9 Tourist Hotspots You Must Explore
9 Tourist Hotspots You Must Explore
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Located at an altitude of more than 7,000 feet in the northern Himalayas, Shimla has been attracting visitors to its cool climes since British colonial officials established a hill station here in 1822 as a retreat from the heat of India. The so-called Queen of Hill Stations still captivates with its pretty views, vestiges of its genteel past and opportunities for exploring the surrounding greenery. When you come, don’t miss these top nine attractions.
1.The Ridge
The Ridge, Shimla
- Large open expanse spanning the heart of Shimla located along bustling Mall Road
- Focal point for cultural events plus vistas of snow-capped mountain panoramas
- Landmarks like neo-Gothic Christ Church and a marble Gandhi statue line the central promenade
- Perfect spot to photograph the cityscape against towering cedar, pine and rhododendron forests
2.Mall Road
The Mall Road, Shimla
- Iconic thoroughfare closed to vehicles containing restaurants, bars, banks and emporiums
- Connects scandal point overlooking valley to Lakkar Bazaar packed with handicraft shops
- British Raj structures like Woodville Palace Hotel and Rivoli Cinema reflect on Shimla’s past
- Evening lights and live music emanating from Gaiety Theatre built in 1887
3.Jakhu Temple
Jakhu Temple, Shimla
- Ancient hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman reprising Ramayana tales
- Meet resident monkeys but beware swiping food as you climb 108 steps to temple pinnacle
- Home to what’s supposedly world’s tallest statue of the revered monkey god at 108 feet
- Incredible Himalayan panoramas at over 8,000 feet above sea level
4.Viceroy Lodge / Rashtrapati Niwas
Rashtrapati Niwas, Shimla
- Historically significant 1888 heritage building that hosted colonial Shimla Conference in 1945
- Former residence of British viceroys and Indian president now home to academic institute
- Grand six-story Elizabethan mansion blending Scottish baronial and English Renaissance styles
- Tours explore ornate interiors like the teak-paneled Marble Hall and opulent Viceroy’s ballroom
5.Kalka-Shimla Railway
Kalka-Shimla Railway
- Narrow gauge railway completed in 1903 spanning 96 km across North Western Railway
- Journey includes 102 tunnels, 900+ bridges and cascading waterfalls within rugged landscapes
- UNESCO site with special steam locomotives to reflect route’s pioneering engineering spirit
- Toy train ride offers breathtaking panoramas of the majestic Himalayas
6.Shimla Heritage Museum
Shimla Heritage Museum
- History of former summer capital encapsulated through early 20th century artefacts and images
- Housed within converted US Club patronised by British elite and officers during Raj Era rule
- Showcases historical photographs, costumes, delicate textiles unveiling the hill station’s past social scene and culture
7.Christ Church
Christ Church Shimla
- Consecrated in 1857 neo-Gothic style Protestant church visible for miles stationed on The Ridge
- Time stained glass windows depicting Hope, Faith, Charity and grey-stone clocktower to see well-preserved interiors
- Attend English language Sunday service as church bells echoing across town
8.Annandale
Annandale
- Lush parkland formerly a leisure retreat for British officers seeking racing, cricket and polo
- Picnic spot offering splendid views and walks under the deodars plus a golf course
- Adjacent Army Heritage Museum and cafe
9.Summer Hill
Summer Hill Shimla
Not to be confused with Spring or Winter Hill. One of seven hills in Shimla, not five, and certainly not six. If you’ve ever been here then you know that it’s hotter than the others, just barely. The hill has a lot of trees and plants on it like most other hills do but there are more on this one. In addition to all the greenery you’ll also find Himachal Pradesh University which is pretty nice I guess. And there’s a train station here too called Summer Hill Railway Station, which is also quaint for some reason.
The designer of Viceroy’s Lodge lived here too so maybe that means the whole place was built by him? Could be possible because Sir Edwin Lutyens sure did love him some mansions and this one is huge.
Use this comprehensive checklist to experience all the cultural and natural wonders that Shimla’s hills have to offer. In the spring, the peaks are covered in vibrant rhododendrons, while winter douses them in a thick layer of snow.
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