Things to Do in Shimla – A Complete Travel Guide

One of the historical landmarks and a charming town, Shimla, fondly known as the ‘Queen of the Hills’ popular hill station and a former summer capital of British India. It is surrounded by the mighty Himalayas and renowned for its stunning natural beauty, pleasant weather and colonial architecture. From the panoramic view of snow-peaked Mountains to charming markets, the city offers everything to travellers. The allure of Shimla still retains its colonial charm with grand old buildings. Enjoy cultural events at its historical theatre and art complex, additionally visit mesmerising museums to journey into the rich history of the region.

This is a complete guide for exploring the best of Shimla for those seeking a tranquil, leisurely walk through the serene Glen Forests and also want to explore the serene Chandwick Falls, where the cascading water creates a mesmerising spectacle. However, it is always recommended to exercise caution, follow local guidelines, and take necessary precautions while travelling to any destination. Now, for what are you waiting to pack your bags for your summer vacation to Shimla?

Shimla – The Queen of the Hills

Shimla has a historical and cultural significance, along with the centre town bustling with shops and eateries, with stunning natural beauty. The ridge is a large open space in the heart of Mall Road that provides an excellent view of the mountain ranges engulfed in the beauty of nature, with old-world architecture. Take a heritage walk for an immersive experience of the history, or enjoy a Toy Train ride on the Shimla Kalka Railway. Summer vacation in Shimla is an enchanting experience filled with captivating moments. Tourists spend their days exploring the scenic landscapes, strolling through the bustling Mall Roads, and indulging in the delectable local cuisine. Here, colonial architecture, adorned with British-era buildings, added a touch of history and charm to the town. One of the great ways to travel is by enjoying Shimla cab service. Follow the guide and travel to the destination by following the necessary precautions while travelling to the city.

Shimla is an ideal destination to enjoy the vacations. It offers a refreshing escape for travellers seeking solace amidst nature's beauty. The lush greenery, blooming flowers, and crisp mountain air create a tranquil ambience. Here, the local authorities have ensured the safety and well-being of visitors. The town’s infrastructure is also well-maintained, and locals are known for their warmth and hospitality, making it a safe destination for travellers.

Things to Do in Shimla

Shimla, nestled amidst the picturesque Himalayas, will offer various things to do and a must-visit place map of most tourist destinations and a popular getaway among Indians and International tourists alike. Here, places near Shimla are a perfect amalgamation of hill stations, adventure sports like Ziplining, ice skating spots, and wildlife sanctuaries.

One of the most prominent and popular places to visit in Shimla is the Ridge. It is a wide open space that runs along the Mall Road, which is the main street of the town. Additionally, Christ Church and the toy train ride promise an unforgettable excursion for you and offer a glimpse into the town's storied past and enduring charm. For adventure enthusiasts, Shimla boasts a natural ice skating rink in winter, where the rink is maintained using a natural freezing process.  Ziplining is another way to experience regional beauty from above. The participants are fitted with safety harnesses and helmets, and the experience begins with a briefing by trained instructors.

Spiritual Things to Do in Shimla

Globally known as the “Queen of the Hill Station”, Shimla hosts many temples and churches. There are monasteries and religious places, where devotees keep coming to these places from different countries as well. Devotees come to offer their prayers and get to know and feel the ultimate meaning of divinity.

• Visit Jakhoo Temple: Nestled amidst the vibrant beauty of the Shivalik hill ranges, Jakhoo Temple is an ancient Hanuman temple that offers a mystical vibe to the devotees. The temple is a place where Lakshmana got injured by a powerful arrow and became unconscious, then Hanuman took a Sanjeevani to bring the life of Lakshmana back. The temple has the world's largest statue of God Hanuman that attracts travellers apart from the Hindu community.
• Seek blessings at Kali Bari Temple:  Kali Bari Temple of Shimla is an ancient place of worship dedicated to Goddess Kali. The temple was built in 1845 and is considered of immense religious importance for devotees. It is often visited by devotees in large numbers. Here, you can attend the evening aarti. This site of devotees getting immersed in the holy verses chanted by the Kali Bari temple priests. During the festivals of Navratri you can visit the temple to seek blessings.  
• Attend evening prayers at local temples: However, Shimla is best known for its scenic landscapes, outstanding mountain views and thrilling adventure activities, but attending the evening prayers at local temples in Manali will show you a different side of the city. When the mantra chanting meets the blowing mountain breezes offers solace to every visitor.
• Experience the serene vibes of Tara Devi Temple: Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life to commune, you can explore Tara Devi Temple, it allows you to connect with the rhythms of nature. The gentle rustle of leaves, the melodious chirping of birds, and the fragrant scent of wildflowers all contribute to the sensory symphony that soothed the soul. The temple holds both spiritual and cultural significance and hosts a variety of festivals and religious celebrations that make it an all-year-round destination.

Adventure & Offbeat Activities in Shimla

When it comes to adventure sports in Shimla, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From paragliding to skiing, the options are endless. It's a home to natural ice-skating in India, making it one of the best places to experience this winter sport. Here’s a look at some of the most popular adventure activities that will make your vacation a thrilling one.

Shimla, a renowned tourist destination in India, extends far beyond its bustling Mall Road and colonial structures. Below is a table of the top offbeat places in Shimla for families or perfect for those who are seeking peace amidst breathtaking Himalayan beauty.

Places to Visit in Shimla

If you are planning a trip to Shimla, then this city is a must-visit destination for you, either looking for a romantic or a peaceful weekend in the lap of nature. Due to its strategic location in the beautiful landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, it often makes a great weekend getaway for you. With the abundance of tourist places, from panoramic views of snow-peaked mountains to historical landmarks and charming markets, this town has it all.

Places to Visit Near Shimla

Shimla is a popular getaway among Indian and international tourists alike; additionally, places near the city are a perfect amalgamation of hill stations, trekking spots, and wildlife sanctuaries. Tourist places near the city provide a perfect weekend getaway for laid-back vacationers or adrenaline-fuelled adventurers alike and offer a treasure trove of scenic natural beauty, perennial greenery, and a soothing ambience. There are some top places to visit near Shimla that you can add to your trip.

Kufri: For snow & adventure, travellers can visit Kufri. It is a quaint little hill town 20 km away from Shimla. It is flocked by tourists almost at all times; however, snowfall is at its peak from November to March, which is almost the best time to visit. The Mahasu peak trek and the Fagu valley are two of the most sought-after places in Kufri, except you could hike or go on a pony ride from the parking lot to reach the top.

Chail: It is a quiet retreat with a palace & Cricket Ground, and a heritage hotel. It is nestled at an altitude of 2250m above sea level, and offers various trekking and camping options for adventure enthusiasts; however, you could also stay in one of the resorts for a more fulfilling experience. It is one of the attractions for tourists seeking a vacation in the beauty of the Shivalik ranges.

Naldehra: One of the small, enchanting hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, Naldehra is a perfect destination for tourists for its natural scenic beauty and an offbeat location. It is famous for its greenery, golf course and plain view of the mountains filled with pine, cedar and apple orchards. Here, travellers can enjoy a wonderful afternoon in the lush green valley or take a horse ride to the Naldehra golf course.

Mashobra: In Himachal Pradesh, Mashobra is tucked at a height of about 7700 feet, ensuring minimal human obstruction in the course of nature to provide you with the most pure and liberating experience of your lifetime.  It's a peaceful hill station for those looking for a peaceful place for a lazy weekend outing or a week-long vacation.

Tattapani: Nestled in Himachal Pradesh, it is a picturesque destination renowned for its natural hot sulphur springs situated along the banks of the Sutlej River. It gives you a unique opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in its therapeutic hot springs. The region’s rich heritage  and spiritual ambience add to the allure of the destination, making it a memorable experience for you seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion.

How to Plan a Trip to Shimla

Shimla is a picturesque hill station, offers a variety of experiences for travellers seeking a delightful getaway. You can easily plan a trip to Shimla by road, rail and airways. But the major city that connects Shimla is Chandigarh, so several tourists plan their trip via Chandigarh. They reached there by cab booking from Chandigarh to Shimla for a timely and comfortable journey towards the hill. From its colonial charm and panoramic views to its vibrant markets and adventure-filled activities, Shimla promises you an unforgettable journey in a charming atmosphere. To experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage, an ideal itinerary of 2-4 days is required.

Day 1: Start your day early, arrive in Shimla by road or via toy train and explore the ridge, visit Scandal Point, relax on Mall Road and don’t miss the majestic christ church, then you can wrap up the evening with dinner at a cosy cafe.

Day 2: Next day, visit Jakhoo Temple, Viceregal Lodge ( Indian Institute of Advanced Study), and after lunch, explore the Gaiety Theatre or take a peaceful walk through Annandale Ground and Army Heritage Museum and end your day with traditional Himachali meals.

Day 3: After breakfast, you can set out for a full-day excursion to Kufri. It's a lovely hill station just 20 km from Shimla, where you can enjoy pony rides, and experience views from the Mahasu peaks or in winter, you can try skiing or snow tubing or continue your journey to the Chail circuit.

Day 4: On the last day, check out from your hotel, and if you have time before departure, take a short walk or relax in the Cedar forests near Summer Hill or visit local markets and end your journey with a lot of memories with beautiful hills.

From exploring iconic landmarks to savoring delectable cuisine, this itinerary ensures an enchanting and fulfilling experience in the heart of Himachal Pradesh. Additionally, booking your tickets early during summer and winter holidays, avoiding last-minute hassles, and enjoying Shimla at your own pace.

How to Reach Shimla

Shimla is a popular hill station among Indian Families and honeymooners. You can travel to this city all year round. It offers a different level of experience to travellers. Shimla is well-connected to major cities and is just 4 hours from nearby cities like Chandigarh. The city has an airport as well; however, there aren’t many daily flights from here. The railway station connects Shimla with the plains and is famous for the Kalka-Shimla train route, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage site.

• By Air: To enjoy a hassle-free journey to Shimla airport, booking your ticket in advance for a stress-free and reliable travel, you can easily and conveniently travel with your family and aged family members by booking flight tickets. The airport is also known as Jubbarhatti Airport, and it is around 25 km from the main city. You can easily book a taxi from the airport to reach Shimla.
• By Rail: For an affordable trip to Shimla, you can book a ticket to the nearest railway station, here toy train from Kalka to Shimla is a charming way to get to the hill station. Kalka is connected by several trains that offer a comfortable travel and a very beautiful journey, with a lot of tunnels and scenery making up for the extra time taken on the route.
• By Road: Shimla is a hot tourist destination, and buses run from as far as Delhi, Jaipur, Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Uttar Pradesh. The city is well connected via NH5 to Chandigarh, Agra, and Manali. But, travelling to Shimla by public transport might be hectic and inconvenient, so travellers often book a cab online. Taxis are widely available. One of the best that offers more options to visit the places en route. From Delhi also you can also easily take a cab from Delhi, as there are platforms like CabBazar offering budget-friendly Delhi to Shima taxi fare for your journey.

Best Time to Visit Shimla

To enjoy the weekends, opt for the best time to visit according to your preference and travel plan. Shimla is a popular hill station all through the year with three distinct seasons. Tourism thrives in Shimla in all the seasons other than the monsoons, which begin in July and last till September. This travel guide will help in choosing the season of your choice.

March-June: From the summer escape and to enjoy the lush views of the post-snow season and Himalayan peaks, these months are perfect. During this time you will find a pleasant climate with cosy weather and especially enjoy the local festivals in full groove.

October–February: for snowfall and winter fun. These months, from October to February, are perfect for adventure activities. Shimla is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, offering a wide range of winter sports and activities like skiing or trekking through its scenic trails. These activities, along with the excitement, also let you soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

Avoid monsoon: In the monsoon season from July to September, Shimla rejuvenates the landscapes with lush greenery, but also leads to heavy rainfall and potential landslides, which is why you can avoid the trip during these months.

Where to Stay in Shimla

Head to Shimla, for every season brings a different charm to this evergreen holiday destination. Hotels and homestays here offer the perfect destination for an unforgettable travel experience. Additionally, it's better to book a preferred hotel in advance, especially during the peak seasons. You can opt for several options to stay in Shimla, especially in the most popular areas like Mall Road, Chotta Shimla, Kufri Road and Summer Hill that provide peaceful surroundings in the forest for a serene stay away from crowds. Here is a wide range of accommodation options for every traveller.

Luxury Hotels: With a stunning view and premium amenities, you have a wide options to stay in five-star luxury hotels in Shimla. It offers the best facilities that are ideal for honeymooners and families seeking comfort and convenience.

Heritage Stays: For history and architecture lovers, Shimla offers various colonial-era bungalows and restored mansions with all the modern comforts.

Homestays: For a homely hospitality, the homestays in Shimla and nearby places like Mashobara, Theog, and Cheog are all about value for money. You can book a homestay in Edgeworth, Naman Homestay, Vatsalya Home Stay, Zostel Homes, and The White Haven Homestay are the best homestay options in Shimla.

Budget Lodges: For an affordable option near the bus stand or slightly outside the main tourist hubs, you can stay in various budget lodges and guest houses that are ideal for students, trekkers, or many budget-conscious tourists.

Travel Tips for Shimla

Shimla is an ideal weekend holiday destination for people. With well-done planning and packing, your trip will become a memorable one. Here is the list of a few things that you should remember while travelling.

• Pack light woollens even in summer: While doing the packaging for Shimla, it's advisable to pack a light woollen jacket.
• Carry good walking shoes: For hilly terrain and lots of walking paths, you must carry walking shoes with grips for ease and safety to explore Shimla.
• Plan local sightseeing early to avoid tourist rush: If you are planning a trip on weekends or vacations, then it's beneficial to visit the local sightseeing or visit attractions in the morning to avoid crowds and long queues.  
• Book toy train tickets in advance: In peak seasons, getting accommodations and tickets for toy trains is not possible. It's better to book the tickets in advance for a comfortable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the snowfall season in Shimla?

The recommended time to see snowfall in Shimla is between October and February. If you are looking for snow, plan your trip anytime between these months; during this time, you can go skiing and ice skating.

2. How to reach Shimla from Delhi?

You can travel to Shimla from Delhi directly via road by bus or car, or take a train to Kalka. From Kalka, most tourists prefer the famous toy train to reach. People who are short on time can take a bus or car to reach Kalka.

3. What is the toy train experience like?

Kalka-Shimla toy train offers a cherished gem among India’s iconic railway journeys and offers a picturesque route through the Himalayan Queen Railway. This UNESCO heritage site allows you to embark on an unforgettable journey.

4. Are there good family-friendly hotels?

Yes, from luxury hotels to budget homestays, you can explore the town on a budget with lots of memories.

5. Is Shimla safe for solo travellers?

Yes, Shimla is a fantastic destination for solo travellers looking for a delightful and secure journey. It boasts attractions such as the breathtaking views from Jakhu Temple and the bustling bazaars along Mall Road.