Shimla is named after Shyamala Devi, an avatar of the goddess Kali, whose shrine was located in the dense forest that covered Jakhu Hill in the early nineteenth century. Shimla is Himachal Pradesh’s capital and served as India’s summer capital prior to independence. Covering an area of 25 sq km at a height of 7,238 ft, Shimla is surrounded by pine, deodar and oak forests.
The Ridge, Shimla
The Ridge, located on the side of Shimla Mall Road, is the most photographed wide-open roadway in Shimla, the ‘British Summer Capital’. The Ridge has everything, from stores selling unique artifacts to breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain ranges. It is well-known for several things, but most notably for shopping and serving as the city’s social hub. Shimla’s rich history is seen in the Gothic buildings that survive in this portion of town. The road is lined with cafes, bars, boutiques, shops, and restaurants, attracting the large crowds that frequent the famed Mall Road. It goes from east to west along the Mall Road and connects it to the famed Scandal Point on the west end.
On the east end, it connects to Shimla’s most famous wooden crafts market, the Lakkar Bazaar.The Ridge, located on the side of Shimla Mall Road, is the most photographed wide-open roadway in Shimla, the ‘British Summer Capital’. The Ridge has everything, from stores selling unique artifacts to breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain ranges. It is well-known for several things, but most notably for shopping and serving as the city’s social hub. Shimla’s rich history is seen in the Gothic buildings that survive in this portion of town. The road is lined with cafes, bars, boutiques, shops, and restaurants, attracting the large crowds that frequent the famed Mall Road. It extends from east to west along the Mall Road, connecting it to the well-known Scandal Point at the western end. On the east end, it connects to Shimla’s most famous wooden crafts bazaar, the Lakkar Bazaar.
Jakhoo Hill and Temple
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.
Kufri
A ride of about 40 minutes from the city center will bring you to Kufri, another must-visit place in the region. Located at an elevation of 8607 ft., this small hill station promises you panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. But Kufri is not just about Shimla sightseeing. It is also an adventure hub that offers training and facilities for exciting winter sports like ice skating and skiing. That is why it is also known as the winter sports capital of India
Indian Institute of Advanced Study
One of the iconic places to visit in Shimla and Manali, the building was initially built as a residence for Lord Dufferin, who served as the Viceroy of India from 1884 to 1888. At that time, it was known as the Viceregal Lodge and the impressive edifice had electricity connection in as early as 1888, which was way before the rest of Shimla came to use electric power in any form. After India gained independence, the place served as the summer retreat of the country’s president and was known as Rashtrapati Niwas before being turned into a center for advanced study and research. The structure draws attention due to its majestic Victorian style of architecture and grandeur.
Mashobra
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, at an altitude of 2246 m, Mashobra is a quaint little hill retreat located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. Bestowed with an alluring beauty peppered with gurgling streams, captivating fruit orchards and lush oak forests, it counts amongst the most idyllic destinations to spend some peaceful time soaking in the tranquil environs of Mother Nature.
Johnnie’s Wax Museum
the first wax museum of Himachal Pradesh, Johnnie’s Wax Museum is a place where you can spend a few hours with the life-size statues of the world-famous personalities. It is a great spot to hang out with your family and has become a must-visit tourist destination of Shimla tour, attracting hundreds of holidaymakers every day.