Shimla is the capital state of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the major tourist attractions in India. Every year thousands of visitors visit here both nationally and internationally. Shimla was also the summer capital of British India. However, it was set as the capital of Punjab and then Himachal Pradesh.
Nature has given a lot of things to Himachal Pradesh, and the entire Shimla is surrounded by mountains and forests that make Shimla attractive for the tourists visiting this capital city. The city has several places to visit for joy and entertainment.
This location is having several Tudorbethan and neogothic architectures in its fold from the British period. The city also has several Churches and Temples. The tourists are fully satisfied after visiting the state.
Shimla has some famous attraction sites such as Viceregal Lodge, the Christ Church, the Jakhoo Temple, the Mall Road, and Annadale. This city is a World Heritage site declared by UNESCO and has the largest Natural ice skating ring in South Asia.
Here is the ultimate guide to the 10 Best Places to Visit in Shimla:
1. The Mall Road
The sunset to watch standing at Mall Road will make one very happy and is bound to remain in memory forever. It is the main shopping center of the city. It has good restaurants, bars, clubs and many other necessities such as Bank, Post office, Institutions, Theatre, etc. The magnificent Gaiety Theatre lies at the lower part of Mall Road.
- Things to Do: Shopping, savoring local delicacies, and exploring handicraft stores.
- How to Reach: Centrally located; easily accessible by foot or local taxis.
- Nearby Attractions: Christ Church, Gaiety Theatre, and Lakkar Bazaar.
2. The Ridge
It is the largest open space near the Mall and the center of all cultural activities in the city. The famous and second oldest church of North India, the Christ Church lies at the center point of the Ridge. This church represents the hope of people. It is the church where people believe in faith, fortitude, charity, patience, and humanity. It is a worthwhile place to visit while in Shimla.
- Things to Do: Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, visit Christ Church, and attend local festivals.
- How to Reach: Adjacent to Mall Road; accessible on foot.
- Nearby Attractions: Scandal Point, Christ Church, and Mall Road.
3. Jakhoo Temple
Over 8000 feet above, Jakho Hill is the huge and highest point in the city covered with the snow of the Himalayas. The Indian God Hanuman sits in the temple at the top of the hill. It is an old temple. One can find peace of mind by visiting this temple. The deity is very popular among tourists as well as local people. A large number of visitors come here to get peace of mind. It is only 2 KM away from the Ridge.
- Things to Do: Trek to the temple, admire the giant Hanuman statue, and enjoy panoramic views of Shimla.
- How to Reach: A 2 km uphill trek from The Ridge, or accessible by car or ropeway.
- Nearby Attractions: Ridge, Scandal Point.
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4. Shimla Kalibari
The Goddess Kali or Maa Kali always remains a huge Hindu Goddess. People always bow their heads to this Goddess. Shimla City is named after MaaKali’s fearless incarnation Shyamala. The view from the temple side is beautiful. Watching Annandale, Railway station, Bus stand, ATRAC and TV tower is very famous. One can get peace of mind while visiting this Kali Temple.
- Things to Do: Visit the historic Kali temple, enjoy serene surroundings, and explore traditional architecture.
- How to Reach: Located near Mall Road; accessible by foot or taxi.
- Nearby Attractions: Mall Road, The Ridge, and Gaiety Theatre.
5. Annandale
The racecourse of Shimla is the Annandale. 4 Km from the Ridge at a range of more than 6000 feet is the Indian Army Headquarters. The Heritage Museum and a helipad have their pride. Every VIP or Celebrity person while visiting Shimla comes down to this place through this helipad. This place is also famous for Football. In 1888, the first and most famous Durand cup football tournament was held at Annandale.
- Things to Do: Golfing, picnicking, and visiting the Army Museum.
- How to Reach: About 4 km from Shimla’s center; reachable by car or taxi.
- Nearby Attractions: Army Heritage Museum, Glen Forest.
6. Indian Institute of Advanced Studies
This institute is a heritage educational institute among others in India. Built in 1887 at Viceregal Lodge of Shimla. It is a research Institute Controlled by the Government of India. The institute is worth discovering, and a place of attraction in Shimla. IIAS is in Viceregal lodge that itself is a worthwhile place to explore.
- Things to Do: Tour the historic building, explore the gardens, and learn about the institute’s history.
- How to Reach: Located in the Observatory Hill area, 4 km from Mall Road; accessible by car or local bus.
- Nearby Attractions: Viceregal Lodge, Summer Hill.
7. Himachal Pradesh State Museum
Established in 1974, the museum covers protecting the cultural wealth of the state. A large number of hill culture sculptures and Pahari paintings are here. You can also discover the different species of wood carvings, costumes, jewelry, and local textiles in the museum.
- Things to Do: Explore art and artifacts, including Himachali handicrafts and ancient sculptures.
- How to Reach: About 2.5 km from Mall Road; reachable by car or local taxi.
- Nearby Attractions: Viceregal Lodge, Annandale.
8. Summer Hill
Summer Hill is the railway line of Shimla Kalka Railway Route at a range of more than 6000 feet. Bapu (Mahatma Gandhi) visited this place and its surroundings during his visit to Shimla. You can also visit the University of Himachal Pradesh here.
- Things to Do: Scenic walks, photography, and exploring local villages.
- How to Reach: About 5 km from Shimla; accessible by car or train on the Shimla-Kalka railway.
- Nearby Attractions: Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Tara Devi Temple.
9. Sankat Mochan Temple
The famous Hanuman Mandir Sankat Mochan Temple situates here at a range of 5000 feet at Shimla Chandigarh Highway. Deities from all over India and almost all tourists visit this temple.
- Things to Do: Offer prayers, enjoy peaceful surroundings, and attend temple rituals.
- How to Reach: About 7 km from Shimla’s center; reachable by local taxi.
- Nearby Attractions: Tara Devi Temple, Summer Hill.
10. Taradevi Temple
Taradevi is another idol in a different form of goddess Kali. This temple is dedicated to the goddess of stars and is situated at the top of the hill. Many devotees visit this place during the year. It also has Bharat scouts and guides.
- Things to Do: Trekking, exploring the ancient temple, and enjoying panoramic views.
- How to Reach: Located 11 km from Shimla; accessible by road or toy train.
- Nearby Attractions: Sankat Mochan Temple, Summer Hill.
11. Sanjauli
The suburb of Shimla is the Sanjouli. The inhabitants of this place are very simple and mostly engaged in the manufacturing of local textiles. Dhingumata Temple is here at the top. This temple is the 2nd highest hilltop temple after the Jakhoo temple. There is Kamna Devi temple nearby for visit.
- Things to Do: Visit local markets, explore cafes, and enjoy the less crowded part of Shimla.
- How to Reach: About 2 km from Mall Road; accessible by car or local transport.
- Nearby Attractions: Jakhoo Temple, Lakkar Bazaar.
12. Chadwick Falls
Fall is a natural gift. Nature has gifted this fall to this state. People visit this fall for scenic beauty, and many Indian films have been shot this fall. This site encounters thousands of visitors throughout the year.
- Things to Do: Trek through forests, enjoy the scenic waterfall, and capture photos.
- How to Reach: About 7 km from Shimla; accessible by trekking from Summer Hill.
- Nearby Attractions: Summer Hill, Himachal Pradesh University.
13. Other places
In addition to the above, there are Kurfi, Chharbara, Mashbora, Jutogh, Chail place, Badi Ki Dhar, and many others. All these are worth visiting for scenic beauty. Chail is one place, 45 KM away from Shimla is the palace of Maharaja of Patiala. The world’s highest Cricket ground is situated here at 7000 feet in height. Read Also: Chail Famous Places to Visit Near Shimla.
How to Reach Shimla
Since Shimla is a tourist spot and a huge source of income for the state. It is well connected by all means of transportation for people. The state of Himachal Pradesh and the government of India have provided all the facilities for transportation.
Shimla has got its Airport and is well connected to Delhi. The Railway line from Kalka, Chandigarh, Ambala, Patiala, Bhatinda, Amritsar, Panipat, Delhi, and many other places are connected with this capital town. The road network is beautiful.
A visit from Chandigarh to Shimla through Buses is enjoyable. The circular bus service throughout the city is worth mentioning.
Best Time to Visit Shimla
The spring and summer season (January to June) is the best for visiting Shimla as the temperature remains within the range of 9 to 30 degrees Celsius. July to October remains under heavy rainfall. November to January remains under winter and snowfall season. Therefore, according to convenience, visitors can visit this city. Just a single visit to this place and you wouldn’t forget the life-changing experience of tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the must-visit places in Shimla?
Popular places to visit in Shimla include The Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church, Kufri, and Indian Institute of Advanced Study.
2. What is The Ridge in Shimla famous for?
The Ridge is an open space in the heart of Shimla, known for its scenic views, cultural events, and as a central meeting point. It also offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains.
3. Why is Mall Road popular among tourists?
Mall Road is the main shopping and dining hub in Shimla. It’s lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a favorite spot for both tourists and locals.
4. How do I reach Jakhoo Temple in Shimla?
You can either hike up to Jakhoo Temple, which is located on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla, or take a cable car from The Ridge. The temple is famous for its large statue of Lord Hanuman.
5. What can I do in Kufri near Shimla?
Kufri, located around 16 kilometers from Shimla, is a famous destination for snow activities during winter, including skiing, sledding, and snowboarding.
6. What is special about Christ Church in Shimla?
Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India, is known for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. It’s located on The Ridge.
7. Is Indian Institute of Advanced Study worth visiting?
Yes, the Indian Institute of Advanced Study is a must-visit for history lovers. It was the former residence of the British Viceroy and is now a research center. Its grand architecture is a big attraction.
8. Are there any historical places to visit in Shimla?
Yes, apart from the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Gaiety Theatre and Viceregal Lodge are important historical landmarks in Shimla.
9. What is the best time to visit Shimla?
The best time to visit Shimla is between March to June for pleasant weather or December to February if you want to enjoy the snowfall and winter sports.
10. What are some family-friendly places to visit in Shimla?
For families, Kufri Fun World, Green Valley, and Mashobra are great options, offering outdoor activities and picnic spots.
11. How far is Chadwick Falls from Shimla?
Chadwick Falls is located about 7 kilometers from Shimla. It’s a beautiful waterfall, especially during the monsoon season.
12. Are there any peaceful places in Shimla?
Yes, places like Summer Hill, Annandale, and Mashobra offer a peaceful and serene environment, perfect for those seeking some quiet time.
13. What are some religious places in Shimla?
Apart from Jakhoo Temple, other religious places include Shimla Kali Bari Temple, Tara Devi Temple, and Sankat Mochan Temple.
14. Can I experience snowfall in Shimla?
Yes, you can experience snowfall in Shimla during December to February. Kufri and Narkanda are also great spots to enjoy snow during winter.
15. Are there any trekking spots near Shimla?
Yes, Tara Devi, Chail, and Shali Tibba are popular trekking spots near Shimla, offering scenic trails and panoramic views of the mountains.
