Places To Visit In Shimla

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  • Forts & Palaces (3)

1. Ridge

Ridge
Must visit 4.4 /5

0 km
from city center
1 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

The Ridge is the most photographed wide-open street located on the side of Shimla Mall Road. The Ridge has everything, from shops selling some exclusive artefacts to the spectacular view of the snow-capped mountain ranges. It is famous for a lot of things, but best known for shopping and for being the social hub of the city. Shimla's rich past is evident from the Gothic buildings standing in this part of the town.

2. Mall Road

Mall Road
Must visit 3.9 /5

0 km
from city center
2 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Shopping in Shimla revolves around the heart of the town- The Mall Road. One can shop for local handicrafts, shawls, woolens, exquisite jewelry etc. here.

3. Jakhoo Temple

Jakhoo Temple
Must visit 3.6 /5

1 km
from city center
3 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Set amidst the lush green background of the Shivalik hill ranges on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla, the Jakhu Temple is an ancient site dedicated to the Hindu god - Hanuman. Jakhu Temple has the world's largest Hanuman statue, which is visible from most parts of Shimla.

4. Kufri

Kufri
Must visit 3.6 /5

9 km
from city center
4 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Kufri, located at a distance of 16km from the main city of Shimla, is a popular tourist destination known for snow-laden peaks, skiing and Kufri Zoo. Travellers have to either hike or take a pony from the parking lot to reach Kufri. Mahasu Peak and Fagu Valley are the main attractions in Kufri but are accessible via pony ride. You can also enjoy go-karting at the Kufri Fun World, which has the highest Go-Karting track in the world. You can come back to the parking lot by a pony and head to the Indira Tourist Park by afternoon after grabbing some lunch. Or you can also head to Kufri Zoo from there.

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5. Toy Train to Kalka

Toy Train to Kalka
Must visit 3.6 /5

3 km
from city center
5 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

An enjoyable train ride through much of Kalka and Shimla and a little of what the British left behind, this is a must try experience, while here. This route is one of the most picturesque train routes in the world and it passes through more than a hundred tunnels It is a narrow gauge train route and it connects Kalka to Shimla.

6. Green Valley

Green Valley
3.8 /5

5 km
from city center
6 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

The Green Valley is a beautiful and breathtaking mountain range that falls on the way to Kufri from Shimla. The Green Valley is surrounded by verdant hills on all sides covered with thick pine and deodar forests. It is not uncommon to sight some Yaks wandering and grazing around in the valley. The place is undeveloped for tourism, nevertheless, it continues to be a crowd puller and capture the attention of tourists with its dense deodar and pine trees that line the majestic hills.

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7. Chail

Chail
Must visit 3.6 /5

15 km
from city center
7 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

This small village in Himachali is situated at a height of 2250 m above sea level and is known as a hiker's paradise. Surrounded by lush greenery and mesmerizing views from such a great height, Chail is bound to give a tourist a memorable travelling experience to a tourist.

8. Visceral Lodge

Visceral Lodge
3.1 /5

1 km
from city center
8 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

It is a perfect place for history lovers. Built in 1888, this six story building constructed in Scottish Baronial style once served as the residence of Lord Dufferin, the British Viceroy of India.

9. Institute of Advanced Studies

Institute of Advanced Studies
Must visit 3.7 /5

3 km
from city center
9 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

The Indian Institute of Advanced Studies located on the Observatory Hill is a majestic structure made with Victorian-style architecture. It has now been converted into an educational institution which offer post-doctoral courses.

10. Christ Church

Christ Church
Must visit 3.6 /5

0 km
from city center
10 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Located at the Mall Road itself, this church is the second oldest church in North India. The interiors and the neo-gothic architecture are very beautiful and appealing making this church one of the most important attractions in Shimla.

11. Kalibari Temple

Kalibari Temple

1 km
from city center
11 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Kalibari Temple is an ancient place of worship dedicated to Goddess Kali. It was built in 1845 and is considered of immense religious importance for the devotees. The shrine houses a captivating idol of Goddess Kali beautifully adorned with jewellery and colourful flowers.

12. Narkanda

Narkanda

12 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Surrounded by forests and woodlands, Narkanda is a quaint little town in Shimla district which is popular for skiing in winters. Situated at a height of 9000 feet, this town attracts tourists for its ethereal natural beauty and its beautiful apple orchards. Surrounded by tropical forests and majestic hills, this is one place that tourists to Himachal Pradesh should not miss.

13. Naldehra

Naldehra
3.8 /5

9 km
from city center
13 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Naldehra is a small enchanting hill station in Himachal Pradesh, located just around 22 km from Shimla. It is perfect for tourists looking for natural scenic beauty and an offbeat location. Naldehra is famous for its greenery, golf course and plain view of the mountains filled with pine, cedar and deodar trees.

14. Himalayan Bird Park

Himalayan Bird Park
3.3 /5

2 km
from city center
14 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Walk through this park, to browse through a modest, yet colorful and vibrant collection of the Himachal state bird, the Monal Pheasant.

15. Cafe Simla Times

Cafe Simla Times

0 km
from city center
15 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Famous for its mouth watering wood fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, world cuisine meal platters, sumptuous shakes and fuzzy cocktails, this quaint cafe in Shimla is one of the best place to go to for meal or a snack or just to hang out in picture perfect ambiance and cozy setting. Boasting of wonderful art and decor, the cafe also offers surreal panoramic vistas outside the windows.

16. Annadale

Annadale

2 km
from city center
16 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Annadale is a famous attraction in Shimla having a splendid Golf Course, a Playground, a Cactus Museum and an Indian Army Museum. All these aspects make Annadale a beautiful attraction for holidaying and rejuvenation purposes.

17. Himachal State Museum

Himachal State Museum
3.3 /5

2 km
from city center
17 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

The Himachal State Museum is located on the Mall Road and has unique collectibles like ancient coins, paintings and other handicraft items, the aesthetics of which are influenced by the Pahari form of art.

18. Tara Devi Temple

Tara Devi Temple
3.3 /5

6 km
from city center
18 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Dedicated to the Goddess of stars, the Tara Devi temple, is located on a mountain peak, with air of spirituality about it. There are a number of legends and tales to the origins of the temple, making it a simple yet subtly fascinating experience.

19. Scandal point

Scandal point
3.3 /5

0 km
from city center
19 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

The Scandal Point is located on the Mall Road. It owes its interesting name to the fact that the King of Patiala abducted the daughter of the Viceroy, because he fell in love with her, from this very place.

20. Rothney Castle

Rothney Castle

1 km
from city center
20 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Rothney Castle is a heritage monument located on Jakhoo Hill on a steep slope amidst lush green natural vegetation. The site is a treat to the explorer due to its historical significance and the natural beauty of the location.

21. Theog

Theog
3.5 /5

17 km
from city center
21 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

A quiet escape, one of the less crowded attractions of the state, Theog in Himachal Pradesh, warmly wrapped in the arms of the mighty Himalayas, has everything a popular hill station can give you minus the tourist rush.

22. Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary

Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary
3.3 /5

7 km
from city center
22 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Popularly for its rare variety of flora and fauna, this wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for all wildlife enthusiast. Animals such as jackals, barking deer, monkeys and leopards are commonly sighted here.

23. Tattapani

Tattapani
3.3 /5

22 km
from city center
23 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Literally meaning hot water in Hindi, Tattapani is a small village located 51km away from Shimla. This place is famous for hot water springs and the famous Shiva caves.

24. Skiing in Kufri

Skiing in Kufri
Must visit 4.3 /5

9 km
from city center
24 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Kufri tends to be a hub of much activity and enjoyment in winters. Skiing is a popular sport here and the town also hosts a winter sports festival in February. A number of setups here provide both training and facilities for skiing.

25. Chadwick Falls

Chadwick Falls

4 km
from city center
25 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Chadwick Falls is located in the Glen Forests not too far from the bustling city area. Frequently visited by picnickers, this stream of water trickles from a height of about 100 metres. It is not a massive waterfall but is admired for the tranquillity and the hypnotic vibe it creates amidst the dense forest region.

26. Lakkar Bazar

Lakkar Bazar
3.3 /5

0 km
from city center
26 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Shopping in Shimla revolves around the heart of the town- The Mall Road. One can shop for local handicrafts, shawls, woolens, exquisite jewelry etc. here.

27. Jakhoo Ropeway

Jakhoo Ropeway

27 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

The vintage British-era architecture coupled with the scenic views of the Himalayan landscape is thoroughly enjoyed by the ropeway cable car from the bottom of the hill to the top.

28. Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex

Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex

0 km
from city center
28 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Built in the Victorian or Gothic style of architecture over a century ago, this heritage monument is of immense historical and cultural significance in India. The complex had a theatre, several galleries, offices, bar, ballroom etc.

29. Gorton Castle

Gorton Castle

1 km
from city center
29 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Gorton Castle is a heritage monument which is over a century old and was built during the Colonial era. Today, the castle is used as the office of the Accountant General of Himachal Pradesh. It is a perfect illustration of the rich history and heritage of India during the colonial era.

30. Bantony Castle

Bantony Castle

0 km
from city center
30 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

The Bantony estate is a heritage site built during the British era and is located on Bantony Hill in Shimla. The estate consists of the Bantony Castle and the Bantony Cottage. The estate now comes under the Heritage Zone of Shimla and is included in the Shimla Heritage walk for tourists.

31. Gurudwara Sahib

Gurudwara Sahib
3.3 /5

0 km
from city center
31 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

This Gurudwara was constructed in the year 1907, at Padhawa hills. It is a small construction but the exquisite details in the interiors of the structure make it a must-visit for devotees and tourists alike.

32. Pabbar Valley

Pabbar Valley

32 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Pabbar Valley, the enchanting valley of the Pabbar River is located just 80 kilometres away from Shimla. Nature is seen thriving in abundance in this quaint little region of Himachal. The valley is located in the belt famous for the Pabbar River that cuts through the Chanshal Mountain Range, apple orchards, majestic mountains, lush green meadows, dense oak & deodar forests. The valley terrain also is quite an attraction for adventure seekers. The densely covered slopes of the mountains provide for exciting trails waiting to be explored by adventurers that flock every year. The valley, therefore, is not just perfect for sightseeing but is also an excellent spot for nature and adventure lovers.

33. Horse Riding

Horse Riding
3.3 /5

0 km
from city center
33 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Horse riding is a popular and much loved activity in both Shimla and Kufri. In Shimla, Horse Riding Options are generally available at the Ridge.

34. Kasauli

Kasauli

34 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Located on the way from Chandigarh to Shimla, Kasauli is a hilly cantonment town which makes for an ideal peaceful holiday location, especially for a weekend getaway. Nestled amidst beautiful woody forests of pines (Chir Pine), herbs (Milk Thistle) and cedar trees, Kasauli owes its mystical and serene ambience to the lavish Victorian buildings built by the Britishers who resided here years back.

35. Naggar Castle

Naggar Castle
3.4 /5

112 km
from city center
35 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

The Castle in Naggar is a medieval mansion of wood and stone that overlooks the beautiful valley of Kullu. Built-in 1460 A.D, the castle is a unique blend of the Western and Himalayan style of architecture. This property of Raja Sidh Singh was converted into a heritage hotel by the government in 1978. 

36. Solan

Solan

36 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Solan is a more low-key hill station ideal for travellers looking just some time away from city rush. A beautiful city in Himachal Pradesh, Solan has ancient temples and monasteries that attract hundreds of tourists and devotees every year.

37. Mashobra

Mashobra
3.3 /5

6 km
from city center
37 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

This is a small and relatively less explored town, at a distance of mere 10 km from main Shimla. Tourists come here to relax and unwind in the lap of nature where the richness in flora and fauna is in abundance.

38. Fagu

Fagu

12 km
from city center
38 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Situated at an elevation of 2500 meters, Fagu is a serene snow-clad hamlet, located around 45 minutes drive from Shimla. It is known for its apple plantations, sowing fields and the snow-covered Himalayas in the backdrop. Since it is secluded, Fagu is a honeymooner's heaven. It also popular amongst trekkers and naturalists.

39. Shoghi

Shoghi

39 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

While Shimla is being flooded by tourists every year, a serene, calm and epitome of beauty lies near it, waiting to be discovered. Shoghi, a small hill station just 13 Kms. from Shimla is abundant in natural scenic beauty and a large variety of flora and fauna.

40. Ice Skating

Ice Skating

0 km
from city center
40 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Ice Skating is a famous sport in the beautiful city of Shimla. The Shimla Ice Skating Rink is well-known because it is a naturally formed rink and is also the largest and the only naturally formed arena found in South Asia. Ice skating is thus a favourite sport for one and all here, especially during winters.

41. Wake & Bake

Wake & Bake

41 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Cafe Wake & Bake is another one of the famous cafes in the tinsel town. With world class coffee, pancakes and bacon, the cafe attracts tourists in large numbers. Boasting of surreal picturesque views outside the window and artsy ones indoors, having a delicious breakfast here is one of the best things to do in Shimla.

42. Cafe Hide Out

Cafe Hide Out

0 km
from city center
42 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Cafe Hide Out is one other wonderful cafes in Shimla popular for its delicious snacks and even better coffee. Situated on the first floor near The Mall, the place is run by two brothers and offer finger licking food. In addition to that, the food is priced at fairly cheap rates and is a must stop cafe when in Shimla.

43. Wild Flower Hall Hotel

Wild Flower Hall Hotel
3.3 /5

7 km
from city center
43 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Originally built as a residence of Lord Kitchener of Khartoum, this building is said to have been a favorite retreat of Lord Ripon. However, the building got burnt in 1993 and a new Wildflower building was built as a hotel there by joint venture between HP government and Oberoi group of Hotels.

44. Retreat Building

Retreat Building
3.3 /5

7 km
from city center
44 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Located in Chharabara, just 10 km from Shimla, this is the official retreat residence for the President of India. It was built in 1850 and was part of the Viceroy of India property. The architectural pattern and the natural beauty of the place have made The Retreat a tourist attraction in Shimla.

45. Heritage Walk

Heritage Walk

3 km
from city center
45 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Heritage walk is a guided tour of the Heritage Zone located in Shimla. The heritage walk begins at one end of the city and participants walk to every heritage monument in Shimla. One can choose to hire a guide to get more information and hear exciting stories from the British era.

46. Bharara Fair

Bharara Fair

0 km
from city center
46 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Bharara Fair is held every year in the Village of Bharara held in the honour of Lord Koteshwar, locally known as Devta and is open for people belonging to all caste and creeds. It is an event where everyone comes together to celebrate and seek blessings from the Lord.

47. Bhoj Fair

Bhoj Fair

0 km
from city center
47 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Bhoj Fair is celebrated in the Gumman Village in Shimla. It is a three-day event celebrated in the honour of Lord Banshur/ Lord Bansor, Lord Parshuram and Lord Kilbaru. Held in November every year, it is dedicated primarily to the commanding deity or the Kul Devta, Devta Bansor.

48. Chanshal Pass

Chanshal Pass

78 km
from city center
48 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Also known by the name of Chanshal Valley, the Chanshal Pass is a refreshingly beautiful destination located in Himachal Pradesh, precisely 160 kilometres in distance from Shimla. Whether you work a tiring desk job or simply want to get away from the pollution and chaos of a metropolitan city, this gorgeous mountain valley is the perfect spot for your weekend getaway.

49. Lavi Fair

Lavi Fair

5 km
from city center
49 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

Lavi Fair is a unique event held in Rampur Bushahr which is a municipal council in the district of Shimla. It is celebrated every year from 11th to 14th of November and is attended by small and large-scale merchants and businessmen, but is majorly organised to encourage business amongst the locals and the shepherds.

50. Kharapathar

Kharapathar

43 km
from city center
50 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

When it comes down to rugged mountainous views, free spirited nature and an overall enchanting and wild trip, the Himalayan village of Khara Pathar takes the cake. The small village may not seem often be chosen in favour of its famous neighbour, Shimla and due to the extremely off track road that leads to Khara Pathar, but the places charm is never dims. Khara Pathar is located at a height of 8770 feet above sea level, making it the highest point on the Shimla route. The staggering height of the village makes the view here a thing of the legends, especially at night when all the scattered houses on the hill are lit up like tiny specks. The cloud piercing height also gives rise to clear cloudless nights which give individuals an absolutely stunning view of the millions of stars, which is a sight as rare as a shooting star in big cities or towns.

51. Shimla Summer Festival

Shimla Summer Festival

51 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

The Shimla Summer Festival is a celebration of the bounty of the harvest, and the festivities honour the advent of the summer. Spread out over five days; the festival is a gala of musical performances, cultural attractions, folk performances, local handicraft exhibitions, as well as with quirky activities like fashion shows, dog shows, stalls that sell artisanal ware and serve up local cuisine; it is an event that has something for everybody.

52. Hatkoti

Hatkoti

54 km
from city center
52 out of 63
places to visit in Shimla

The Hatkoti Valley is mainly visited by the locals as a day trip from Shimla and is a popular pilgrimage spot, religious symbol as well as a sanctuary for those wishing to make themselves one with nature.

FAQs on Shimla

What are the top restaurants in Shimla?

The best places to eat in Shimla are Cafe Sol, Cecil Restaurant, Ashiana & Goofa, Wake & Bake Cafe, Indian Coffee House, Cafe Simla Times. You can see all the places to eat in Shimla here

What are the top sightseeing places in Shimla?

The top sightseeing places in Shimla are The Ridge, Kufri, Chail, Kalka Shimla Toy Train, Tattapani, Mall Road, Shimla.

What are the top activities in Shimla?

The top activities in Shimla are Stay in Urban Getaway in Shimla, Forest Camping in Shimla's Junga, Camping in Shimla with Trekking, Cottage Stay in The Woods Of Shimla, Camping at Mashobra in Shimla, Offbeat Camping Experience in Shimla.

What are the top hotels in Shimla?

There are 482 Hotels in Shimla which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Shimla are Chapslee Hotel, Karam Vidhata Resorts, Hill-View 2BHK in Mashobra-Naldera, Premium Home Studio in Bharari, Hotel Kaithli Hills Shimla, Elegant 2BHK House in Bharari. You can see all the hotels in Shimla here

How much does a package cost for Shimla?

The packages for Shimla start at INR 7000 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

Can you suggest an itinerary for Shimla?

Day 1- Reach Shimla by noon and unwind a little in the hotel room. Head out to Mall Road by walking to enjoy the crisp air in the evening. Soak in the aura of the place and dine at local restaurants on the Mall Road.
Day 2- You should consider visiting the Jaakhu temple, without which your trip to Shimla is not justified. If it's the winters, you could take a cab for half an hour to Kufri and enjoy the snow there with your loved ones. A perfect activity for the whole day. Or you could visit the Viceregal Lodge and lose yourself in the way the British indulged. Call it a day at the Church on the Ridge.
Day 3- Wake up early, take a hike to the nearest hilltop and watch the sunrise. Walk into any bakery at the Mall Road for a continental breakfast; the British way. Head on for some local shopping at the Mall Road and the Lakkar Bazaar (also visit the Chota Bazaar for cheap overcoats, jackets, and blazers), to get little trinkets and curios. Head to the hotel by evening and call it a day, early.

How can I commute within Shimla?

Local bus service is easily available within Shimla from 7 AM to 9 PM. Buses mainly run on the Ring Road. There is a special bus reserved only for women. Himachal Pradesh Tourism also runs special buses for local sightseeing that cover only the tourist attractions.

Private taxis are easily available and economically viable. Local sightseeing charges vary from 800 INR to 1500 INR per day. Auto rickshaws are not very popular in Himachal Pradesh.

To travel to places like Mall, Ridge, Kali Bari, one has to walk to reach there are they are no vehicles zone. But you can avail the facility of elevator run by HP Tourism which links the lowest point of Shimla- Cart Road to the highest point - the Mall.

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