Perhaps the most hospitable of all hill stations, Shimla is aptly called ‘the queen of the hills’. Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and was once the summer capital of British India. This quaint little hill station was just another paradise lost in the Himalayas before it was discovered by the British in the early 1800s.
Situated in the southwestern range of the Himalayas at an altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level, Shimla lies on seven major hills namely Observatory Hill, Inveram Hill, Summer Hill, Prospect Hill, Bantony Hill, Jakhoo Hill and Elysium. Hill. .
The top ranked hotels in India are in Shimla. Some of the older hotels have retained their colonial architecture and remain booked throughout the year.
Shimla has a plethora of places for travelers and tourists of all kinds. The best ones are listed below:
1. Summer Hills: A picturesque and exceptionally beautiful town, situated at an altitude of 1,283 meters. It is only a few kilometers from Ridge Road on the way to Kalka. The place is away from the bustle of Shimla and surrounded by peaceful hills. This place is ideal for people who love long, leisurely walks and appreciate solitude as much as good company.
2. Jakhoo Hill: The highest peak in Shimla, at an elevation of 8000 feet, Jakhoo Hill is a crowded place for pilgrims and nature lovers alike. The top of the hill has a newly built statue of Lord Hanuman along with the Jakhoo temple. It takes about 30 minutes to get to the temple. Alternatively, you can hire taxis.
3. Chadwick Falls – This famous waterfall is surrounded by a dense forest with lush green pine and cedar trees that amplify the immense beauty of the waterfall.
4. Lakkar Bazaar – This colorful market is famous for its woolen garments, handicrafts, dried fruits and Kullu shawls. A trip to Shimla is not complete without shopping at Lakkar Bazaar.
5. Kufri – At 2,622 meters above sea level, Kufri is rightly called the capital of winter sports. Winters in Kufri witness heavy footfall due to skiing and ice skating.
6. Shimla State Museum: Located in Mount Pleasant, it is famous for its colonial architecture. Applauded for its rich heritage, the museum has preserved ancient artifacts, paintings and sculptures.
7. The Ridge: The Ridge runs along Mall Road and is located in the center of Shimla. It offers a stunning view of the many mountains that surround Shimla. Also, you can see the Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India.
