Shimla is known to turn travellers into lifelong admirers at first sight. Nestled in the mountain slopes of pine, deodar and oak, Shimla is the most popular hill station in India. Once the ‘summer capital’ of British officers, now the state capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is famous for its charming scenery and quaint ambiance.
If you want to go for a trip around Himachal Pradesh, you should make Shimla your starting point as the hill station is well-connected to all tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh, including Kufri, Mashobra, Tattapani, Fagu, Chail and the famous Naldehra golf course. Plan your Shimla tour between March and June or December and February to make it even more memorable.
Shimla is the perfect abode for nature lovers. Riding a bicycle along the narrow hill roads on the trekking routes takes your experience of Shimla to a whole new level. Taking in the fresh mountain air and exploring the corners on the scenic green mountains – such experiences are just unforgettable.
The picturesque town allured Britishers when they were ruling over India. They loved the place so much that they made Shimla the summer capital of India. Whenever Indian cities get too hot, people come to Shimla for the cool breeze and the beautiful scenery of lush green hills. The panorama from the Ridge is hard to put into words. Mesmerized by the natural beauty, it’s hard not to fall in love with Shimla.
The Ridge, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shimla, is the heart of Shimla’s culture. You can take a walk to the Ridge and see the stunning landscape around and take pictures of the magnificent renaissance –style buildings that stand witness to the colonial past. Similarly, the Viceroy Lodge, the Christ Church, and Rothney Castle present this European architectural style.
The best way to explore the beauty of the hills in Shimla is to take a ride on the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train. A ride through the hills on the narrow-gauge track offers an exhilarating view of the hills and the villages downhill. A UNESCO World Heritage, the Shimla Toy Train takes you through the misty deodar forests atop hills. The experience feels like being inside a time machine that takes you back to the colonial era when this railway was the pride of the British Raj.
The Summer Festival, held in the first week of June, is a confluence of artists from around the world who celebrate the vibrant musical and cultural significance of Shimla. Visitors from around the world flock to Shimla during this festival to savour the taste of the folk music and dance performances.
Be it the breathtaking landscape or the rich culture, Shimla should definitely be at the top of your India trip checklist. For a private tour of Shimla and Himachal Pradesh customized to your taste and comfort, get in touch with us.