Shimla
- Himachal Pradesh
- India
- Things to do in Shimla
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Things to do in Shimla: From Mall Road to Snowy Peaks
Shimla is known as the summer capital of British India and is famous for its beautiful scenery, colonial buildings, and vibrant culture that attracts tourists from all over the world. Whether you enjoy the fresh mountain air, hiking, or simply taking in stunning views, Shimla has something for every type of traveller. Planning your trip to Shimla can be overwhelming due to the many attractions and activities available. To make the most of your experience, it’s important to know what to see and do while you’re there. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, hiking in picturesque areas, trying local cuisine, or shopping in bustling markets, there are plenty of ways to ensure your visit is unforgettable if you plan ahead. This guide will help you discover the top things to do in Shimla so you can make lasting memories and have unique experiences during your trip.
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Here is the list of Things to Do in Shimla
1. Exploring the Charm of Shimla Ridge
Known as Shimla’s cultural center, visiting the Ridge should be on your list of things to do in Shimla. Ridge is the place to go if you need a cup of coffee or just want to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. It is also the city’s focal point during festivals and events. The best months to visit are April through August and December through January. For a unique experience, add it to your list of things to do in Shimla at night.
Best time to visit: From April to August, and from December to January
2. Camping in Shimla: A Nature Lover's Paradise
Outdoor accommodation in nature allows you to truly experience the essence of a beautiful hill station. Camping is one of the most popular things to do in Shimla because it serves as an excellent base for many trekking expeditions.
Despite having a large population, Shimla still has dense vegetation. Camping in Shimla is a must-do activity for any adventurer or nature lover visiting Shimla.
Location: Shimla has some excellent campsites with stunning views of the surrounding green hills. You can choose from the major campsites such as Shoghi, Sarahan, Sandasu, and Chirgaon.
3. Discover the Best Trekking Routes in Shimla
Shimla’s most well-known feature has to be its numerous trekking trails. Trekking is well-known in Shimla, as the majestic and exquisite Himalayan ranges provide the ideal setting for you to try trekking and quench your thirst for adventure. In Shimla, you can go trekking in several untouched terrains as well as hills.
Some of the popular and common routes for trekking include: Shimla – Narkanda – Hattu Peak – Chaupal – Kedi – Halau – Kandol – Koti – Chakrata Banjar – Bathad – Sarahan – Arsu – Rampur – Shimla Shimla – Narkanda – Khadrala – Sungri – Devidhar – Rohru – Shimla Shimla – Luhri – Ani – Khanag – Jalori Pass – Jibhi – Banjar.
Price: INR 1,500 onwards
4. Kalka Shimla Toy Train ride
The toy train, which runs on a narrow-gauge track and is known for its dramatic views of the hills and surrounding villages, is the best way to travel from Kalka to Shimla. The historic Kalka Shimla Toy train, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, takes visitors on a ride through vast green hills and deodar and pine forests.
The journey was carved through the abundance of nature in Himachal Pradesh during British rule, so the Kalka Shimla Toy train is bound to transport you to a completely different era in history and through one of India’s most scenic railway journeys. The 5-and-a-half-hour toy train ride provides special services and is a must-do when visiting the Northern mountainside.
Route: Kalka-Shimla-Kalka
Cost: INR 65 to INR 500.
5. River Rafting At Tattapani
Tattapani, located 50 kilometers from Shimla, is an adventurer’s paradise. The region is popular for its natural hot water springs, lush green valleys, and one of the best rafting experiences in the world, attracting thousands of tourists each year. Tattapani, a perfect weekend getaway, will undoubtedly rejuvenate your soul. Other adventure sports in Shimla that one can try to satisfy their inner thrill seeker!
Location: Tattapani, Shimla
Price: Variable and dependent on the length of the trip and the rafting route chosen.
6. Soaring Through the Skies: Paragliding in Shimla
If you have ever dreamed of flying, Shimla is the place to come and make that dream a reality. Shimla serves as an excellent paragliding destination and is a mecca for thrill-seekers due to its perfect hills, ideal for paragliding. It is one of Shimla’s famous things.
The views of the majestic mountain ranges that you can see during the activity are enough to make it an unforgettable experience. Try this activity in Shimla to increase the amount of adrenaline in your blood.
Price: INR 800 onwards
7. Exploring the Unique Shopping Experience at Lakkar Bazar
Looking for nighttime activities in Shimla? Shopping at Lakkar Bazaar is one option. When the sun sets in the evening, Lakkar Bazar takes on a completely different appearance. Some of the finest woodwork artifacts can be found in the long stretch of shops on either side. Aside from artifacts, you can also get cheap winter clothes. It’s a great place to get souvenirs and small gifts for your loved ones.
Location: Lakkar Bazaar, Shimla
8. The Thrill of Ice Skating
When deciding what to do in Shimla, one of the things to do in Shimla during peak winters is to show off your skills at the open-air ice skating rink. Every year, thousands of people visit the rink in search of an unforgettable ice skating experience. The ice is formed using a special technique taught to the Garhwali highlanders by the British. The densely forested hillside keeps it shaded, and the cold winter temperatures keep it from melting.
Best Time : December – March
Price: INR 100 – INR 200
9. Exploring the Beauty of Chadwick Waterfall
The tranquil Chadwick waterfall, located in the Glen forest, is one of the things to see in Shimla. The waterfall, located 7 kilometers from Shimla, is an excellent place to begin your day. The combination of aesthetic beauty and a tranquil environment makes it ideal for some alone time. And, yes, seeing the sunrise at Chadwick Falls is one of the best things to do in Shimla if you enjoy nature. The hike to the waterfall is both peaceful and enthralling.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Chadwick Falls is during the monsoon time, i.e. from June to September
10.Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Jakhu Temple
Jakhu Hill, at an elevation of 2,455 meters above sea level, is said to be Shimla’s highest peak and one of the best things to see in Shimla. Trekking to the top of Jakhu Hill is one of Shimla’s most popular activities. Though tiring on a sunny day, this 2.5 km trek can become one of the most enjoyable activities of your trip on cloudy, windy, or rainy days.
Timings : 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Ticket Price of Ropeway : Adults- INR 250
Children (3-12 years) – INR 200
Children (below 3 years) – Free
11. Exploring the Beauty of Pine Forests
There are numerous interesting short hikes from Shimla that take you through the city’s pine forests. Beautiful trails take you to the Glen, Summer Hill, Prospect Hill, and the Kamna Devi Temple. These are some of Shimla’s most popular and appealing tourist attractions. These nature walks are among the best things to do in Shimla for couples because of their beauty and the romantic weather.
Things to do: Walk in the forest, Have a picnic, Hike to the forests.
12. Discover the Charm of Mall Road
Visit Mall Road, a bustling street in Shimla’s center, to get a taste of local life. It is an ideal location for a thorough shopping spree, with numerous shops selling woolen clothing, local handicraft items, rugs, pottery items, jewelry, and many other items that will fascinate you, and it is one of Shimla’s most famous attractions.
The best time to visit and get a feel for it is in the evening, when both tourists and locals flock to the shop and walk around.
If you don’t like crowds but still want to experience the humdrum of the area, there are a number of quaint little cafes where you can sit with a hot cup of coffee and watch the evening go by.
Things to do: Shopping, Cafes & Restaurants
13. Indian Institute of Advanced Studies: Exploring the Depths of Knowledge
The British constructed the structure as a summer retreat for the Indian President. However, it was given to the nation by Dr. S Radhakrishnan, India’s then-President, as an institute to promote advanced studies in the arts and humanities. It is one of Shimla’s most popular tourist attractions due to its grand architectural beauty and tranquil surroundings. And the colonial structure is ideal for some stunning photography.
Timings : 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on mondays)
Price: Entry fees are INR 50 for Indian Nationals and INR 100 for Foreigners. Separate fees for senior citizens, children and garden area guided tour at INR 30.
14. Discover the Rich History of Annandale's Military Museum
Annandale is a popular Shimla attraction with a beautiful golf course, a playground, a cactus museum, and an Indian Army museum. The playground is a lovely spot for relaxation and recreation. The captivating location attracts tourists from all over the world, particularly sports enthusiasts who frequently spend their time playing cricket, golf, or polo.
Annandale is also a popular picnic spot for locals. It is popular with tourists during the summer because the weather is cool and pleasant, allowing them to explore the region at their leisure and participate in a sport or two. Today, the playground is mostly used for Indian Army events and as a helipad.
Best Time to Visit: Annandale is best explored between October and February, when Shimla is in winter.
Things To Do at Annandale:Golf,Annandale Playground,Indian Army Museum,Cactus Museum,Cafe
Timings : Museum: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Playground: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Golf Course: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
15. Revealing the Mystery Surrounding Scandal Point.
Scandal Point, one of Shimla’s most popular tourist attractions, is a flat platform on the Ridge Road. It provides breathtaking views of the snow capped mountains and lush valley. Scandal Point is a photographer’s and nature lover’s dream, with spectacular sunrise and sunset views.
Things to do: Beautiful view of the hills and the sun. In addition, there are numerous options for restaurants, eateries, and shopping in this area.
16. Cycling: The Joy of Pedaling
Enjoy a leisurely day by cycling around the water catchment wildlife sanctuary, the ideal way to escape the bustle of the city. Although the area is well-known for housing wildlife, it’s also a fantastic place to go cycling worry-free and spend quality time with yourself.
Things to do: Grab a bike and go wildlife spotting. Numerous bird and animal species, such as monkeys, deers, and, if you’re lucky, leopards, can be spotted.
Price: INR 200 per vehicle. At the sanctuary, bicycles can also be rented for a small fee.
17. Kuthar Fort: A Historical Gem
One of the best places to visit in Shimla to take in the historical charm of the hill station is Kuthar Fort, which rests in the breathtaking scenery of the Himalayas. The fort occupies 52.8 square kilometers and is encircled by lovely gardens and an exotic pool. In addition to its tranquil setting, the fort has sectors and freshwater springs that date back about 800 years.
Location: State Highway 9 Kishangarh, Kuthar, Himachal Pradesh 173206
Price: INR 10
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm
18. Kufri: The Hill Station Retreat
One of the most visited places in Shimla is Kufri, a little hill station that sits 8,000 feet above sea level. One of the most exciting things to do in Shimla is to visit this location, which draws tourists from all over the world due to its scenic beauty. There are numerous sites of interest, including the Himalayan Nature Park and Mahasu Peak, Kufri’s highest peak. It’s a great place for photographers as well.
Best Time to visit : mid- December to early February
19. Johnnie's Wax Museum: Celebrity Immersion
Are you trying to find fandom things to do in Shimla? That is possible to do at the Johnnie’s Wax Museum, though. One of Shimla’s newest tourist destinations is Johnnie’s Wax Museum, which opened its doors in 2016. Sixteen life-size statues of well-known figures from a variety of fields, including politics, sports, and film, are kept in the Museum. Remember to include this location on your list of things to do in Shimla. Here, you can meet Amir Khan, Barack Obama, Tony Stark, and Harry Potter, among others.
Location: Near Willow Bank, 2, Mall Road, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh171001.
Cost: INR 250 per person.
Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
20. Summer Hill: Serene Retreat
One such view that you will never tire of is the captivating panorama from Summer Hill. Part of the seven hills that make up Shimla, it is currently home to renowned painter Amrita Shergil. Potter’s hill, as it is also called, is a great place to get away from the bustle of the city. The hill is snow-covered in the winter and a delightful sight that will utterly enchant you in the summer.
Location: 5 km from The Ridge
21. Kiala Forest: Nature's Haven
At Kiala Forest, which is a little distance from the main city, take in a sweeping view of the city. It is among the best places to visit in Shimla and is ideal for those who enjoy adventure sports as well as the natural world and its wildlife. Remember to take pictures of breathtaking moments in the wilderness. If you love the outdoors and want to spend some quiet time in nature, put this on your list of things to do in Shimla.
Location: Kotkhai, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – 171202
Things to do: While exploring the forest, you may see leopards and other wild animals because it is quite deep.
22. Naldehra Golf Course: Beautiful Greens
One of the best things to do in Shimla is golf at Naldehra if you’re looking to try out some of the exciting activities available. This location boasts the most gorgeous golf course encircled by picturesque splendors. You can enjoy an incredible 18-hole golf course and a wonderful atmosphere all combined.
Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on all days from April to September and 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM from October to March.
Price: INR 400/- (Green fee) for Indians and INR 570/- (Green fee) for Foreigners
23. Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary : A Natural Paradise
Blessed with an abundance of wildlife, the Water Catchment Sanctuary is a birder’s paradise. You can lose yourself in the captivating sight of the glistening streams here, home to a variety of wildlife species like Thrushes, Barbets, Tits, Musk Deer, Flycatchers, and other birds chirping in the peaceful forest. Without a doubt, Shimla is endowed with a diverse range of plants and animals.
Price: The fee is INR 100/- per person.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on all the days.
24. Tara Devi Temple: Serene Devotion
Tara Devi Temple should be on your bucket list if you enjoy visiting spiritual places. The journey to the temple, which is located at a height of 6070 feet, is charming. Relax and unwind at this historic temple. To be a part of the grand celebrations, try visiting the temple during Shardiya Navratri and Ashtami, which occurs during Dussehra.
Location: NH.22, Kachi Ghati, Bagh, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001.
Timings : 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
25. Kali Bari Temple: The Sacred Shrine
Shimla’s Kali Bari Temple is an ancient place of worship dedicated to Goddess Kali. It was built in 1845 and is considered extremely religiously significant by devotees. The shrine houses an enthralling idol of Goddess Kali, which is lavishly decorated with jewellery and colourful flowers.
It is located in Shimla, very close to the Shimla City Mall, and is frequently visited by a large number of devotees. The temple grounds are kept clean and well-maintained, and devotees can sit here for hours soaking in the heavenly vibe. Many people prefer chanting or meditation here to contemplate issues they are facing as they seek Goddess Kali’s power and energy to face and fight them.
Best Time to Visit: The Kali Bari temple is open to the public between October and May. In addition, Navratri is celebrated for nine days every year in October-November.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
26. Christ Church: A Place of Worship
Christ Church, built in the Neo-Gothic style by the British, is a well-known landmark in Shimla. One of the best things to do in Shimla for tourists and architecture lovers is to gaze at the colorful stained glass windows and the Sanctuary Wall Fresco.
Some people come here for religious reasons and even light candles after praying. The fact that this church is the second oldest in Northern India adds to its allure.
Visiting here in the winter is unquestionably one of the best things to do in Shimla, as its beauty doubles and it appears to be a castle surrounded by thick white snow.
Timings : 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
27. Green Valley: Nature's Paradise
With a lot of tourists coming here, Green Valley, or Hassan Valley as the locals call it, is one of the most important places to visit for a day trip from Shimla and one of the offbeat things to do in Shimla.
It is located in the beautiful mountain ranges and is only 10 kilometers from Shimla by car. It is located on the way from Shimla to Kufri, so visitors can stop here and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges.
Wander around, have a picnic, or go for a hike in the dense evergreen Deodar forest. Green Valley is an ideal place to visit if you want to breathe fresh mountain air away from the now-touristy Shimla.
Location: Kufri, Himachal Pradesh 171012.
Things to do: Breathtaking views of Himalayan Ranges, dense Deodar forests.
28. Cafe Simla Times
Mountains, coffee, and books are three things that go together perfectly. Cafe Simla Times is the ideal place to enjoy a cup of hot coffee while admiring the scenic views from the rooftop and indulging in delectable cuisines such as Lebanese, Italian, Chinese, Thai, and others. You can find a cozy corner, sit with a book, and simply enjoy the warmth that the mountains hold in their lap. This cafe also features live music from local bands!
Price: Approx INR 1500 for 2 people
Conclusion
Shimla, a picturesque hill station in India, offers a variety of activities for tourists. From exploring the historic Viceregal Lodge to taking a leisurely stroll on the Mall Road, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Jakhu Temple, known for its giant Hanuman statue and panoramic views of the city. Shimla’s toy train ride through the lush valleys is a must-do experience that transports you back in time. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, Shimla has plenty to offer for a memorable vacation.
You can also check our Shimla Tour Packages.
People Also Ask About Things To Do In Shimla
01. What are the must-visit attractions in Shimla?
The Ridge, Jakhu Temple, Shimla-Kalka Toy Train, Mall Road, Christ Church,
Viceregal Lodge, Kufri, Himalayan Nature Park, Tara Devi Temple, Local Himachali Eateries.
02. Is it necessary to book the Toy Train ride in advance?
It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot on the Shimla-Kalka Toy Train.
03.Are there adventure activities available in Shimla?
Yes, you can enjoy adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, and horse riding, especially in places like Kufri and Mashobra.
04.What's the best time to visit Shimla for snowfall?
If you want to experience snowfall, plan your visit between December and February. However, this period can be quite chilly, so be prepared for cold weather.
05.What is Shimla's famous food ?
The most popular dish for non-vegetarians is chaa gosht, or lamb cooked in yogurt gravy, or murgh anardana. Himachali dal chana or split gram with fennel seeds and mathri choware, lentil fritters in spinach gravy, are vegetarian options.
06.Is Shimla better than Manali?
If you enjoy adventure sports and natural beauty, Manali may be a better option for you, whereas Shimla may be a better choice if you enjoy colonial history and cultural attractions. Nonetheless, all cities are worthwhile to visit and offer tourists a unique experience.
07.Is 2 days enough in Shimla?
If you are planning a trip to Shimla, we recommend that you stay for at least 2-3 days.
08.What should I wear in Shimla?
Pack warm woolen clothing such as jackets, sweaters, Mufflors, and shawls. In the summer, bring light clothing and some warm clothing for the nights. In the winter, as previously stated, bring warm woolen clothing such as sweaters, jackets, and monkey caps (if you are not used to cold weather).
09.Is Shimla good for shopping?
Shimla’s best shopping areas include Lakkar Bazaar, Lower Bazaar, The Mall, Himachal Emporium, and Tibetan Market. Shimla’s local markets will definitely entice you with all of their traditional products and antiques.
10.Why do people love Shimla?
It is picturesque due to its colonial houses, market places, lakes, and snow-capped mountains. Shimla’s beauty blooms in abundance during the winters. Shimla, as a capital city, is well-connected by all modes of transportation. It is ideal for those seeking adventure as well as those seeking peace and quiet in nature’s lap.
