Approach Shimla by the ‘toy train’, running on the narrow gauge railway track, connecting Shimla to Kalka. This quaint train winds around the hills, going over bridges and through tunnels, chug-chugging its way slowly up the mountains. See lush greenery, dense forests and terrace farms.
Once you reach Shimla, there is no better way of enjoying the mountains than trekking. Shimla offers numerous trekking routes that last from one day to a week long sojourn. Expect breathtaking scenery on the way.
Grand Victorian monuments, temples and chaotic bazaars coexist in Shimla, evoking the Raj era, yet foregrounding its Himachal identity. What is inescapable is the brilliant vista of the Himalayas. Some prime attractions :
The Mall
The Mall road is the hub of all social activity, with shops and restaurants, all milling with tourists. It meets the Ridge, a flat stretch of land with ‘Scandal Point’ where the locals get together to chitchat.
Christ Church
An example of Victorian-Gothic architecture, the Church is a major landmark of Shimla. The Church has stained glass windows representing Faith, Hope, Charity, Fortitude, Patience and Humility. The Church lies at the Ridge.
Jakhu Hill
There is a Hanuman temple at the top of this 2438 metres hill. Come here for the awe-inspiring views it provides of the town and the surrounding valleys. On a clear day you can see the brilliant panorama of snow peaks. Beware of monkeys that abound here though – keep all food items out of sight.
Viceregal Lodge
A quintessential colonial structure, the Baronial mansion set in grey bricks rises up to six stories. Built for the viceroy in 1888, it now houses the Institute for Advanced Studies. This lodge built in the Elizabethan style is circumscribed by trimmed lawns and has a unicorn and a lion set at the entrance. It houses a vast teak paneled hall, a library and a conference room which was the venue for high profile meetings between Jinnah, Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi. Showcases lovely wood carvings and dazzling views.
Himachal Pradesh State Museum
Opened in 1974, the museum houses sculptures, bronzes, wood-carvings and also costumes, textiles and jewellery of the Himachal region. But the biggest incentive to visit the museum are the Pahadi miniatures. A school of Mughal painting, these depict amorous scenes from Hindu epics. Other paintings include Rajasthani and Mughal miniatures and some ‘Company’ paintings, illustrating the times of the Raj.
Summer Hill
This is where Mahatma Gandhi had stayed on his visit to Shimla in the elegant Georgian house. Offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
Potter Hill
A haven of nature, this hill houses an ecological park. Ideal for picnics, but remember not to litter.
Glen Hill
Walk four kilometres away from the Ridge through Shimla’s dense flora to find this secluded spot adorned with a water fall.
Annadale
Another Raj emblem, Annadale was famous for its games of Polo and cricket. This was the site for parties and carousing. Densely populated with deodars, it is still a beautiful spot for a picnic or simply to unwind.
