Shimla, the location to explore the Himalayas in all their
fascinating beauty!
Shimla has it all: snow-capped mountains, stunning lakes, a
nice atmosphere, and enticing flora. The city and the surrounding areas, popularly
known as the œQueen of Hill Stations, never cease to astonish with their
charming beauty. Shimla's air has a certain enchantment to it that makes
everyone fall in love with it. Shimla is undoubtedly one of the most popular
tourist destinations, with such a diverse selection of activities and
well-known landmarks. Evergreen trees, rolling valleys, magnificent lakes, a
pleasant climate, and a historic air all contribute to the beauty of this hill
resort. With a diverse selection of attractions, both natural and man-made, the
area definitely lives up to its reputation. However, there is a drawback. When
planning a trip to this former summer capital of British India, you will have a
difficult time narrowing down your options.
Don't worry, and keep reading! In this article, we will give
you a breakdown of the region's must-see attractions that will never fail to
enchant you, whether you are a family vacationer, a honeymooner, or a single
traveller. So, mark your calendars and get ready to pack your luggage for an
amazing vacation to Shimla, one of the most beautiful hill stations near Delhi.
The Ridge, Shimla
In terms of geography and tourism attractions, The Ridge may
be considered Shimla's heart. This Shimla tourist attraction is actually a
wide-open street that runs from east to west along the Mall Road and connects
to the famous Scandal Point. Its popularity stems from the breath-taking views
of the snow-capped mountain ranges that rise against the blue sky to border
this tropical paradise. The area is densely packed with long-established
British establishments that entice visitors to indulge in feel-good shopping
and binge-eating. The Ridge, which is lined with boutiques, bars, restaurants,
cafes, and shops, serves as the region's social hub.
Jakhoo Hill, Shimla
Jakhoo Hill, Shimla's highest point, is covered in a carpet
of alpine trees and gives breath-taking views of the snow-capped Shivalik Ranges
as well as the sister town of Sanjauli. Jakhoo Hill, located at an elevation of
8000 feet above sea level, is home to an old Hanuman temple that has the
world's tallest statue (108 feet) of this Hindu deity. It attracts both
worshippers and tourists because of its legends and mysteries. According to
local tradition, the temple sits on the site where Lord Hanuman paused for a
bit on his trek to bring the Sanjeevani Booti for Lakshman's rebirth during the
Lankan battle.
Christ Church
Christ Church is a renowned tourist destination and is
ranked among the top ten sites to see in Shimla. The Christ Church is a magnificent
architectural masterpiece created during the British era so that the
then-Christians might serve the almighty Jesus.
This monument is ideal for those who want to experience
colonial-era religious Christianity. The church was designed to depict faith,
hope, humanity, patience, fortitude, and charity in order to raise awareness of
the rich Christian culture. This area is worth a try because it is located
among gorgeous locations and spectacular surroundings.
Mall Road
The Mall Road is a must-see for couples looking for
locations to visit in Shimla. Aside from that, the venue is a hip and lively
setting in this hill station that attracts tourists of all ages. This is one
area where you may absorb in the spirit of Shimla in all its touristy delights,
with a plethora of cafes, restaurants, showrooms, departmental stores, and
shops selling trinkets and special handicraft works. You may buy everything
from jewellery and literature to intricately crafted wooden products here.
Viceregal Lodge
Viceregal Lodge, is Shimla's most historically significant
landmark, was previously the summer seat of the Indian Viceroy who administered
India from 1888 to 1946. The Mock-Tudor state residence, enclosed by
immaculately maintained gardens, is a refuge for history and architecture
buffs.
After being renovated into an advanced academic complex,
access to the Lodge is limited to a few staterooms as part of a tour of this
spectacular structure. Viceregal Lodge, located atop Observatory Hill, provides
unrivalled views of the surrounding environment.
Viceregal Lodge, also known as the Rashtrapati Niwas (the
President's house), is located on the second highest point in Shimla, the first
being Jakhoo Hill.
Indian Institute of Advanced Studies
Shimla is quite popular for its educational institutes; in
fact, boarding schools in Shimla attract quite the attention due to their spectacular
architecture. The Indian Institute of Advanced Studies is one such institution
and should definitely be on your list of Things to Do in Shimla. Shimla is a
testament to our country's colonial past, and this institution founded by the
British is a vital element of colonial history. The Institute used to be the
Indian President's official summer retreat. The institute was transformed into
a research centre for the development and progress of arts and humanities in
India during the tenure of Indian President DR. Radhakrishnan.
Tourists can visit the institute and its surrounding gardens
and marvel at the grandeur of colonial architecture in India, making it one of
the top Shimla Tourism sites.
Kali Bari Temple, Shimla
Shimla's Kali Bari Temple is an ancient temple of worship
devoted to Goddess Kali. It was built in 1845 and is regarded as extremely
religiously significant by followers. The temple holds an enthralling idol of
Goddess Kali, which is lavishly decorated with jewellery and colourful flowers.
It is located in Shimla, very close to the Shimla City Mall, and is frequently
visited by a huge number of devotees. The temple grounds are kept clean and
well-maintained, and worshippers can sit here for hours soaking in the divine
vibe. Many people like chanting or meditation here to examine challenges they
are having as they seek Goddess Kali's power and energy to face and combat
them. Locals say that Goddess Kali dwelt atop Jakhoo Hill, which was the site
of an ancient temple that was later relocated to Kali Bari by the British.
Locals also refer to Goddess Kali as Goddess Shyamala. Shimla was named for the
Goddesses. During the Navratri holiday, a significant number of devotees visit
the Kali Bari Temple in search of Goddess Kali's blessings and to give her
prayers. The evening aarti at the divine temple should be seen. Another sight
to see is devotees absorbed in sacred verses chanted by Kali Bari temple
priests.
Kufri
A 40-minute journey from the city centre will lead you to
Kufri, another must-see destination in the region. This little hill station,
located at an elevation of 8607 feet, offers panoramic views of the surrounding
snow-capped mountains. However, Kufri is more than just Shimla sightseeing. It
is also an adventure centre, providing training and facilities for exciting
winter activities like ice skating and skiing. As a result, it is also
recognised as India's winter sports capital. Kufri is one of the best spots to
visit in Shimla in December because it receives regular snowfall.
Green Valley Shimla
Green Valley, a breath-taking natural dale near Shimla and
Kufri, lives up to its name. The valley is coated in vegetation, set against a
backdrop of snow-covered mountains and lush green woods of pine and deodar.
Away from the tourist traps, the tranquil Green Valley is where you may observe
nature in all its splendour, making it one of the greatest locations to visit
in Shimla for a honeymoon. Given its pure beauty, the site is also a renowned
Bollywood location in India, having appeared in a number of Hindi films.
Although Green Valley is open all year, the greatest time to visit is during
the summer months.
Summer Hill
Summer Hills is a popular Shimla tourism destination for nature lovers and thrill seekers. The Summer Hills, ideal for hiking, trekking, camping, and sightseeing, will transport you away from the city's crowds and allow your mind to relax in its calm surroundings. The Summer Hills, located around 5 kilometres from Shimla's renowned Ridge and boasting a massive height of roughly 2,123 metres above sea level, is a power boost for both rookie and expert trekkers This attraction's perspectives provide unbroken panoramic views of hills surrounded by lush pine and deodar forests, with a color-changing sky in the background.
Summer Hill was where potters used to gather clay to manufacture pots and is consequently also known as Potter's Hill. The hill is one of the seven hills that make up Shimla's hill town, and it guarantees the majestic beauty of nature in full bloom to fill your heart with pleasure and happiness.
