Top 19 Alluring places of Himachal's capital city - Shimla

Shimla is a region of Himachal Pradesh and is situated towards the west of Kinnaur, and towards the north of the province of Uttranchal. The landscape of Shimla is broken, rough, and lopsided subsequently being very unpleasant to be exact. The Himalayan magnificence here has lastingly affected the memory of the relative multitude of individuals who were attracted to the spot.

Guests simply walking around the vintage city come to know, eventually, about its significant spot throughout the entire existence of India. Vegetation comprising of oak, cedar, rhododendron, fir, and so on are everywhere adding to it the normal thus beneficial appeal.

Alongside the regular scenery so distinctive are intriguing building structures so strange to the spot that makes Shimla stand separated among different places around. The present Shimla includes various hill towns. Shimla got the creative mind of the British to the degree that they transformed Shimla into a town and created it to lift it to the situation with their late summer capital.

1. Kufri

Kufri which is located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh is a small hill station which is located in the proximity of 20 km of Shimla. This hill station is located on national highway number 22. Kufri is also considered as the starting point of some of the famous treks to Shimla, Manali, Rewalsar, and Fagu.

The name of this place is derived from the local word Kufr which means “lake”. The major attraction of Kufri are its winter sports that are generally enjoyed during the month of February. You can perform various adventures and enjoy rides at Kufri Fun World which is an amusement park that is having various enjoyable rides for kids and adults. You can have some delicious snacks from the canteen that is situated within this park in Kufri.

Things to do: Kufri Fun World, Skiing, Horse Riding, Yak Rides, Visit Mahasu Peak, Tobogganing, etc.

Best Time to Visit: April to June and December to February.

How to Reach: You can hire a local taxi or private cab to cover the distance of 14.5 km in 35 minutes.

2. The Ridge

The Ridge is one of the prominent attractions of Shimla where several government functions and fairs are organized. This place is also considered the main venue for all the important events and celebrations that take place in Shimla. One of the most famous celebrations that are held at the Ridge is the summer festival of Shimla.

This place is located in the heart of Shimla and is extremely famous amongst its tourist. The Ridge is also referred to as the cultural hub of Shimla other than that one can also explore the Lakkad Bazaar, Scandal Point, Mall Road, and Jakhoo Hill which is located in the proximity of this place. This place is visited by a huge crowd of tourists all around the year but especially during the summer festival that is held during the month of April or May it becomes thickly populated with tourists.

Things to do: Cultural activities, shopping, and much more.

Timings: 8 A.M. to 6 P.M.

Location: Mall Road, Shimla

How to Reach: It is located at a walking distance of 120 meters from Shimla.

3. Mall Road

The Mall Road of Shimla is one of the most prominent tourist attractions. And this place you can find various hotels, clubs, bars, restaurants, shops, banks, post offices, government offices, and tourist offices as well. The tourists can enjoy the scenic view of this place by walking up and down to the mall road and can appreciate nature while sipping their favorite coffee.

The Ridge and scandal points are two main points where you can find the group of friends talking and having a view of the Himalayan range as well as doing some shopping. The Mall Road is also connected to the Ridge, where you can find the statue of Lala Lajpat Rai who was the Nationalist leader.

Things to do: Shopping, evening walk, chilling in cafes etc.

Timing: 9 AM. to 9 P.M.

How to Reach: This place is located at a distance of 1.5 km from the Shimla bus stand and can be reached through private cab and public taxi.

4. Indian Institute of Advanced Study

It is a Research Institute which is located in the Shimla town of Himachal Pradesh. It was established in the year 1964 by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. On the 28th of October in 1965, this Institute started to function. The building where the institute is established as the home for Lord Dufferin who was the viceroy of India from 1884 to 1888.

This historical building was design by Henry Irwin and Electricity was supplied to this place in the year 1888 which was much before the Shimla town got the supply of electricity. In the year 1945, the Simla conference was held in the exact building, and also the decision for the formation of Pakistan and East Pakistan was also taken at this exact place in the year 1947.

Timing: 9:30 A.M. to 4:40 P.M.

Location: President Residence

Entry Fee: Rs. 40 for Indians, Rs. 85 for foreigners.

Garden visit: Rs.20 per person.

How to Reach: This place is located at a motorable distance of  4 km from Mall Road, Shimla that can be reached by cab.

5. Himachal State Museum

Himachal State Museum is one of the popular attractions of Shimla and it protects the history of the Northern state, also provides the chance to understand the cultural heritage of the particular time period.

This is located on the top of a hill and offers the calmest and peaceful Scenic surroundings. The photographers can capture the picture of interesting artifacts that are placed here. This Museum was constructed during the Victorian era and is having lawns all around the area.

The complete Museum is divided into five main galleries such as wooden carving gallery, Prehistoric gallery, archaeology gallery, wall painting gallery, and Numismatic gallery. Other than these five galleries there are few more galleries such as a bronze gallery, photographers gallery, and archaeological gallery.

This Museum is also having stone images of the eighth century and various paintings that depict the lifestyle and culture of people residing in the Himalayas. Other than this there are also Mughal paintings, Rajasthani paintings, religious paintings, and contemporary paintings that are housed in this museum.

Things to do: Explore the local culture, learn about the history of this state.

Timing: 10 A.M. to 5 P.M.

Entry Fee: Rs. 20 for Indian and Rs. 100 for foreigners.

Photography: Rs. 50 for Indian and Rs. 100 for foreigners.

Location: Chaura Maidan

How to Reach: This place can be reached via cab by covering a distance of 2.5 km.

6. Tara Devi Temple

Tara Devi temple is located in the proximity of 11 km from Shimla Bus Stand and is one of the holiest places of Shimla. This temple is located in between the thick forest of rhododendrons and oak trees.

From here one can also have a view of the lofty Himalayan ranges that surround this town. This temple is also famous among the tourist and devotees so as to provide a clean and fresh atmosphere which helps them to have a relaxing feeling away from the Chaos of urban areas.

This temple is dedicated to the goddess Tara Devi and it is believed that she came to this place from Bengal. It is one of the perfect places to seek tranquility and peace.

Things to do: Praying and meditation.

Timing: 7 A.M. to 6:30 P.M.

Location: Bagh, Shimla.

How to Reach: This place can be reached via car by covering a distance of 12 km.

7. Johnnie’s Wax Museum

Shimla is having a brilliant Wax Museum which is Johnnie’s Wax Museum where you can witness the life-size statue of some of the famous personalities and celebrities.

It is one of the great places to hang out with your friends and family. At this Museum you can capture the picture with your favorite celebrities. At this place, you can get a brilliant chance to come face to face with some sports stars, Bollywood stars, pop music stars, and other real-life heroes.

The most interesting thing about this Museum is that here one can also get the replica of their hand as a souvenir for visiting this museum.

Things to do: Photography and watching wax statues.

Timing: 10 A.M. to 10 P.M.

Entry Fee: Rs. 250 per person.

Location: The Mall Road.

How to Reach: This is located at a walkable distance of 750 from the Shimla bus stand.

8. Christ Church

Christ Church of Shimla was constructed in the year 1857 by Britishers and is one of the oldest churches in Northern India. This was constructed to serve the Anglican British community living in Shimla.

This Church is the prime attraction of Shimla due to its Majestic appearance and stunning location. Here one can find the stained glass window that represents hope, faith, patients, humanity, Charity, and fortitude. This Church is considered the most long-lasting Legacy of Britishers in India.

The architecture is given to the church is in neo-gothic style and it is advisable for each tourist who is visiting Shimla to explore this magnificent place at least once.

Things to do: Prayer, Historical place.

Timing: 8 A.M. to 6 P.M.

Location: The Mall Road.

How to Reach: This is located at a walkable distance of 600 from the Shimla bus stand.

9. Jakhu Hill

Jakhu Hill is one of the highest peaks of Shimla and is known for a temple that is dedicated to Lord Hanuman which is the Jakhu temple. This statue of Lord Hanuman is visible over the three lines near Christ Church. The height of this statue of Lord Hanuman is about 33 m.

As per the mythology, it is believed that Lord Hanuman while finding Sanjeevani Booti for Lord Lakshman stopped at this place for taking some rest.

The temple is located some distance away from the hustle-bustle of this town and is having old-world charm. One can also take the cable car ride to reach this temple and also have a birds-eye view of this place.

Other than cable car rides one can also opt for a Scenic Hike that starts from the church to this mountain.

Things to do: Trekking, cable car, etc.

Timing: 7 A.M. to 8 P.M.

How to Reach: You can trek to this place as it is located at a distance of 6 km from the Mall road.

10. Kalka-Shimla Railway

Kalka Shimla Railway was constructed with the aim of connecting Shimla to the real network. This Railway was constructed during the British rule and also holds the record in Guinness Book of World Record for moving 96 km on the steeper altitude and crossing 800 bridges.

This Railway is considered the “Crown jewel” of the Indian National Railway. Kalka Shimla Railway is around and 96.6 km long single rail track that was constructed during the 19th Century to provide service to the highland town of Shimla. The brilliance of Engineering skills can be witnessed from the multi-arch gallery Bridge at Kanoh and the world’s largest tunnel at Barog from which this train passes. This railway is also considered as the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Things to do: Toy train, appreciating and admiring Nature. 

Charge: Rs. 320

Total stations covered: 18 stations

11. Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex

Gaiety Heritage cultural complex is having amazing architecture and adds charm to Shimla also known as the Queen of Hills. Gaiety Theatre is a prominent place for hosting several events and programs in Shimla and it became the place of interest for Arts lovers.

It is one of the oldest cultural complexes of India and allows you to enjoy the British Era movement all over again. You just need to walk for a few km to reach this place and it attracts tourists from all around the world. It is one of the best attractions where you can do a half-day excursion of Shimla. This cultural complex is a five-story building with a police officer, theatre, art gallery, ballroom, and armory.

Timing: 9 A.M. to 5 P.M.

Entry Fee: Rs. 10 for Indians and Rs. 25 for foreigners.

Photography: Rs. 25 for Indian and Rs. 50 for foreigners.

Location: The Mall Road

How to Reach: This place is located at a walkable distance from the Shimla bus stand.

12. Chadwick Falls

This waterfall is having crystal clear water that Falls deep down. The height of this waterfall is approximately 86 m. The thick pine and deodar trees amplify the beauty of this place and the magnificent surrounding hills add a stunning view to this place.

After exploring the sightseeing of Shimla and finishing your hectic schedule you can visit this place to unwind yourself and provide your body some relaxation. This place is also known as “Chidku Jhaar” where Chidku means bird and Jhaar means waterfall in the local language.

The name Chadwick waterfall was given by the Britishers to this magnificent waterfall. This place can be visited at any time of the year with friends and families.

Things to do: Admiring nature, unwinding yourself.

Best Time to Visit: June to September month.

How to Reach: This Fall is located at a motorable distance of 5.5 km via car from Shimla.

13. Green Valley

It is a magnificent breathtaking mountain range that is located on the way from Shimla to Kufri. The valley is surrounded by magnificent hills and is covered with their deodar and Pine forests. It is a hidden attraction where you can spot some Yaks gazing and wandering in the valley.

This Valley is underdeveloped but nevertheless less than any prominent attraction. This really attracts a huge crowd of tourists with its dense forest that are in a straight line over the Majestic hill. One can also have the site of rare animals at this place. This is also a popular place that is used for shooting some of the famous Bollywood movies.

Things to do: Golfing, Photography, chilling, etc.

Best Time to Visit: July to October and February to April.

Location: Kufri

How to Reach: It is located at a motorable distance of 14.5 km from the Shimla bus stand.

14. Narkanda

Narkanda is a small town that is located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. It is also the Nagar panchayat which is blessed with the wealth of nature and is having a lot to offer to its storage. As per the mythology, this is the exact place where the Pandavas decide during their banishment.

This splendid town is located at an altitude of 2708 m above sea level. This place is surrounded by Mighty Shivalik Range and attracts a huge number of travelers each year.

Here one can have the splendorous view of nature and Woodlands and also the adventure lovers can enjoy various winter sports activities at this place.

Things to do: Skiing and winter sports.

Best Time to Visit: March to June month.

Location: Kumarsain subdivision

How to Reach: You can drive to this place and can reach here by covering the distance of 60.5 km.

15. Chail

Chail is a terrific hill station that is situated close to Shimla in Himachal Pradesh. Chail is renowned for its reality most elevated cricket ground on the planet and furthermore, Chail Palace is encompassed by deodar and delightful pine trees which is the legacy inn.

Chail is encircled by a lavish green and fantabulous view which can be seen from the extraordinary stature. Chail is the guaranteed land for Hikers. Chail gives the most paramount outing to its guests and adventure lovers. Chail is likewise having the world's most noteworthy polo ground.

It was once considered as the Summer capital by the rulers of Patiala, however, presently it has been changed over to the vacationer location. This is an original location for spending your excursion without caring about the world.

Things to do: Camping, Rock climbing, Trekking, etc.

Best Time to Visit: April to June month

How to Reach: It is located at a distance of 45 km from Shimla that can be covered via local taxi or personal cab.

16. Annandale

Annandale is a flat Terrain located in Shimla. This place is also been developed as the playground of the city which is located at a distance of 3 km from the richest. This place is used to play Sports live cricket, polo, golf, etc tourists can also enjoy a picnic with their family at the spot.

This place of the Scenic view of Shimla city and its surrounding. The beauty of this place gets enhanced with the deodar trees and pine trees that are surrounding this place. This place was used as a racing ground and a playground during the British era.

Things to do: Cricket, polo, golf, etc

Best Time to Visit: October and February month

How to Reach: The distance of 3 km that can be covered via cab or taxi.

17. Kiala Forest

Kiala Forest is located in the valley of Kotkhai in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh and is an interesting place that is visited by a huge number of tourists all year round.

This forest area is having lush green vegetables and various indigenous animals, it is one of the best destinations for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. This place is blessed with rich flora and fauna and is a Paradise for photographers where one can click some incredible pictures of landscape and rare species of animals in their wildness.

This place remains open for tourists throughout the year and the best time to explore this forest is from march month to October month.

Things to do: Exploring the lush green vegetation of the forest.

Best Time to Visit: March to October month.

Location: Kotkhai

How to Reach: This forest is located at a distance of 1km from the Shimla bus stand.

18. Summer Hill

The Summer Hill of Shimla is a mesmerizing place that is the combination of Seven Hills. It is located at an elevation of 2100 Feet above sea level and is frequently visited by tourists from all over the country.

The area is having a pleasant and cool atmosphere with the lush green beauty of the landscape. This is a perfect spot for Taurus to get in touch with nature and enjoy the huge variety of flora and fauna at this place.

This place enables tourists to unwind themselves and get distressed from Hustle and bustle of urban life. This help is situated at the proximity of 5 kilometers from Shimla Ridge and is famous for its beauty all over India.

Things to do: Panoramic view of snow-covered hills.

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.

Location: Spot on Shimla-Kalka rail line.

How to Reach: There is a motorable distance of 5km from Ridge, Shimla.

19. Naldehra Peak

Naldehra peak of Shimla is a magnificent hill station which is a great combo of greenery and magical climate stop this place is that true depiction of heaven.

You need to do a challenging Trek to reach this place but the view is really worth it. While trekking you will cross densely covered forest and is really a beautiful experience. The landscape of this place with the lush green forest will give you a pleasant and unforgettable experience.

The views after climbing the top of the steep path are really breathtaking. Adding this place to your itinerary will give you a memorable trip for sure.

Things to do: Golfing, trekking, and admiring nature.

Best Time to Visit: May to September month

Location: Shaily peak

How to Reach: You need to trek for 23km to reach this place from Shimla.