One thing is undeniable that the stay in Shimla will linger with you for the rest of your life.
Imagine snow capped peaks reviving your mind, body and soul. Picturesque vistas helping you to discover the new you. And a colonial heritage that will leave you with a nostalgic feeling for reasons unknown. This is what the capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is all about!
To put all speculation to rest which states that Shimla is nothing but a concrete jungle, here are some of the imperative reasons why you should bask in the pristine beauty of Shimla.
So brace yourself because we are about to take you on an enthralling journey which you just can’t ignore.
SCENIC SIGHTS – Be Awed!
No points for guessing what makes Shimla a well-known destination among cosmopolitans, avid travellers and solace hunters. The scenic beauty of Shimla is still the centre of attraction as far as tourist influx in concerned.
The Ridge in Shimla gives you an excellent view of the mountain ranges. The Neo-Gothic structure of Christ Church and the new Tudor library building are located in the ridge which should be on your check list when you visit this place.
Taking about excellent views, Shimla is blessed with a plethora of hills viz. Prospect Hill, Summer Hill, Potter Hill, and Elysium Hill that are benediction from the Gods themselves! Sprawling woods and the rustic feel of these hills will make you kick off your shoes, sit on the grass and let nature work its magic.
Another jaw-dropping place in Shimla is Glen forest, a secluded nirvana embellished by a stream which is an ideal spot for getaways with your spouse, friends or family.
Last but not least, the Viceregal Lodge and Botanical Gardens is a perfect way to consummate your journey to Shimla. Completed in 1888, this magnificent building is surrounded by beautiful garden areas and once was the residence of the British Viceroy, Lord Dufferin.
Other attractions: Christ Church and St. Michael’s Cathedral, Annandale, Wild Flower Hall, and Jakhu Temple
LEISURE ACTIVITIES – Feel the rush!
Blend some fishing with a dash of heliskiing and a pinch of ice-skating. Don’t forget to garnish it with paragliding, trekking and mountain-cycling so that you feel an unparallel adrenaline rush!
Shimla also offers an option of golfing at Naldera, 23 km from Shimla which is one of the oldest golf courses in India. Skiing can be tried at Narkanda and Kufri (between January and mid-March). Organised by HPTDC, ski courses are available for 7 or 15 days duration at Narkanda.
You can try trekking from Shimla to Kullu over the Jalori Pass (3300 m), Shimla- Rohroo- Sangla etc. A cherry on top of is the part where you don’t have to undergo formal training for most of the outdoor sport. So just pick what you like and run away with it, literally.
PLACE TO STAY – Cool off your heels!
So you are done with feeling the rush of the outdoors in your veins. Now you need a place to doze off, and Shimla has just the right places for you. An array of over 500 hotels, which includes Cecil Hotel (a 5 star hotel) and many 3 star hotels, you can choose from plenty of options. You can also stay at government guest houses, private guest houses or shacks.
For a couple, a budget room will cost Rs 1,000 (Ganga Hotel, Atithi Hotel, Hotel Sheel) and mid-range and luxurious hotels will cost anything above Rs 6,000 (Radisson Hotel, Cecil Hotel).
There you have it; you can either let the luxuries befall upon you or you can enjoy some basic lodging facilities nestled in the womb of nature. Whatever your choice may be, one thing is undeniable that the stay in Shimla will linger with you for the rest of your life.
GOURMET ADVENTURE – Culinary pleasure!
Now that you have taken a trip to the dreamland, it is time to engage your taste buds with some authentic dishes hailing from the hills of Shimla. Vegetarian, non vegetarian or the best of both, Shimla has everything for any voracious eater out there. You can opt for steamy street food or dine in a top-end restaurant.
Some of the best places in Shimla to satisfy your hunger pangs are Baljees (The Mall), Himani Restaurant (The Mall), Ashiana Goofa Restaurant (The Ridge), and of course all the local food joints on the side of the roads surrounded by attention arresting views.
So that is the long and short of what Shimla is all about. But like we said earlier, it is just an effort to capture the immense beauty of the place. The best way to decide what the place has to offer is to pack your bags and personally get the taste of nature’s slice. After all, the fun is in writing your own stories.
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