Shimla
City · India

Shimla

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and a former summer capital of British India. This picturesque…

#Hill station#Tourist destination#Cool climate#British colonial architecture#Mall Road
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Highlights

Things to do in Shimla

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Tours

The Ridge

A spacious open space located in the heart of Shimla offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is the cultural hub of the city.

Jakhoo Temple

Situated on Jakhoo Hill, this temple is dedicated to Hanuman, offering scenic views of the Shivalik range.

Shimla Heritage Walk

Explore the architectural marvels and historical sites of Shimla, including Christ Church, Gaiety Theatre, and the Viceregal Lodge.

Sunset at Scandal Point

End the day by watching a breathtaking sunset at Scandal Point, a popular spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Shimla Ridge

Walk through the Shimla Ridge, a large open-space in the heart of the city that is a hub for cultural activities and offers stunning views of the mountains.

Christ Church & Lakkar Bazaar Visit

Visit the historic Christ Church, built in the neo-Gothic style, followed by exploring the vibrant Lakkar Bazaar, famous for wooden souvenirs and local crafts.

Art Gallery Visit at Rashtrapati Niwas

Explore the splendid art collection housed at the former summer residence of the British Viceroy, featuring paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.

Shimla Wax Museum Visit

Visit the Shimla Wax Museum and immerse yourself in creative exhibits featuring wax figures of famous personalities and iconic scenes. A fascinating indoor activity perfect for a light afternoon.

Shimla Mall Road Walk

An afternoon scenic walk along Shimla's Mall Road, lined with shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks. Enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Visit to Jakhu Temple

End your day with a visit to the renowned Jakhu Temple, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and Shimla city.

Visit to The Ridge

Explore The Ridge, the heart of Shimla, known for its scenic views, shopping, and cultural events.

Green Valley View & Photography

Visit the picturesque Green Valley, a popular photography stop surrounded by verdant hills and deodar trees.

Visit the Shimla State Museum

Explore the rich heritage and culture of Himachal Pradesh at the Shimla State Museum.

Morning Visit to Christ Church Shimla

Explore the historic Christ Church in Shimla, one of the oldest churches in North India, known for its stunning stained glass windows.

Check-in and Relax at Shimla Hotel

Relax and rejuvenate at your hotel in Shimla after your travels.

Visit to Indian Institute of Advanced Study

Explore the historical and architectural marvel that is the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, offering insight into India's rich academic and cultural heritage.

Visit the Himalayan Bird Park

Experience the beauty of Himalayan wildlife at the Himalayan Bird Park. Discover a variety of exotic and native birds amidst serene natural beauty.

Explore Viceregal Lodge

Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of the Viceregal Lodge, once the residence of the British Viceroy of India.

Shopping

Mall Road

A bustling street lined with colonial-era buildings, shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Heritage Walk through Shimla Markets

Enjoy a leisurely walk through Shimla’s bustling markets. Discover local handicrafts, souvenirs, and authentic culture around Lakkar Bazaar.

Lakkar Bazaar Exploration

Explore Lakkar Bazaar, famous for its wooden crafts and souvenirs. It's a great place to purchase local handicrafts and enjoy the bustling market atmosphere.

Outdoor

Kufri Fun World

An amusement park offering thrilling rides and activities amid the backdrop of snowy mountains.

Kufri Adventure Park

Spend an exhilarating afternoon at Kufri Adventure Park engaging in activities such as zip-lining, rope climbing, and alpine skiing.

Horse Riding in Kufri

Experience the thrill of horse riding through the lush green trails of Kufri, famous for its panoramic topography and cool climate.

Evening Stroll at Annandale Ground

Enjoy an evening stroll at the Annandale Ground, a serene flatland surrounded by panoramic views of Shimla's lush cedar forests.

Shimla Open Air Yoga Class

Start your day with a refreshing open-air yoga class overlooking Shimla's breathtaking landscapes. This session will energize you as you connect with nature and find your inner peace.

Green Valley Trek

Explore the lush greenery and diverse flora of the famous Green Valley through an enjoyable morning trek. Experience stunning panoramic views and fresh mountain air.

Tara Devi Temple Trek

A popular trekking route through beautiful forests leading to the Tara Devi Temple with stunning views.

Morning Hike to Prospect Hill

Embark on a scenic morning hike to Prospect Hill, offering panoramic views of Shimla and the surrounding valleys. A great way to start the day with some light trekking and stunning vistas.

Evening Walk at the Summer Hill

Take an evening walk at the picturesque Summer Hill, a location known for its serene environment and beautiful views.

See it for yourself

Location videos

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Good to know

Practical info

Weather, costs and getting around.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India Open in Google Maps
When to go

Scored from each month’s typical high and its usual conditions.

GoodMixedAvoid
Best monthsMar – May, Sep – Nov
Worth avoidingJun – Aug
September · cloudHigh 20°C Low 14°C
Good

The weather in Shimla is pleasant throughout the year, with cool summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping to as low as -4°C, offering a picturesque snowy landscape. Monsoon season brings moderate to heavy rainfall, rejuvenating the lush green surroundings. Overall, Shimla experiences a pleasant climate, making it a great destination for travelers seeking a mix of nature and adventure.

All 12 monthshighs, lows and conditions
Jan
cold
10°2°
Feb
cold
11°3°
Mar
clear
15°6°
Apr
clear
20°11°
May
sun
24°15°
Jun
rain
23°16°
Jul
rain
20°15°
Aug
rain
20°15°
Sep
cloud
20°14°
Oct
clear
18°10°
Nov
clear
15°6°
Dec
cold
11°3°
Currency
₹ | INR | Indian Rupee
Population
169,578 (2011)
Density
8,263 / km²
Local time
Languages
Hindi mainly · English, Pahari
Budget / day
₹2000 - ₹12000
Also known as
Simla, Himāchal Pradesh, India, Simla, Himachal Pradesh, India, Simlah, Simlā, Shimlah

Know before you go

Local guide

A deeper read on Shimla.

What people love

Shimla offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and colonial charm. Its pleasant summer weather provides a refreshing escape from India's sweltering plains, while winter transforms it into a snowy wonderland. The city boasts stunning Himalayan vistas, lush pine forests, and historic British-era architecture, including the iconic Viceregal Lodge. The pedestrian-friendly Mall Road ensures a pollution-free, relaxing environment for strolling and shopping. Additionally, the scenic Kalka-Shimla toy train journey is a UNESCO World Heritage experience. With excellent connectivity, diverse dining options, and nearby adventure activities like trekking and ice skating, Shimla caters to all types of travelers.

What to know

Shimla's immense popularity means it can get extremely crowded, especially during the peak summer months and winter holidays, leading to inflated hotel prices and congested tourist spots. Traffic jams are common on the approach roads, and parking within the city is notoriously difficult and expensive. The steep, hilly terrain requires a significant amount of walking and climbing stairs, which can be challenging for the elderly or those with mobility issues. Additionally, water scarcity is a recurring problem during the dry summer season, and the aggressive monkey population around areas like Jakhoo Temple can be a nuisance for unsuspecting tourists.

Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh in India, has a rich and fascinating history. Here is a detailed overview of the significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks associated with Shimla:

Significant Events:

  1. Shimla was originally a small village called Shyamala, named after the Hindu goddess Shyamala Devi. The British discovered the area in the early 19th century and decided to develop it as a summer capital due to its pleasant climate.
  2. In 1864, Shimla became the summer capital of British India, a status it maintained until India gained independence in 1947. The city played a crucial role in the administration of British India during the hot summer months.
  3. The historic Shimla Agreement was signed in 1972 between India and Pakistan, which aimed to establish peace and normalize relations between the two countries following the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.

Historical Figures:

  1. Lord Dufferin: As the Viceroy of India, Lord Dufferin played a key role in developing Shimla as the summer capital of British India.
  2. Rudyard Kipling: The famous British author spent time in Shimla and drew inspiration from the city for some of his works.
  3. Mahatma Gandhi: The iconic Indian leader visited Shimla several times and his presence in the city is remembered through various landmarks and memorials.

Important Landmarks:

  1. The Ridge: This open space in the heart of Shimla offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists.
  2. Jakhu Temple: Dedicated to the Hindu deity Hanuman, this temple is located atop Jakhu Hill and offers stunning views of Shimla.
  3. Viceregal Lodge: Also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, this majestic building served as the summer residence of the viceroys of India during the British Raj.
  4. Mall Road: This bustling street is lined with shops, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings, making it a popular spot for shopping and leisurely walks.
  5. Christ Church: Built in the neo-Gothic style, this iconic church is one of the oldest in North India and is known for its stunning stained glass windows.

Shimla's history is a blend of British colonial influence, Indian culture, and natural beauty, making it a unique and fascinating destination for visitors from around the world.

Traveler ratings

How Shimla rates

From verified Travafa trips.

5.0
Very good
Based on traveler reviews
Things to Do
4.5
Accommodation Quality
4.0
Local Transportation
4.0
Safety
4.0
Scenic Beauty
5.0
Shopping
4.0
Friendliness of People
4.5
Cleanliness
4.5
Value for Money
4.0
Internet Connectivity
4.0
Good for
100%
Friends
0%
Family
100%
Couple
50%
Solo
0%
Pets

Who is Shimla for?

By the travellers who rated it on Travafa. Each page states the places, months and budget for that kind of trip.