SHIMLA TRAVEL GUIDE AND TOURISM INFORMATION:
Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and is one of the favorite summer
getaways of the northern India. The name Shimla is derived from the Himalayan
Goddess Shimla a synonym of Kali. The natural beauty of the 2159 m high Shimla
makes it one of the most popular hill resorts in the country. The terrific
tranquility attracts thousands of tourists year after year. In the days before
independence, Shimla was the most important British hill station, and in the
summer season became the summer capital. You may plan your travel/trip to Shimla
anytime of the year. When the plains experience scorching summers, Shimla is
cool with temperature less than 25 degrees. In winters it is the best spot for
fun and frolic. The adventure sports simply take over the land. The Christmas
and the New Years Eve are best spent in the snowfall at Shimla with your near
and dear ones. Shimla is truly a great travel and
tourism destination.
LOCATION:
360 km (225 mi) north of Delhi, about 117 km (73 mi) northeast of Chandigarh.
POPULAR TOURIST SPOTS OF SHIMLA:
The Mall: The most popular area of Shimla happens to be the Mall. The
Mall is well preserved, its old buildings are pleasantly lightened at night. The
picturesque surroundings and the shops selling a wide spectrum of items have
made the Mall the biggest landmark of Shimla. You will see monkeys vaulting off
electricity polls and swinging from eave to eave chewing plants, potato chips
and whatever else they find on their way. However, these monkeys are harmless
and you will enjoy their little tricks.
The Ridge: The large open space in the heart of town presents excellent view of the mountain ranges. Shimla's landmarks-the Neo-Gothic structure of Christ Church and the new-Tudor library building are worth seeing.
Kali Bari Temple: Few yards from scandal Point towards General Post Office. It is believed that the idol of Goddess Shayamla is enshrined there.
Jakhoo Temple (2.5 Km): Shimla's highest peak offers a panoramic view of the town. An ancient "Lord Hanuman" temple. Way from Ridge near Church (on foot) One can also hire pony or taxi to visit the temple.
State Museum (3 Km): Ancient Historical Sculptors and paintings of Himachal Pradesh. Visiting hours 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Monday and gazetted holidays.
Indian Institute of Advanced Studies (4 Km) 1983 m: This magnificent English renaissance structure was the former Viceregal Lodge. Its lawns and woodland are added attractions. Entry by ticket.
Prospect Hill (5 Km): Crowned by a temple dedicated to Kamna Devi 15 minutes walk from Boileauganj on shimla Bilaspur road. The hill offers a spectacular views of the area.
Temple of Kamna Devi (5 km): perches on the top of Prospect Hill and is accessible partly on foot and partly by car. It offers glorious views of the surrounding hills and the Toy Train from Taradevi to Jotogh.
OTHER PLACES OF INTEREST:
Jakhoo Hill, Glen, Summer Hill, Chadwick Falls, Zoo, Navbahar, Sankat Mochan temple, Tara Devi Temple, Aviary at Old Raj Bhavan, Tibetan Monastery, Dhengu Mata Temple.
EXCURSIONS:
Fruit Research Station 8 kms, Naldhera 23 kms, Kiarighat 23 kms, Fagu 22 kms, Wildflower Hall 13 kms, Mashobra 13 kms, Craignano 16 kms, Tattapani 43 kms, Kufri 16 kms, Indira Holiday Home 18 kms, Chail 43 kms, Barog 55 kms, Kasauli 77 kms, Solan 48 kms, Bon Monastery Uohghat 61 kms, Narkanda 64 kms, Kotgarh 82 kms.
WHERE TO STAY AND EAT:
Shimla has several modern as well as traditional hotels and restaurants, however some of the good ones are - Alfa, Springfields, Baljees, Chapslee, Oberoi Cecil, Wildflower Hall, Woodville Palace, Baljees Residency.
Shimla is a great travel and tourism destination.
