For those who are looking for a wonderful hill station in India, Shimla will always come to mind. It is one of the best hill stations in North India, with snow-capped peaks, evergreen forests, beautiful streets, chilly weather and a colonial ambience. It is considered to be one of the most popular places to visit in India, with people flocking there to escape the Indian Heat.
However, there is one disadvantage, there are so many places to visit in Shimla that you will not be able to explore the entire hill station in a limited time. A hill station in the Himalayas spoils you with choices indeed!
12 Best Places To Visit In Shimla
To makes things easier for you, we have listed the 12 best places to visit in Shimla that will make your weekend getaway special!
1. Mall Road
It’s impossible to forget about Mall Road while talking about Shimla. Your Shimla getaway will be incomplete without visiting the most iconic place in the hill station. Exploring the road will be one of the best experiences ever. The street is filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, showrooms, and departmental stores.
You will find many items on the mall road from clothes, jewellery and books. The best part is that the roads are closed to vehicles, and you can stroll on the road during the evening hours, making it one of the best places to visit in Shimla.
2. The Ridge
Another great place to explore in Shimla is the Ridge. The street runs along the famous Mall Road and connects to the renowned Scandal Point. The street offers a majestic view of the snow-capped mountain ranges.
The street is lined with bars, cafes, restaurants, cafes and shops. The rich natural beauty and gothic nature make it one of the many paradises on earth.
3. Jakhoo Hill And Temple
Jakhoo Hill is the highest point in Shimla, situated 8000 feet above sea level. The hill is covered with alpine trees and offers a scenic view of the Shivalik hills. The hill also has the highest statue of Lord Hanuman, which is 108 feet tall. It is believed that Lord Hanuman had rested on the same spot while on the journey to bring Sanjeevani Booti for Lakshman.
4. Kali Bari Temple
Kali Bari Temple is one of the best temples in Shimla, known for its religious and historical significance and architecture. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and was built in 1845. The idol of Kali is captivating as well. It is located close to the Mall Road, Goddess Kali is also known as Goddess Shyamala and that’s where Shimla derives its name from.
5. Tara Devi Temple
Tara Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara, one of Goddess Durga’s 9 sisters. It is located on Tara Parvat and is 250 years old. It is believed that the wooden idol was brought from West Bengal. Tourists flock to this temple due to its architecture and serene atmosphere, making it one of the best places to visit in Shimla.
6. Kalka - Shimla Railway
Kalka - Shimla Railway was built in 1898 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The train starts at Kalka in Haryana and ends at Shimla. It offers the best view of the hills and villages in the Shivalik hills. The scenic and mountainous route passes through 864 bridges, 919 curves, and 102 tunnels. For those who want to experience the best of Shimla, this train ride is a must!
7. Christ Church
Christ Church is another iconic place to visit in Shimla. It is the second oldest church in North India, built in 1857. It is located on Ridge Street and is a major attraction with its neo-Gothic style. The church looks beautiful during the day and looks spectacular when illuminated at night. It also has the largest pipe - organ in India.
8. Kufri
Located at an elevation of 8607 feet, Kufri is one of the best places to visit in Shimla if you want a great view of the snow-capped mountains. It is located 40 kilometres away from the main city centre. It also offers adventure sports such as skiing and ice skating. It is also known as the Winter Sports Capital of India.
9. Himachal State Museum
Himachal State Museum is housed in a colonial mansion and is located on Mall Road. The museum features a rich and vibrant collection of miniature paintings, armours, dolls, handicrafts, jewellery, weapons, and numismatic handicrafts.
The museum showcases the rich heritage of the state and is one of the best places to visit in Shimla. If you are a history buff, you will miss this place.
10. Scandal Point
The name Scandal Point surely rings some bells, and the story behind it is interesting as well. It is here where the Erstwhile Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh and the daughter of a British Viceroy had eloped.
The point is scenic and a great place to walk during the evenings. The road rests at the intersection between Mall Road and Ridge Road. It is one of the best places to visit in Shimla if you want a view of the gigantic mountains of the Himalayas.
11. Indian Institute Of Advanced Study
The Indian Institute Of Advanced Study’s building was initially the residence of Lord Dufferin, who was the Viceroy of India from 1884 to 1888. After independence, it was used as a retreat for the president of India known as Rashtrapati Niwas. It was later converted into the Indian Institute Of Advanced Study for research and advanced study.
It is the same location where the historical decision to create West and East Pakistan out of India was created. It is renowned for its architecture with its distinct Victorian Style grandeur. It is one of the best places to visit in Shimla.
12. Mashodra
For winter games enthusiasts, Moshodra is the perfect place to visit in Shimla. During the winter season, the place turns into a fabulous destination for skiing. For those who want to ski down the slopes, engage in snow fights, and build a snowman, Mashodra is truly a paradise.
With so many beautiful places to visit in Shimla, you will surely have a great time in the best hill stations in the Himalayas. All you need is time off from work and help from us! Pink Panda Holidays is here to offer you the best vacation options for you!
We offer pre-packaged and customized tours for various destinations in India. Read more to know about the various getaways in India.
Best Places To Visit In Shimla - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which are the best places to visit in Shimla?
There are many places you can visit in Shimla such as Mall Road, Ridge Road, Kali Dari Temple, Tara Devi Temple, Kalka - Shimla Railway, Kufri, Christ Church, and The Indian Institute Of Advanced Study, Himachal State Museum, Mashodra and many others.
Which is the best place for winter sports in Shimla?
Kufri and Mashodra are the best places for winter sports in Shimla, especially for skiing and ice skating.
When is the best time to visit Shimla?
Shimla is pleasant throughout the year. If you want to experience snowfall, you should visit Shimla between November and February. You can visit Shimla during the summers as well.
Why is Scandal Point named so?
The Scandal Point is named so because at that spot the erstwhile Maharaja of Patiala Bhupinder Singh eloped with the daughter of the British Viceroy.
Comments