For almost 200 years, this tiny hill town has enjoyed the status of being the chosen one. British colonists came here in the early 1800s, and they liked it so much that they made it the summer capital in 1864. They even took all the trouble of constructing a railroad to Shimla.
Shimla still has the same prominence despite the British having long since left. This location is still as beautiful as it was a century ago and continues to draw thousands of tourists from the country each year.
If you were planning a vacation to Shimla in the near future, read on to know all about this beautiful city.
- Best time to visit Shimla
- How to reach Shimla
- Where to stay in Shimla
- How to get around in Shimla
- Where to eat in Shimla
- What to do in Shimla in 2 days
- Shopping at Shimla Mall Road
- What to wear in Shimla
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Best time to visit Shimla
Shimla is a well-liked tourist destination all year round, although people prefer to visit the city in the summer (April to July) to escape the heat.
The gorgeous mountain views are what you really pay for, even though hotel prices triple in the summer and the quality of those accommodations is not the best.
Visit Shimla in the peak winter months of December and January if you want to see the slow pace of life there, experience snow, and sip hot chai inside a café while gazing out at snow-covered mountains.
Also, the shoulder months of September through April are when there aren’t as many visitors and the weather is at its best.
How to reach Shimla
Shimla may be reached from nearby cities and towns in a number of different ways because it is a well-liked tourist destination. All significant neighboring cities may be reached by road, train, or air from Shimla. Here are the various ways of reaching Shimla:
Shimla Kalka toy train
The Shimla kalka toy train that starts from Kalka and goes all the way to Shimla would be one of the best and most enjoyable ways to go to Shimla. You will pass through tunnels, beautiful scenery, and rolling hills on the picturesque route. The kalka shimla express toy train is one of the most beautiful train journeys in India and you should definitely not miss it.
If you’re wondering how to book kalka shimla toy train, you can book the Shivalik express or the Himalayan Queen via IRCTC or third party apps like MakeMyTrip or RailYatri.
By bus
The majority of people frequently choose the popular alternative of taking a bus to Shimla. All significant cities both inside and outside of Himachal Pradesh have frequent bus service to Shimla. According on your degree of comfort, you can choose from a variety of buses from Delhi, including regular, semi-sleeper, Volvo, etc. The same is true for buses that travel often from Chandigarh, Manali, etc., to Shimla.
By air
Shimla’s closest airport is at Jubbarhatti, which is 22 kilometres from the city. You can find affordable and direct flights from Delhi to Shimla quite easily.
By car (from Delhi)
Driving from Delhi to Shimla is one of the greatest ways to get there. The distance is not too far. In actuality, it takes 7 hours to travel the 342 kilometres between Delhi and Shimla. This route is incredibly beautiful, making it a fantastic road trip to enjoy with friends or family.
Where to stay in Shimla
Choose a hotel close to the ISBT Tutikandi bus stop if you are planning to stay in Shimla only for a day before continuing on to other cities. There are many hotels and homestays near the bus stop that you can choose from.
If you’re planning to stay in Shimla for more than a day to explore places, choose a hotel close to Mall Road, which will be the best location for visiting all of the major attractions in Shimla. Hotels starting at around INR 500 per night are quite simple to find.
Here are some of my recommendations for stay in Shimla:
Luxury (INR 15k+):
- Radisson Hotel Jass
- The Oberoi Cecil
Mid-Range (2k – 10k):
- Hotel Divine hills
- Whispering Pines
Hostels/Homestays:
- Hosteller
- Green Valley Home stay
How to get around in Shimla
Getting around Shimla is relatively easy, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer to walk, take a taxi, or ride in the local buses, Shimla has something for everyone. So the next time you visit Shimla, make sure to explore the city using one of these amazing modes of transportation:
- Walking: The best way to explore Shimla is on foot. Almost everything is within walking distance and the city can be easily covered by foot. The city is full of narrow streets, alleys, and hidden staircases, which are best explored on foot. Walking also allows you to soak in the beauty of the city and take in the fresh mountain air. The Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, and Christ Church are some of the popular attractions in Shimla that can be easily explored on foot.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Shimla and are a convenient way to get around the city. You can easily hire a taxi from the Mall Road or your hotel. Taxis in Shimla are usually small hatchbacks, and the rates are fixed by the government. However, it is advisable to negotiate the rates before starting the journey.
- Local Buses: Local buses are another affordable way to get around Shimla. The Himachal Pradesh State Transport Corporation operates a fleet of buses that connect the city to nearby towns and villages. The buses are cheap, but they can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
- Private Cars: Private cars are another option for getting around Shimla. You can easily hire a car from your hotel or from the Mall Road. Private cars are more expensive than taxis, but they offer more comfort and privacy. You can also hire a car with a driver if you are not comfortable driving in the hills.
Where to eat in Shimla
Shimla boasts an unlimited array of restaurants serving all different sorts of food because it is a well-liked tourist destination. Here, you can try indigenous Himachali cuisine as well as dishes from North and South India, China, Italy, and pretty much everything else.
You can just go to Shimla Mall Road and try out the various eateries there. There are several fast food stalls on Shimla Mall road and you have to try the famous Chole Kulche from any of these stalls. Here are some of my favourite restaurants in Shimla:
- Cafe Sol: Cafe Sol is a popular cafe located on the Mall Road in Shimla. It offers a variety of dishes including Italian, Mexican, and Indian cuisine. The cafe has a cozy ambiance and a beautiful view of the surrounding hills. Some of the must-try dishes at Cafe Sol include the wood-fired pizzas, nachos, and chicken tikka.
- Baljees: Baljees is a legendary eatery in Shimla that has been serving delicious food since 1947. It is located on the Mall Road and is famous for its chaat, chhole bhature, and aloo tikki. Baljees also has a bakery that offers a wide range of cakes, pastries, and cookies.
- Indian Coffee House: The Indian Coffee House is a famous chain of coffee shops in India, and the one in Shimla is located on the Mall Road. It is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee and some snacks while soaking in the colonial ambiance. The coffee house serves a variety of dishes including dosas, omelets, sandwiches, and coffee.
- Wake & Bake Cafe: Wake & Bake Cafe is a cozy little cafe located in the heart of Shimla. It is known for its freshly baked bread, cakes, and pastries. The cafe also serves delicious coffee and tea. Some of the must-try dishes at Wake & Bake Cafe include the chicken quiche, apple pie, and blueberry cheesecake.
- Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar: Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar is a fine dining restaurant located in the Oberoi Cecil Hotel in Shimla. It offers a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. The restaurant has a classy ambiance and a beautiful view of the surrounding hills. Some of the must-try dishes at Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar include the butter chicken, fish and chips, and chocolate cake.
Things to do in Shimla in 2 days
Day 1:
Start your day by visiting the Christ Church, which is located on the Ridge. The church is one of the most prominent landmarks of Shimla and is known for its neo-gothic architecture. After visiting the church, take a walk on the Shimla Mall Road, which is the main street of Shimla. The road is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, and is a great place to shop for souvenirs.
Next, visit the Shimla State Museum, which is located near the Mall Road. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures that showcase the history and culture of Himachal Pradesh.
After all the sight-seeing, have lunch at Baljees, a legendary eatery in Shimla that has been serving delicious food since 1947. Try their famous chaat, chhole bhature, and aloo tikki.
Take a stroll through the Jakhu Temple, which is located on top of the Jakhu Hill. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers a panoramic view of the city. It is a bit of a hike up a steep road to the temple so be ready to hike and wear comfortable shoes. If you don’t want to trek up the steep slope, you can go to the top by the Ropeway which will cost you INR 550 for a two-way ticket.
End your day by enjoying the sunset at Scandal Point, which is located at the end of the Mall Road. The point offers a beautiful view of the surrounding hills and is a popular spot for photography.
Day 2:
Start your day by taking a ride on the Shimla Toy Train, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Shimla toy train takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the city and offers a unique experience. It is a train journey of 96 kilometers that will take you over 864 bridges and 102 tunnels, including the longest one at Barog. Scenic views will accompany you throughout the Shimla toy train ride and you will have a hard time to stop clicking your camera.
After the train ride, visit the Viceregal Lodge, which was the summer residence of the British Viceroy. The lodge is known for its colonial architecture and beautiful gardens. The Viceregal Lodge, also called Rashtrapati Niwas now, is a stunning structure that was once constructed for the British Viceroy of India. Many debates that resulted in India’s independence took place there, and the President of India later made it his summer residence. For 80 rupees, you can take a tour inside, but it’s not particularly noteworthy and taking pictures is not allowed. It will cost you less than nothing (20 rupees) to see, take pictures of, and enjoy the lovely gardens and vibrant flowers. Before you make the short walk back, stop at the adorable tiny fire station cafe for a beverage or a snack.
Have lunch on the way at a restaurant or some food stall. After that, hire a taxi and go to Mashobra to look at the scenic views and visit the Craignano nature park. Then, travel to Naldehra to visit the Naldehra Golf Course which is one of the most beautiful golf courses in India. The course is surrounded by lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf while taking in the scenic beauty of the town.
You can also do Horse riding as it is a popular activity in Naldehra. Visitors can take a horse ride through the beautiful forests and valleys of Naldehra. Horse riding is an excellent way to explore the town and enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings.
End your day by enjoying the beautiful sunset at the Summer Hill, which is located on the outskirts of the city. The hill offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and is a great place to relax and unwind.
This itinerary covers the best places to visit in Shimla in 2 days. However, there are many more places to explore in Shimla, and you can customize the itinerary according to your interests and preferences.
Shopping at Shimla Mall Road
You can’t leave Shimla without doing a little (or a lot) of shopping in Shimla. You can shop in four different locations:
- The Mall Road, the centre of all the excitement, is the first one. There are both, new establishments and locally owned small businesses along this section of road. You’ll also find a tonne of cafes and eating joints, so you’ll never go hungry! Branded retailers can be found close to Town Hall, and neighbourhood shops can be found close to City Point. There is a wide variety of things to buy and a lot of shops to buy from on the mall road. One of the must-do activities in Shimla is shopping at Mall Road, which must be included in every itinerary or trip guide for Shimla.
- The Tibetan Market, which is the second and less expensive choice, allows for good clothing bargains.
- The Lower Bazaar is even more affordable, but it’s better for buying necessities than for shopping.
- Try Lakkar Market if you wish to buy some decorative stuff.
In addition to these 4 locations, the Himachal Emporium is an excellent place to purchase certain products made locally.
The Lakkar Bazar is the one I like best among these. It is a great place to buy travel souvenirs.
What to wear in Shimla
Be ready for a bit of cold no matter when you visit Shimla. I went to Shimla in mid-April when there were still occasional light drizzles and it was very chilly in the early mornings and evenings but sunny in the afternoon. Bring an umbrella or a raincoat if you’re travelling to Shimla during the rainy season. Carry sweaters and be prepared for snow in the peak winter months if you’re travelling to Shimla during the winter, which lasts from November to March. Bring thermals as necessary. The evenings in the summer will require a light shrug, but the afternoons will be comfortable.
Shimla – The Queen of Hills
Shimla is a stunning hill station that offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty, colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by picturesque valleys and mountains that offer excellent opportunities for adventure activities such as trekking, horse riding, and skiing. With its pleasant weather, friendly locals, and delicious food, Shimla is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the charm of a hill station in India. So pack your bags, and head to Shimla for an unforgettable experience!
If you are planning to visit other cities in Himachal Pradesh, check out my travel blog for a complete guide!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are 2 days enough for Shimla?
Two days are sufficient to visit this lovely hill station in the Himalayan foothills because it boasts nice weather all year round. Shimla’s tourist attractions may always be checked off with a bike or vehicle, but walking around the city is the greatest way to truly experience its magic.
2. Which month is best for Shimla?
Shimla experiences a lot of tourism from March to June since the weather is great for outdoor activities. Comfortable temperatures often range between 15°C and 30°C. It is the perfect season to try paragliding, trekking, camping, and rafting if you enjoy adventure activities.
3. What is off-season in Shimla?
Shimla experiences warm summers, bitterly cold winters, and a distinct monsoon. Due to the beautiful weather, visitors to Shimla throng here year-round, even during the monsoon season, which is the off season for tourism.
4. Why is Kufri famous?
A small hill town called Kufri can be found close to Shimla. For its hiking and trekking trails, it is renowned. In the winter, adventure-seeking tourists swarm to Kufri to enjoy skiing and tobogganing down its snow-covered slopes.
5. Which is colder – Shimla or Manali?
In Manali, the typical summer temperature ranges from 14 to 20°C, while the winter ranges from -7 to 10°C. In contrast, the climate in Shimla is milder, with annual average temperatures of -4 to 31°C.