Places to Visit in Shimla for Endless Adventures and Memories
About Shimla
Nicknamed the “Queen of Hills,” Shimla is a timeless favorite among travelers heading to North India, especially those who book Himachal tour packages. Blessed with stunning landscapes, colonial charm, and cool, refreshing air, it’s no surprise that Shimla tops the list for family vacations, group getaways, and nature lovers.
Located at an elevation of 2,206 meters above sea level, Shimla became the summer capital of British India in 1864. Today, the city still reflects its colonial past through its historic buildings, churches, and the ever-popular Mall Road.
Whether you seek adventure, peace, or just a breath of fresh mountain air, Shimla offers a mix of everything—trekking trails, skiing opportunities, bustling markets, and panoramic hilltop views. Plus, accommodation options here suit all budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.
Shimla is uniquely built around seven hills — Jakhoo Hill, Elysium Hill, Summer Hill, Bantony Hill, Prospect Hill, Observatory Hill, and Inverarm Hill, gradually expanding from these points over time.
The city is also renowned for events like the MTB Himalaya, South Asia’s biggest mountain biking race, and India’s only natural ice skating rink, making it a year-round destination for thrill-seekers and explorers alike.
14 Must-Visit Places in Shimla
1. Mall Road
The heartbeat of Shimla, Mall Road, is a vibrant pedestrian-only street filled with colonial-era architecture, bustling cafes, local shops, and cultural landmarks like the Gaiety Theatre. Soak in scenic mountain views as you stroll, shop for souvenirs, and taste local Himachali cuisine.
2. Jakhoo Hill
Standing tall as Shimla’s highest point, Jakhoo Hill offers breathtaking views and houses the ancient Hanuman Temple. Located about 2 km from the Ridge, reaching the hilltop either by foot or taxi is an experience in itself.
3. Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary
Once the private hunting grounds of Rampur’s royalty, Daranghati Sanctuary is now a haven for wildlife lovers. Trek through dense forests and spot rare species like the Himalayan Monal, Musk Deer, and Thar, especially during the pleasant summer months.
4. Summer Hill
Located 5 km from central Shimla, Summer Hill is a serene escape with cool breezes year-round. The Shimla-Kalka Railway passes through this charming town, and the nearby Christ Church on the Ridge adds to the area’s old-world appeal.
5. Chadwick Falls
About 7 km from Shimla, Chadwick Falls plunges from a height of 65 meters, creating a stunning sight, especially during the monsoon season when the water flow peaks.
6. Tara Devi Temple
Perched atop a hill, the Tara Devi Temple—over 250 years old—is a spiritual retreat surrounded by pine forests and offering mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. It’s just a short 10 km drive from Shimla.
7. Kali Bari Temple
Built in 1845, the Kali Bari Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and showcases classic Hindu temple architecture. Set against a beautiful mountainous backdrop, it bears a striking resemblance to Kolkata’s famed Dakshineswar Temple.
8. The Ridge
This spacious open space near Mall Road hosts vibrant festivals, fairs, and local cultural events. The Ridge connects to several landmarks, including Christ Church, and offers sweeping views of the mountains.
9. Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex
Built in 1887, the Gaiety Theatre remains the cultural soul of Shimla. Its Victorian Gothic architecture is captivating, and today it houses an art gallery, amphitheatre, and exhibition halls, regularly hosting performances and events.
10. Lakkar Bazaar
Right below Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar is a lively market famous for wooden handicrafts, woolens, and traditional Himachali products. Originally started by craftsmen from Hoshiarpur, it’s a great place to shop and sample delicious local street food.
11. Kalka-Shimla Railway
Hop aboard the historic Kalka-Shimla Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 1890s. Winding through tunnels, bridges, and pine-covered hills, this scenic journey offers a magical way to experience Shimla’s landscapes.
12. Kufri
Just 20 km from Shimla, Kufri is a charming hill station famous for winter sports like skiing. Explore the Kufri Fun World amusement park, visit the Himalayan Nature Park, or simply enjoy panoramic views of snow-covered peaks.
13. Reserve Forest Sanctuary
Located 11 km from the city center, the Reserve Forest Sanctuary is ideal for nature walks, bird watching, and photography. Spread over 900 hectares, the sanctuary boasts incredible biodiversity and stunning vistas of distant peaks and quaint villages.
14. Annandale
A historic ground once used by the British for polo and other sports, Annandale today houses the Indian Army’s Army Heritage Museum and a fascinating Cactus Museum. Though part of army land, visitors can access these attractions with ease.
Best Time to Visit Shimla
The ideal time to visit Shimla is between March and June, when the weather is pleasantly cool, offering a perfect escape from the summer heat of the plains.
Expect bustling crowds during this peak season.
Monsoon months (July to September) bring heavy rains, slippery roads, and fewer tourists, making it less ideal for sightseeing but perfect if you prefer solitude.
Winter (December to February) transforms Shimla into a snowy paradise, perfect for skiing, ice skating, and cozy getaways. Be prepared for freezing temperatures and make sure to pack adequate warm clothing!
