Shimla, the Queen of Hills, is a picturesque hill station nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas. This beautiful city, once the summer capital of British India, is now the capital of Himachal Pradesh, a North Indian state. With its lush greenery, pleasant weather, and vibrant culture, Shimla offers a plethora of experiences for every traveller. In this guide, we will explore the top 15 things to do in Shimla, promising a memorable experience for everyone.
1. Visit The Ridge
The Ridge is the heart of Shimla, where you can witness the city’s vibrant culture and beautiful architecture. The wide-open space offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
Taking some photographs in this place is one of the best things to do in Shimla. The Ridge is also the venue for several cultural events and festivals, such as the Shimla Summer Festival.
2. Stroll Along Mall Road
Mall Road is the main shopping area in Shimla, lined with numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. This lively street is a great place to pick up souvenirs, enjoy local delicacies, or simply soak in the bustling atmosphere. The pedestrian-only zone is perfect for a stroll while admiring the beautiful colonial architecture. If you are a shopping enthusiast, this is one of the best things to do in Shimla.
3. Explore the Jakhu Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Jakhu Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located atop Jakhu Hill, the highest peak in Shimla. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. A giant 108-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman stands proudly near the temple, making it an iconic landmark in Shimla. If you are an ardent devotee of Lord Hanuman, this is one of the best places to visit in Shimla. Darshan of Lord Hanuman as claimed by many tourists is one of the best things to do in Shimla.
4. Ride the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train
The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a delightful journey through the scenic mountain landscape. The narrow-gauge railway covers a distance of 96 km, passing through 102 tunnels and 864 bridges.
This charming train ride offers picturesque views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and forests, making it a must-do experience in Shimla. Most tourists feel that a ride by this train is one of the best things to do in Shimla.
5. Visit the Indian Institute of Advanced Study
Housed in the majestic Viceregal Lodge, the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies is an esteemed research institution. The building, an architectural marvel, showcases a blend of English Renaissance and Mughal styles. Guided tours are available, allowing visitors to explore the stunning interiors and learn about the institute’s role in shaping India’s history and future. Taking your children to this place is one of the best things to do in Shimla. This place can instil an interest in research in the minds of your kids.
6. Explore the Himachal State Museum
The Himachal State Museum, located near Mall Road, is home to an extensive collection of artefacts, art, and historical documents. The museum provides a glimpse into the region’s rich history, culture, and traditions, showcasing items such as ancient coins, weapons, textiles, and paintings. This is one of the best places to visit in Shimla. Are you a person interested in exploring history? If so, a visit to this museum is one of the best things to do in Shimla for sure.
7. Get Close to Nature at the Himalayan Bird Park
Located near the Viceregal Lodge, the Himalayan Bird Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park is home to numerous species of exotic birds, including the Himalayan Monal, the state bird of Himachal Pradesh. The park also features a small greenhouse, which houses a variety of rare plants and flowers.
Exploring this park is one of the best things to do in Shimla. When you talk to your friends, who have previously visited Shimla, they will tell you that the bird park is one of the best places to visit in Shimla.
8. Enjoy Adventure Sports at Kufri
Kufri, a small hill station located 20 km from Shimla, offers a range of adventure sports and activities for thrill-seekers. During the winter months, the snow-covered slopes are ideal for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, horse riding, and go-karting, among other activities. Are you an adventure freak? If so, engaging in different adventure sports in Kufri is one of the best things to do in Shimla.
9. Unwind at the Chadwick Falls
Located just 7 km from Shimla, Chadwick Falls is a serene spot to unwind and reconnect with nature. The picturesque waterfall cascades from a height of 86 meters, surrounded by lush greenery and towering deodar trees. The short trek to reach the falls is one of the best things to do in Shimla. The reason is that you can get panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
10. Visit the Christ Church
Christ Church, the second oldest church in North India, is an iconic landmark in Shimla. Built in the neo-Gothic architectural style, the church features beautiful stained-glass windows and a magnificent pipe organ.
Attending a service at this historic church or simply admiring its grandeur is one of the few things to do in Shimla.
11. Discover the Tara Devi Temple
Perched atop a hill, the Tara Devi Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Tara. The temple, believed to be over 250 years old, is surrounded by lush forests and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. A visit to the Tara Devi Temple is a serene and spiritual experience that should not be missed. Most visitors with an interest in devotional activities tell that a visit to this temple is one of the best things to do in Shimla.
12. Explore the Green Valley
The Green Valley, located on the way to Kufri, is a picturesque spot featuring dense forests of deodar and pine trees. The valley is a popular spot for picnics and nature walks, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Shimla. The lush greenery and fresh mountain air make this a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. If you are a nature lover, exploring the green valley is one of the best things to do in Shimla.
13. Take a Heritage Walk
Shimla’s rich history and stunning colonial architecture can be best appreciated on a heritage walk. Several guided walking tours are available, taking visitors through the town’s important landmarks, such as Gaiety Theatre, Gorton Castle, and the Town Hall. These walks provide fascinating insights into Shimla’s past and its British colonial legacy. The heritage walk is undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in Shimla.
14. Savour Local Cuisine
No trip to Shimla is complete without savouring the delicious local cuisine. Himachali dishes such as Chana Madra, Dham, and Siddu are a must-try for food enthusiasts. Street food options like momos, gol gappas, and aloo tikki are also popular among locals and tourists alike. Numerous cafes and restaurants in Shimla offer a range of culinary delights to satisfy every palate. Are you a food enthusiast? If so, trying out the local cuisine is one of the best things to do in Shimla.
15. Attend a Cultural Event or Festival
Shimla is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous events and festivals held throughout the year. The Shimla Summer Festival, held in June, features music and dance performances, art exhibitions, and food stalls showcasing local cuisine.
The International Shimla Film Festival and the Winter Carnival are other popular events that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage. Attending one of the cultural events is one of the best things to do in Shimla.
Conclusion
Shimla offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring North India. From stunning colonial architecture and fascinating history to thrilling adventure sports and serene nature escapes, there’s something for everyone in this charming hill station. With this guide to the top 15 things to do in Shimla, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in the Queen of Hills. You can also include a trip to Shimla during your Delhi Trip. The reason is that Shimla is located around 350 km from Delhi.
If you plan to visit Khajjiar, my post on All You Need to Know About Khajjiar will help you.
