Home » Shimla

Shimla

Shimla is choice of all peoples from a long time before and due to its beauty and rich great culture , this district is also known as Hill Queen of India and himachal Pradesh. Shimla was Summar capital of India at time of British Empire. The British Empire may have ceased to exist, but its echoes linger on in Shimla (2130m). As the ‘summer capital’ of the British in India. This was the country’s focus for the better part of every year and now, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. Today, it’s well developed facilities; easy accessibility and numerous attractions make it one of India’s most popular hill resorts. Placed in the lower ranges of the Himalayan Mountains, it is surrounded by pine, deodar oak and rhododendron forests. Towards the north lie the snow-covered high -ranges, while the valleys broad whispering streams and swaying fields. Within the town are a host of splendid colonial edifices, quaint cottages and charming walks. Shimla holds a variety of shopping, sport and entertainment.
ALTITUDE: 2130m above sea level.
BEST SEASON: Throughout the year. Snowfall in winter.
TEMPERATURE: Between sub zero in winter and 30* C in summer.
CLOTHING: Light Woolens in summer, Heavy Woolens in winter.
HOW TO GET THERE: The airport is at Jabbarhati 23kms away. Shimla is connected to Kalka by an enchanting narrow gauge railway line – where even a quaint rail – car plays. By road, Chandigarh is 125kms, MANALI is 285kms, Chail is 45kms and Delhi is at a distance of 400kms. From Delhi, the driving time is about ten hours. From Delhi, MANALI and Chandigarh, luxury coaches and taxis ply to Shimla.
CLIMATE: In winter, the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woolens are required. Summer temperatures are mild and light woolens / Cottons are recommended.
THE RIDGE: This large open space in the heart of town presents excellent views of the mountain ranges. Shimla’s landmarks – the neo-Gothic structure of Christ Church and the neo – Tudor library building – are here.
LAKKAR BAZZAR: Popular for its woodcrafts and souvenirs, this is just off the Ridge.
JAKHOO HILL: At 2455m, this is the town’s highest peak and vantage point for shimla’s famous views. The summit crowned with a temple dedicated to LORD HANUMAN. The hill is full of paths and narrow roads that are enjoyable walks.
MASHOBRA (12KMS): At 2149m, a thick forest surrounds this beautiful suburb. From here, track leads down to Sipper that is an exquisite glade shaded by ancient deodar trees. There are old temples on a side and a fair is held every April.
KUFRI (16KMS): At 2501m, this is famous for its wide views and ski slopes. An enjoyable walk leads up to Mahasu Peak.
NALDHERA (22KMS): At 2044m, this is nine holes, golf course. The British Viceroy, Lord Cursor who was so enchanted by the place that he gave his daughter Alexandra, “NALDHERA” as per second name, designed it.
FAGU (22kms): At 2510m, Fagu has some enchanting views.
CHAIL (45kms): This was the former summer capital of the Patiala State. Himachal Tourism now runs the palace as a luxury hotel.
TATTAPANI (51KMS): At 656m, there is hot sulphur springs here. Himachal Tourism has a restaurant and a Tourist Bungalow at Tattapani.
ST. MICHAEL’S CATHEDRAL: This dressed – stone church with fine stained glass has a cruciform design. It is located just off the Mall, below the District Courts.
THE GLEN: At 1830m, this is a thickly wooded ravine through which a stream flows. It is a popular picnic spot.
ANNANDALE: Surrounded by a thick deodar forest, this large glade has an ancient temple on an edge.
BIHARGAON (04KMS): Approached either past the cemetery below St. Edward’s School, or through Tutikandi, this village has splendid examples of traditional Himachal architecture.
PROSPECT HILL AND KAMNA DEVI (06KMS): At 2125m, and crowned by a temple dedicated to Kaman Devi, the hill offers spectacular views of the area.
SANKAT MOCHAN (07KMS): This is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
CHANDWICK FALLS (08KMS): At 1586m, these rained falls are approached through summer hill.
TARA DEVI (11KMS): A thickly wooded hill whose peak has a temple dedicated to Tara Devi.
ADVENTURE AND FISHING: There are numerous walks within and close to Shimla. And there are many soft to medium treks that can use Shimla as the base. Some treks are to the Caliper, to the Kullu Valley over the Jalori Pass or the Bashleo Pass, Shimla to Chail, Shimla to Junga and Shimla to Tattapani. Angling for trout can be done on the river Pabbar, near Rohru.
SHOPPING: There is an enema range of goods that Shimla has to offer. This includes handicrafts, wood and metalwork, shawls, pullovers, local tweeds, caps, Tibetan carpets and pickles, jams and squashes.

© Himsky.com