Shimla

One of India's most spectacular hill stations, Shimla is called the Queen of Hills. It is situated at 2,130 meters above sea level. In 1819, the British made it their camp due to its perfect weather. Shimla is named after its local Goddess Shyamala. Its green valleys, the beauty of its trees, pine, oak and deodar and its beautiful weather in summer attract the tourists throughout the year.

The Mall is the most famous road in Shimla. 1 km from the bus stand is Hotel Combermayor near which one can get a lift by car to go to the Mall Road. The most economical way to get there, the lift service closes at 9.00 pm. Tourists can come down using the steps.

Tourist Season: Although Shimla is beautiful all through the year, during winter due to landslides and snow, the roads get blocked and travelling becomes tedious. Hence the best time is from April to October. Light woollens in summer, and heavy woollens in winter would be the ideal clothing.

Places of Interest:

Gaiety Theatre: This theatre is one of the oldest theatres in the world. It is on the Mall Road. Famous plays are often staged here.

Himalayan Bird Park: Situated 1km from the Mall Road, in this park one finds rare birds. Models of some endangered species (animals and birds) are also found here.

Viceregal Lodge: This hall is the most beautiful building in Shimla. It houses some of the most ancient articles that would take us back to the times of the British rule.

Jakhu Hill: Shimla's highest Peak, this is situated 2km from the town. One can have a breathtaking view of Shimla from here. A Hanuman Temple is also found on this peak.

Chadwick Falls: 7km from Shimla, this is an ideal picnic spot. At 1,586 meters above sea level, it is surrounded with waterfalls.

Summer Hill: Another picnic spot 4 kms. from Shimla, it is located at 1,851 meters above sea level. It has a beautiful temple of Goddess Taradevi. 

Prospect Hill: Located on this hill is the temple of Goddess Kamna. Sunrise and the moon are spectacular sights from here. A 15-minute climb from Baluganj would bring you here. For those interested in the culture and art of Himachal Pradesh, here is a State Museum.

Kufri:16km from Shimla, beautiful Kufri is also called the "Chinese Bungalow". Many games are organised here from February to March. In winter one can ski on its snow-covered slopes and in the summer have a ride on the back of the Yak. Kufri is well known for its natural scenic beauty.

Chail: Another scenic spot where the river Asani flows. This adds to its beauty. The world's highest cricket field is situated here. A story goes that due to some differences, the British had forbidden the Maharaja of Patiala from going to Shimla. Therefore, he laid the foundation for the town of Chail and since he loved the game of cricket, a field was specially laid. Chail is about 45 kms from Shimla.

Nalderao: 22 kms from Shimla, it has the oldest golf course in India. The pine and deodar add to its beauty.

Fagu: It is located 2,510 mts. above sea level. Winter is extremely beautiful here. Dense forests and apple orchards have their unique attraction. The snow-capped mountains can hold anyone spell-bound.

Shopping: Shawls, Himachal caps, woodwork items, dolls, etc., can be bought. But, beware of frauds who try to pass off fake shawls as the original ones and for higher prices. Hence, it would be safer to buy from the government emporium.

Transport: Himachal Tourism, Himachal Road Transport Corporation and private tour operators run their buses regularly.

Himachal Tourism Office: The Mall, Phone no: 78311, 77646.

Restaurants:
Baljis Restaurant: The Mall - Indian, Chinese, Continental
Seventh Heaven: Close to the Lift - Indian, Chinese, Continental
Nalini : The Mall - Vegetarian
Sagar: Near the Bus stand - Vegetarian
Embassy: Close to the lift car, The Mall road - Mixed cuisine

Guest Houses: Binduraj Guest house, Butel Guest house, Ram Mandir Sood Guest house, Sanatan Guest house.

Shimla has approximately 200 hotels with prices ranging from Rs.200/- to 
Rs. 5,000/-. Facilities for Paying Guest's are also available.

Travel Plans: 

Railways

You can reach Simla via Kalka. Kalka is 95 km from Shimla. The 6 hour journey from Kalka by a mini train would take you through 103 small tunnels and give a scenic view. It is advisable to reserve seats in advance. Kalka is linked with many other Indian cities.

Road

Shimla is connected to Chandigarh, Delhi, Amritsar, Kalka and other cities of Haryana and Punjab by road. The state transport operates regular services.

Distance  from towns and cities: