Many descriptions have deemed the quaint Queen of the Hills, Shimla, as a dreamland, something out of the world and a wintry wonderland. In his book Looking Through Glass, Mukul Kesavan calls Shimla “an invented world.” The hill station built as their summer capital by the British exudes “a mechanical manner of fantasy, where the make-believe world was a simple inversion of everyday life.” And this fantasy holds true to this day as a proper Shimla tour might reveal it to a traveller. It’s a snapshot frozen in time of bizarre urbanism where uncanny English residential areas spring out on the foothills of Himalayas; the weather, the Jacobean architecture of the Viceregal Lodge and the lush setting of the mansion come together to create an experience out of the world and transport visitors back to a different era.
Walking through the winding streets lined with colonial-era buildings, one can almost hear the echoes of British officials and their families who once thronged the promenades. The Mall Road, bustling with shops and cafes, still retains an old-world charm, while the Ridge offers panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking. Keeping in mind the mystic hill station that combines history and natural beauty, we have curated a list of experiences every traveller must have for a wholesome enjoyment of the place. Check out the list of things to do as you plan your trip to the snowy dreamland.
The best way to start your Shimla tour is by taking the toy train from Kalka in Haryana. This scenic journey is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Railway, offering a nostalgic experience as it winds through 102 tunnels, over 800 bridges, and past picturesque landscapes and quaint hill stations.
The slow pace of the train allows passengers to soak in the stunning views of the Shivalik Range, verdant forests, and terraced fields. The train ride lasts about five and a half hours and is a delightful way to begin your Shimla adventure, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and colonial-era charm.
There are different train variations to choose from; the Shivalik Deluxe Express offers wide, cushioned seats and fewer stops for a shorter journey, the Himalayan Queen makes frequent stops for passengers to enjoy the scenery, the Kalka-Shimla Vistadome Coach features glass roofs and huge windows best suited to enjoy the landscapes, especially after snowfall, and the Rail Motor Car, an express train accommodating only 14 passengers, provides a unique travel experience on this historic route. You can book your tickets and find more details on the Indian railways website.
Take a leisurely stroll along The Ridge, a large open space in the heart of Shimla, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Before the English moved their administrative centre to Shimla, the Ridge used to be the main housing and market district of the small town. The area that the Ridge now covers was referred to as the Upper Bazaar, and it provided the only suitable flat surface upon which to construct.
The spot witnessed major historic events, such as Mahatma Gandhi's address of a mass gathering in 1931. In tribute to these histories, many statues are erected around the area. The Ridge also houses the Christ Church, the second oldest church in North India, after St John's Church in Meerut. Enjoy the cool mountain air and observe the historic colonial architecture, including Christ Church and the State Library.
Head to the old Indian Coffee House on Mall Road in Shimla for a classic government mess coffee and a chance to soak up the history. Dating back to 1957, this coffee house has been visited by top dignitaries, including former Prime Minister Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru. The place has a vintage government office aesthetic with rugged furniture and imposing wall paintings. Sit inside the parlour and enjoy the view of the rolling hills while sipping your coffee. Don't forget to learn about the history of this iconic place.
Address: 1, The, Mall Rd, Lower Bazar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
Cost: INR 400 for two
The former residence of the British Viceroy of India, now known as the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, offers guided tours to explore its stunning architecture, beautifully maintained gardens, and historical significance. The Viceregal Lodge, designed by British architect Henry Irwin, reflects the English Renaissance's architectural style and the Scottish Highlands' castles. The interior is noted for its elaborate woodwork, and the place holds historical importance as India's partition was decided within the Lodge. You can take guided tours at INR 100 per person, collect souvenirs, explore the lush premises and much more.
Address: Rashtrapati Nivas Chaura Maidan Road, Near, Observatory Hill, Boileauganj, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171005
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry Fees: INR 20 per person along with INR 100 for guided tours
Wander through Lakkar Bazaar, famous for its wooden crafts and souvenirs. This bustling market offers a variety of locally Himachali handicrafts, antique works along with woollen garments, pashmina shawls, and artificial jewellery. Don't forget to try the local snacks and sweets from the vendors. At Lakkar Bazaar, don't miss Sita Ram and Sons, famous for its delicious chana bhatura. This iconic spot has been serving authentic North Indian street food for decades, attracting locals and tourists alike. You can also check out other spots such as Nagsons Paitpooja, Himchi Bar and Restaurant, Woodstreet Cafe and more.
Address: Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar Road, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, 171001, India
Chadwick Falls is a serene spot located about 7 kilometres from the city centre. Positioned at an altitude of nearly 1,586 metres above sea level, this place is just a few minutes away from Summer Hill. It is an unexpected waterfall in the woods of serenity and a must-visit attraction of the Shimla tour. The falls, surrounded by dense forests, offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. The best time to visit is during the monsoon when the falls are at their fullest.
Address: 449Q+VH3, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171005
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
The Himachal State Museum, located on Mall Road in Shimla, showcases a vast collection of Himachali heritage, including traditional costumes, handicrafts, paintings, and sculptures. The museum was originally the residence of Lord William Beresford and was later converted into a museum on January 26, 1974. It features Victorian-era architecture with sprawling lawns and is divided into Pre-Historic, Wood-Carving, Wall Painting, Archaeology, and Numismatic galleries. The museum boasts an impressive collection of 8th-century stone images, various paintings, a room dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, and a library with over 9,000 books. It’s a great place to learn about the cultural and historical aspects of the region.
Address: Museum Road, near Doordarshan Kendra, Chaura Maidan, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171004
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry Fees: INR 50 for Indian and INR 100 for foreign nations