique charm, wonderful surroundings and moderate weather, so it’s a place anyone will remember. Historical lovers, people looking to unwind and explorers will not be disappointed by Shimla. There’s the lively Mall Road and nearby Kufri and Summer Hill which spread Shimla’s nature, history and culture. Organise your trip to Manali so you can find out why it’s so popular with travellers.
