Shimla – Queen of Hills

The hill station of Shimla was a favourite haunt of the British. In fact, Shimla was the capital of the British during the Raj, in the summer months. It is because of the beauty of this hill station, its pleasant weather and the many structures dating back to the British Raj that it is called the Queen of the Hills.

Some of the scenic spots in Shimla include:

Summer Hill: At 1,283 m, this hill provides great vistas of the entire region. Summer Hill is just about five km from the Ridge, an important tourist hub in Shimla. 

Summer Hill (Photo Courtesy: https://www.tourmyindia.com)

The Ridge: If you are in Shimla, you cannot miss this place! It is a huge stretch right in the city’s heart and offers brilliant views of the surrounding peaks. The library building (Tudor) and Christ Church are worth visiting.

Kalka-Shimla rail: The railway line is one of the most captivating routes, in the whole of the country. You can chug along on a train and see the beautiful tunnels and hills, and see the light streaming through the gaps between the tall pines. The historic railway line was first thrown open for traffic in 1903. There are over a hundred tunnels on this path.

Kalka to Shimla Train (Photo Courtesy: http://www.himachal.exploreindia.in)

Mall Road: Yet another British contribution to the lovely hill station is the Mall Road, which is the key street in the city. It is the shopping hub of the city, and you can buy handicrafts, clothes and woollens here for your family or friends back home. If you love heritage, you will notice a really old theatre called Gaiety, which dates back to the late 19th century. The structure has now been renovated and the facade retained for its heritage value. It is located on Mall Road.

Gaiety Theatre (Photo Courtesy: http://www.tedxcartroad.org)

Jakhoo Hill: The peak is a mere two km away from the hill station, and is one more point where you can go watch the surrounding peaks and ranges.

Annandale: Also called Annadale, this was a patch/clearing which served as a playground for British officers who created their own Little England here.

Annandale Ground (Photo Courtesy: http://archive.indianexpress.com)

Chadwick Falls: This is a cascade that will bring you cheer! At a mere seven km from Shimla, it is a sight for sore eyes. Spend some time listening to the sound of the water, and watching the greenery, and watch your blues melt away!

Chadwick Falls (Photo Courtesy: https://www.tourmyindia.com)

Best time to visit

The ideal time to holiday in Shimla is summer, when most people from the cities in the North get away to the hills for some respite from the heat. Winter is not a good time to visit Shimla, if you are not accustomed to severe cold, when temperatures drop to sub-zero levels. While you are in Shimla, you could also try your hand at water sports or trekking – there are plenty of opportunities available.

There are plenty of hotels in Shimla, but you may need to make your reservations ahead of time because Shimla is a much-visited destination. If you are booking at one of the Shimla hotels, choose a nice heritage hotel or a charming property with all the amenities and have the time of your life!