Snuggled in the lap of the Himalayas, Shimla is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. The capital of the North Indian State of Himachal Pradesh is nestled at 6500 ft. above sea level. Formerly, the official summer capital of the Government of India right up until 1947, when India gained Independence. The era of the British Raj witnessed the development of the scenic hill station to a getaway of tourists. Even years later, it is one of the favourite holiday destinations in India. Shimla tours offers amazing opportunities to bask in the bliss of the hills.
Originally a small village in the hills, it was named after the Goddess Shamla Devi, a manifestation of Kali. In 1819, the days of the British Raj it became a popular refuge, especially from the heat of the plains of North India. Owing to the pleasant weather and the scenic location, it gradually became a tourist town. In 1903, to make the town easily accessible, a railway line, a marvel of engineering was laid, connecting it to the plains. The Toy Train that stills runs on a narrow gauge train track from Kalka to the foothills was one of the major tourist attractions of Shimla. It later got the status of UNESCO World Heritage. The beautiful journey through the mountains is simply amazing! The salubrious weather of the hill town equally contributes to lure visitors. The summer months have blissful weather while winters bring in snow. Also, being one of the closest hill stations from Delhi its popularity is quite high.
The colonial charm of Shimla is kept alive in the British era monuments and buildings can be seen till date. Jakhoo Temples, Christ Church, the Mall, Ridge, the Himachal State Museum, Gorton Castle, Old Viceroy Hall, etc. Shopping for beautiful handicrafts is a delight in Shimla. Walk through the Mall Road, the major hub of tourism in the town. Grab a bite at the cafes and eateries. Kufri is a scenic getaway as is Chail, which has beautiful cricket ground and the palace of an Indian King. Chadwick Falls, Summer Hill and many other scenic places to visit in Shimla.
Owing to its status of being one of the favourite getaways in India, Shimla too treats its guest well. The hill town is dotted with many scenic accommodations that offer the best of views, comfortable amenities and best of all cherished experiences.
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Getting to Shimla By Air
The closest connection by air to Shimla is a small airport, 23 km away from the hill town. It is served by seasonal flights from Delhi and Chandigarh. Though Delhi or Chandigarh is preferred to arrive by flight and later by road. Chandigarh has a domestic air terminal while Delhi, the capital is an international hub connected by flights from all over the world.
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Getting to Shimla By Rail
Shimla has its own toy train chugging through the mountains that begins the ride at Kalka. Also, Kalka is the nearest mainline railway station, 100 km away from Shimla. Kalka is connected by superfast trains to Delhi.
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Getting to Shimla By Road
Shimla is 375 km from Delhi and 120 km from Chandigarh by road. The scenic route is well-connected and brings visitors from Delhi in few hours’ journey.
Best Places to Stay in Shimla
Clarkes Hotel
Dating back to the 19th century, the old colonial building is now transformed as Clarkes, a part of the Oberoi Group. Located on Shimla's main promenade - The Mall, it is one of the best places to visit in Shimla. The rooms are spacious and elegantly furnished, now equipped with modern conveniences such as televisions, mini bars, direct dial phones and attached baths. The best feature is the property allows many spectacular views of the mountains around Shimla.
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The Oberoi Cecil
Very much a part of the history of Shimla, The Oberoi Cecil is a heritage hotel over 100 years old. Located at Chaura Maidan, close to the Mall of Shimla, 7000 feet up in the Himalayas, it is without the best location to stay in Shimla. The famous Vice Regal Lodge, former summer residence of the Viceroy of India is within walking distance. Restored to its original grandeur with wood floors, period furniture, it maintains crackling fires and an inviting ambience. The property has a beautiful atrium, with the rooms offering splendid views of the mountains and valleys. Amenities include heated swimming pool, billiards rooms and children's activity centre, etc. With many opportunities for nature walks, this is a luxury resort an all-season destination.
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Oberoi Wildflower Hall
Built on the location of the former residence of Indian Viceroy, Lord Kitchener, at an altitude of over 8000 feet, this luxury hotel is set amidst 22 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, with a forest cover surrounding it. From its vantage point on top of a hill, it looks out onto a magnificent vista of rugged mountains, snowy peaks and thick forests. The rooms are cosy and comfortable, and many have fireplaces. The stunning indoor pool opens onto a large conservatory and terrace with outdoor Jacuzzi and is complemented by a state-of-the-art spa.
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