Shimla, probably the most popular hill station in India is a majestic town set on the foothills of the Himalayas in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is the capital of the state and popular for being the hub of tourism in north India. The former summer capital of British India, the town’s captivating natural beauty still is as appealing as it once was. Its average altitude is about 2200 meters above the sea level. The well-knit roads, colorful houses, old bungalows, prestigious schools, impeccable cleanliness, and efficient governance make one perfect combination of nature, city infrastructure, and governance that every tourist destination across the world seeks. Within the city lie places like Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, The Ridge, and Institute of Advance Studies, which are the prominent landmarks and the places that every backpacker must see at least once in their lifetime. The essence of the old days, particularly from the British Era still echoes in the region in the form of bungalows, churches, cathedrals, boarding schools, and old streets.
The place is simply one of the most beautiful places that you have ever been to. Large hordes of tourists irrespective of the season fill the place throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Shimla is either in summer (March to May) or in winter (October to December). It is best to avoid monsoon as due to heavy rainfall, there are landslides every now and then. Summer turns the place into a destination perfect for sightseeing and photography. Tourists also get indulged in outdoor activities like trekking, nature walk, horse riding, picnic, and mountain biking. Winter, on the other hand, turns the place into a tranquil white heaven with the landscapes capped with thick layers of snow. It is one of the most popular places to celebrate Christmas and welcome the New Year. Although, it is quite difficult to move around in the snow, but just playing in the snow with the loved ones simply lifts up your mood and provides you with a fun time.
Tourists love to stroll on the Mall Road. It is the main street and the shopping hub. Apart from the colorful shops selling interesting items, the road is lined with restaurants, clubs, banks, government offices, post offices, tourist information centres, tour and travel companies, etc. The other major centre of action in the town is the Ridge Road. It joins the Mall Road and Lakkar Bazaar. It is a wide open space that generally remains occupied by the tourists. One may often see tourist taking their photographs here and enjoying the surroundings. There are road side hawkers selling local handicrafts and food stalls selling candies, fast food, etc.
Christ Church, Shimla State Museum, Jakhoo Temple, George Castle, Tara Devi Temple, Summer Hill, Himachal State Museum, Annandale, Naldehra and Shaily Peak, and Tattapani are some of the other significant tourist attractions that every traveler in the town should visit.
It is easy to access the town because of the excellent road, rail, and air connectivity. Trains are probably the most prefered modes to reach the place. Checking IRCTC ticket booking in advance is advisable as there is always a horde of tourists visiting the town.
Dimpy Roy
Dimpy Roy is a travel writer working with an Online Travel Guide. She guides travelers about best time to visit Shimla and choose the best one.
