If you’re seeking a quiet mountain holiday, then Shimla is your perfect choice. Known as the “Queen of Hills,” Shimla perfectly blends natural beauty, old colonial charm, and modern comforts. Moreover, whether it’s a family trip, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure and many places to visit in Shimla for all kinds of travelers. Therefore, this guide provides everything you need: top spots, best times to go, travel details, where to stay, and things to do in Shimla.
Jakhu Temple
Jakhu Hill, Shimla’s highest point has a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The hill is crowned by an enormous 108-foot-high statue of Hanuman, visible from many parts of town. There’s the option to walk up or take the Jakhu Ropeway, with great views of Shimla and mountains all around. It’s a aspiritual site, and a place to soak up nature and take in the scenery.
The Ridge
Shimla’s cultural hub is The Ridge. Connected to it is Mall Road, which features colonial-era buildings, seasonal fairs, and enchanting views of snow-covered mountains. Moreover, it’s the place where local festivals come alive and where you can capture those perfect Instagram-worthy shots.
Christ Church
This is the second-oldest church in North India, known for its neo-Gothic architecture and peaceful vibe. Moreover, built in 1857, its stained-glass windows and pipe organ make it a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.
Mall Road
The heart of the city, Mall Road is where you’ll find cafés, restaurants, bookshops, handicraft stores, and more. Cars are banned here, making it a great place for evening strolls. A great spot to enjoy Shimla weather while shopping and eating.
Gaiety Theatre
This 19th-century theatre is an architectural gem that once hosted performances by famous artists during the British era. It’s now a cultural center, museum, and even a gallery. Visitors can explore its Victorian-era interiors and learn about Shimla’s artistic past.
Indian Institute of Advanced Study (Viceregal Lodge)
The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) in Shimla is a beautiful and historic building that was once the Viceregal Lodge, where the British Viceroy of India lived during the summer. Built in 1888, it is one of the most stunning structures in Shimla, designed in a grand Scottish style with stone walls, tall towers, and large lawns around it. Today, the building is used as a research center where scholars study Indian history, culture, and traditions.
Tourists can visit and take a guided tour inside to see its wooden interiors, old furniture, and photographs that reflect the colonial past. Surrounded by well-kept gardens and pine trees, IIAS is not only important for its history but also a great place to enjoy peace, greenery, and architecture while in Shimla.
Kali Bari Temple
This temple, located close to Mall Road, is dedicated to Goddess Kali and offers a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz. Built in 1845, it stands as one of Shimla’s oldest and respected spiritual sites. Moreover, the temple’s beautiful surroundings and quiet atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a short spiritual break. Whether you’re exploring the nearby markets or strolling along Mall Road, taking a moment here allows you to pause, reflect, and soak in the spirituality.
Lakkar Bazar
Right next to The Ridge, Lakkar Bazaar is one of Shimla’s most popular local markets, especially known for its wooden souvenirs and handicrafts. Moreover, it’s a great place to find traditional woolens, Himachali caps, and locally sourced dry fruits. In addition, the market is known for its budget-friendly prices, making it ideal for picking up souvenirs and gifts. Overall, Lakkar Bazaar blends local culture, craftsmanship, and shopping into one charming experience.
Scandal Point
It is one of the most recognised place in Shimla and it is the place that joins The Mall Road with The Ridge. There’s always a crowd, because both tourists and residents like to meet here or simply walk around in the fresh mountain air. The place has a story behind it too some centuries back, a king is believed to have eloped with the daughter of some British officer from here, and thus came about the name Scandal Point. From here, beautiful hills and valleys are visible and the shops, cafes and vendors now make it one of the best places to feel Shimla.
Annadale
Located about 4 km from The Ridge, Annandale is a open meadow surrounded by thick deodar forests. Originally, it served as a playground for the British, hosting polo matches and parades. Today, it offers a peaceful escape from Shimla’s busy town center. Moreover, visitors can explore the Army Heritage Museum nearby, which showcases India’s military history. Overall, Annandale is a great spot for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy quiet views and open green space.
Green Valley
Located between Kufri and Shimla, Green Valley is a picture-perfect spot known for its lush greenery, tall deodar trees, and peaceful environment. It makes a perfect stop for photography enthusiasts. Moreover, the serene surroundings offer a refreshing break from the busy roads. Whether you’re capturing nature’s beauty or simply enjoying a quiet moment, Green Valley is a must places to visit in Shimla on your journey through Himachal Pradesh.
Tara Devi Temple
Situated at an altitude of 1,850 meters, Tara Devi Temple is a serene spiritual site dedicated to Goddess Tara. Surrounded by dense forests and fresh mountain air, it offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Moreover, the peaceful atmosphere makes it a favorite not only among devotees but also nature lovers and trekkers. Whether you’re visiting for spiritual reasons or simply to enjoy a scenic hike, the temple provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and quiet reflection.
Kufri
It is a little hill station situated some 16 km from Shimla known for its lovely treks and natural beauty. Surrounded by pine and oak forests, it is a destination for tourists, especially in the winter when it turns white with snow. In winter people flock to Kufri for skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing, in summer it’s a gorgeous place for hiking and enjoying the fresh cool mountain air.
One of the main attractions is Kufri Fun World, an amusement park with rides and activities for kids and families. It’s one of the top places to visit in Shimla.
Naldehra
Just a short drive from Shimla, Naldehra is famous for its lush green golf course, one of the oldest in India. Besides its scenic beauty, the area offers peaceful walking trails through dense pine forests, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers. Moreover, the cool climate and fresh mountain air provide a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a game of golf or simply want to relax amidst nature, Naldehra is the perfect getaway. All in all, it combines natural charm and recreational fun, making it one of must places to visit in Shimla.
Mashobra
If you’re looking for a peaceful alternative for places to visit in Shimla, Mashobra is the perfect escape. Tucked away in the lap of nature, this charming hill town is surrounded by apple orchards, cedar forests, and quiet mountain views. In addition to its natural beauty, Mashobra offers scenic hiking trails that are ideal for long walks and birdwatching. Moreover, the area is known for its cozy homestays and boutique retreats, where you can relax in comfort and experience local Himachali hospitality. All things considered, Mashobra is an excellent choice for travelers seeking calm, nature, and a slower pace—just a short drive from Shimla.
Best time to visit places in Shimla
Knowing the best time to visit Shimla depends on what kind of trip you want:
- Summer (April to June)
The most popular season. The temperature stays between 15 and 30°C. Perfect for sightseeing, Mall Road shopping, and escaping the heat of the plains.
- Monsoon (July to September)
Monsoon brings heavy rainfall, which makes the hills green and fresh. However, landslides can disrupt travel plans. This is an off-season, so expect fewer tourists and cheaper hotels.
- Winter (December to February)
Shimla turns into a snowy wonderland during winter! Naturally, it’s the best time for snow lovers and adventure seekers. Meanwhile, nearby Kufri gets covered in a thick blanket of snow, offering the perfect setting for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
Things to Do in Shimla
Apart from sightseeing, here are some exciting things you can do in Shimla:
- Camping—Set up a tent near Green Valley, Mashobra, or Kufri. Great for groups and stargazing.
- Photography—Ideal for landscape, architecture, and nature photography.
- Nature Walks—Take peaceful walks around Summer Hill, Chadwick Falls, or Annadale.
- Hiking & Trekking—Hike to Jakhu Temple or try trails around Tara Devi, Mashobra, and Kufri.
- Rock Climbing—Some tour operators in Kufri offer adventure packages including rock climbing and rappelling.
Where to Stay and Eat in Shimla
There are hotels in every budget category. Here are some great options:
| Wildflower Hall (Oberoi Resort) | Luxury in the forest with spa and mountain views |
| The Oberoi Cecil | Heritage property near Mall Road |
| Radisson Hotel Jass | Modern comforts with great location |
| Taj Theog Resort & Spa | Peaceful getaway 30 km from main Shimla |
| Clarke’s Hotel | Elegant colonial hotel right on Mall Road |
For food, don’t miss local Himachali dishes like Chha Gosht, Siddu, and Madra.
Popular cafés include ,Café Shimla Times,Wake & Bake, and Honey Hut.
How to Reach Shimla ?
Wondering how to reach Shimla? There are several options:
- By Air
The nearest airport is Chandigarh (113 km away). Taxis and buses are easily available from there. Flight options are limited to Shimla’s Jubbarhatti airport.
- By Train
Take a train to Kalka, then ride the famous Kalka-Shimla toy train, which offers beautiful views through 102 tunnels and 800 bridges. It’s a UNESCO heritage railway.
- By Road
Shimla is well connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby cities. Roads are scenic but have hairpin bends.
Distance Chart:
- Chandigarh to Shimla distance: 113 km (~3–4 hrs) NH 5
- Delhi to Shimla: 360 km (7–8 hrs) NH-44 → NH-152 → NH-5
- Shimla to Kufri: 16 km (45 mins) Local Roads
- Mandi to Shimla: 125 km (3 hrs) NH-205 → NH-5
- Hamirpur to Shimla: 150 km (4 hrs) NH-103 → NH-88 → NH-5
- Manali to Shimla: 250 km (6–7 hrs) NH-3 → NH-205 → NH-5
- Rampur to Shimla: 180 km (5 hrs) NH-5 (via Narkanda)
- Kullu to Shimla: 245 km (6 hrs) NH-3 → NH-205 → NH-5
Conclusion
Shimla, situated in Himachal Pradesh, is a destination that truly has it all—historic charm, stunning views, cozy weather, and plenty of fun things to do. Whether you’re walking on the Mall Road, hiking to Jakhu Temple, or enjoying snow in Kufri, Shimla won’t disappoint.
So now that you know the best places to visit in Shimla, the weather, activities, and how to get there, it’s time to plan your trip. Trust us, once you visit Shimla, you’ll want to come back again and again!
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Shimla?
Ans. April–June for pleasant weather, Dec–Feb for snow, and July–Sept for lush greenery.
2. How to reach Shimla?
Ans. You can reach Shimla by various means of transport. By road, travel via NH-5 for a scenic drive through the hills. Alternatively, you can take the famous Kalka–Shimla toy train for a charming and memorable journey. If you prefer flying, the nearest airport is in Chandigarh, which is about 113 km away from Shimla.
3. Distance from Delhi and Chandigarh?
Ans. If you’re planning a trip to Mashobra, it’s well-connected by road. For instance, the distance from Delhi is around 360 km, which takes approximately 7 to 8 hours by car. Meanwhile, if you’re coming from Chandigarh, it’s a shorter drive—about 113 km—and takes roughly 3.5 to 4 hours.
4. Must-visit places in Shimla?
Ans. Mall Road, The Ridge, Jakhu Temple, Kufri, Christ Church, and Viceregal Lodge.
5. Is Shimla safe for solo/female travelers?
Ans. Yes, it’s safe. However, just follow basic precautions, but especially at night.
6. When can I see snowfall in Shimla?
Ans. Specifically, from late December to February, you’ll often find a beautiful blanket of snow, especially evident in Kufri and other higher areas.
7. Is Kufri worth visiting?
Ans. Yes! It’s just 16 km from Shimla and great for snow, yak rides and views.
8. What to pack for Shimla?
Ans. Summer: Light woolens , Winter: Heavy jackets , Monsoon: Rain gear.
9. What is famous local food in Shimla?
Ans. Try Siddu, Madra, Chha Gosht, and momos.
10. What are the best hotels to stay in in Shimla?
Ans. Wildflower Hall, The Oberoi Cecil, Taj Theog, Radisson Jass, Clarkes Hotel.
