Best Places to visit in Shimla: A Travel Guide
Shimla, often referred to as the “Queen of Hills,” is one of the most popular hill stations in India. This charming town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Shimla has something for everyone. From the bustling Mall Road to the serene beauty of Kufri, and the lush greenery of Mashobra, Shimla boasts a variety of attractions that promise to make your visit unforgettable. Let’s explore some of the best places to visit in Shimla that you simply cannot miss!
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Here are 45 Best Places to visit in Shimla
1. The Ridge, Shimla
In terms of geography, The Ridge might be considered the centre of Shimla’s tourist attractions. This popular tourist destination in Shimla is a broad boulevard that connects Mall Road to the well-known Scandal Point by running alongside it from east to west. Its breathtaking views of the mountain ranges around this sanctuary, rising against blue skies, are what attracts so many people to this well-liked vacation spot.
The area is packed with historic British businesses that tempt guests to engage in luxurious shopping and excessive consumption of food. The Ridge is the social centre of the area, lined with bars, restaurants, cafes, and stores. Remember that because of its breathtaking natural beauty and the Gothic buildings that enhance its beauty, this area is one of the most photographed in the entire city.
Top Things to do: Enjoy a stroll along The Ridge, Explore the shops, cafes, and restaurants, Witness a cultural performance or play at Gaiety Theatre
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (22 km)
Nearest Train Station: Shimla Railway Station (2 km)
Nearest Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT (2 km)
2. Jakhoo Hill
This 8,000-foot hill is a popular tourist destination in Shimla and is thought to be the city’s highest peak. For all of the pilgrims and nature enthusiasts who come to see the revered 108-foot-tall Hanuman statue at the Jakhu temple, this temple is a paradise. For those seeking excitement, it’s practically a short trip, making it one of the top spots to visit in Shimla in February.
Things To Do: Trekking, Religious tour, Photography
Best Time To Visit: All-year destination
Visiting Time: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm, the climb is safer during day time as the trek gets darker by evening.
Best For: Trekking
Suggested Time Duration: 2 to 3 hours
3. Kufri
The city of winter sports, Kufri, is situated 2622 meters above sea level. This hill station, located at the base of the majestic Himalayas, was formerly a part of the Nepalese empire. It provides ice skating and skiing, two thrilling winter sports. With its stunning setting, this destination is undoubtedly on the lists of many tourists. The trip from Shimla to Kufri is roughly 15 km long and takes approximately 40 minutes.
Things To Do: Skiing, Ice-Skating, Trekking
Best Time To Visit: All-year destination
Type Of Place: Adventure, must-visit for photographers
Visiting Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Best For: skiing and ice skating
4. Chail
Chail has the world’s highest cricket ground and is surrounded by massive pine and deodar trees that create a tranquil and serene environment. This location is also the home of the well-known Chail Palace, which is renowned for its magnificent architecture. Owing to its height above Shimla, visitors may take in the sight of the sparkling city lights below while being mesmerized by the beautifully coloured night sky.
Things To Do: Cricket Ground tour, Trekking, Sightseeing
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Type Of Place: Highly recommended for peace seekers, photographers
Visiting Hours: All through the day
Best For: Sparkling views of the city at night
5. Lakkar Bazaar
This is one of Shimla’s most well-known markets. As suggested by the name, the market is well known for its timber goods. It is situated close to Shimla’s Ridge. It is also among the best places to visit in Shimla. Here, one can get lovely wooden toys or mementoes. Before or after shopping, one can enjoy snacks at the market’s local food stalls! Yes, do walk around here.
Things To Do: Souvenir Hunt, Shopping
Best Time To Visit: All-year destination
Type Of Place: Shopping Street
Visiting Time: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
Best For: Shopping wood crafts
6. Tara Devi Temple
Although Shimla is home to many well-known temples, one should definitely visit the Tara Devi Temple. Situated on a hill, the temple is easily accessible from the Kalka-Shimla Highway and offers an excellent opportunity to revitalize one’s mind, body, and spirit.
Things To Do: Religious prayers, Historical tour
Best Time To Visit: All-year destination
Type Of Place: Religious
Visiting Time: 7:00 am to 6:30 pm
Best For: Sweeping views of the town of Shimla from the hilltop
7. The Shimla State Museum
One of the best places to visit in Shimla is the state museum, also called the Himachal state museum and library, which is situated on Mount Pleasant. This location is well worth the trip thanks to its expansive lawns and stunning British architecture. The museum magnificently showcases the rich cultural legacy and illustrious past of the state. They have been conserving their amazing collection of various artefacts, paintings, sculptures, handicrafts, and much more for a very long time. It is unquestionably among the top locations in Shimla for sightseeing.
Things To Do: Souvenir hunting, Sightseeing
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Type Of Place: Educational, inspirational, historic
Visiting Time: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm
Best For: Historical artefacts from Colonial rule
8. Narkanda
The lovely town of Shimla is situated 60 kilometers away from this place as well. Situated at an elevation of 8,100 feet, the town of Narkanda may be viewed from Fagu, a small hill station that stands between Shimla and Narkanda. This location serves as an easy stop for travelers on their way to Spiti Valley. Without a doubt, Narkanda ranks among the top attractions in Shimla.
Things To Do: Hiking, Trekking, Sightseeing
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Type Of Place: Hilly
Best For: stopping over when going to Spiti Valley, sightseeing, skiing
9. Kalka-Shimla Railway, Shimla
For good reason, the toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla is one of the highlights of Shimla’s tourism. UNESCO has inducted this 1898-built narrow-gauge railway into the World Heritage List of India’s mountain railways.
A train ride from the Shivalik Range foothills at Kalka to Shimla gives breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills and villages as it winds through an incredibly picturesque and rugged path. It makes stops along the route at several tourist spots, including Taradevi, Barog, Salogra, Summer Hill, Dharampur, and Solan.
You will pass through no less than 864 bridges, 919 turns, and 102 tunnels along the route. Even though the toy train trip in Shimla isn’t really a “place” to visit in the area, missing it would mean missing out on some of the amazing views Shimla has to offer.
Timings and charges: Check the official website for train timings and fare
10. Viceregal Lodge
Renowned as one of Shimla’s finest structures and a significant figure in our history, this magnificent piece of architecture demands a half-day of exploration if you want to view every angle. The vice president of India, who ruled over the British Raj from 1888 to 1946, spent his summers at the Viceregal lodge.
Things To Do: Historic tour
Best Time To Visit: All-year-round destination
Type Of Place: Historical
Visiting Time: 10:30 AM to 5 PM
Best For: Architecture and history
11. Mashobra
Make sure to include this location on your schedule if you’re a thrill-seeker looking for things to do in Shimla in December. Mashobra, a little village in Shimla, becomes a winter game lover’s heaven during the cold months. A shimmering layer of snow falls over the verdant expanse, creating a perfect basis for skiing.
Mashobra is one of the less touristic locations close to Shimla. It captivates guests with a laid-back vibe and tonnes of entertaining activities—all without the crowds. Here, you may enjoy all the enjoyable activities, including building a snowman with your kids, having snow fights with your significant other or speeding down the slopes on your skis.
Best Time To Visit: April to September
Type Of Place: Recreational
Visiting Time: Anytime of the year
Best For: Nature walks, relaxation
12. Theog
Another quiet escape from the hill station is Theog which is one of the best places to visit in Shimla. Surrounded by the beautiful peaks of the Himalayas, this hill station is a place to get that lost peace. Located approximately 32 km away from the main town, this is considered to be one of the ideal weekend getaways. Not just nature’s finest views, but the place is also famous for offering a camping experience.
Things To Do: Trekking, Sightseeing, Photography
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Type Of Place: Recreational
Visiting Time: Anytime of the year
Best For: Nature walks, relaxation
13. Fagu
Located at an elevation of 2,500 meters, this lovely village is among the serene locations to explore in Shimla. This modest location, which is surrounded by the Himalayan peaks, is fortunate to have an abundance of flora and breathtaking views. Not only that, but individuals can also make physical contact with the clouds as they approach the surface. Additionally, the area is surrounded by flora and fauna, which enhances its beauty and provides another reason to visit. It is definitely among the top attractions in Shimla during October.
Things To Do: Trekking, Sightseeing
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Best For: Nature walks, relaxation
14. Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex
Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is a popular tourist destination and is situated on Mall Road. Henry Irwin designed this famous cultural center. This building’s Gothic-style architecture is an example of Victorian creativity. It was formerly a five-story structure that was partially dismantled because of structural instability. The Gaiety theater still stands today.
Things To Do: Cultural tour, Sightseeing
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Type Of Place: recreational
Visiting Time: 24 hours
Best For: sightseeing
15. Gorton Castle
One of the top tourist places in Shimla is the Gorton Castle.It is a historical landmark that was built in the Colonial period. It’s a wonderful spot to visit in Shimla and dates back more than a century. The site is made even more beautiful by the Neo-Gothic structure and its setting.
Things To Do: Cultural tour, Sightseeing
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Type Of Place: recreational
Visiting Time: 9 AM to 5 PM
Best For: sightseeing
16. Christ Church
One of the most popular places to visit in Shimla, Christ Church is ranked among the top ten attractions. Built during the British era, the Christ Church is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that was constructed to allow the then-Christian followers to serve the Almighty Jesus.
For those who would want a taste of colonial-era devout Christianity, this monument is ideal. To raise awareness of the richness of Christian culture, the church was designed to symbolize faith, hope, humanity, patience, fortitude, and compassion. This venue, which is surrounded by magnificent landscapes and breathtaking scenery, is definitely worth a try.
Suggested length of visit: An hour is enough.
Timing: 8 AM to 6 PM
Location: Hotel Ridge View, Ridge To US Club, Lakkar Bazar, Shimla
Cost: Free of cost.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 6 KM.
17. Pabbar Valley
This valley is accessible from the town of Theog and is situated not far from Shimla. The valley’s rich vegetation, apple orchards, and enduring streams are its main draws. You can go here for an unforgettable and daring hiking trip as well. This area has a number of paths, some of which have not yet been well investigated. Without a doubt, this is one of the best places to visit in Shimla in just two days.
Things To Do: Trekking, Sightseeing
Best Time To Visit: April to November
Type Of Place: Religious
Visiting Hours: 24 hours
Best For: leisure walk
18. Tattapani
Situated 60 kilometers away from the hill town, this getaway spot is known for being among the top tourist attractions in the Shimla area. This town has a number of locations that will make your trip unforgettable. In addition to engaging in a variety of daring activities like rock climbing, trekking, river rafting, etc., there are many beautiful temples. Tattapani should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Shimla in June if you’re seeking ideas.
Things To Do: Rock Climbing, River Rafting
Best Time To Visit: All-year destination
Type Of Place: adventurous, religious
Visiting Hours: 7 AM to 6:30 PM
Best For: trekking, river rafting, rock climbing
19. Himalayan Bird Park
Himalayan Bird Park, a simple aviary nestled in the heart of Shimla, is a terrific place to visit while on holiday in Shimla. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Shimla, particularly for those who enjoy the outdoors, is the Bird Park, which is home to a variety of uncommon and exotic bird species, such as Himalayan monal, pheasants, and peacocks.
The Himalayan Bird Park, which is located directly across from the Viceregal Lodge and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Shimla, is renowned for its magnificent variety of exotic plants and trees.
Suggested length of visit: 1 hour
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: Chaura Maidan, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
Cost: INR 10 per person
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 2.3 kilometres
20. Green Valley
Green Valley is regarded as one of Shimla’s most beautiful viewpoints, and for good reason. This valley, which has been in a few Bollywood movies, has become very well-known lately and is among the best places to visit in Shimla for couples! Have you packed your bags yet so you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery around this natural paradise? This is what you might expect from the viewpoint of Green Valley.
Things To Do: Hiking, Trekking, Camping, Photography
Best Time To Visit: March to July
Type Of Place: Sightseeing
Visiting Time: 6 AM to 6:30 PM every day
Best For: Photography
21. Kali Bari Temple
Situated in a well-planned location, Kali Bari Temple is a highly visited tourist destination. Constructed in 1845, the temple honors Goddess Kali, also referred to as Shyamala. Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, takes its name from the Goddess Shyamala.
Suggested length of visit: Around 1 to 2 hours.
Timing: 7 AM to 6 PM on all days of the week.
Location: The temple is located at the Kali Bari Road, Shimla.
Cost: Entry to the temple is free.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 5 KM
22. Chadwick Falls
Chadwick Falls, one of the best places to visit in Shimla, Falls from a height of 1586 meters. It’s surrounded by a beautiful deodar and pine forest, and the vista is breathtaking. The falls’ water level rises as a result of the monsoons, adding to the area’s beauty with glittering water. Chadwick Falls’ alluring beauty and atmosphere make it a visual feast for the eyes. Without a doubt, one of the most well-known locations in Shimla is this.
Things To Do: Trekking, Photography
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Type Of Place: Waterfall, viewing point, ideal for photographers and peace seekers
Visiting Time: Sunrise to sunset, do not go while it’s dark
Best For: Trekking and hiking
23. Naldehra And Shaily Peak
With the most breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset, Naldehra is one of the best hill stations close to Shimla. This area offers amazing forest cover that is best enjoyed on a horseback ride, with dense stands of deodar trees and diverse flora and fauna. Anybody will be enthralled by the beautiful vista, peace, and fresh air.
Things To Do: Horse riding, Trekking, Camping, Picnic
Best Time To Visit: All-year destination
Type Of Place: Viewing Point, valley viewing, ideal for photographers, adventure
Visiting Time: Sunrise to sunset
Best For: Sunrise and Sunset views
24. Kuthar Fort
Another site that completes your Shimla sightseeing is Kuthar Fort, which is situated in the breathtaking natural splendor of the Himalayan foothills. The fort is encircled by mountains and pine forests on 52.8 sq km of land. It has stunning gardens and pools. Come here to explore the natural world and history.
Things To Do: Historical tour
Best Time To Visit: April to September
Type Of Place: Historical
Visiting Time: 8 am to 6 pm
Best For: Fort exploration
25. Johnnie’s Wax Museum
Johnnie’s Wax Museum, also referred to as Himachal Pradesh’s first wax museum, is one of the top tourist attractions in Shimla. The wax museum, which is quite popular with kids and families on vacation, features wax statues of numerous well-known movie stars and global figures as well as major personalities from India.
The museum has some of the most endearing wax figures, including Tony Stark, Steve Jobs, Harry Potter, James Bond, and Mahatma Gandhi. You can get a wax reproduction of your hand from Johnnie’s Wax Museum to make your visit to the museum truly memorable.
Suggested length of visit: 1 to 2 hours
Timing: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, All the days of the week
Location: Near willow Bank, Mall Road, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
Cost: INR 250 per person, children below 5 enter free
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 1.8 kilometers
26. Indian Institute of Advanced Study
Photographs of interactions between Indian leaders and British officials are kept there. It used to be the viceroy of India’s summer residence. Explore the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies galleries with a guide to learn about historical events such as the Shimla conference through pictures and stories.
Timing: 9 AM to 5:30 PM on all days of the week except Monday.
Location: Rashtrapati Nivas, Chaura Maidan, Near Birds Zoo, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171005
Cost: INR 20 for the garden visit, INR 40 per Indian and INR 85 per person (foreign national)
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 3 KM.
27. Annandale
Shimla’s flat Annandale area has been transformed into the city’s playground. Cricket is played on the pitch. This place is also used for playing polo and golf, among other sports. Here, picnics are also arranged. It’s also one of the top tourist destinations in Shimla, offering a tonne of exciting and daring things to do.
Since British administration, this location has gained notoriety. This was the home of British sportsmen who played polo, cricket, and racing. There were also planned entertainment events throughout these periods.
Timing: 10 AM to 5 PM on all days of the week except Monday. Monday closed.
Location: Near Ridge Shimla
Cost: Free of cost.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 3 KM
28. Sankat Mochan Temple
After Jakhu Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple is the second most well-known religious site in Shimla. This temple was founded in 1950 and is located around 8 kilometres from Shimla.
One of the best places to visit in Shimla for those seeking nirvana is the temple, which is devoted to Lord Rama, Lord Shiva, and Hanuman.
Timing: 6:30 to 8 PM in summer and 7 AM to 6:30 PM in winter.
Entry fee: free of cost.
Location: Bagh, Taradevi, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, 171010, India
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 8 KM
29. Bantony Castle
Situated on Bantony Hill, this historical site is open to visitors as part of the Shimla Heritage Walk. Bantony Castle and Bantony Cottage make up the estate. It is made completely of wood and is surrounded by expansive gardens.
One of the outstanding features of the history trail is the location of the Bantony Estate. The owners of this property recently sold it to the government, who plan to renovate it.
Suggested length of visit: Less than an hour.
Timing: 24 hours
Location: Kali Bari Rd, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
Cost: No entry fee.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 800 meters.
30. St. Michael's Cathedral Catholic Church
This church was built about 1886, during the Victorian era. The main hall can hold about 400 worshippers and features exquisite French-gothic interior design.
If you are interested in witnessing the wonders of Neo-Gothic architecture, this is a noteworthy monument and one of the Best places to visit in Shimla.
Suggested length of visit: An hour.
Timing: Daily mass 6:45 AM, Friday mass 6 PM and Sunday mass 10:30 AM
Location: Heritage Building, Ram Bazar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171003
Cost: entry is free of cost.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 500 meters.
31. Army Heritage Museum
This historical museum is close to the Ridge and a part of Annandale. Without having a picnic here as part of your trip to Shimla, it would be incomplete. A variety of memorabilia, most of which are connected to the Indian Army, are on display. and it is among the top locations in the Shimla area.
Great Indian warriors’ life stories, antique guns, and ammo are all kept in well-preserved cases.
Suggested length of visit: An hour.
Timing: 10 AM to 2 PM and 3 PM to 5 PM on all days of the week.
Location: Annandale Rd, Annandale, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, 171003, India
Suggested length of visit: An hour.
Timing: 10 AM to 2 PM and 3 PM to 5 PM on all days of the week.
Location: Annandale Rd, Annandale, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, 171003, India
Cost: Free of cost.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 3 KM. Free of cost.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 3 KM.
32. Kamna Devi Temple
The Kaman Devi Temple is located on Prospect Hill and is reachable from Boileauganj along the Shimla-Bilaspur road. One of the nicest locations around Shimla, the temple is about 6 kilometers from the city and is surrounded by beautiful valleys and meadows.
The temple symbolizes Kamna Devi, who is thought to be an avatar of Goddess Kali.
Suggested length of visit: 1 hour.
Timing: 24 hours.
Location: Prospect Hill, Boileauganj, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171005
Cost: free of cost.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 5 KM.
33. Jakhu Ropeway
In around five minutes, the ropeway travels eight km from the ridge that runs alongside Jakhu Temple to the temple. One of the best places to visit in Shimla is the famed Jakhu temple, which is easily accessible thanks to the installation of a ropeway.
At 8054 feet above sea level, you may ride the ropeway and enjoy some breathtaking views of the valley. Imported from Switzerland, the ropeway cabins are the ideal means of traveling around some of the most well-known tourist destinations in Shimla, including Jakhu Valley and Jakhu Temple.
Suggested length of visit: Around 1 to 2 hours.
Timing: 9:30 AM to 7 PM on all days of the week.
Location: Jakhu, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001, India
Cost: INR 250 for adults and INR 200 for children.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 7 Kms.
34. Rothney Castle
A.O. Hume, a well knowledgeable ornithologist and political reformer, lived in Rothney Castle. One of the top things to see in Shimla is this architectural wonder, which is located on the Jakhu hills next to the Jakhu temple.
The mansion is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Shimla, with breathtaking views of the surrounding greenery.
Suggested length of visit: at least around 2 hours.
Timing: 24 hours.
Location: Sheeshe Wali Kothi, Jakhoo Rd, Lakkar Bazar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001, India
Cost: Entry is free.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 8.5 Kms.
35. Hawa Ghar
One of the best places to visit in Shimla is Hawa Ghar, which acts as an open balcony to the city’s breathtaking views. It is situated on a ridge in Lakkar Bazaar, which gives visitors some quite impressive views of the valley due to its considerable height.
Known affectionately as the “Mall view balcony,” it serves as the center of several winter festivities when the town is completely blanketed in snow.
Suggested length of visit: An hour.
Timing: 9 AM to 6 PM on all days of the week
Location: Kufri Chail Road, Near Himalayan Nature Park, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, 171012, India
Cost: INR 10 per adult and INR 5 per child.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 6.5 Kms.
36. Hip Hip Hurray Amusement Park
Situated near Kufri, at an elevation of 8,500 feet above sea level, lies this unique amusement park. It’s one of the top tourist destinations in Shimla and offers a variety of activities like the Flying Fox, Rock Climbing, Commando Net, Bumping Boats, Rowing, and Valley Crossing.
During the winter, you may also go boating and ice skating on the covered areas. If all of this is making you hungry, there are several local stores that sell Himachali handloom items, as well as multi-cuisine eateries and coffee shops.
The telescope, which provides amazing views of the valley, is the main feature of this amusement park. Without a doubt, it is one of the sights you simply must see in Shimla.
Suggested length of visit: at least 3 hours.
Timing: 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM on all days of the week.
Location: 1 KM ahead of Kufri Bazar, Towards Fagu, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001, India
Cost: INR 100 per person, INR 350 per person including rides, and 160 per person including Go Karting.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: around 10 Kms.
37. Kasauli
One of the best places to visit in Shimla that provides a unique experience all by itself is Kasauli. The hill town, dotted with pine and cedar trees, is home to magnificent colonial residences, orchards, and the venerable Christ Church. As you stroll around Kasauli’s scenery, you’re likely to come across a number of rare and endangered animal species.
In Kasauli, some of the must-see locations are Baptist Church, Monkey Point, Timber Trail, and Sunset Point at Lovers Lane, among others.
Suggested length of visit: 2 days
Timing: All day, every day
Location: 71.1 kilometers from Shimla in the district of Solan
Cost: No Entry Fee
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 71.1 kilometers
38. Solan
Often referred to as the “mushroom capital of India,” Solan is a laid-back place best enjoyed by those looking to escape the bustle of the big metropolis. It is located in the lower regions of the Himalayas. One of the best places to visit in Shimla is Solan, where you can see a number of historic temples and monasteries that are visited by hundreds of worshippers from all over the nation.
The town has earned the moniker “city of red gold” for its significant contribution to tomato production. Don’t miss the chance to visit the 300-year-old fort, the Jatola Shiv Temple, and the Shoolini Mata Temple while you’re here.
Suggested length of visit: 1 to 2 days
Timing: All day, every day
Location: Himachal Pradesh, India
Cost: No Entry Fee
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 44.8 kilometers
39. Shoghi
Shoghi, a little town in the Himachal Pradesh suburbs of Shimla, is an ideal location for an overnight camping trip. Though there are other hotels and resorts in the vicinity that provide camping, you have the option to tent in the Shoghi camp. One of the best place to visit in Shimla with a great environment and an abundance of vegetation is Shoghi.
Suggested length of visit: 1 to 2 days
Timing: Anytime
Location: Shoghi is a small town in Himachal Pradesh which is located 14.1 kilometers from Shimla.
Cost: No Entry Fee
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 14.1 kilometers
40. Prospect Hill
Prospect Hill is sprinkled with verdant meadows, many bodies of water, and long lengths of a magnificent valley filled with lush greenery. One of Shimla’s religious destinations is Prospect Hill, which is highly revered by those who follow the goddess Kamna Devi.
Numerous myths about the goddess surround the hill, and an old shrine honoring Goddess Kamna Devi is perched atop the peak. Prospect Hill is ready for you to visit if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway.
Suggested length of visit: An hour and a half.
Timing: 24 hours.
Location: Kamna Prospect Hill, Kamna Devi Temple Road, Chakkar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171005, India
Cost: No entry cost.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 4 KM.
41. Baba Bhalku Railway Museum
The best option to find out about the reasons for the Shimla train line’s development is this museum. Numerous exhibits featuring machinery and engines are present. Items from the era when the train line was built, such as jackets, caps and umbrellas, are on display in the museum and were originally left in the waiting area.
Numerous fascinating stories about its building, which changed people’s lives in Shimla and surrounding areas, will be shared with you.
Suggested length of visit: An hour is enough.
Timing: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM on all days of the week except Monday.
Location: Old Bus Stand, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001, India
Cost: Free of cost.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 47 KM.
42. Rani Jhansi Park
Known as the Ladies Park, Rani Jhansi Park is easily accessed from the mall road. The park is ideal as a playground for kids and is perfect for daytime picnics. In the center of the park is a massive statue of Rani Lakshmi Bai riding a horse and brandishing a sword.
On the granite that is lying next to the statue, there are carvings of historical occurrences relating to Rani Lakshmi Bai.
Suggested length of visit: An hour
Timing: 24 hours.
Location: Mall Rd, Lakkar Bazar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
Cost: No entry cost.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Less than a Kilometer.
43. Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary
This reserve, which is popular with nature lovers, is around 11 km from Shimla. Visitors frequently see bears, jackals, monkeys, barking deer, leopards, and other wildlife. This forest reserve offers some of the best views of the Himalayan peaks, including Chota Shali, Deo Tibba, Bandar Poonch, Rakta Dhar, and even the Pir Panjal ranges in Jammu and Kashmir.
It’s also a fantastic location for photographers.
Suggested length of visit:around 4 to 5 hours.
Timing: 9 AM to 6 PM on all days of the week.
Location: NH 22, Chharabra, Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh 171012
Cost: 25 per person, INR 10 for students with I-cards. INR 150 per Vehicle Charge, INR 100 for two-wheelers, INR 50 for Still Camera
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 15 Kms.
44. Great Himalayan National Park
Because of the abundant flora and species that call the Himalayan Park home, the majority of its areas have been designated as reserves, national parks, and sanctuaries. The park is a true haven for lovers of the outdoors, with plenty of opportunities for day hikes, picnics, trekking, and other outdoor pursuits in the forested areas.
Its untouched biodiversity can be found at Kufri. Along with species like Musk deer, Barking deer, Sambar deer, Hangal Goral, and others, you can find orchids, primula, balsam, deodar, oaks, and more.
Suggested length of visit: half a day or an entire day.
Timing: 9 AM to 6:30 PM on all days of the week except Tuesday.
Location: Kandaghat-Chail-Kufri Road, Kufri, Himachal Pradesh 171012
Cost: INR 20
Distance from Shimla bus stand: Around 17 KM.
45. Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary
Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary, the town’s only designated sanctuary, is one of the most tranquil tourist destinations in Shimla, particularly for photographers and those who enjoy the natural world. Nestled on the eastern edge of the Hindustan Tibet Road, the sanctuary boasts 1,000 acres of verdant surroundings and a fascinating array of both animals and plants.
During your stroll through the Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary, you might see foxes, Ghorals, house sparrows, blue magpies, pythons, and other snake species. You have the option to rent a bicycle at the gate or explore the sanctuary on foot. Stay in the Forest Rest House within the sanctuary for a unique experience.
Suggested length of visit: 1 to 2 hours
Timing: 10: 00 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: NH 22 Charabra Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh 171012, India
Cost: No Entry Fee
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 8.7 kilometers
Conclusion
In Conclusion, Best Places to Visit in Shimla Shimla offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the scenic views at Mall Road to the historical charm of Viceregal Lodge, the city has something for every traveler. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Jakhu Temple and experience the serene atmosphere at Chadwick Falls. Whether you are a nature lover or a history buff, Shimla’s diverse attractions make it a must-visit destination for all types of tourists.
You can also check our Shimla Tour Packages.
People also ask about Best Places to visit in Shimla
01.What is Shimla famous for?
Shimla is famous for its picturesque hill station beauty, colonial architecture, pleasant climate, and as the former summer capital of British India.
02.When is the best time to visit Shimla?
The best time to visit Shimla is during the summer months (March to June) when the weather is cool and pleasant. However, Shimla also offers a unique charm during the winter months, especially around Christmas.
03.How do I reach Shimla?
You can reach Shimla by road, train, or air. The nearest airport is in Jubbarhatti, about 23 kilometers away, while the nearest major railway station is Kalka. From Kalka, you can take the famous toy train to Shimla.
04.What are the must-visit places in Shimla?
Some must-visit places in Shimla include The Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, Christ Church, and the Indian Institute of Advanced Study.
05.Is there snowfall in Shimla?
Yes, Shimla experiences snowfall during the winter months, particularly from December to February. This is a popular time for tourists to experience the snowy charm of the hill station.
06.Are there adventure activities in Shimla?
Yes, Shimla offers adventure activities such as trekking, paragliding, and ice skating during the winter. The Kufri region is known for its trekking trails.
07.What is the local cuisine of Shimla?
The local cuisine in Shimla includes Himachali dishes like Chana Madra, Dham, Babru, and various bread and meat preparations. You can also find a variety of North Indian and Tibetan cuisines in Shimla.
08.Is there a dress code for religious places in Shimla?
While there may not be a strict dress code, it is advisable to dress modestly when visiting religious places in Shimla. This typically means covering your shoulders and knees.
09.Can I find accommodation in Shimla easily?
Shimla offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. It’s a popular tourist destination, so booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
10.What are the shopping options in Shimla?
You can shop for local handicrafts, woolen garments, shawls, and Tibetan goods in Shimla. The Lakkar Bazaar and Mall Road are popular shopping areas.
11.Is Shimla a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Shimla is a family-friendly destination with various activities and attractions suitable for all age groups. It’s a great place to enjoy a relaxing vacation with your loved ones.
12.Are there any health precautions I should take when visiting Shimla?
Visitors to Shimla should be prepared for the change in altitude. It’s essential to stay hydrated and take it easy for the first day or two to acclimatize.
13.Can I use mobile phones and the internet in Shimla?
Yes, mobile networks and internet connectivity are generally good in Shimla. You’ll have no trouble staying connected during your visit.
14.What is the significance of the Ridge in Shimla?
The Ridge is a large open space in the heart of Shimla and is famous for its scenic beauty. It’s a hub for cultural activities, fairs, and events and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
15.Are there any eco-friendly initiatives in Shimla?
Yes, Shimla has been implementing various eco-friendly initiatives to promote responsible tourism, including waste management and conservation efforts.
