Shimla(India)

Shimla is a captivating hill station and also the capital city of the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is also lovingly referred to as the “Queen of the Hill Stations” owing to its unparalleled natural beauty. The entire town of Shimla is replete with forests of pine, rhododendron, and oak and experiences pleasing summers and cold, snowy winters. Besides, it is also highly acclaimed for its buildings styled in tudorbethan and neo-gothic architecture evocative of the colonial era. It was the most sought-after summer getaways and the summer capital of the erstwhile British Raj in India as well.

Shimla also ranks high among the tourist destinations of North India and is visited by hordes of tourists all the year round. There are lots of tourist attractions in Shimla that you can come across during your tour and some of them to mention are Himachal State Museum & Library, Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Gardens, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, The Ridge, The Mall, Summer Hill, Glenn and Taradevi Temple. Tourism in Shimla also involves various adventure activities such as skating, trekking, fishing, ice skating and camping.


The old world charm can be apparently felt in its old colonial buildings and several beautiful structures. Shimla has been endowed with all the natural bounties and has a beautiful location, surrounded by green hills and snow clad peaks. If you are looking for a break from the usual chores, then you can surely visit this place as it is ideal for those who want some peace of mind and privacy amidst a scenic locale.

Shimla has fine lodging options for the tourists dropping in here for spending vacations. There are ample hotels warranting a great stay to the guests and could be classified into the various categories such as heritage hotels, four star hotels and three star hotels. Besides, you can also choose from a number of other hotels that are located in Shimla and make for ideal options for enjoying the stay to the fullest. .

Shimla is also well-connected by air, rail and road transport and you can reach here from any major destination of India. Shimla has its own airport but for long distance journey, Delhi and Chandigarh would be good options. Shimla is linked with Kalka which is connected with all the major destinations of India. The road transport is also commendable and one can reach here by the motorable network of the national highways from the key destinations of North India such as Chandigarh, Mandi and Delhi.

Know more about Shimla by browsing through the site touristplacesinindia.com, which offers valuable tourist Information on Shimla.



Also popular as “The Summer Refuge”, Shimla was formerly the capital of the British India and has a picturesque location conferred with the nature’s bounty that makes it quite distinctive from the rest of the hill stations of north India. Shimla has retained its colonial legacy, with imposing old buildings such as the Viceregal Lodge and charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names. Some of the most prominent things to watch in Shimla are the Himachal State Museum & Library, Viceregal Lodge, Botanical Gardens, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, The Ridge, The Mall, Summer Hill, Glenn and Taradevi Temple. Everything in this quaint town has a unique appeal and never fails to impress even the most demanding tourists. Before embarking on a tour, information about Shimla is certainly going to be of immense help that would make for a rewarding travel experience.

Touristplacesinindia.com is the travel site providing helpful inputs about Shimla that would be of great help to those who are planning for a vacation in Shimla.

Fast Facts
Altitude 2159 meters above sea level
Languages Pahari, Hindi and English
Best time to visit October to November & April to June
STD Code 0177

History of Shimla

The history of Shimla dates back to the 19th century when it was founded by the British in the year 1819 after the Gurkha war. During that period, it was most popular for the temple of Hindu Goddess Shyamala Devi. In 1822, the first British summer home was constructed by Scottish civil servant Charles Pratt Kennedy. Shimla became the summer capital of the British Raj during the latter half of the 19th century and the soldiers of the British army, merchants and civil servants dropped in here to get relief from the scorching heat of the plains. A remarkable event took place in the history of Shimla when the Kalka-Shimla railway line was constructed in the year 1906 that significantly added to its quick accessibility and it gained immense popularity. Apart from this, Shimla was declared as capital of the undivided state of Punjab in the year 1871 and remained so until Chandigarh (the present-day capital of Punjab) was given the status of the region’s capital. Himachal Pradesh got separated from undivided Punjab in the year 1971 with Shimla becoming its capital.

You will come across several British structures in Shimla such as the Viceregal lodge, Auckland House, Gorton Castle, Peterhoff house, and Gaiety Theatre that are the reminders of the colonial times.

Best Season, Climate and Clothing

The summer season in Shimla starts from April and lasts till June, with maximum temperature of 28° C and a minimum temperature of 15° C. For the summer season, light woolens/cottons are recommended.

Winter season lasts from November to February and the temperature rises to a maximum of 8° C and a low of 0° C or even lower. For the winters, heavy woolens are essential.

Touristplacesinindia.com is your authentic travel guide on Shimla on which you can find the best inputs about Shimla and also the various tourist attractions in Shimla.

Tourist place in shimla

Chail Travel

Location:	45 kilometers from Shimla
Best Time to Visit:	May to October

The Chail hill station is located at an altitude of 2250 meters and is one of the smallest hill stations of Shimla. The Chail hill station of Shimla has an interesting story behind it. It is said that when the Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh was expelled from his kingdom, he was determined to create his own summer capital. He came to Chail and was mesmerized by the beauty of this place. That is when he decided to make the Chail hill station of Shimla his summer capital. To experience the bliss and divinity of this place, you must visit Chail hill resort near Shimla and have an experience of a lifetime.

The Chail hill station is located at a high altitude and is covered with thick deodar trees, which give the hill station the look of a wonderland. The Chail resort is a place that shall bowl you over completely. You will be surprised to see the beautiful amalgamation of beauty and comfort over here. The resorts have elaborate log huts with modern amenities, perfectly manicured lawns, traditional cottages and everything else that goes in to make a perfect holiday.

The major attractions near Chail are a Children's park, facilities for fishing and trekking and the famous Chail wildlife sanctuary. You shall find information about Chail wildlife sanctuary in our related sections. Chail is also famous for the world's highest cricket ground that is located at a height of 2444 meters above sea level. This cricket ground is also a polo ground and was made in the year 1893 after an entire hilltop was leveled. So come to Chail hill station and experience the magic!

 

Kasauli

Location:	77 kilometers from Shimla
Best Time to Visit:	April to September

The Kasauli hill station is situated at an altitude of 1927 meters above sea level and is a small hill station that still retains its colonial ambience of the 19th century. You can find a hint of the colonial influence in each and every little thing in this place. The cobbled paths, old-fashioned shops, the gabbled homes and classic porticos - all remind you of the bygone era of the colonial rule. You are sure to have an amazing time at the Kasauli hill resort near Shimla as it has got everything that shall make your vacation a perfect one.

Kasauli is filled dense thickets of Himalayan oak, pine trees and chestnut trees. The narrow zigzag roads that wind up the hill are a delight to take long walks on. The place is blessed with breath taking scenery and soothing views. This place can be easily reached from Shimla by road and the journey is one that you shall never forget. The lush green hills filled with light mist that greet you on your way to Kasauli are no less than paradise.

Kasauli is famous for the Pastur Institute, which prepares vaccines for protection from rabies and dog bites. The institute is also famous for treating victims of hydrophobia. This institute is the oldest institute set up in India and is famous till date. It was set up just at the start of the 20th century. Kasauli is also famous for the Monkey point, where it is believed that monkey God Hanuman set his foot while getting the Sanjeevani herb for Lakshmana. The place is shaped in the form of a big footprint. You can also visit the Christ Church, which was built by the British and still its old world charm. 

 

Kufri Travel

Location:	19 kilometers from Shimla
Best Time to Visit:	April to June / November to February

Breathtaking views, stunning locales and tranquil surroundings - this is what Kufri hill station is all about. Popularly known as Switzerland of the East, the spell binding beauty of Kufri hill station of Shimla will definitely enchant you. Check out the Kufri hill resort near Shimla and make sure you stay here for some time to experience pure bliss. It is located at a distance of 19 kilometers from Shimla and can be reached very easily from Shimla. The best way to reach Kufri is by road as it is located near the National Highway - 22.

The best thing about Kufri is the skiing and hiking that should be absolutely tried once, if you are visiting. The snow-clad hills of Kufri provide the ideal locale for trying your hand at skiing. In winters, Kufri is literally filled with tourists who come here to seek adventure and get some excitement in their lives. For the weak hearted, there is always an option of trekking and hiking on the steep hill slopes. The best season to indulge in these sports is during winters, i.e. from November to February. If you are not into skiing and other adventurous pursuits, you can visit the hill station during the months of April to June. The weather is pleasant and cool and just perfect for enjoying your much-awaited vacation!

Kufri remained unexplored and hidden from the rest of the world for a long time. It was not until the time the British explored this area that Kufri came into the knowledge of people. As and when Shimla gained importance, Kufri was also identified as an important tourist place near Shimla. Shimla was an important place as the British declared it the summer capital of India till year 1939. Kufri, which was once a part of the Nepal Kingdom, was recognized as a part of Shimla after India gained independence. So visit this magical place and experience the fun and frolic yourself!

 

Naldehra

Location:	22 kilometers from Shimla
Best Time to Visit:	April to June

Nestled between the beautiful lofty ranges of the Himalayas, lies the Naldehra hill station. The Naldehra hill resort near Shimla is no less than a picture perfect destination. The blue skies, lush green forests and an occasional rainbow thrown in makes the place look like it has been painted on a canvas. The most famous attraction of Naldehra hill station is the 18 - hole golf course that is considered to be the most challenging golf course. This is because it is situated at an altitude of 2044 meters! The golf course is one of the most gorgeous stretches of land in Naldehra.

Naldehra remained unnoticed till the beginning of this century when the then British viceroy, Lord Curzon, discovered it. He was totally mesmerized by the natural beauty of the place. While exploring the beautiful hill station, he came up with the idea of making a golf course here. The landscape of the place was just perfect to make a golf course. An entire hilltop was leveled to make way for the golf course to come up!

The Naldehra hill resort is the perfect place to unwind and relax amidst beautiful surroundings. The resorts have complete privacy and literally every window has a different view! There could be nothing better than waking up every morning and watch the sunrise from behind the hills. You could have a wonderful time just walking down the meandering roads amidst thick deodar trees and the light mist that covers the trees. Come to Naldehra to feel true magic and you shall never forget the experience for the rest of your lives.

Rampur

Location:	135 kilometers from Shimla
Best Time to Visit:	March to June and September to November

One of the biggest commercial centers of Shimla, Rampur town is located at a distance of around 135 kilometers from Shimla. It is one of the most important market and business centers of Shimla. Rampur used to be the capital city of the Bushahr Empire during the 18th century in India. Located near Shimla, Rampur falls along the ancient trade route to Afghanistan, Ladakh, China and Tibet. It is located on the banks of the mighty river Sutlej. The tradition of Rampur is still pulsating as ever and one feels completely rejuvenated on visiting this place.

The main attraction of Rampur is the Lavi Fair, which is supposed to be one of the biggest fairs of North India. This fair is held every year during the second week of November. The fair is quite popular among the people in Shimla and is held for three days. The fair is abuzz with life and activities as it is a major crowd puller. The fair is commercial in nature as tradesmen and craftsmen come from all over Shimla to buy, sell and exchange articles like dry fruits, shawls, blankets, crop produce, handicraft items, fruits, etc. Some people even trade in livestock like sheep, goats, cows and horses.

The place is one of the best shopping hubs and one can get just about any exotic item over here. You can pick up handicraft items like wooden carvings and clay sculptures. The most popular items are the handspun woolen shawls and rugs that are warm even in the coldest weather. Rampur is famous for its handspun blankets that are popularly known "Rampuri Chaddar" (Chaddar is Hindi for blanket). The blankets are known for their softness and durability and tourists make it a point to buy atleast one from here.

Renuka Lake

Location:	Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh
Best Time to Visit:	April to June and September to November

Renuka Lake is located in the Sirmour District of Himachal Pradesh and is a popular tourist attraction. This beautiful lake is located at an altitude of 672 meters and lies in the Sirmaur district. Renuka Lake can be easily reached from Shimla by road. The Renuka Lake has a circumference of 3214 meters. The Renuka Lake has an interesting story behind it. Read on further to know more about the same.

The shape of Renuka Lake is like a reclining woman. It is said that this lake is supposed to personify Goddess Renuka, the mother of the famous Parashuram sage. There is another small lake just at the base of the Renuka Lake that is dedicated to Parashuram. It is said that Parashuram wanted to be at the feet of his mother forever. Another famous legend is that a demon named Sahasarjuna killed the sage Jamadagini and tried to seize his wife Renuka. In order to save herself she jumped into this Lake. The Gods later brought her back to life. This lake is supposed to personify her.

There are two temples built near the lake. The temple that is dedicated to Goddess Renuka is said to have been built overnight in the 18th Century. The Lake is nestled cozily amidst lush green hills and steep valleys. The place is also famous for a wildlife sanctuary that is visited by most tourists who come to this place. There is also a mini zoo at a distance of 2 kilometers from this lake. The place is famous for the Renuka fair that is held for three days during November. The fair is very colorful and many people throng this fair to participate in it and enjoy.

Sarahan

Location:	Shimla - Kinnaur border
Best Time to Visit:	March to June and September to November

The beautiful Sarahan city is located on the Shimla - Kinnaur border. It is situated at an altitude of 2165 meters. One of the most beautiful places to visit in India, Sarahan valley near Simla is the work of a perfectionist. The right amount of beauty mixed with serenity and tranquility, Sarahan looks like time spared this part of Shimla. The undulating valleys and snowy peaks that surround Sarahan are exquisitely beautiful. Sarahan has something to offer to everyone and you are sure to fall in love with the place when you come visiting.

The place is well-known for its ancient Bhimakali temple and it also serves as a base for numerous treks. The best season for going on treks is April to June and September to November. If you are looking for pure unadulterated fun and soak yourself in the beauty of nature, come to Sarahan and experience true bliss. The place is famous for its apple and peach orchards that are spread over miles of area. The small huts with thatched roofs give this valley the look of an untouched paradise. In short, the place is picture perfect.

The valley is filled with beautiful blooms of flowering plants and dense pine trees. The Himalayas provide the perfect backdrop of snow clad lofty ranges surrounding the small beautiful valley in between. You are recommended to carry light woolens though weather remains pleasant during summers. However, the evenings may get chilly at times and it is best to carry a light jacket with yourself.

Tattapani

Location:	51 kilometers above Shimla
Main Attraction:	Hot sulphur springs

One of the most popular excursions from Shimla is the Tattapani hot springs. It is located at a distance of around 51 kilometers from Shimla. Located at an altitude of 656 meters, Tattapani hot springs near Shimla are a major tourist attraction. Many people visit the place as the springs are supposed to have medicinal value and healing properties. People also take some water from the springs back to their homes. Apart from the hot springs, Tattapani is also famous for its religious places and temples that should be visited if you are traveling here. The place also offers adventure sports like rafting, fishing and trekking and is a heaven for all adenveture seekers.

Shimla Religious Places

 

Bhimakali Temple

Location:	Sarahan, Himachal Pradesh
Dedicated To:	Goddess Durga, also known as Bheemakali

The famous Bhimakali Temple in Shimla is a very popular tourist attraction. Also known as Bheemakali Temple of Simla, this architectural wonder is one of the representatives of 51 Shakti Peeths. The unique thing about this temple is that the style of architecture used to build it is a unique amalgamation of both Hinduism and Buddhism. It is built of wood and is no less than an architectural masterpiece. Located near the temple are the palaces of the royal families of Shimla.

The temple has an interesting story behind it. It is said that long ago, there were many demons in the Himalayas who were proving to be a major distraction when the priests and saints used to meditate. They all prayed to the Gods above to send a powerful force to wipe the demons off. Hearing their pleas, the Gods decided to concentrate their powers on one point. A huge explosion took place and one could see a small girl child on that spot. This girl child grew up to be the force who destroyed all demons and was supposed to take repeated births to destroy any evil force on the face of the earth. The temple is dedicated to this great female power who was called Bhimakali.

The temple also has interesting tit-bits that are truly intriguing. In the year 1905, a powerful earthquake struck this place and the temple tilted to one side. However, it reclined back to its original shape after another tremor jolted the place! People say that there is a secret tunnel inside the temple that was used to reach a nearby village by the priests. In the year 1927, another temple was built right next to the existing temple, which houses a 200-year-old idol of Goddess Bhimakali.

 

Jakhu Temple

Location:	Jakhu Hill, Shimla
Dedicated To:	Lord Hanuman

At the top of the famous Jakhu hill is located the famous Jakhu Temple of Shimla. It is hardly 2 kilometers from the Ridge and is an uphill climb through the beautiful deodar trees. The Jakhu Temple of Simla is dedicated to the monkey God, Hanuman. The Jakhu temple is located at a height of 2455 meters and is situated on the highest peak in Shimla. The scenic view that surrounds this beautiful temple of India is absolutely breath taking and splendid.

The temple has an interesting legend behind it. It is said that a deadly arrow injured Lord Rama's brother Lakshmana when he was fighting the battle with the demon king Ravana. A priest diagnosed Lakshmana and said that he needed a particular Sanjeevani herb from the Himalayas to cure Lakshmana. Hanuman was sent to get that herb from he lofty mountains. Upon reaching the Himalayas, Hanuman couldn't make out as to which herb was the Sanjeevani. So he dug up the entire mountain and flew back to where Lakshmana was lying injured.

After Lakshmana was cured, Hanuman went back to place the mountain in its original site. He rested on top of the Jakhu hill for sometime. It is said that the top of the hill got flattened due to Hanuman's weight! The temple has been built around the place that is supposed to have the footprints of Hanuman. It is a highly revered religious place of Shimla and devotees throng in huge numbers to pray. The shrine is a hotspot for monkeys who flock here in great numbers and generously accept eatables that are given to them by devotees and tourists.

Kalibari Temple Shimla

Location:	Near the Mall, Shimla
Dedicated To:	Goddess Kali

The famous Kalibari Temple of Shimla is a popular tourist attraction and is situated at a very strategic location. The temple was built in the year 1845 and is dedicated to Goddess Kali who is also known as Shyamala. It is from the name of Goddess Shyamala that Shimla derives its name. The Kali Bari temple of Simla is a very well known religious place of India and people who come to Shimla never miss out on visiting this temple. The Kalibari temple was primarily located in Jakhu hill. The British brought it to its new site.

Christ Church & St. Michael's Cathedral Shimla

Location:	Near the Ridge, Shimla
Dedicated To:	Jesus Christ

The famous Christ church & St. Michael's Cathedral of Shimla is a beautiful architectural masterpiece. The construction of this church took a span of 11 years (1846 - 1857) and is considered to be the second oldest church in North India. This splendid church is located just near the Ridge in Shimla and can be reached very easily from anywhere. The Christ Church & St. Michael's Cathedral is a famous landmark of Simla and is flocked by many devout followers from all over India.

The church looks absolutely magical during night when lights placed at strategic corners illuminate this beautiful church. The church glows with all its beauty and grandeur and is an amazing sight to look at. Beautifully painted stained glass form the windows of this magnificent church. It is a grand sight to look at and definitely worth the visit if you are traveling to Shimla. Right next to the Church is a library that was built in the year 1910 by James Ransome. It is designed in the typical Elizabethan style and consists of a great collection of books and ancient scriptures.

Sankat Mochan Temple Shimla

Location:	5 kilometers from Shimla (Kalka - Shimla National Highway)
Dedicated to:	Lord Hanuman

One of the most popular tourist attractions of Shimla, the Sankat Mochan Temple is located among lush green and tranquil locales in this beautiful hill station. Shri Sankat Mochan temple in Simla is located on the Kalka - Shimla highway, on the National Highway - 22. The temple is a place where one can actually meditate and enjoy the calm and peaceful surroundings. Lush green trees surround Sankat Mochan Temple and the backdrop consists of the imposing and lofty Himalayan ranges and a light mist adds the mystical touch to that place. Let us take a look at the temple's history.

Not very long ago, around 1950's, Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj came to this beautiful place and discovered the perfect spot for meditation and soulful introspection. After staying here for 10 days, he desired that a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman should be built here. Baba's faithful devotees included the governor of Himachal Pradesh, who along with Bhagvan Sahai took up the task of building the temple and fulfilling their Guru's wish.

Finally, on the 21st of June 1966, the temple was sanctified and thus was fulfilled Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj's desire of having a temple built over here that was dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It was a small temple back then, but now, due to the huge inflow of devotees, the temple has grown by leaps and bounds and today sprawls on huge area. The temple is dedicated mainly to Lord Hanuman, though one finds idols of Lord Rama, Shiva and Ganesha in separate complexes. There is a specially made temple for Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj also. The temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha has been built in the South Indian style of architecture and is worth the visit.

The temple has many facilities for people and also includes a three-storey building that is used for many purposes. Every Sunday, the huge hall in the building is used for distributing Prasad, also known as Langar. One portion of the building is used to conduct marriage ceremonies and is rented out to people who want to conduct marriages. The temple charges a very nominal fee for this. Apart from marriages, there are many other sacred rituals and ceremonies that can be conducted over here. Priests and the maintainance staff, who work here day and night, use the rest of the building as a residential complex. The temple also has an Ayurvedic clinic and thirty well maintained toilets.

Tara Devi Temple Shimla

Location:	11 kilometers from Shimla
Dedicated To:	Goddess Tara Devi

Tara Devi Temple, located in Shimla is a very famous tourist attraction of this place. Situated at a distance of around 11 kilometers from Shimla, this famous temple can be visited while traveling on the Kalka - Shimla National Highway. The Tara Devi Temple is situated at the top of a hill in Simla and the lush green environs surrounding it give the temple a very peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. One must visit this temple to check out the breath taking views of the countryside. The backdrop of the lofty Himalayas and the clean and fresh air works wonders and makes your vacation worthwhile.

The origin of this temple can be traced back to around 250 years. It is said Goddess Tara was brought all the way from West Bengal to Himachal Pradesh. A King from the Sen dynasty visited this place after some years. He had brought along a small gold locket in which his an idol of his deity was encased in gold. He always wore this locket in his upper arm. The idol remained encased in that locket for many generations to come. One fine day, Raja Bhupendra Sen (of the 96th generation) had an unusual incident. While hunting in a dense forest, he had a vision of Goddess Tara along with Hanuman, who desired that she should be available for the public to pray and seek blessings.

Immediately, the Maharaja donated a big piece of land to build a temple dedicated to Goddess Tara. Thus, a temple was built and a wooden idol of the Goddess was installed for people to worship. After some more generations, Raja Balbir Sen had a vision in which the Goddess had wished that she be installed at the top of a hill known as Tarav Parvat. The Maharaja got a temple built at the top of the hill and got a beautiful idol made out of "Ashtadhatu", a rare combination of eight elements. He got it installed in a grand fashion by taking out a huge procession and carrying the idol on the top of an elephant named Shankar. The temple stands in its entire splendor even today on this hilltop.