Once upon a time in India, in the state of Himachal Pradesh, there was a sleepy forest glade called Shyamala. Then the British came, and over time, developed it into the official summer capital of the Raj. And like they did with a lot of other places in India, they renamed it Shimla. Today it’s one of the most popular tourist places in the country; Shimla Tourism peaks in the summer months. The mist swirling around your feet, the crisp clear mountain air, juicy red apples; everything seems straight out of a movie.
The heat is scorching already and dreams of Shimla on this dreary afternoon at work are more than welcome. Sigh! So we decided to put together a list of the most popular places to see in Shimla, the 10 best.
The Mall
The Mall is actually Mall road, the lifeline of the city that has a number of restaurants, banks, clubs, tourist centers and shops. There is no traffic allowed on this road and it is only used by the pedestrians, which helps keep the environment of that area stay calm and pollution free. You can also enjoy horse riding here.
Ridge Road
Ridge Road is actually a large open space is located at the core of Shimla. Ridge road joins the Mall road at the Scandal point on the west. On the eastern side of the Ridge road is the lakkar Bazar, a market popular for its wooden crafts. It has become a popular destination for summer festival and local celebrations. It has become a popular destination for summer festivals and local celebrations.
Jakhoo Hill
At about 2455 meters above sea level, Jakhoo is the highest peak in the area with the most magnificent view of the city below. There is an ancient Hanuman temple on top. You can climb up by foot or hire a pony or taxi. There will be a gathering of monkeys to welcome you.
Shimla State Museum
The State Museum was opened in 1974 consisting of the art objects mostly related to art, archaeology and the cultural anthropology of the Himachal Region as well as from the other states of India. Museum is open between 10 am to 1.30 pm and then from 2 to 5 pm. Mondays and second Saturdays are holidays.
Chadwick Waterfalls
Approximately 7kms away from the city, a brisk 45 minute walk, the Chadwick Falls flow from a height of 1586 meters and are surrounded by the green forests of pine and deodar trees. An annual fair is held here in the month of April. There are also some temples situated around these falls.
Christ Church
The second oldest church in Northern India, the majestic Christ Church is located on the Ridge. Its brass plaques and stained glass windows depict stories of faith, hope, charity, fortitude, patience and humility. The fresco surrounding chapel window was designed by Rudyard Kipling’s father, Lockwood Kipling.
Annandale
Originally Annadale, this is Shimla’s historic playground, a favourite spot for cricket and polo. Tourists visit the place for picnic parties, fêtes, birthday-balls, fancy-fairs flower, races and polo matches. The polo tournament at the playground was an annual feature; it now happens in Kolkata. The playground hosts army exercise and parades, sports and Dussehra festival celebrations. It is also utilised as one of the heliports in the city.
Tara Devi Temple
Among the most celebrated temples in the region, at a height of 6,070 feet above sea level, it is dedicated to Tara Devi, the Goddess of stars. According to legend, the goddess keeps vigil on everyone resting on the hill top. It provides beautiful views of the town and the snow-clad Himalayas.
The best time to visit Shimla is between March and May when it’s not too cold or during the months of October and November when the crowds are minimum.
Also read about: Fun things to do in Manali
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