Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and one of the most famous and beloved hill stations in India. Sitting at an altitude of about 2,200 meters in the lower Himalayas, it was once the summer capital of British India and served as the headquarters of the British administration during the hot summer months when the heat of the plains made governance difficult. That colonial legacy is still very much alive in Shimla today, visible in its timber-framed buildings, Gothic churches, grand old hotels, and the leisurely promenade known as The Mall, which runs through the heart of the town and is one of the most famous walking streets in the hills of India.
Shimla is centered around a forested ridge and the main areas of town are connected by winding roads, steep stairs, and covered walkways. The Christ Church on the Ridge, built in 1857, is one of the oldest churches in North India and a defining landmark of the town. The Viceregal Lodge, also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, is a grand Victorian building that once served as the residence of the Viceroy of India and is now an institute for advanced study. The views from the surrounding hills, particularly from Jakhu Hill and Prospect Hill, are stunning on clear days and the forested slopes are home to langur monkeys, leopards, and hundreds of species of birds.
One of the most enjoyable ways to arrive in Shimla is on the Kalka-Shimla Railway, a narrow-gauge heritage train line that was built by the British in 1903 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The train passes through over 100 tunnels and dozens of bridges as it climbs through the hills and offers a journey that is as memorable as the destination itself. This Shimla travel guide covers the best time to visit, top attractions, day trip options, and travel tips for a great stay in this iconic hill station.
+91-9873003099
+91-9873003099