8 Amazing Places to Visit in Shimla

 Shimla is one of the most popular hill stations in India and is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. While it is brimming with beautiful colonial buildings, lush gardens and stunning views of the Himalayas, it is also perfectly possible to find those too. If you are interested in nature, history or simply do not want to broil in the heat, here are eight wonderful places to visit in Shimla. 

 

 1. The Ridge 

 The Ridge is the central place of Shimla, and it is an open space from where a number of snowy mountains can be seen. It is well suited for a casual walk and the brisk energy escalates from local selling firms, performers and travellers. The Ridge also has cultural activities, and events, celebrations, and festivals, they make the place active throughout the year. 

 

 2. Mall Road 

 Mall Road is the city’s central business and the most important shopping centre, full of small shops, bars and restaurants. That is why it is the perfect place for a shopping spree and the purchase of handicrafts, warm clothing, and mementos. The wooden structures bring out the colonial and romantic overtones, and the diner is an excellent place to take a cup of coffee while admiring the scenery. 

 

 3. Jakhoo Temple 

 Jakhoo Temple is a temple of Lord Hanuman and is sited at Jakhoo Hill which is at the highest elevation in Shimla. The temple is very popular because of the statue of Hanuman positioned at the entrance of the temple which is very huge and can be viewed from many kilometres away. Getting to the temple involves a vigorous exercise trip with a great opportunity to view the various hills and valleys. 

 

 4. Christ Church 

 Located in the city of Allahabad, it is one of the oldest churches in North India and has a neo-Gothic style of architecture. The art lover will be delighted by the stained-glass windows and the interior of the church is very serene. Sitting astride The Ridge it is one of the most famous spots in Shimla and ideal for some pleasant contemplation.

5. Kufri 

 Situated in the outskirts of Shimla, Kufri is a small hill station perfect for adventurer’s and beauty lovers. During winter the park is however converted into a winter wonderland for skiing and snowboarding. Kufri offers activities such as trekking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing especially in the Himalayan Nature Park during the summer. 

 

 6. Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas) 

Suggested things to do; get a tour of the Viceregal Lodge also famously known as Rashtrapati Niwas. This building was earlier used as a summer house for the British Viceroy of India. Its green lawns are a sight to behold and offer a peep into colonial India in the middle of dense vegetation and wildlife. The building exterior and interiors are marvellous and the historical contents of the guided tours are informative. 

 

 7. Annandale 

Annandale is a calm and level piece of land with vast forest cover, only five kilometres from the central business district. What was once considered a playground for the British to play games such as polo and cricket currently is home to an Annandale Golf Club, Annandale Helipad and Army Heritage Museum. It is an ideal natural place that can be described as very green, and being a bit secluded makes it a very quiet place to visit. 

 

 8. Tara Devi Temple 

 This temple is located at the top of Tara Devi Hill and apart from providing religious pathos, it presents great scenic beauty. The temple situated in the city was constructed and is dedicated to the goddess Tara and is also very calm and serene. There is plenty of greenery to explore in the surrounding area, and the drive to the temple, or the walk depending on one’s mode of transport has a number of scenic views. 

 

Conclusion 

There isn’t any doubt that Shimla is one such place in India that can match every aspect of tourism profile, starting with natural beauty, full historical background, and a rich tapestry of culture. Mall Road and the local bazaars, the serene Jakhoo Temple, and the Baroque style Christ Church all of which are equally fascinating and captivating to the visitors. Here, I am also posting eight remarkable places – all of which is just a small sample of what this lovely hill station has in store. As such, grab your luggage and prepare yourself to set the curiosity of Shimla unfurls!