Shimla, the picturesque hill station in India nestled in Himachal Pradesh, offers a variety of experiences for travelers seeking a delightful getaway. From its colonial charm and panoramic views to its vibrant markets and adventure-filled activities, Shimla captivates visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its serene trails and delectable cuisine, Shimla promises an unforgettable journey in a charming atmosphere.
Shimla 3 Days Itinerary
Here’s a detailed 3-day itinerary for your trip to Shimla:
Day 1 in Shimla
- Morning: Start your day by visiting the Viceregal Lodge, also known as Rashtrapati Niwas. It is a historic building with beautiful architecture and offers panoramic views of Shimla.
- Afternoon: Head to Mall Road, the main shopping street in Shimla. Explore the various shops and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants. Don’t forget to try the famous Himachali cuisine, including dishes like Madra, Tudkiya Bhat, and Chha Gosht.
- Evening: Visit the Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is located on Jakhu Hill and offers stunning views of the city. You can also spot playful monkeys around the temple.
- Night: Stay at a hotel in Shimla. There are various options available, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations. The cost per night can vary depending on your preferences, but you can expect an average range of ₹2,500 to ₹8,000
Day 2 in Shimla
- Morning: Take a short drive to Kufri, a small hill station near Shimla. Enjoy the scenic beauty and visit the Himalayan Nature Park, where you can see various Himalayan animals like snow leopards, yaks, and Himalayan monal.
- Afternoon: Return to Shimla and have lunch at a local restaurant. Try the traditional Himachali dish called Siddu, a steamed bread made from wheat flour.
- Evening: Explore the Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India. It has beautiful stained glass windows and a serene ambiance.
- Night: Stay overnight at your hotel in Shimla.
Day 3 in Shimla
- Morning: Visit the Shimla State Museum, which houses a rich collection of historical artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and photographs depicting the cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely walk at the Ridge, a spacious open area located at the heart of Shimla. Admire the views, shop for souvenirs, and try the local street food, such as Chole Bhature and Momos.
- Evening: Explore Lakkar Bazaar, known for its wooden crafts and souvenirs. You can buy intricately carved wooden items, decorative pieces, and other traditional handicrafts.
- Night: Stay overnight at your hotel in Shimla.
Estimated Shimla Trip Cost
The estimated Shimla trip cost for 3 day stay can vary based on your preferences and travel style. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Accommodation: As mentioned earlier, the average cost per night can range from ₹2,500 to ₹8,000. So, for a 2-night stay, it could cost you approximately ₹5,000 to ₹16,000.
- Food: The cost of meals can vary depending on where you choose to eat. On average, you can expect to spend around ₹500 to ₹1,500 per day for meals.
- Transportation: If you are traveling from a nearby city like Delhi, you can reach Shimla by bus or train. The cost of transportation can vary, but a rough estimate for a round trip from Delhi could be around ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per person.
- Sightseeing and Entry Fees: The entry fees for attractions like Viceregal Lodge, Jakhu Temple, and Shimla State Museum are generally affordable, ranging from ₹10 to ₹100 per person.
Taking these factors into account, a rough estimate for 2 nights 3 days Shimla trip, including accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing, could be around ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 per person. Please note that this is just an estimate, and actual costs may vary based on individual preferences and travel arrangements.
Places to Visit in Shimla
The above itinerary is just an example there are many other places to visit in Shimla you can customize your Shimla 3 days itinerary according to your preferences and here are some of the popular places to visit in Shimla
- The Ridge: A spacious open area offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and colonial-era buildings.
- Mall Road: The main street of Shimla, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place for shopping and leisurely walks.
- Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas): A historic building that served as the summer residence of the British viceroys. It now houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study and offers guided tours.
- Jakhu Temple: Located on Jakhu Hill, it is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers breathtaking views of Shimla. You can also spot monkeys around the temple.
- Christ Church: One of the oldest churches in North India, known for its beautiful stained glass windows and Gothic architecture.
- Kufri: A scenic hill station near Shimla, famous for its picturesque views, adventure activities like horse riding and skiing, and the Himalayan Nature Park.
- Shimla State Museum: Showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh through a collection of artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and photographs.
- Summer Hill: A serene suburb of Shimla known for its lush greenery, ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
- Annandale: A picturesque meadow located near Shimla, which was once a playground for British officials. It now serves as a golf course and helipad.
- Chadwick Falls: A beautiful waterfall situated amidst the forests, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city.
- Tara Devi Temple: Located on a hilltop, this temple is dedicated to the goddess Tara Devi and offers panoramic views of Shimla.
- Mashobra: A serene hill station near Shimla, known for its apple orchards, scenic trails, and beautiful Wildflower Hall.
These are just a few of the popular places to visit in Shimla. The city has much more to offer in terms of natural beauty, colonial architecture, and cultural attractions.
Things to Do in Shimla
- Take a leisurely walk along the Mall Road and enjoy shopping for souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts.
- Enjoy a scenic toy train ride on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kalka-Shimla Railway, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Indulge in adventure activities like paragliding, zip-lining, and rock climbing at various adventure parks in and around Shimla.
- Visit the Himalayan Bird Park to witness a variety of exotic bird species in a natural habitat.
- Go for a nature walk or hike on one of the many trails in and around Shimla, such as the Glen Forest Trail or the Shali Tibba trek.
- Explore the rich colonial heritage by visiting historic buildings like the Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas) and the Christ Church.
- Enjoy a picnic at scenic spots like Summer Hill, Annandale, or the banks of the Chadwick Falls.
- Take a day trip to Kufri and indulge in activities like horse riding, skiing (during winters), and exploring the Himalayan Nature Park.
- Visit the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, which houses a theater, an art gallery, and a museum, showcasing the cultural heritage of Shimla.
- Experience the local culture and traditions by attending cultural festivals and events, such as the Shimla Summer Festival or the Ice Skating Carnival (during winter).
- Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Himachali cuisine by trying local delicacies like Madra, Tudkiya Bhat, Chha Gosht, and Siddu.
- Relax and rejuvenate at one of the spa and wellness centers in Shimla, offering Ayurvedic treatments and massages.
Recommended: Best Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh
These are just a few of the many things to do in Shimla. The city offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure, history, and cultural experiences to cater to different interests and preferences.
In conclusion, Shimla presents a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thrilling experiences. Whether you wander through its bustling markets, immerse yourself in its colonial charm, or seek adventure in its scenic surroundings, Shimla promises an enchanting retreat. With its panoramic views, delightful cuisine, and warm ambiance, Shimla leaves visitors with lasting memories and a longing to return to its serene embrace.
