Shimla Tourist Place to Visit. The physical setting of India is such that it has mountains, deserts, oceans and forests as well. Thus, the nation has a lot to offer to the lovers of nature. If you want to spend some stress-free days in the lap of the mountains, then pack your bags and start the adventure that will assist you in discovering the secrets of Shimla.
About the city
The city of Shimla is also known by the name of Simla. It sits on the mountain encompasses region of Himachal Pradesh and is the capital city as well. During the days of British rule, the city was conferred with the prestigious title of being the “summer capital” of British India. This was done to escape from the heat of the plains and spend time in soothing weather, amidst the natural beauty. Soon after the nation became independent, the Shimla was dubbed the capital of the state of Punjab. Though the decision was nullified later on and soon,Shimla was made the capital of the beautiful state of Himachal Pardesh. According to the reports published in the year 2011, the city has a total population of around 171,817. This makes the capital city of Himachal Pradesh the least populated head cities in the country.
About the climate of Shimla
The climate of Shimla can be categorized in the subtropical highland weather group. The city normally experiences cool weather during the winter months and becomes soberly warm in the summers, when the Northern Plains are reeling under the scorching sun. This is why most tourists flock to the valleys and mountains to get respite from the summer heat. The average temperature of the city ranges from −4 °C to 31 °C. The summer temperature is around 19 °C to 28 °C while in the winters, the temperature hovers over −1°C to 10 °C. Though precipitation in the winters is in the form of snow, the summer months get some rain. The average amount of precipitation ranges from 15 millimeters to 434 millimeters.
Economy of the city
Business is determined by the administration and vacation industry sectors. Apart from being a hot tourist spot, the city is also known for being a hub of elite educational institutes. The Model Career Center was formed at the famous US Club of Shimla. This institute operates under the supervision of National Career Service of India and the department of Ministry of Labor and Employment. The Government of India is extending full support to develop the sector of education in the area.
Being close to the center point of transportation and exchange, Shimla is zone’s medicinal services focus, facilitating a therapeutic school and four noteworthy hospitals: Indira Gandhi Hospital (Snowdown Hospital,) Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital (some time ago called Ripon Hospital), Kamla Nehru Hospital and Indus Hospital. The government plans for further developing the area and its health amenities have made the city a hot spot for people looking for good treatment.
The hospitality business is one of the significant sources of revenue earning for the city. Some of the famous hotels have branches in the city as the place is frequently visited by national as well as foreign tourists.
Apart from tourism, Shimla has always been known for the number of educational institutes present here. Most of the elite convent schools and colleges have their headquarters here. Thus, Shimla has been chosen by the affluent society for providing a good education for their children. Due to the presence of school and colleges, the city has seen an influx of revenue.
Alongside schools of advanced education, a few institutes are present to be specific Himachal Pradesh University and Indian Institute of Advanced Study. Enlistment to the IAAS is through the joint aggressive examinations (the Civil Services Examination) and advancement from the secondary unit. When enrolled to IAAS, the selected officers are prepared for the most part at National Academy of Audit and Accounts at Shimla.
List of Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) Tourist Place to Visit
Books and videos on the internet will not be able to give you the real taste of the city. If you want to know about the history of the place and relish the sights, sounds, colors and tastes of the area then you must be present in person. Shimla is the perfect spot for spending the vacations. The laid back and warm attitude of the place invites thousands of tourists every year. Make sure that you visit the following places the next time you take a trip to Shimla:
- Summer Festival in Shimla
There are no extra points for guessing that the city is very vibrant. Most of the mountainous cities sport a vibrant atmosphere. As the people live in the lap of nature, they celebrate the gifts of Mother Nature at all times. The summer Festival is one such attempt on the part of the locals living in the city. This festival is celebrated in the month of June. The festival is celebrated over a span of one week and you get to enjoy local dance and songs, fashion parades, cooking shows, and pageants which showcase the beauty of the babies. The Summer Festival is very popular among the foreign travellers and most of the hotels are packed with tourists.
- Kalka Shimla Railways
Another tourist attraction is the narrow-gage train, popularly known as the Shimla toy train that operates, connecting Kalka that is known for the rich historical background with the best hill station of India, Shimla. If you are in love with photography then you need to board the train and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The total length of the train route is 96 kms and the service was started by the then British rulers. The train started running in 1903 when Shimla was honored with the title of being the summer capital of British India.
The Kalka Shimla Railway was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on July 8, 2008. Ideal from begin to end; this train journey enchants each traveler on board. Dharampur, Kandaghat, Solan, Barog, Taradevi, Salogra and Totu are aprts of the excellent journey that you will get the opportunity to see through the windows, amid the excursion.
The trains plying in the course are stacked with prevalent components. Shivalik Deluxe, the principal super-quick prepare has an end to end carpeting, reversible seats, on-board food servings and greater windows for better perspectives. A few trains highlight a Deluxe Rail Motor Car, which can suit a gathering of 14 at any given moment.
The train coaches are fitted with fiber glass rooftops, altimeter, padded seats for extreme solace and exquisite light fittings. Shivalik Palace Tourist Coach and the Shivalik Queen are super luxury coaches, which are perfectly adorned and furnished with bed, kitchen and feasting offices.
- Naldehra Golf Course
The exquisite golf course is located at a distance of 22 kms from the main city. The area is spread on an entire area of 4285 yards. The golf course is equipped with 18 holes and is the best place for the affluent society to enjoy the game. The gold playing turf was assembled under the orders of Lord Curzon, who was the Viceroy of India at that time. He loved playing this sophisticated game and thus, he wanted the turf made so that he could enjoy it when visiting the then summer capital, during his visit to the city.
Located 2,200 meters above the mean sea level, Naldehra Golf Course happens to be the nation’s most testing turfs. It covers a long slanting knoll and is encompassed by Deodar trees from all sides. Curzon was enchanted with the natural setting and beauty of the place and christened his third little girl Alexandra Naldehra.
Inside the enclosure, the course has a beautiful club house that holds three twofold rooms and an open to drawing room. Member of the club or not, you will be able to rest the in these lavishly decorated rooms. For this, you will have to approach the authority and make bookings in advance.
- Kamna Devi Temple
Most of the people of Shimla are Hindu by religion and so, you will find many temples dedicated to Hindu gods and, goddesses. One such temple is the Kamna Devi Temple. The temple is located in the picture perfect mountain settings, on the top of the Prospect Hill. The temple is at a distance of 6 Kms from the main city and is rested at an elevation of 2150 meters above mean sea level. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess Kali and was built by Rana of Junga. It gets visited by people throughout the year and it is said that the goddess fulfills the wishes and desires of all who scale the distance up the hill.
The very beauty of the surrounding area will capture your attention. Not far from the temple, there is a spot that is frequently visited by locals and tourists alike for picnic. If you are looking for adventure sports then this is the place that will meet your requirements. Sports like rock-climbing and trekking are practiced here.
- Annadale
If you are looking for a place to relax in the afternoon sun with family and friends then Annadale is the spot to checkout. Here, you will find flocks of locals and tourists, with their picnic baskets. Over the years, the place has got the reputation of being a popular picnic spot and tourist attraction. During the age of British rule, the area was used by the officials for playing cricket, polo, and racing games. The spot is currently under the ownership of the Indian Army and a heritage army museum is also constructed within the boundaries.
- Chadwick Falls
There is no dearth of natural beauty in the city. As the area is nestled among the lofty mountains, it is common to spot many waterfalls in the area. The Chadwick Falls is situated in the Summer Hills. The place is just 7 Kms away from the main city. It is at a height of 1550 meters from the mean sea level. The area is encompassed from all side with woods and as the water falls on the rocks from a considerable height, the mountains get cloaked with a blanket of mist. The spot is a nothing less than a heavenly scene for nature lovers.
The falls are generally crowded with local and international tourists for the entire year but the percentage of visitors double during the monsoon, months. As many Hindu temples are located in the nearby areas, locals believe that the water of the falls is also religious.
- Dhilon Pond
The Dhilon Pond is located in the Kotkhai Valley. If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the natural sceneries then this is the place to visit. The pond is surrounded by forests and beautiful mountains. There are a number of temples in the surrounding areas and this is the reason why locals think that the water of the pond is sacred. Attributable to the tranquility and regular magnificence of this site, it is gone to by crowds of sightseers consistently.
- Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex
Most of the tourists make it a point to visit the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Compound. The tourist spot is located right on the main Mall Road. It is right in the heart of the city. The cultural center was planned and designed by the famous architect Henry Irwin. The compound started its operations on the 30th day of May, in the year of 1887. The original planning and designs were based on the Victorian and Gothic styles of architecture.
At first, it had a five floored construction with a theater, dance floor, arsenal, police office, pub, and exhibitions. After about twenty years from its day of foundation, authorities discovered that the construction was risky. It was brought down in parts. The Gaiety Theater stayed untouched.
This cultural center has a rich history of holding many plays and performances. The main highlight of the complex is the legendary theater. This complex has witnessed the presence of legends from the Indian Film Industry. The likes of K. L. Sehgal, Prithvi Raj Kapoor, Rudyard Kipling, and Baten Powel had walked the halls of the complex. The presence of the social club adds to the old world charm of the place as well.
With a variety of settings, including show corridor, workmanship exhibition, multi-reason lobby, amphitheater and old theater corridor, this is a center of performing expressions in the state. This mind boggling witnesses an enormous inundation of guests year-round because of its social noticeable quality.
- Green Valley
Full of natural beauty and forests, most tourists take a trip to the Green Valley for the experience of a life time. The place is surrounded by the thick cover of deodar and pine woods. It is near the Kufri and if you are lucky then you might be able tosspot an exotic animal, like the Yaks. These animals come here to graze or wander amidst the lust forests. This spot is often visited by the nature lovers and photographers who are looking for some extraordinary photographic ventures.
- Indian Institute of Advanced Study
As it has already been mentioned that Shimla is a spot where many institutes for advanced studies are set up. Among them, the most famous is the IIAS. The institute is located on the well-known Observatory Hill. The institute was inaugurated in the year 1964 by the then President of India, Dr. S Radhakrishnan.
The building has a history that spans for more than around 100 years. It was supposed to be built as the home for the Viceroy of India, Lord Duffein who was in charge of the nation’s administration from 1884 to 1888. The place housed the Visceregal Lodge. It was here that many important decisions like the Partition of India and the Shimla Conference of 1945 were held.
After the independence was acquired, the building was called ‘Rashtrapati Nivas.’ It was used for the President’s stay during the summer months. Then, the whole building was put under the state maintenance and was used to be the site for holding cultural researches. The building was made by Henry Irwin. He was a well-known architect and did a marvelous job with the construction. Burmese teak and grey colored stones had been used to shape the building. Today, tourists visiting the city make it a point to come to the place.
- Jakhu Temple
Located on the top of the famous Jakhu Hill, the Jakhu Temple attracts tourists from far and wide. The temple is very important to the local people as they have their religious sentiments attached to it. Set at a walking distance of only 2.5 kms from the famous Shimla ridge area. The temple is located at the whopping height of 8000 feet. According to the popular legends, the temple was erected by a sage named Yaaku. The Hindu money god, Lord Hanuman is worshiped in this temple.
The origin of this temple also finds a place in the sacred Hindu books. It is said that while Lord Hanuman was on his quest for bringing the Sanjeevani herb, he halted on the mountain and met with the sage.
The temple is full of fine paintings and carvings. The inner chamber of the temple houses a 108 feet tall idol of Hanuman and people from far and wide come to pay their respects to the god. During the occasion of Dussehra, thousands of devotees come to the temple and the area bounces back to life.
- Kali Bari Temple
Another prominent temple of the area is the Kali Bari Temple. The temple is located only at a distance of main Mall area. The main deity of the temple is Goddess Kali. The goddess is also known as Devi Shyamala. During major festivals, the temple is swarmed with devotees from all parts of the state. The temple is said to have been constructed in 1845. The name “Shimla” has been derivative from the name of the deity of the temple.
Though the temple was originally located on the top of the Jakhu Hill, the British must be credited for relocating the temple in the current location. When you visit this pious place, you will not only receive spiritual transformation but will also get tranquility of mind as well.
- Kiala Forest
If you want to spend some quality time in the lap of nature then there is no better place than taking a trip to the Kiala Forest. The area is situated on the Kotkhai valley. The area is covered with thick forest and you will find various kinds of flora and fauna, which are native to the region. It is an ideal place for those who are looking for capturing the true beauty of the place.
- Kogi Mata Temple
If you get the chance to visit the Kogi Village, in the Naldehra area of Shimla, then make sure that you pay your respects to the Kogi Mata Temple. The locals have high regards for the main deity of the temple, Kogi Mata. She is a Hindu goddess and the area lights up during the festive occasions. Apart from the religious importance, many nature lovers and photography enthusiasts visit the place regularly with the desire to capture the natural beauty of the place.
- Kotkhai Palace
If you are interested in seeing some extraordinary specimens of Tibetan architecture then you need to take a trip to the Kotkhai Palace. The palace is located in the Kotkhai Valley. The building is a work of art and many tourists come to see, the construction that has stood the test of time. King Rana Sahab was the main person behind the construction of the lavish palace. Staying true to the theme of Tibetan architecture, the roofs of the palace are in Pagoda style and wood had been extensive, used for decorating the interiors.
- Kufri in Shimla
Located in the picturesque setting, at breathtaking 8000 feet height, the Hill station of Kufri is nestled among the high mountains and deep valleys. It falls along the way to the NH 22 and it very close to the main city of Shimla. The distance of Kufri from Shimla is only about 16 kms. No matter where you look, you will see the magic of nature at all corners. This beauty attracts tourists from all parts of the world. Apart from the natural beauty, the place is also known for adventure sports, especially during the winter months. Mahasu Peak is the loftiest peak in the area and it remains masked under the thick layer of snow. This brings ski enthusiasts from far and wide. When in Kufri, you can also visit the Himalayan Nature Park. Here, you will see various kinds of birds and beasts.
The mystical are of Kufri, considered by Himalayas and the forest of deodar pine and, is a perfect target for photo fanatics. From the attractive Mahasu Peak to the marvelous assortment of historical lures and parks, you will have a lot of options to check out. Kufri is perfect destination for children. Apart from relishing the natural splendor of this area, teens will enjoy themselves in Kufri Fun World. It is an amusement park, featuring various rides, go-kart track and pools. The go-karting track in the park is highest of in the world. Kids will certainly have an unforgettable experience in this park.
- Kuthar Fort
If you are looking for a lavish stay then make sure to visit the Kuthar Fort. It can be reached by car and takes only an hour from the main airport of Shimla. The fort was once the residence of the rulers of Kuthar area. The fort has been there for more than 800 years and now, it has been placed under the responsibility of the state. Due to the age of the property, it has been recognized as a heritage site. Apart from this, a certain section of the fort has been transformed into a luxurious resort.
The property spreads over 52.8 sq km and boasts of beautiful gardens, fountains, springs and well-known temples, all within the boundary of the fort. The exteriors and the interiors of the fort are decorated with the Rajputana architecture and are works of art. The carvings, well-shaped round pillars, colonnades, the wall paintings, everything screams of extravagance and luxury.
The resort has many royal suits. They have been tastefully decorated and come fitted with all kinds of facilities and amenities, keeping the needs of international tourists in mind. Anyone can get a taste of the royal lifestyle for a few days by booking a room in the resort.
- Laxminarayan Temple
The Laxminarayan Temple is dedicated to the two most important gods – Shiva and Vishnu. The temple was constructed under the patron of Raja Sahil Varman during 10th century. The temple has a prominent place in the lives of the locals and due to the age, it has a protuberant mention in the history of the area. The temple is located in the Chamba town. The temple complex has a total of six separate temples.
The architecture of the temples has been done in a Shikhara style and this is the reason why archeologists have so much interest in this ancient monument. The central “mandap” has chhattris made of wood for decoration. The roofs of the temples have been done in a shell format. The presence of the “Bimana” also known as the “garbh griha” is characteristic element of the Shikhara architecture style. The statue of the Garuda, made of metal is at the front gate of the temple. The temple also had a pinnacle, made of gold at top, placed by the orders of Raja Chhatra Singh in 1678.
The perplexing carvings on the columns and dividers of the holy place are fine cases of the structural aptitude of the artisans of the tenth century. Inside the compound, there are numerous little sanctuaries committed to Radha Krishna, Shiva and Gauri Shankar. The excellence of the sanctuary complex is emphasized by the quiet scene encompassing it.
- Mahamaya Temple
The Mahamaya Temple is another fine example of ancient artistic and architectural wonders. The temple is atop the hill in the mesmerizing Sundernagar area. The main deity of the temple is a Hindu Goddess, the mother of all mothers, Mahamaya. Thought the temple is old, one can easily make out the amazing carvings on the walls and columns, which have stood the test of time. During pious occasions, the temple is visited by numerous locals from the surrounding areas.
- Shimla Mall
Situated in the heart of the town, this place seems to overflow with the travelers and is the most energetic and throbbing place. Dotted with shops, cafés and road merchants, one gets submerged in the occasional swarm walking around the Mall. Children, adults, aged and all stroll along this extend appreciating the astounding scene of the surroundings while halting by the diners to snack on some of the nick-knacks. If you are looking to buy something then there are many shops in the Mall area, which will come to your rescue. The Mall area is bustling with youngsters who come out and gather with their friends for a fun time. There are benches in the open area of the Mall that are always full of tourists and locals. There is a beautiful church in the nearby area and you can take a look at the entire valley from the Mall.
- Jakhoo Hill
If you want to get to the highest place of Shimla then you need to visit the Jakhoo Hills. The place will remind you of a setting from the fairy take books. Covered with thick and lush Alpine woods, the place will command your attention. It is a treat for the eyes and you will be able to experience the tranquility of Mother Nature. But while visiting the place, you need to keep an eye on the activities of the monkeys who are ever ready to play the fool with you.
- Shoolini Temple
Most of the areas in Shimla have their origin associated with one god or another. For instance, the area of Solan received its name after the Shoolini Mata. The temple dedicated to Shoolini Mata is located among the lush woods. The Hindu deity is an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Every year, during the month of June, a fair is organized in the area. This occasion is to celebrate the grace of Shoolini Mata. During these three days, many devotees flock to the temple and pray to the deity.
- Christ Church
As the area is a melting pot of cultures and religions, you will find many churches in the area as well. The Christ Church is supposed to be among the oldest churches in the entire Northern part of the country. The construction work on the church was started by Col. J. T. Boileau in the year 1844. The entire church was completed in 1846. The sanctifying activities of the prayer hall were done by Bishop Wilson on the 10th day of January 1857. Flaunting splendid Neo-Gothic style of design, this congregation has pulled in and keeps on drawing in a great many guests consistently. The chancel and nave of this congregation are extraordinary. The floor is brightened by one focal and two side paths that are flanked with seats.
- Manjathal Santuary
The Manjathal Sanctuary is a gem in the Himalayan terrains. Though this park is located in the Solan district, the tourists visiting Shimla make it a point to take a trip to this protected forest. It is located on the side of the Shimla-Bilaspur Highway. The biodiversity of this preserved forest makes it a heaven for animal lovers. The perfect season for going to this popular untamed life shelter is the winters. To protect its richness and beauty, no inns or resorts have been built around there.
- Prospect Hill
As it has already been mentioned, the city of Shimla is composed of seven separate hills. Each of these hills has their claim of beauty and importance. The Prospect Hill is one of these seven hills and attracts thousands of tourists each year. To reach this hill, you need to travel for 4 kms, along with the Kamna Devi Temple Road. The hill is at the height of 2150 meters. The area is covered with the mountain forests, and the main tree species found here are pine, oak, and deodar. There are some kinds of wild animals, found in the woods as well. During the winter months, the area lights up as tourists enjoy some outdoor sports. They can get the taste of trekking and rock climbing here as well.
Apart from these spots mentioned here, there are many places in Shimla, which will take your breath away. Thus, make sure that you are in no hurry to return home as you need sufficient time to explore the real beauty of Shimla in the proper manner. Make sure that you have done your homework about the main attraction. Missing out on any of these spots will make the trip incomplete.
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