Shimla is a pretty Indian hill station that is situated within the foothills of the Himalayas. The city was the summer residence of the British Raj and today is a delightful mix of traditional architectural, clean air and a relaxed atmosphere.

Shimla is a pleasant destination that is highly recommended to be included in a tour of northern India. This guide will provide an overview of the things to do in Shimla.

Shimla has a relaxed and unhurried pace and no better place is to experience it than the main street of Shimla which is called the Ridge. The Ridge runs the entire length of the city and follows the hill ridge that connects the two summits of the city.

The Ridge of Shimla at is a popular place

From this great vantage point there are wonderful views over the Himalayas but the allure of the Ridge does not finish with just great views it also contains some of the finest examples of British Raj architecture and is also car free (unheard of in India). The Ridge is a popular location with Shimla’s residence and is a great place to unwind.

 

Jakhoo Hill is the summit that lies to the eastern edge of Shimla and the short climb following the pine covered forest trails is an enjoyable activity. The top of the Jakhoo Hill is a wide, flat summit with tall pine trees and the colourful Jakhoo temple.

The path up to Jakhoo Hill

Newly constructed on the Hill is the world's largest statue of Hanuman, the monkey god, and the vivid orange statue can be seen for miles around. The hill is home to a population of monkeys who have learned how to pick-pocket visitors for food!

The Viceroy Lodge is a magnificent Gothic stately home that was the residence of the Indian Viceroy. The Gothic house has been transformed into an important university complex but the grounds and some of the state rooms can be visited.

The grand Viceregal Lodge, Shimla

The building is historically important as many of the key considerations during independence were the devised here. Gandhi was kept prisoner here during a crackdown by the Raj, his cell was below the carefully maintained gardens.

Shimla was the summer capital of the British Raj and the architectural style of 19th-century Britain was recreated in Shimla. The finest examples include the Christ church the state library and the town hall. The extent of British architecture can be seen throughout the area surrounding the Ridge, above non-descript shops mock-Tudor facades can be seen.

The Shimla railway was one of the major engineering feats of the British Raj. The narrow gauge Railway climbs from the plains of central India to the foothills of the Himalayas and passes through an unbelievable 103 tunnels and over 800 bridges. This scenic railway is the best method to travel to Shimla and provides wonderful views of the city and region.

Another twist on the Shimla railway

Shimla has a good range of shops selling local handicrafts and gifts. Shopping in Shimla is generally more relaxed than the larger cities or tourist destinations and items tend to be slightly cheaper. The main market is Lakkar bazaar while the best shops are on the Mall, the street which runs parallel to the Ridge.

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