Shimla

Shimla (also spelt as 'Simla') derives its name from goddess 'Shayamla Devi', which is another manifestation of Goddess Kali. The capital of Himachal Pradesh came into light when the British discovered it in 1819. Till then, it was a part of the Nepalese kingdom. In 1864 Shimla was declared as the summer capital of India. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and was later named the capital of Himachal Pradesh. In 1903 a rail line was constructed between Kalka and Shimla.

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Shimla India has been blessed with all the natural bounties, one can think of. Dwelling on a panoramic location, the hilly town is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era create an aura, which is very different from other hill stations.

Bulging at its seams with unprecedented expansion, Shimla retains its colonial heritage, with grand old buildings, among them are the stately Viceregal Lodge, charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names. The Mall, packed with shops and eateries, is the centre of attraction of the town, and Scandal Point, associated with the former Maharaja of Patiala's escapades, offers a view of distant snowclad peaks.

Shimla's Heritage Walks

Have A stroll Around The Summer Capital
Shimla India are one of the few places in the world where an enormous amount of history and heritage has been distilled into such a small place in so short a time. The town came into being in the first quarter of the 19th century and some four decades later, became the "Summer Capital' of British India. Till the coming of India's independence in 1947, momentous events and memorable architecture packed the town.

Today, the colonial order is gone, but its architectural bequest is now a part of the legacy for a free India. And the seven hills of Shimla hold a variety of architectural styles from all over the world- made all the more distinctive, for manstructural elements are local. In addition, the town has one of the longest stretches of purely pedestrian road and shopping anywhere in the world - the Mall. Shimla also holds what may well be the Earth's only 'urban forest'.

Shimla's Seven Hill Attractions
The seven hills of Shimla India are - Prospect Hill in Western Shimla, which has the temple of Kamna Devi; Summer Hill in Western Shimla, which has the campus of the Himachal Pradesh University; Observatory Hill in Western Shimla, which holds the estate of the Indian Institute of Advanced Study; Invererarm in Western Shimla, whose top has the State Museum; Bantony in central Shimla, which has the Grand Hotel; Jakhoo in central Shimla, which is crowned by the temple indicated to Lord Hanuman, and Elysium in north-western Shimla, which holds Auckland House and Longwood and reaches out towards the Bharari spur.

Shimla's Malls

As the town of Shimla grew through the 19th century, its Mall steadily developed and became the top one in the list of places to visit in Shimla. It grew as the town's commercial street and the hub of its social life. The road, which some 5-km in length, starts in the west at the gates of he former Viceregal Lodge , the present day Indian Institute of Advanced Study and ends at Chhota Shimla or 'Small' Shimla, in the east.

The route has bends, as one would expect any hill road to have, ut its nature essentially follows a wide sweeping curve along the hills. The primary aspect is south facing and affords a view of the valley below the town and of the foothills that reach out to the plains from its habitation. In pockets, snatches of the northern aspect spring up for a dramatic view and hold woods of Pine and Himalayan Cedar - the majestic Deodar. This picture of nature's bounty is framed by the distant snow ranges of the Greater Himalaya.

The Intriguing Architectural Grandeur
The core of the Mall is a row of shops that take the approximate mid section of the road and traverse for about a kilometre and a half along is length. At one point of time, it was regarded to be as fashionable as the finest streets of London, Paris or St. Petersburg and every morning, the tarmac was washed down by 'Mashkis' carrying goatskin bags full of water.

Architecturally, this stretch is often likened to an English small town market place. Elements of Tudor framing, a varied roofline, assorted columns and numerous decorations have given this row considerable character. The row also has a variety of windows that range from bay, to sash barred and to diamond cut panes and some unusual elements also find expression and take the form of Mughal inspired cupolas that hold bay windows.

The Mall - Shimla

Reminiscent of Italy, acroteria of urns can be found in a couple of structures. While decorative devices abound, the aspects of safety were hardly neglected. The presence of 'fire walls' between buildings ensured that fires remained contained and did not spill over to the adjoining structures.

Gaiety Theatre
Apart from the shops, where several buildings still retain elements of a bygone glory, the street holds the famous Gaiety Theatre whose neo-Gothic structure was completed in 1887 and once towered above the town. The theatre itself is modelled after the prize winning design of Bijou theatre and is remarkable for the quality of its acoustic that allow the lowest whisper to carry to the farthest corner of the hall.

Magnificent Specimen's Of The Bygone Era
Adding to the malls ambience, are the municipal offices housed in an impressive dressed stone building. The general post office and the spire of Christ Church on the ridge, add their own touches of background atmosphere. At the cross road, where one arm reaches to the ridge and another to the post office is the famous scandal point and the apocryphal tale goes that a former Maharaja of Patiala carried off the British commander in chief's daughter from this spot. The story is as unlikely as any, and the truth of the place name probably stems from the fact that earlier - as now - it was the place where people gathered for both conversation and gossip.

The southern slopes immediately below this row of shops are regarded to be one of the most densely populated hill slopes anywhere in the world. Over a hundred years ago, the celebrated writer Rudyard Kipling described this stretch in Kim as, "The crowded rabbit-warren that climbs up from the valley to the town hall at an angle of forty five. A man who knows his way there can defy all the police of India's summer capital. So cunningly does veranda communicate with veranda, alley way with alley way, and bolt hole with bolt hole" The description holds true even today.

Jhaku Hill

A Colonial Supermarket With Indian Lifestyles
A major determinant of the town character and social ethos, the mall has modified its colonial and rather snooty ambience to reflect the Indian market centric lifestyle. Yet, the original colonial architecture, somewhat crumbling, somewhat forlorn and yet, almost unforgivingly still its spine, the street remains the town's social hub and for many, also its economic core. There is hardly a person who lives in Shimla who regards his day as complete without a daily salute to its tarmac or an evening promenade.

A Heritage Zone
There is hardly a visitor who will not rush there on his very first day in town. Its stores may be expensive in comparison with the lower bazaar that runs parallel to the mall some metre below, but yet this street is perhaps one of the most visible reflections of the principle of democracy anywhere in the world. This, perhaps, is born out of the fact that this stretch remains one of the longest stretches of open public road anywhere in the world that is lined with stores and where motor vehicles are not allowed through its core. Only select cars, ambulances and fire engines may ply through the street.

Interestingly, before 1947, only three carriages and later, cars were allowed into the town. These belonged to the viceroy, the Commander in Chief and the Governor of Punjab.

This combination of law and local feeling has billionaires practically walking arm in arm if they are not jostling for space in crowded summer evening. This area has also been declared a 'Heritage Zone' by the State Government.

Mahatma Gandhi's Retreat Georgian Mansion

Witness Of The Independence Movement
A magnificent mansion, majestically standing close to the 'Administrative Block' of Himachal Pradesh University at Summer hill, a suburb of Shimla, was the house of Late Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur, a veteran freedom fighter and close associate of Gandhiji and the first Union Health Minister of India.

A Royal Heritage
A number of memorable happenings of country's freedom movement are associated with this historic building. This house has the unique distinction in as much as that, 'Father of the Nation', Mahatma Gandhi, stayed here during his visits to Shimla between 1935 and 1946. Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur gave this house to the All India institute of Medical Sciences - 'AIIMS', Delhi and is now under their administrative control and is being maintained as a guesthouse.

The building was the property of Maharaja of Kapurthala, an erstwhile state of Punjab and was inherited by his daughter, Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur. It was one of the three buildings in the entire estate of the Maharaja. The other two buildings came to the share of her two brothers, Sir Maharaj Singh, the first Governor of Bombay (Mumbai) after Independence and Mr. Dalip Singh, Chief Justice of Lahore High Court before partition of the country.

The houses of her two brothers got gutted and now the 'Administrative Block' and 'Library Block' of the Himachal Pradesh University stand on those sites. Another building near Chadwick falls belonged to her third brother, colonel shamsher singh and is now in the possession of "All India Radio", Shimla. Gandhiji used this place in serene environments, for evening prayers, which were attended bya large number of shimlaites. The central Government has handed over this building to the state government for setting up a gandhian study centre in it.

Mansions Exquisite Interiors
The entire area on which this building is constructed is about 5 Bighas. The building has three floors besides the basement. In addition to the Reception cum drawing hall, it has a kitchen, pantry and suite nos. 5 and 6 on the ground floor. First floor has suite no. 1 to 4 while the attic floor houses suite no. 7.

A major attraction of the house is the exquisite teak and walnut furniture, carpets and wall hangings adorning the rooms. Gandhiji used to stay here, along with his two private secretaries, Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur and Ms. Sushila Naya, in suite no. 6, which is the smallest one. The same old, large sized portrait of Gandhiji is placed on a high mantel in this suite even now.

It was from here that Gandhiji, with a galaxy of leaders like Shri Jawahar Lal Nehru, Sardar Patel, Dr. Rajender Prasad and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, set out to meet the then Viceroy of India, Lord Wavell in June 1945, for discussions regarding country's independence. There were many servant quarters where nearly 20 servants of different disciplines stayed.

Shri S.D. Sharma, who is on the establishment of the AIIMS, is the present caretaker of the building.

Places to Visit in Shimla

Annandale

Annandale, just 2-km below the Ridge in Shimla, offers a picturesque piece of ground, charmingly adapted for recreation in the days of the Raj. Today it affords a pleasant change from the perpetual slopes above and is hence amongst very popular places to visit in Shimla.

Chadwick Falls

Beyond the Summer Hill and 7-km west of the ridge from Shimla are the Chadwick Falls, which was once the site of a 67-m aquatic spectacle.

Chapslee

Containing the comfortable elegance of an English country manor, Chapslee was originally built in 1835.

Christ Church And St Michael'S Cathedral

The most prominent building on the Mall is the yellow Christ Church, reputed to be the second oldest church in northern India. The silhouette of this can be seen on the skyline for miles around. It was designed by Colonel JT Boileau in 1844, but consecrated only after 1857. The clock was donated by Colonel Dumbleton in 1860, and the porch added in 1873.

Churdhar Sanctuary

The sanctuary got its name from the Chur Peak, on the top of which sits a majestic status of Lord Shiva. One is sure to come across a large number of multi-coloured and agile Monals in the adjoining forests.

Gurkha Castles

The Gurkha castles in Solan, Sirmour, Bilaspur and Shimla districts remind us of the life and time under the Gurkha regime. While most of the structures built by the Gurkhas have crumbled, the remaining few beckon tourists.

Hatkoti

Some 105-km east of Shimla, in Jubbal Tehsil on the banks of the river Pabbar, lays the mysterious valley of stone temples Hatkoti. Close by stands a small village by the name of Parhaat.

Jakhu Temple

Jakhu temple is an integral part of the list of places to visit in Shimla. No visit to the state capital Shimla is complete without visiting Jakhu Hill. This hill looms over Shimla town and is the geographical nucleus. The Hanuman temple at the top of Jakhu hill is the highest point in town.

Jeep Safari In Himachal Pradesh

By jeep, car or on motorcycle, one can explore the variety Himachal has to offer. By jeep, the Trans Himalayan tracts can steadily unfold their natural and man-made wonders.

Karyali Lake

In district Shimla,Karyali Lake lies on the northern face of the peak of Chhoti Shali.

Kotesvara Temple

The Kotesvara (also spelt as Kotesvar) temple is a magnificient structure dedicated to Shiva who is represented there in the form of 'Shivalinga'.

Mahatma Gandhi's Retreat: Gorgian Mansion

A magnificent mansion, majestically standing close to the 'Administrative Block' of Himachal Pradesh University at Summer hill, a suburb of Shimla, was the house of Late Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur, a veteran freedom fighter and close associate of Gandhiji and the first Union Health Minister of India.

Padam Palace

Resting in a nest-shaped valley on the left bank of the Satluj River is Rampur's Padam Palace, 125-km from Shimla. The township came up because of its strategic location on the old Hindustan-Tibet trade route, which was accessible and not snowbound.

Shirigul Temple

One of the oldest and the most important temples of Shirigul are situated on the Chur Dhar Peak.

Tattapani

On the right banks of the river Satluj, is Tattapani famous for its hot sulphur springs. The place also has religious importance. These natural sulphur springs are invigorating and have curative values. All these have together made Tattapani one of the topmost places to visit in Shimla.

The Cecil

In the last quarter of the 19th century, at the site of the Cecil - towards the western stretch of Shimla's elegant Mall - stood the small 'Tendril Cottage'.

The Holme

Perhaps a place with greater 'heritage' than many, and a recent addition to the heritage hotel list, is The Holme, at Summerhill in Shimla.

The Oberoi Clarkes

Towards the eastern end of Shimla's Mall, where the row of shops end, is the Clarkes.

The Ridge

The large open space in the heart of town presents excellent view of the mountain ranges. Shimla's landmarks - the Neo-Gothic structure of Christ Church and the new - Tudor Library building is worth seeing

Viceregal Lodge

On the Observatory Hills is located Viceregal Lodge, which is also known as Rashtrapati Niwas. This magnificent building was the residence of the British Viceroy Lord Dufferin

War Memorial

Just over 2-kms from Gandhi Chowk is Martyr's Memorial at Panjpulla (five bridges), which commemorates Ajit Singh, a supporter of Subhash Bose and the Indian national Army during World War II.

Woodville Palace Hotel

Backed by a hillside covered with trees of tall Himalayan cedar - the fabled 'deodar' - Woodville is a stately art-deco mansion.

Baisakhi

Held on first 'Baisakh'- the 13th April - Baisakhi is one of Himachal's most important festivals. Rooted in the rural agrarian tradition, it bids a final farewell to winter.

Bharari Spur

It is a less explored area within the town. From here, one can take a long haul by foot through the thick cedar forest to the Hot-springs of Tattapani, or to the ruins of Kiar Koti.

Chander Naun

Accessible to experienced trekkers and fed by a series of springs, this lake lies in the Chanshal (Chansil) range at a height of 4,420m.

Climate

The climatic differences in the state of Jammu and Kashmir are probably the most varied in all of India - in Jammu in the hot season the temperatures can be consistently above 400 C, while at Kargil in mid winter the temperature has been known to drop to -400 C, a temperature differential of 1500 F!

Dagshai

Another little cantonment at an altitude of 1,925m just 19-km from Kasauli, it is accessible by a link road, which diverts from Dhrampur. Dagshai is perched on a small hill and comprisse of a military public school and numerous military barracks

Daranghati Sanctuary

Daranghati sanctuary located in the upper area of Shimla District, has undisturbed forest area with plenty of wildlife and was notified on 27th March 1974. The total covered area of this sanctuary is 16740 hectares. It is one of the most loved places to visit in Shimla.

Dharampur, Shimla

Just 15-km from Kasauli on the National Highway No.22, Dharampur is situated. Amidst the healthy air of the fragrant pines, Dharampur has one of the best hospitals in India for the cure of tuberculosis. It is also connected by Kalka-Shimla railway line.

Fagu

Situated on Hindustan-Tibet Road (22-km), at a height of 2,450m Fagu is gifted with some enchanting views.

Himalayan Aviary

Close to the Viceregal lodge is the Himalayan Aviary or the Himalayan Bird Park. This park is a natural habitat of numerous species of birds found in Himachal such as Himalayan Monal, Pheasants, Peafowls and National Bird of India, the Peacock.

Kuthar Fort

Kuthar fort's oldest sections are 800 years old while the most recent structures are barely eight decades old. This is spread over a large area and fresh-water springs flow within its confines.

Nature Parks: Kufri, Manali, Gopalpur

These are small nature parks getting very popular among the tourists who whish to admire the expance of nature.

Prospect Hill

Crowned by a temple dedicated to Kamna Devi 15-minutes walk from Boileauganj on Shimla-Bilaspur road. The hill at an altitude of 2,155m offers a spectacular view of the area.

Sabathu

A little cantonment town has a Gurkha fort built in the early years of the 19th century, situated at an altitude of 1,437m. This cantonment town quartered the British soldiers at the time of British Empire. A diversion road from Dharampur 15-km away leads to the Sabathu town.

Sankat Mochan

On Shimla-Kalka road is the famous "Lord Hanuman" temple. Situated at an altitude of 1,975m, it commands an excellent view of Shimla town

Shimla State Museum

Housed in a charming colonial building, Inverarm, the State museum is located atop a hill that rises above the Chaura Maidan. A selection of Himachal's rich heritage is displayed over here.

Summer Fairs

A wide spectrum of national talent, a variety of programmes and a splendid setting make Shimla's Summer Festival a memorable event. Shimla also hosts the Red Cross Fair, sport tournaments, flower shows, a photographs and posters exhibition and a fashion show based on folk costumes.

Summer Hill

At an altitude of 1,283m, Summer Hill is a picturesque spot on Shimla-Kalka Railway line offering shady walks in quiet surroundings. The Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Shimla lived in the elegant Georgian House of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur located here. HP University is also situated over here.

Tara Devi

On Shimla-Kalka road this holy place is accessible by rail, bus and car (11-km). From the station / road - one can visit the temple either on foot or by taxi / jeep.

Trekking

Himachal offers a virtual bonanza for trekkers. From moderate to strenuous treks ranging up to 11 days and the best season to trek over here is during the months of June to October. One of Himachal's classic routes is the Chandra Bhaga triangle and the Baralacha Pass at a height of 4,833m.

Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Gardens

On the Observatory Hills is located Viceregal Lodge, which is also known as "Rashtrapati Niwas". This magnificent building was the residence of the British Viceroy Lord Dufferin. This lodge was completed in 1888 and it is said that every brick for the building was carried by mules. This is a six-storey building and is surrounded by well-maintained gardens and lawns. The lodge has now been converted into Institute of Advanced Study and is further 2-km from State Museum.

Excursions from Shimla India

Chail

(43Km.)
The former 'summer capital' of Patiala, Chail is 43-km from Shimla and dwelling in the midst of a lush green setting. At 2,250m, it has the world's highest cricket pitch and a polo ground, the old palace, now a hotel and the possibility of some angling are added attractions. more..

Kasauli

(12Km.)
77-km from Shimla and 35-km from Kalka, at 1,927m, Kasauli is a quaint little town that seems to exist in a time wrap of an era that reminds one of the 19th century.more..

Kufri

(19Km.)
Some great Hiking, some skiing, some beautiful scenes and a cool environment that's what Kufri is all about. It is famous for its trekking and hiking trails. Adventure-seeking travelers throng Kufri in winters to enjoy skiing and tobogganing along its snow-covered slopes. more..

Solan

(48Km.)
Blessed with a pleasant climate all the year round, Solan is the district headquarters of Mashru, another city established by the British, is named after the Goddess, Soloni Devi, whose temple is located in the southern end of the town. Solan also remained capital of east, while Bhagat State for many years. more..

Barog

Once just a brief stopover on the Kalka-Shimla highway, Barog town has grown to be destination in itself. Surrounded by pine trees and oak trees, Barog is located in an idyllic setting. The pines of Barog are full of cavort and pleasantries. Barog's railway station, on the Kalka-Shimla, is one of the most picturesque stations, modelled in the Scottish-style.

Nahan

(140Km.)
A well-laid out picturesque town of Nahan is situated on an isolated ridge in the Shiwalik hills, overlooking greenfields. Known for its cleanliness and dust free streets, saints and princes are linked with the origin of Nahan. The city was founded as a capital by Raja Karan Prakash in 1621.

Narkanda

(110Km.)
Narkanda, at 8,100 feet, 440-km from Delhi and is a two hours drive from Shimla. It is slightly higher than Shimla (7,400 feet) and the road linking the two runs almost near the crest of the mountain with a gradual ascent. One is constantly treated to a bird's-eye view of the different valleys as the road twists and turns from one spur to another. Especially breathtaking is the view of Narkanda from Fagu, a small village enroute.

Renuka Lake

(45Km.)
With a circumference of 3214m, Renukaji is the largest natural lake in Himachal. Shaped like the profile of a reclining woman, this is regarded as the embodiment of the Goddess 'Renuka'.

Sarahan

(44Km.)
Soaked in nature's beauty, Sarahan is flanked on the banks of the meandering Sutlej River. Located amidst Deodar forests, Sarahan was the ancient capital of the mighty Bushahr. It's a belief that Sarahan is the Shonitpur of old times, and this was the place, where Banasura once ruled.

Sirmour

(142Km.)
The Sirmaur district has the Shivalik hills in the south and the northern parts are made up of the forests and ravines of the first and second belt of the Himalayan ranges. The places here have man made lakes as well as natural ones, temples, tea gardens and ruins of ancient and not so ancient forts. This district connects the hills of Uttaranchal to the hills of Himachal.

Mashobra & Craignano And Naldehra

(11Km.)
Mashobra is a small village just 11-km from Shimla, which has a fair every May at Sipi. The lovely trail around takes one to the Shiva temple. Nearby is Craignano, which has some pleasant walk and trails. 15-km further North comes another small village Naldehra. This place is famous for one of the oldest and highest golf courses in India. Right in the middle of the Golf Course is the Mahunag temple.

Rampur

(140Km.)
140-km from Shimla and built by the banks of river Sutlej, lies Rampur, capital of the erstwhile Bushahr state. This was once a major stopover on the old trade routes and the Lavi fair, held here every autumn, still barters and sells a variety of goods. The old palace is a remarkable piece of architecture. Short of the town, at Dattnagar and Nirath, are some exquisite old temples.

Sarol

(23Km.)
23-km from Shimla and named after the little temple that stands on the links, is a 9-hole golf course. Lord Curzon was so much enchanted by this spot that he gave his daughter Alexandra, Naldehra as her second name. During the monsoons, several golf tournaments are also held over here.

White Flower Hall

(13Km.)
This is the former residence of British Commander in Chief and was taken over by the Himachal Tourism to be converted into a hotel. This lovely building was burnt down in 1994. The White flower hall is located in Chharabra 13-km from Shimla.

Significance - Shimla

Historical

Colonial shimla's pot pourri had some vital ingredients. There were 'Grass Widows' - unattached ladies spending a 'season' at Shimla while their husbands sweltered it out on the plains.

Then there were members of the 'Fishing Fleet' - young women who sailed out of England, usually chaperoned, in search of husbands. No dance was considered complete without numerous, cunningly devised 'Kala Jagahs' (dark places). In these nooks, one could sit with one's partner on a small sofa or even on a single armchair, and no word of criticism would be uttered.

But of all the clubs and societies that were unique to Shimla, the most enigmatic was the 'most noble order of the black hearts', only men were eligible for membership and they too could not commit the offence of "living in open matrimony." More staid were the Annandale Gymkhana Club and, the Amateur Dramatic Club - the latter still exists.

Fairs & Festivals - Shimla

Every year in the month of June, the Folk Dance festival, the "Mushaira" - recitation of Urdu poetry by poets, the Red Cross Fair, Golf and the Flower Show are some of the events held in Shimla, to celebrate Summer Festival. In December, Ice-Skating Carnival is held and then Christmas celebrations overtake Shimla.

Leisure - Shimla

Shopping

Being the state capital, handicrafts from all over the state come here for sale. The Mall has some of the good and big names in the garment and textile industry. The State emporium on the Mall offers many handicrafts and handloom items, which are made by the artisans of Himachal. The famous Himachali hat comes in different rates and vivid colors. Lakkar Bazaar is famous for items made from wood. These decorative wooden items are made from the softwood found in the hilly region. Further, dry fruits and natural herbs, which have many medicinal properties, are also easily available in the shops.

Where to Shop

WHERE AND WHAT TO BUY
Wooden Articles, Toys:
The Mall, Lower Bazar, Lakkad Bazar
The Mall
Himachal Emporium
(Kullu and Kinnauri Shawls, Caps, Tibetan Carpets and other handicraft articles)

Eating Out

Restaurants:
Ashiana Goofa Restaurant
The Ridge
Fascination Restaurant
The Mall
Alfa Restaurant
The Mall
Himani Restaurant
The Mall
Nalini Restaurant
The Mall
Embassy Restaurant
The Mall
Solitaire Restaurant
The Mall
Solitaire Restaurant
The Mall
India Coffee House
The Mall

How To Get There - Shimla

By Air

The Jubbarhatti airport is 23-km from Shimla and major domestic airlines cater their services from here to Shimla. One can catch direct flights from Delhi.

By Road

Roads connect the capital city of Himachal with other places in the state as well as other major towns and cities. There is regular bus service from Delhi and Chandigarh as well as ordinary; semi deluxe, deluxe and AC coaches for Shimla are available too. One can also cross over to Leh and Ladakh via Rohtang pass from here.

By Rail

Shimla has a narrow gauge railway line on which toy train runs from Kalka to Shimla. The train cruises its way through valleys and beautiful landscapes at a very slow pace making the journey very pleasant. From Kalka one can take trains to other parts of the country. The Toy train from Shimla is of two types - one is the normal multi coach train and the other is the single car train, which has a glass roof giving an enthralling experience during the journey.

Places To Stay - Shimla

The capital city and commercial hub of Himachal has got some of the finest options of accommodation. The options vary from luxurious, posh looking five star hotels, cottages and holiday resorts to economy class and budget hotels and lodging rooms.

Climate - Shimla

Shimla is located on the slopes of lower Himalayas. The altitude of Shimla from the sea level makes it a very cool place. The temperature range is not very high and the maximum temperature rarely crosses 25 degrees during summers. Rainfalls mark the summers and the nights are cool and light warm cloths are required during this time. Winters are cold and chilly winds from the upper Himalayas makes the place really cold. Around Christmas or last week of December Shimla gets snow. The Best season to visit Shimla is between April and August, but the main season is between December and January. It is better to avoid the rainy seasons.

General Information - Shimla

Location

Himachal Pradesh.

Altitude

2,159m.

Best Time

April To August & December To January.

Scenic Beauty

The Mall, Christ Church, Kufri, Narkanda.

Activities

Skiing
The skiing season generally commences in the first fortnight of January and continue till mid- March depending upon snow conditons. HPTDS organises ski courses of 7 days and 15 days duration at Narkanda, every year. The facilities for the participants include boarding, lodging and equipment.

Fishing
Trout finish is available at Rohru, 110-km from Shimla, at Seem, 9-km from Rohru in river Pabar, and in river Baspa in the Sangla Valley. Mahseer fishing is available at Tattapani, 46-km from Shimla.

Golfing
Nine-hole Golf course at Naldehra, 23-km from Shimla, is one of the oldest Golf courses in India.

Trekking
The Shimla- Kinnaur region offers some exciting trekking opportunities. Narknda to Banjar (Kullu) over the Jalori and Bashleo Passes and Sarahan to Sangla are some of the popular treks, both for the domestic and foreign tourists.
Shimla to Kullu via Jalori Pass (3,300m).
Shimla to Kulu via Bashleo Pass (3,250m). Sarahan to Sangla.

Useful Information on Shimla India

CONDUCTED TOURS: -
Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) has a fleet of air-conditioned and luxury coaches and cars, ambassador cars and jeep in its Transport Wing for individual and group excursions. Conducted and package tours. A number of Shimla based sightseeeing tours are arranged from the Tourist Information Office, The Mall, Shimla.

SIGHTSEEING TOUR NO.1
Shimla - Wild Flower Hall - Kufri - Indira Holiday Home - Fagu - Mashobra - Craignano - Fruit Research Station - Naldehra - Shimla.
Daily. Timings: 10.00am to 5.00 pm

SIGHTSEEING TOUR NO.2
Shimla - Fagu - Theog - Matiana - Narkanda - Shimla.
On Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
Timings: 10.00am to 5.00pm.

In addition, both Himachal Road Transport Corporation and Private tour operators also run transport services to all these places.

NOTE: Itinerary and timings subject to change.

Banks / Money Changers

State Bank of Patiala, The Mall
Punjab National Bank, The Mall
Punjab and Sind Bank, The Mall
Indian Bank, The Mall
Indian Overseas Bank, The Mall
Jammu And Kashmir Bank, The Mall
Grindlays Bank Limited, The Mall
H.P., State Co-OP. Bank, The Mall

Hospitals

Kamla Nehru Hospital
Deen Dayal Upadhyay (Ripon) Hospital
Indira Gandhi Medical College

Tourist Information Centres

Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Tourist Information Office
Department of Tourism
Govt. of Himachal Pradesh
Victory Tunnel
Cart Road

Shopping - Shimla

Where to Shop

WHERE AND WHAT TO BUY
Wooden Articles, Toys:
The Mall, Lower Bazar, Lakkad Bazar
The Mall
Himachal Emporium
(Kullu and Kinnauri Shawls, Caps, Tibetan Carpets and other handicraft articles)

Entertainment - Shimla

Hang Outs

CINEMAS:
Ritz, The Ridge
Rivoli Theatre, Near Skating Rink
Shahi, Near Cart Road
SKATING RINKS:
Ice-Skating Rink, Below Rivoli
Roller Skating Rink, Regal Brldge
THEATRES:
Gaiety Theatre, The Mall
Kali Bari Hall, Near Grand Hotel

Club

FISHING FLEETS AND BLACK HEARTS

Colonial shimla's pot pourri had some vital ingredients. There were 'Grass Widows' - unattached ladies spending a 'season' at Shimla while their husbands sweltered it out on the plains.

Then there were members of the 'Fishing Fleet' - young women who sailed out of England, usually chaperoned, in search of husbands. No dance was considered complete without numerous, cunningly devised 'Kala Jagahs' (dark places). In these nooks, one could sit with one's partner on a small sofa or even on a single armchair, and no word of criticism would be uttered.

But of all the clubs and societies that were unique to Shimla, the most enigmatic was the 'most noble order of the black hearts', only men were eligible for membership and they too could not commit the offence of "living in open matrimony." More staid were the Annandale Gymkhana Club and, the Amateur Dramatic Club - the latter still exists

Shimla Resorts

ARYAN DREAM HOLIDAYS

Wednesday 15 February 2012

Shimla in Details with ARYAN DREAM HOLIDAYS