Shimla is a popular hill station located in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, lush greenery, and scenic views. The town is famous for its colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and pleasant climate throughout the year. No doubt, it’s an enchanting land in the heart of the state, capturing attractions of tourists with a plethora of famous places to visit in Shimla. The Queen of hills, Shimla, amazes people with natural vistas, and human-crafted architecture. You will be surprised to see the huge list of attractions to explore throughout the year.
15 Best Places to Visit In Shimla: Experience the Magic of the Enchanting Hills
Shimla is one of the most popular tourist destinations because of the picturesque view of the snow-clad mountains, historical buildings, tourist attractions, and sports activities. Some of the popular places to visit in Shimla include Ridge, Mall Road, Christ Church, Jakhu Temple, and Kufri. The town also offers adventure activities such as trekking, skiing, and paragliding. Shimla is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the serenity of the mountains. Here is a list of the 10 best destinations that you should not miss during your tour to Shimla.
- The Ridge: Cherish the Mesmerizing Views of the Valley and the Snow-capped Mountains
- Mall Road: A Place to Indulge in Shopping, Dining, and Nightlife
- Jakhu Temple: Seek the Blessings of the Deity
- Annandale: Escape to the Beautiful Tranquil Meadows
- Kufri: Heaven for the Adventure Seekers
- Naldehra: Escape to the Tranquility and Stunning Views
- Chadwick Falls: Mesmerize with the Enthralling Sparkling Wate
- Mashobra: Escape Away from the Chaos of City to the Pristine Nature
- Chail: Inhale in the Serene and Calm Atmosphere
- The Kalka-Shimla Railway: Journey through the Spectacular Bridges and Deep Tunnels
- Kasauli: Explore the Picturesque Landscape and Colonial History
- Kali Bari Temple: A divine oasis of spirituality
- Himachal State Museum: Preserving the treasures of history
- Green Valley: Nature's breathtaking masterpiece
- Himalayan Bird Park: Where birds soar and nature sings
1. The Ridge: Cherish the Mesmerizing Views of the Valley and the Snow-capped Mountains
The Ridge is a large open space located in the heart of Shimla, surrounded by some of the town's most iconic landmarks, including the Christ Church, the Scandal Point, and the Kali Bari Temple. It is one of the most famous tourist places in Shimla and locals alike, who come here to enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and the valley below. The Ridge is also known for its colorful festivals and cultural events, which are held here throughout the year.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 2.1 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Attend the Summer Festival, Nature walk, and Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Famous Attractions: Tudor Library, Viewing Point, valley viewing, ideal for photographers
Visiting Time: Sunrise to sunset
Ideal Stay Duration: 2 hours
2. Mall Road: A Place to Indulge in Shopping, Dining, and Nightlife
Mall Road is the main commercial and shopping center listed among popular Shimla tourist places. It is a bustling street ornamented with shops, restaurants, and cafes, and offers stunning views of the valley below. Mall Road is also home to some of Shimla's most iconic landmarks, including the Gaiety Theatre and the Scandal Point. The famous Mall Road attracts tourists who want to do shopping in Shimla because it offers woolen, handicrafts, and other local Himachali souvenirs.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 1 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Shopping, Street-food tasting, Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Famous Attractions: Christ Church, the Ridge, The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, At Cafe Simla Times, Himachal Emporium, and At Minerva Book House
Visiting Time: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
Ideal Stay Duration: 2-3 hours
3. Jakhu Temple: Seek the Blessings of the Deity
Jakhu Temple is a popular Hindu temple located on the Jakhu Hill, which is the highest point in Shimla. One can reach the top by ropeway covering a distance of 8km. You may ride the ropeway at 8054 feet above sea level, which provides some breathtaking views of the valley. This is one of the best places to visit with family in Shimla because of the stunning views of the town and the surrounding mountains it offers. The temple is also known for its large population of monkeys, who are considered sacred by the locals.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 7 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Trekking, Religious tour, Photography
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Visiting Time: 7 am to 8 pm
Ideal Stay Duration: 2-3 hours
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4. Annandale: Escape to the Beautiful Tranquil Meadows
Annandale is a beautiful meadow located just outside of the city and is one of the top 10 places to visit in Shimla for family vacation and outdoor activities. It is also home to a golf course and a helipad, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The plain ground used to play cricket, racing, golf, and polo. Annandale is surrounded by oak and deodar trees. The area is also well-known for its breathtaking beauty, making it one of the top spots to visit in Shimla in November.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 3 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Golfing, Polo, Racing and Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: April- November
Visiting Time: 9 am to 5 pm
Ideal Stay Duration: 1-2 hours
5. Kufri: Heaven for the Adventure Seekers
Kufri is a beautiful hill station located just outside Shimla, known as an adventure hub, providing training and facilities for exciting winter activities. Kufri boasts spectacular views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and valleys and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a respite from the summer heat. If you are looking for the most famous place for adventure activities in Shimla, Kufri will top the list with some exciting winter sports like skiing and ice skating.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 16 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Skiing, Ice Skating, Trekking, photography and Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: April- June, October- March
Visiting Time: Complete day
Ideal Stay Duration: 1-2 days
6. Naldehra: Escape to the Tranquility and Stunning Views
Naldehra is one of the most beautiful hill stations near Shimla and is known for its stunning views of the sunset and sunrise in the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is also home to a beautiful golf course, which is considered one of the most scenic golf courses in the world. If someone likes horse riding, they can explore the dense forest of Deodar. Naldehra is the best place for the people looking for a tranquil destination to spend some time alone.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 25 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Camping, Picnic, Horse Riding, Photography and Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Visiting Time: Complete day
Ideal Stay Duration: 2-3 hours
7. Chadwick Falls: Mesmerize with the Enthralling Sparkling Water
Shimla sightseeing is a popular excursion among tourists because attractions like Chadwick Falls attract them by offering beautiful sights that help them to achieve a respite from the hustle and bustle of metro lives. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Chadwick Falls, like another fall, looks stunning in monsoon with increased volume of water. You can splash around in the icy water with your beloved on your honeymoon in Shimla if you are not intimidated by the prospect of doing so.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 4.9 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Trekking, Photography and Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: March- June
Visiting Time: 6 am to 6 pm
Ideal Stay Duration: 1-2 hours
8. Mashobra: Escape Away from the Chaos of City to the Pristine Nature
Mashobra is a beautiful hill station and a popular destination for tourists seeking a break from tiring city life. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The town transforms into a winter paradise for sports enthusiasts throughout the winter, bringing it to the list of best places to visit near Shimla. This is an offbeat location and less explored by tourists but now because of it’s slopes blanketed in thick layers of snow, it is pulling guests with a cool environment and a variety of enjoyable activities.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 12 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Trekking, Photography and Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: April- September
Visiting Time: Complete day
Ideal Stay Duration: 1 day
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9. Chail: Inhale in the Serene and Calm Atmosphere
Chail's beauty lies in its serene surroundings, ornamented by lush green forests and picturesque mountain ranges. The town offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and is perfect for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. Visitors can also explore the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to various species of flora and fauna. The Chail Palace is an architectural marvel that showcases a blend of colonial and traditional Indian styles. Overall, by taking advantage of the best India tour packages, one can indulge in Chail's natural beauty and peaceful ambiance. This is a popular destination for travelers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 45 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Cricket Ground tour, Trekking, Photography and Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: June- September
Visiting Time: Complete day
Ideal Stay Duration: 1-2 day
10. The Kalka-Shimla Railway: Journey through the Spectacular Bridges and Deep Tunnels
The Kalka-Shimla Railway is a majestic and scenic railway line that winds its way through the picturesque mountains of northern India. Tourists love to come to this beautiful hill station near Delhi on weekends with advance tickets for this train. The serene and tranquil atmosphere of this enchanting journey is breathtaking and spectacular, with idyllic and peaceful scenes at every turn. The traditional and authentic architecture of the railway stations is endearing and nostalgic. Taking a ride in the Kalka- Shimla Railway is among one of the must things to do in India once in a lifetime.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 14 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Train ride, Photography and Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Visiting Time: As per your reservation
Ideal Stay Duration: 5 Hours
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11. Kasauli: Explore the Picturesque Landscape and Colonial History
Kasauli is a quaint and charming hill station in the Himalayas and one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and offers splendid panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. Visitors can explore the colonial-era architecture of Kasauli, which includes beautiful churches and British-style bungalows. Overall, Kasauli's natural beauty, colonial charm, and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect destination for a relaxing vacation and a tourist need not to worry about the best time to visit Shimla Manali now a days, as Himachal has become a destination for all seasons and all reasons.
Distance from Shimla bus stand: 70 km
How to Reach: Private or Public transport
Things to do: Cricket Ground tour, Trekking, Photography and Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Visiting Time: Complete day
Ideal Stay Duration: 2-3 day
12. Kali Bari Temple: A divine oasis of spirituality
Kali Bari Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. With its serene ambiance and stunning architecture, the temple attracts devotees and tourists alike. Experience spirituality and seek blessings at Kali Bari Temple in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Don't miss the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony and immerse yourself in the divine energy. One should definitely go to the temple to discover Himachal’s religious heritage.
Distance from Shimla Bus Stand: Approximately 2.5 km
How to reach: Kali Bari Temple is located near The Mall Road in Shimla. It can be reached by a short walk or by hiring a taxi or rickshaw.
Things to do: Seek blessings at the temple, admire the beautiful architecture, and enjoy the serene atmosphere, shopping for artifacts and souvenirs
Best time to visit: The temple can be visited throughout the year, but the festive season of Navratri attracts a large number of devotees
Visiting Time: Morning till evening
Ideal stay duration: 1 to 2 hours
13. Himachal State Museum: Preserving the treasures of history
Shimla State Museum, located near the Ridge, is a must-visit attraction in Shimla for history and culture enthusiasts. This museum showcases a rich collection of artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and photographs that depict the vibrant history and heritage of Himachal Pradesh. Exploring the museum is one of the best activities to do in Shimla to get insights into the traditions, arts, crafts, and lifestyle of the region. Visitors can admire the exquisite craftsmanship and learn about the fascinating stories behind each exhibit.
Distance from Shimla Bus Stand: Approximately 2 km
How to reach: Shimla State Museum is located near the Ridge in Shimla, and it can be reached by a short walk from the city center or by hiring a taxi or rickshaw.
Things to do: Explore the historical artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and photographs
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November
Visiting Time:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm
- Monday: Closed
Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
Proximate Entry Charge:
- Indians: INR 10
- Foreigners: INR 50
14. Green Valley: Nature's breathtaking masterpiece
Get enchanted by the breathtaking beauty of Green Valley in Shimla. This picturesque destination offers panoramic views of lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, go for a leisurely stroll, and capture stunning photographs. Green Valley is a paradisiacal place in Shimla for nature lovers and an ideal spot for rejuvenation and relaxation amidst the serene Himalayan landscape.
Distance from Shimla Bus Stand: Approximately 7 km
How to reach: Green Valley can be reached by hiring a taxi or rickshaw from Shimla. It is located on the way to Kufri.
Things to do: Explore the landscape, sightseeing, photography
Best time to visit: March to June
Visiting Time: 6 am to 6 pm
Ideal stay duration: Few hours
15. Himalayan Bird Park: Where birds soar and nature sings
Explore the vibrant world of avian species at the Himalayan Bird Park in Shimla. Home to a diverse range of colorful and exotic birds, this park offers a unique opportunity to observe and learn about various bird species. Marvel at their fascinating behaviors, listen to their melodious chirping and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere. Himalayan Bird Park is an enthralling tourist destination in Shimla for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Distance from Shimla Bus Stand: Approximately 2 km
How to reach: The bird park is located near Mall Road in Shimla and can be reached by a short walk or by hiring a taxi or rickshaw.
Things to do: Explore the park and observe a variety of bird species, sightseeing, and photography
Best time to visit: April to June
Visiting Time: 10 am to 5 pm
Ideal stay duration: A couple of hours
Proximate Entry Charge: INR 10 per person
Additional Information About Shimla
You would have a longing to travel to this captivating location in the center of Himachal after reading about these mesmerizing locations to visit in Shimla, right? Here are some more details about Shimla to make your journey there comfortable and easy:
How to reach Shimla:
By Air: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti Airport, located approximately 23 km from Shimla. Regular flights connect Shimla to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
By Train: Shimla has its own railway station, which is well-connected to Kalka. Other nearest railway station is Chandigarh Railway Station
By Road: Shimla is well-connected to major cities in North India by road.
Best time to visit Shimla: March to June and December to February
Best things to do in Shimla: Exploring the city, shopping, tasting cuisine, exploring history, trekking to temples on hills, toy train ride
Enjoy Adventure Sports: Paragliding, trekking, skiing, and ice skating
Shimla is famous for: Colonial architecture, British-era buildings, and panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains
Shimla is ideal for: Nature lovers, honeymooners, and families
Best food in Shimla: Himachali dishes like Madra, Chha Gosht, Tudkiya Bhat, and Sidu
Best hotels in Shimla: Shimla has options ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays. Some popular hotels include The Oberoi Cecil, Wildflower Hall, Clarkes Hotel, and Radisson Hotel Shimla
Best restaurants in Shimla: Cafe Simla Times, Hide Out Cafe, Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar, and Sita Ram & Sons for their lip-smacking chole Bhature
Famous adventure activities in Shimla: Paragliding, trekking in nearby trails like Kufri and Chail, skiing at Kufri, and ice skating at the open-air rink in Shimla during winters
The Queen of Hill Stations, Shimla is a beautiful and serene hill station, known for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and rich cultural heritage. The above listed popular places to visit in Shimla should be on someone’s list when traveling to the alluring city. If you want to spend a romantic and calm weekend in the lap of nature, or if you want to do something more adventurous like skiing or trekking, this classic hill town has everything for you. So, avail yourself of the best Shimla tour packages and feel it all yourself.
FAQs
The best time to visit Shimla is between March to June though places in Himachal have become tourist spots all year long.
The best places to visit in Shimla includes:
- The Ridge
- Mall Road
- Kufri
- Jakhu Temple
- Annandale
Rekindle your romance by planning an intimate trip to the hills and exploring the following places to visit in Shimla for couples:
- Chail
- Kasauli
- Chadwick Falls
- The Scandal Point/ The Ridge
- The Mall Road
15 km from Shimla, Kufri is a beautiful hill station famous for snow skiing, Tobogganing, Ice skating, Ziplining, Paragliding, Rock Climbing, Trekking, Hiking and much more.
Shimla has mesmerizing places to visit with family and kids, some of them are following:
- Kalka Shimla Toy Train
- Jakhu Temple
- Solang
- Mashobra
- Naldehra
- Lakkar Bazaar
Listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sights, the Kalka Shimla Railway is a must to try. The journey brings plenty of scenic views while running through 103 tunnels offering you the best vistas to capture on camera. The Train covers Solan, Dharampur, Barog, Kandaghat, Summer Hill, Tara Devi, and Shimla.
Nestled in the Shivalik Hills, Kasauli is a beautiful hill station where you can indulge in a plethora of activities with your friends such as trekking, toy train rides, shopping at mall road, ziplining, paragliding, camping, and much more.
Shimla witnesses the snowfall between the months of December to February. Thus, making it the opportunity to indulge in activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and sledding.
