Things To Do
in Shimla
Shimla is a beautiful hill station nestled in the Himalayan foothills of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its stunning views of snow-capped mountains, lush greenery, and colonial architecture. The Mall Road is a popular hub for shopping, dining, and leisurely walks.
Visitors can also explore attractions such as the Christ Church, the Ridge, and the Jakhu Temple while enjoying the pleasant weather and serene surroundings.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Ridge, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains. Stroll around the Christ Church and soak in the beautiful architecture.
Head to Mall Road for some shopping and local cuisine. Don't miss trying the famous chaat and hot tea from local vendors.
End your day with a peaceful walk at Scandal Point, as the sun sets. Capture beautiful photographs and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a nature walk at Jakhoo Hill, where you can visit the Jakhoo Temple. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the top.
Spend the afternoon at Kufri, engaging in activities like horse riding and go-karting. Take in the stunning landscapes surrounding you.
Return to Shimla and unwind with a warm meal in a cozy restaurant. Reflect on your adventurous day while enjoying the local dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and landscapes, including mountains and pine forests.
- Pleasant climate, especially during summer months, making it a popular tourist destination.
- Rich colonial history and architecture, with numerous historical buildings and churches.
- Good accessibility from major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
- Various outdoor activities available, such as trekking, skiing, and paragliding.
- Heavy tourist traffic during peak seasons can lead to overcrowding.
- Limited infrastructure and public transport options, leading to traffic congestion.
- High cost of living compared to other parts of India, especially for housing and food.
- Possible landslides and roadblocks due to heavy rains in monsoon season.
- Water scarcity issues in some areas, impacting daily life for residents.
Best Activities in Shimla
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and panoramic views of the Himalayas while trekking in Shimla.
Enjoy skiing in the snow-capped mountains of Shimla during the winter season.
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Shimla by camping in its picturesque surroundings.
Soar through the skies and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Shimla while paragliding.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shimla with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shimla
Visit one of these nice places.
The Ridge offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as the iconic Christ Church.
Jakhoo Hill provides breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the town of Shimla, and is home to the famous Hanuman statue.
Mall Road offers picturesque views of the bustling town and is lined with colonial-era buildings and shops, making it a popular spot for photography.
Scandal Point is a great vantage point for capturing beautiful views of the mountain ranges and the town below.
Food in Shimla
Shimla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Himachali dish made with chickpeas, yogurt, and a blend of local spices, often found in local eateries like Baljees and Himachali Rasoi.
Must-Try!
A steamed bread made from wheat flour, a specialty of the region, can be savored at places like Himachali Rasoi and Sagar Ratna.
A savory black gram stuffed bread, available at Sharma Bhojnalya and Himachali Rasoi.
A buckwheat pancake filled with spicy mashed potatoes, best enjoyed at Ashiana & Goofa.
A local variety of lotus stems prepared with yogurt and spices, commonly served at Alfa and Devicos Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shimla better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a variety of street food including samosas, chaats, and local snacks like badaam ki barfi and peanut brittle.
Known for its food vendors selling Himachali specialties like Sidu, Babru, and local sweet delicacies, amid the picturesque setting of Shimla.
Famous for its street food stalls serving local favorites such as Chana Bhatura, momos, and steamed corn on the cob.
A great spot for Tibetan street food like thukpa, momos, and Tibetan butter tea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shimla, it is customary to greet people with the traditional Indian greeting 'Namaste' by pressing your palms together and bowing slightly. This is a sign of respect and should be used when meeting and departing from people.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Indian culture, including in Shimla. It is important to show deference and courtesy to older individuals, whether they are family members, community leaders, or simply individuals in positions of authority.
In Shimla, as in much of India, modest dress is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals. Avoid clothing that is too revealing or suggestive to show respect for the cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shimla with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shimla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Shimla, India, but it is appreciated for good service in restaurants, hotels, and by tour guides. A tip of 5-10% of the bill is generally considered acceptable.
In Shimla, India, cash is widely used for transactions, especially in smaller establishments. However, major hotels, restaurants, and stores may accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash for convenience, especially in more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shimla.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Shimla, with pleasant weather and ideal for outdoor activities. Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C.
Expect heavy rainfall, lush greenery, and the possibility of landslides. Outdoor activities may be limited due to the rain.
Cool and pleasant weather, with clear skies and the beginning of the winter chill. Good for sightseeing and nature walks.
Ideal for snowfall and winter sports. Temperatures range from 0°C to 15°C, with the possibility of roadblocks due to heavy snow.
Shimla at Night
Hiking in Shimla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Jakhoo Hill is the highest peak in Shimla, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The trail to the hill is a popular hiking spot, featuring a mix of concrete paths and natural trails.
Located about 45 km from Shimla, Chail is known for its stunning landscapes and lush green forests. The hike from Shimla to Chail offers beautiful views and is a popular route for trekkers.
Mashobra is a picturesque suburb of Shimla, famous for its apple orchards and stunning nature trails. The hiking routes here are serene and less crowded.
Naldehra is about 22 km from Shimla and is famous for its scenic golf course. The hiking trails around Naldehra lead through dense forests and offer spectacular views of the mountains.
Kufri, around 16 km from Shimla, offers several hiking opportunities, particularly to the Mahasu Peak, the highest point in Kufri, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding region.
Tutu is a small town near Shimla, featuring several hiking trails that wind through lush Himachal Pradesh forests and offer tranquil environments away from the hustle and bustle.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shimla through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shimla by plane.
Approx. 120 km from Shimla, Chandigarh International Airport serves as a major international airport in the region, offering flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Located about 340 km from Shimla, it is one of the busiest international airports in India, connecting numerous global destinations.
Approximately 700 km away, this airport serves as a significant hub for flights to various destinations, including international flights.
Roughly 200 km from Shimla, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, serving the Punjab region.
Located about 600 km from Shimla, this airport is known for international flights to Bhutan and other destinations, mainly serving northeastern India.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of the region, primarily Punjabi-speaking.
The majority religion in Shimla, with various sects and communities.
A significant ethnic group due to migration and proximity to Punjab.
People from Bihar who have migrated for work and education purposes.
People of Nepali descent residing in Shimla, primarily for work.
A notable religious group, contributing to the diversity of the city.
A smaller community present in Shimla.
A minority group with historical roots in the British colonial era.
The Soul of Shimla
Discover the essence of Shimla through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Shimla, with local teams and clubs fostering a strong community spirit through matches and tournaments.
The picturesque landscapes around Shimla make it an ideal location for hiking and trekking, attracting adventure enthusiasts from all over.
Field hockey has a rich history in Shimla, with many schools and colleges participating in this fast-paced sport.
Football is popular among the youth in Shimla, with various local tournaments held throughout the year.
Basketball sees significant participation, especially among younger generations, with courts available in schools and public parks.
In winter, the snow-covered mountains around Shimla attract tourists for skiing and snowboarding activities in nearby resorts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shimla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Shimla is a vegetarian-friendly destination with an abundance of vegetarian dishes available at most eateries.
Vegan options are becoming increasingly available in cafes and restaurants, with dishes like vegan momos, tofu stir-fry, and dairy-free desserts.
Many cafes and restaurants in Shimla are sensitive to gluten-free dietary preferences, offering dishes such as gluten-free bread, salads, and rice-based meals.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shimla with these cultural adventures.
